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Bluefin Tuna Fishing in San Diego

Discover top rated fishing charters and guides in california/san-diego

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San Diego has developed a strong reputation for offshore fishing due to its access to productive Pacific waters and seasonal migrations of bluefin tuna. The city serves as a major departure point for sportfishing vessels that travel offshore in search of tuna and other pelagic species. Bluefin tuna can vary significantly in size, creating opportunities for both recreational anglers and those pursuing larger trophy-class fish. Fishing conditions change throughout the year based on ocean temperatures, migration patterns, and weather, making local knowledge an important part of a successful trip. San Diego's fishing fleet includes day boats, overnight trips, and multi-day offshore expeditions that provide access to waters beyond the immediate coastline. The area's long history of sportfishing, experienced captains, and access to offshore grounds continue to make San Diego one of the most active destinations for bluefin tuna fishing on the West Coast.

Bluefin Tuna Fishing in San Diego (23 charters available)

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Risen Tide Sportfishing
Risen Tide Sportfishing
Star5.0(10)

locationSan Diego

26 years experience Master Guide Good with kids Live Bait Good with New Anglers Good with Large Groups Good with Families Saltwater Fishing Bass Fishing Fly Fishing Drift Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Customers rave about Eric's expertise and consistent 30-50+ fish catches per trip

(10)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon4-6 Hours

3 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$699

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Awol Sportfishing
Awol Sportfishing
Star5.0(10)

locationSan Diego

23 years experience Master Guide Good with kids Live Bait Good with New Anglers Good with Large Groups Good with Families Saltwater Fishing Bass Fishing Deep Sea Fishing Drift Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Praised for expert fish-finding ability and exceptional patience with all skill levels

(10)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon5-12 Hours

8 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$575

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Bubba Jean Sportfishing
Bubba Jean Sportfishing
Star5.0(10)

locationSan Diego

43 years experience Good with kids Live Bait Nature / Wildlife Views Good with Large Groups Deep Sea Fishing Drift Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Customers rave about Captain Mike's knowledge and impressive catches like 21 fish in 4 hours

(10)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon4-12 Hours

9 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$900

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California Sport Fishing Co.
California Sport Fishing Co.
Star5.0(9)

locationSan Diego

6 years experience Good with kids Live Bait Good with New Anglers Good with Large Groups Good with Families Saltwater Fishing Deep Sea Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Customers rave about Captain Ethan's bluefin tuna expertise and phenomenal deep-sea fishing trips

(9)
people6-8 Guests
clockIcon4-30 Hours

7 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$1,100

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Ironclad Sportfishing
Ironclad Sportfishing
Star5.0(9)

locationSan Diego, CA

8 years experience Good with kids Live Bait Good with New Anglers Good with Large Groups Good with Families Saltwater Fishing Bass Fishing Deep Sea Fishing Drift Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Customers rave about Frank's fish-finding ability and crew's dedication to success

(10)
people1-6 Guests
clockIcon6-22 Hours

8 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$1,350

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No Patience Sportfishing
No Patience Sportfishing
Star5.0(9)

locationSan Diego, CA

22 years experience Good with kids Live Bait Good with New Anglers Nature / Wildlife Views Good with Large Groups Good with Families Deep Sea Fishing Fly Fishing Drift Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Praised for putting guests right on fish and working hard all day for success

(10)
people1-6 Guests
clockIcon4-14 Hours

11 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$1,035

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InstaForager
InstaForager
Star5.0(7)

locationCalifornia

4 years experience Good with kids Good with New Anglers Good with Large Groups Good with Families Saltwater Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Guests love Steve's extensive foraging knowledge and delicious meals from fresh ingredients

(14)
people1-8 Guests
clockIcon4-5 Hours

3 Trips

Identity Verified

Starts from$150

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Brothers Sport Fishing
Brothers Sport Fishing
Star5.0(5)

locationSan Diego, CA

12 years experience Master Guide Good with kids Technical Fishing Live Bait Good with New Anglers Nature / Wildlife Views Good with Large Groups Good with Families Saltwater Fishing Deep Sea Fishing Drift Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Praised for relentless pursuit of fish and landing impressive bluefin tuna up to 200 pounds

(5)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon4-12 Hours

6 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$600

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Impulse Sportfishing
Impulse Sportfishing
Star5.0(5)

locationSan Diego

aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Guests praise Captain Reeve's expertise and top-notch fishing experiences with impressive catches

(5)
people1-6 Guests
clockIcon6-45 Hours

7 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$1,500

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Into The Depths Sportfishing
Into The Depths Sportfishing
Star5.0(4)

locationSan Diego

26 years experience Master Guide Good with kids Live Bait Good with New Anglers Good with Large Groups Good with Families Saltwater Fishing Deep Sea Fishing Drift Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Praised for fantastic yellowtail catches and exceptional navigational expertise

