Expert Guided Private Fishing Adventures with Captain Molly
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
4hour private inshore fishing trip starting at 8:00 AMAccommodates up to 6 guests with flexible departure times availableCaptain Molly provides relaxed, personalized fishing experience
If you're looking for a fishing trip that doesn't rush you out of bed at 5 AM, Captain Molly's 4-hour private charter is your perfect match. Starting at a civilized 8:00 AM, this laid-back adventure gives you time to grab coffee and ease into your day before hitting the water. With space for up to 6 anglers, it's ideal for families, friends, or anyone wanting a more relaxed pace on the water. Captain Molly knows these waters like the back of her hand and brings that easygoing energy that makes even first-time anglers feel right at home.
This isn't one of those high-pressure trips where you're constantly moving from spot to spot. Captain Molly's approach focuses on finding productive water and working it thoroughly, giving everyone plenty of time to get comfortable with the gear and techniques. The 4-hour window hits that sweet spot – long enough to get into some serious fishing but not so long that you're wiped out by the end. You'll spend your morning targeting some of the area's most sought-after species in productive inshore waters where the action stays consistent. The flexible departure time means Captain Molly can work with your schedule, and she genuinely encourages guests to reach out if the listed times don't work – that's the kind of personal service that keeps anglers coming back season after season.
Captain Molly comes prepared with quality rods, reels, and terminal tackle suited for the day's conditions and target species. You'll be using a mix of techniques depending on what's biting – from bouncing jigs along the bottom for lingcod and rockfish to working live bait presentations for striped bass. The boat's equipped with fish finders and GPS to locate structure and schools, but Captain Molly's local knowledge really shines when it comes to reading the water and understanding fish behavior. She'll walk you through proper rod handling, how to feel the bite, and landing techniques that'll have you fishing like a pro by the end of the trip. All bait and tackle are included, so you just need to bring yourself and maybe some snacks for the cooler.
Striped bass are the bread and butter of this fishery, and for good reason. These silver-sided fighters put up a battle that'll test your drag and leave your arms aching in the best way possible. Spring through fall offers the most consistent action, with fish ranging from schoolies in the 18-22 inch range up to keeper-sized bass pushing 30+ inches. What makes stripers special is their aggressive feeding behavior – when you find them, you'll often hook into multiple fish in quick succession. They're smart, strong, and absolutely delicious on the dinner table.
Canary rockfish bring that classic bottom fishing experience that never gets old. These bright orange beauties live around rocky structure and kelp beds, typically running 12-16 inches with the occasional bruiser reaching 20+. They're active year-round but really turn on during summer and early fall when baitfish concentrations are heaviest. Canaries are curious fish that'll often inspect your bait before committing, making them fun to target with lighter tackle. Their firm, white meat makes them a favorite for fish tacos and grilling.
Lingcod are the apex predators of the rocky bottom, and hooking into one is like tying into a submarine. These prehistoric-looking fish can reach impressive sizes – 20 to 40-pounders aren't uncommon in these waters. Peak season runs from late spring through early winter, with the biggest fish often found in deeper water around structure. Lingcod are ambush predators that'll absolutely crush a properly presented jig, and their powerful runs and head-shaking fights make them a top target for serious anglers. The meat is incredibly versatile and prized by chefs throughout the region.
Pacific halibut represent the ultimate prize for West Coast bottom fishers. These flatfish can range from "chicken" halibut in the 10-15 pound class up to true trophies exceeding 100 pounds. Summer months offer the best shot at these giants as they move into shallower water to feed. Halibut are notorious for their subtle bite – often feeling like you're snagged on the bottom until that first powerful run peels line off your reel. Landing a good-sized halibut requires patience, proper technique, and a little luck, but the payoff in both fight and table fare is unmatched.
Captain Molly's 4-hour private fishing trips offer that perfect balance of productive fishing time and relaxed atmosphere that's hard to find these days. Whether you're introducing kids to the sport, planning a low-key outing with friends, or just want to get on the water without the early morning rush, this trip delivers exactly what you're looking for. The personalized service, quality equipment, and Captain Molly's genuine passion for fishing create an experience that'll have you planning your next trip before you even get back to the dock. Don't wait – spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season when the fishing is at its absolute best.
