5.0(2 Reviews)San Francisco Rockfish & Shrimp Charter
5.0(2 reviews)
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Private 10hour charter targets rockfish and coonstripe shrimpMultiple fishing techniques including jigging, spinning, and drift fishingSmall group experience with maximum three guests aboard
Looking for the best fishing action San Francisco has to offer? This 10-hour private charter with Pamela J Charters delivers everything you want in a Bay Area fishing trip. Starting at 6:00 AM sharp, you'll spend the day targeting rockfish and the prized Coonstripe shrimp that make these waters famous. Captain Matt knows these waters like the back of his hand, and his commercial fishing background means you're getting pro-level expertise on every cast. With space for just three anglers, this isn't some crowded party boat – it's your personal fishing adventure on the San Francisco coast.
This trip takes you through some of the most productive fishing grounds along the San Francisco coastline. You'll work everything from shallow inshore reefs to deeper nearshore structures where the big fish hang out. The 10-hour window gives you serious time to dial in the bite and really fill the coolers. Captain Matt runs a tight ship, and you'll notice the difference immediately – your catch gets iced down the second it hits the deck. No shortcuts here. The boat moves between spots based on conditions and what's biting, so you're always fishing the hottest water. Whether you're a seasoned angler or picking up a rod for the first time, the crew adjusts the program to match your skills. The San Francisco coastline serves up some seriously scenic fishing, with the Golden Gate Bridge and city skyline providing a backdrop you won't find anywhere else.
This charter covers all the bases when it comes to fishing techniques. You'll be bottom fishing for rockfish using heavy sinkers to get down to where they're holding. Light tackle gets deployed when conditions allow, giving you that sportier fight that makes every fish feel bigger. Jigging is huge out here – those vertical presentations drive rockfish crazy, especially around the rocky structure. Spinning gear handles the finesse work, perfect when the fish get picky or you're working shallower water. Drift fishing lets you cover ground efficiently, bouncing baits along the bottom as the boat moves with current and wind. For the shrimp, it's a whole different game with specialized traps and techniques that most recreational anglers never get to try. All gear is provided, but if you've got favorite rods or tackle, bring them along. The crew knows how to set up everything from ultra-light to heavy conventional gear depending on what's working best that day.
"Awesome day of fishing with captain Matt! We caught limits of quality rockfish/lingcod and a bonus halibut! Matt and crew went above and beyond on caring for our fish the second they came aboard, icing them down immediately. The biggest highlight of the day was catching some Coonstripe shrimp to bring home! First time seeing a charter target shrimp and I jumped all over it! My family and I already booked another trip! Can't wait!! -frank c." - Frank
"Matt and Vince provide everyone with the ultimate fishing experience! I've gone fishing many times, but Matt's expertise and experience commercial fishing made our trip the most successful fishing day of my life. Whether you're an experienced fisherman or just looking for an adventure through the scenic SF Bay Area, the Pamela J charter will not disappoint." - Pedro
Redstripe Rockfish are the bread and butter of this fishery, and for good reason. These colorful bottom dwellers average 12-16 inches but can push over 20 inches when you find the right spots. They're aggressive feeders that hit baits hard and put up a solid fight on lighter tackle. What makes redstripes special is their willingness to bite year-round, though fall and winter months often produce the best action. They school up around rocky reefs and pinnacles, sometimes so thick you can barely keep baits in the water long enough to reach bottom. The meat is firm and white, perfect for fish tacos or grilling whole. Redstripes aren't shy about hitting moving baits either – work a jig through a school and you'll think you found fish heaven. Captain Matt targets specific depth ranges where these fish concentrate, usually between 80-200 feet depending on season and conditions.
Coonstripe shrimp fishing adds a completely different element to this trip that most charters don't offer. These aren't your average bay shrimp – Coonstripes are large, meaty crustaceans that can reach 6-8 inches long. They live in deeper water along the continental shelf, making them a rare treat for recreational anglers. The best part about targeting these shrimp is the element of surprise – you never know what else might come up in the traps. Sometimes you'll pull up Dungeness crab, other rockfish species, or even small lingcod. Fresh Coonstripe shrimp are restaurant-quality seafood, with sweet meat that's perfect for scampi, cocktails, or just grilling with garlic and butter. The season runs roughly from late spring through early fall, with peak numbers typically showing up during summer months when water temperatures stabilize.
This 10-hour private charter represents the best value fishing trip you'll find on the San Francisco coast. With expert guidance, top-notch fish care, and access to both rockfish and shrimp, you're getting way more than just a fishing trip. Captain Matt's commercial background and intimate knowledge of these waters gives you the edge you need for a truly memorable day. The three-person limit means personalized attention and plenty of room to fish comfortably. Don't wait on this one – the best dates book up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whether you're planning a guys' trip, father-son adventure, or just want to experience world-class fishing in one of the most beautiful settings on the West Coast, Pamela J Charters delivers every time.
The Island Hopper is your gateway to prime rockfish and shrimp waters off San Francisco's rugged coastline. This solid 30-foot sportfisher, built in 2003, cuts through Pacific swells with ease thanks to her reliable Yanmar 315HP engine. You'll have plenty of room to work the rails with space for up to 6 anglers, though this private charter keeps it intimate at 3 guests max. She's rigged for serious fishing with a fish finder to locate those productive bottom structures where lingcod and rockfish hang out, plus GPS and radar to keep you on the fish even when the coastal fog rolls in. The onboard icebox and refrigerator mean your catch stays fresh and your drinks stay cold during those long 10-hour days on the water. Whether you're dropping jigs on the reefs, drifting for bottom fish, or working light tackle in the nearshore zones, this boat handles it all. The marine head keeps everyone comfortable during extended trips, and at 16 knots cruising speed, you'll spend more time fishing and less time traveling to the hotspots. Perfect for both seasoned anglers and newcomers ready to experience what San Francisco's productive fishing grounds have to offer.
5.0 out of 5.0Awesome day of fishing with captain Matt! We caught limits of quality rockfish/lingcod and a bonus halibut! Matt and crew went abo...
Matt and Vince provide everyone with the ultimate fishing experience! I’ve gone fishing many times, but Matt’s expertise and exper...
San Francisco