(4)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon4-11 Hours

4 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$1,050

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El Patrón Sportfishing
El Patrón Sportfishing
Star5.0(3)

locationSan Diego

aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Customers rave about fantastic fishing adventures with bountiful catches and friendly staff

(3)
people1-20 Guests
clockIcon5-12 Hours

6 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$1,490

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Reel Deep Sportfishing
Reel Deep Sportfishing
Star5.0(3)

locationSan Diego, California

12 years experience Good with kids Live Bait Nature / Wildlife Views Saltwater Fishing Deep Sea Fishing Fly Fishing Drift Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Guests praise Sebastien's unrivaled passion and expertise for awesome blue fin and dorado fishing

(3)
people1-5 Guests
clockIcon5-12 Hours

6 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$895

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Complete Guide to San Diego Fishing

Discover everything you need to know about fishing in San Diego - from top species and techniques to the best times to visit.

Top Species

Learn about the most sought-after fish species in San Diego waters

Atlantic Halibut

Size

30 - 150 lbs

Length

52" - 185"

Habitat:
NearshoreOffshoreContinental Shelf

Barracuda

Size

5 - 15 lbs

Length

24" - 39"

Habitat:
NearshoreOffshoreReefWreck

Barred Sand Bass

Size

1 - 4 lbs

Length

7" - 10"

Habitat:
InshoreNearshore

Black Sea Bass

Size

2 - 9 lbs

Length

10" - 26"

Habitat:
OffshoreOnshoreNearshoreWreckReef

Blackfin Tuna

Size

2 - 20 lbs

Length

7" - 43"

Habitat:
Offshore

Blue Marlin

Size

200 - 400 lbs

Length

132" - 197"

Habitat:
OffshoreOpen Water

Blue Shark

Size

60 - 121 lbs

Length

72" - 157"

Habitat:
Offshore

Bluefin Tuna

Size

200 - 600 lbs

Length

78" - 180"

Habitat:
Offshore

Bocaccio Rockfish

Size

9 - 21 lbs

Length

12" - 36"

Habitat:
OnshoreNearshoreOffshoreReefWreck

Bonefish

Size

4 - 16 lbs

Length

16" - 41"

Habitat:
OnshoreMuddy Flats

Brown Rockfish

Size

1 - 2 lbs

Length

12" - 22"

Habitat:
OnshoreNearshoreShallows

Calico Surfperch

Size

1 - 2 lbs

Length

9" - 11"

Habitat:
nearshore

California Flounder

Size

6 - 30 lbs

Length

54" - 60"

Habitat:
InshoreNearshore

California Scorpionfish

Size

1 - 2 lbs

Length

17" - 17"

Habitat:
Nearshore

California Sheephead

Size

2 - 20 lbs

Length

6" - 36"

Habitat:
OnshoreNearshoreOffshoreReefWreck

Canary Rockfish

Size

8 - 10 lbs

Length

14" - 30"

Habitat:
NearshoreReef

Chilipepper Rockfish

Size

3 - 5 lbs

Length

19" - 22"

Habitat:
Pacific Coast

Kelp Bass

Size

4 - 14 lbs

Length

12" - 28"

Habitat:
OnshoreNearshoreKelp Forests

Largemouth Bass

Size

2 - 22 lbs

Length

15" - 32"

Habitat:
LakePondRivers

Leopard Shark

Size

10 - 44 lbs

Length

50" - 78"

Habitat:
OnshoreNearshoreReef

Lingcod

Size

25 - 85 lbs

Length

20" - 60"

Habitat:
Onshore

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Size

15 - 30 lbs

Length

40" - 83"

Habitat:
Offshore

Ocean Whitefish

Size

5 - 13 lbs

Length

12" - 40"

Habitat:
OffshoreNearshorePiersJetties

Olive Rockfish

Size

80-200+ lbs

Length

10" - 24"

Habitat:
NearshoreKelp ForestsCoral Reefs

Pacific Barracuda

Size

10 - 18 lbs

Length

40" - 60"

Habitat:
OnshoreNearshoreOffshoreReefWreck

Pacific Bluefin Tuna

Size

130 - 907 lbs

Length

48" - 120"

Habitat:
Offshore

Pacific Bonito

Size

80-200+ lbs

Habitat:
Inshoreoffshore

Pacific Cod

Size

11 - 50 lbs

Habitat:
Continent ShelfUpper SlopesDeepwater

Pacific Halibut

Size

20 - 500 lbs

Habitat:
Continental ShelfOffshore

Pacific Ocean Perch

Size

2 - 5 lbs

Length

10" - 21"

Habitat:
Offshore

Red Snapper

Size

5 - 20 lbs

Length

19" - 39"

Habitat:
NearshoreOffshoreReefWreck

Redbreast Sunfish

Size

1 - 2 lbs

Length

8" - 12"

Habitat:
RiverLakeBackcountry

Sea Bass

Size

2 - 9 lbs

Length

10" - 26"

Habitat:
OnshoreNearshoreOffshoreReefWreck

Sheepshead

Size

1 - 8 lbs

Length

14" - 20"