Jump aboard the 'Miss Molly,' a well-equipped 28-foot Shamrock cabin cruiser that's perfect for your relaxed morning on the water. Captain Molly's 2008 boat runs smooth with a reliable 315HP Yanmar engine, getting you to the fishing spots at a comfortable 22 knots. The pilothouse design keeps you protected while still enjoying the open water experience. You'll appreciate the onboard amenities - a full kitchen for snacks, refrigerator and icebox to keep your catch fresh, plus a proper toilet and sleeping area for maximum comfort during your 4-hour trip. The boat's equipped with everything needed to find fish: GPS navigation, radar for those foggy mornings, fish finder to locate the action, and a wireless trolling motor for stealthy approaches. With space for up to 6 anglers, there's plenty of room to spread out and enjoy a laid-back morning of fishing. The flexible 8:00 AM start time works great for those who prefer a leisurely pace, and Captain Molly is happy to discuss alternative departure times if needed.
Sebastes PinnigerCanary rockfish are beautiful bottom dwellers with bright yellow-orange coloring and distinctive stripes across their heads. Most run 20-23 inches, though we've seen 30-inchers that'll surprise you. They school up over rocky bottoms in deeper offshore waters, usually 100+ feet down, making them perfect for our longer trips. These fish are available year-round, but they really bite well when we find those suspended schools in open water. What guests love is how readily they take bait - rubber-tail jigs and shrimp flies work great. They're also fantastic eating with firm, white meat. One thing to remember: these fish don't handle being brought up from depth well, so we use descending devices if you're releasing them. Pro tip: when you find one, there's usually a whole school nearby.
Ophiodon ElongatusLingcod are the monsters of the rocky bottom - ugly as sin with massive heads, razor-sharp teeth, and attitudes to match. Females can push 30+ pounds while males stay smaller, around 15-20 pounds. They're ambush predators that hang tight to rocky structure in 30-300 feet, using their mottled coloring to blend in perfectly. Available year-round, but they get really aggressive during winter spawning season. What makes them fun is they'd rather fight than flee - once hooked, they put up a solid battle. The meat is excellent too, firm white fillets that cook up beautifully. Here's the key: drop metal jigs or live bait right into the rocks where they hide. Don't be surprised if they grab anything - I've seen them attack lures bigger than their heads. Use heavy tackle because you'll need to muscle them out of their rocky homes.
Hippoglossus StenolepisPacific halibut are the barn doors of the deep - massive flatfish that can hit 100+ pounds, though most run 20-40 pounds. These diamond-shaped bottom dwellers cruise sandy and muddy bottoms in 150-500 feet of cold water. Summer's your best bet when they move up to shallower feeding areas. What draws people to halibut fishing is the potential for that fish-of-a-lifetime plus some of the best eating you'll find - firm, white, flaky meat that's restaurant quality. They're strong fighters that'll test your arms on the way up from depth. The trick is patience and heavy gear - drop 1-2 pound weights with salmon heads or herring to the bottom, then bounce your rod tip to get their attention. They hunt by scent in deep water, so fresh bait makes all the difference.
Morone SaxatilisStripers are one of our most popular targets, running 20-40 pounds on average with those classic dark stripes along their silver sides. These fish love structure - rocky bottoms, drop-offs, and areas with moving water where they ambush baitfish. You'll find them anywhere from shallow shorelines to deeper waters depending on the season. Spring and fall are prime times when they're actively feeding during their coastal migrations. What makes them special is their strong fight and excellent table fare - firm, sweet meat that's hard to beat. They're also available year-round in most conditions. Here's a tip: focus on dawn and dusk when they move into shallower water to feed. Look for bird activity or baitfish breaking the surface - that's where the stripers will be.
2951 Hyde Street, San Francisco, CA, USA