Habitat:
OnshoreNearshoreOffshoreReefWreck

Shortfin Mako Shark

Size

150 - 300 lbs

Length

72" - 150"

Habitat:
Offshore

Shovelnose Guitarfish

Size

2 - 47 lbs

Length

35" - 54"

Habitat:
InshoreFlats

Skipjack Tuna

Size

18 - 76 lbs

Length

30" - 43"

Habitat:
OffshoreTemperate Waters

Spanish Mackerel

Size

8 - 120 lbs

Length

20" - 72"

Habitat:
offshoreonshorenearshore

Spotted Bass

Size

1 - 11 lbs

Length

20" - 25"

Habitat:
LakeRiver

Striped Bass

Size

10 - 81 lbs

Length

20" - 55"

Habitat:
RiverLakeOnshoreNear shore

Striped Marlin

Size

417 - 440 lbs

Length

137" - 165"

Habitat:
Onshore

Swordfish

Size

100 - 400 lbs

Length

48" - 179"

Habitat:
OffshoreDeepwater

Thresher Shark

Size

500 - 1120 lbs

Length

120" - 240"

Habitat:
NearshoreContinental ShelfInshoreOffshore

Vermilion Rockfish

Size

6 - 7 lbs

Length

14" - 22"

Habitat:
Reefsoffshore

Wahoo Fish

Size

15 - 184 lbs

Length

8" - 100"

Habitat:
NearshoreOffshoreReef

White Bass

Size

1 - 5 lbs

Length

10" - 18"

Habitat:
LakeRiver

Yellow Sea Chub

Size

4 - 8 lbs

Length

15" - 35"

Habitat:
OnshoreNearshoreRocky BottomReef

Yellowcheek Wrasse

Size

80-200+ lbs

Length

7" - 11"

Habitat:
Nearshore

Yellowfin

Size

1 - 11 lbs

Length

8" - 34"

Habitat:
OnshoreReefNearshore Backcountry

Yellowfin Tuna

Size

40 - 150 lbs

Length

27" - 94"

Habitat:
Offshore

Yellowtail Amberjack

Size

15 - 96 lbs

Length

22" - 98"

Habitat:
OffshoreReefWreck

Yellowtail Rockfish

Size

3 - 9 lbs

Length

11" - 26"

Habitat:
OnshoreOffshoreReefWreck

Top Activitiesgreen-underline in San Diego

Experience the Best of San Diego — Enjoy unforgettable adventures, stunning views, and relaxing moments that capture the true spirit of this beautiful destination.

Fishing
Fishing

Ratings & Reviews Summary in San Diego

AI ReviewAI Generated Review Summary

Fishing in San Diego, California offers diverse offshore and bay experiences targeting premium species like bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, yellowtail, dorado, calico bass, barracuda, rockfish, halibut, and red snapper. Anglers fish productive waters from San Diego Bay to the Coronados, with captains often visiting multiple spots per trip to maximize success. The local charter fleet excels at accommodating families and novice anglers, with crews providing patient coaching and professional instruction throughout full-day adventures. Guides demonstrate extensive knowledge of local waters and fish behavior, adapting tactics and locations as conditions change to ensure consistent results for returning customers.

Top Reviews

San DiegoRating5.0 / 5.0

Based on 100 reviews by Guidesly users

JV

Josh V

March 4, 2025

Guests
1 Guest
We had an awesome time with Kevin and Justin! They were super knowledgeable and made the whole trip a blast. Highly recommend booking with them!
San Diego Charters
San Diego Charters
Star5.0(3)

locationSan Diego, CA

34 years experience Good with kids Good with New Anglers Good with Large Groups Good with Families Saltwater Fishing Deep Sea Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Praised for incredible knowledge, dedication to finding fish, and amazing service with kids

(3)
people1-6 Guests
clockIcon4 Hours

3 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$1,000

Check Availability
A

Andy

November 7, 2024

Trip taken November 1, 2024

Culinary, AM - 4.00hour Trip
Trip Time
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Guests
2 Guests
We had an incredible experience foraging for fungi with Steve in the enchanting forests of Salt Point! Steve is a true fungi enthusiast, and his knowledge about mushrooms and the forest ecosystem is unmatched. He made the whole experience so engaging, sharing fascinating facts about each mushroom we found and teaching us how to identify edible ones safely. His passion for the forest and fungi was infectious, and he created a relaxed and fun environment for us to learn and explore. We came away with a deeper appreciation for nature but also a delicious meal prepared with our bounty. If you’re curious about mushroom foraging or just want a unique outdoor adventure, Steve’s your guy. Can’t recommend this tour enough!” Perfect for nature lovers, foodies, or anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind forest experience!
InstaForager
InstaForager
Star5.0(7)

locationCalifornia

4 years experience Good with kids Good with New Anglers Good with Large Groups Good with Families Saltwater Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Guests love Steve's extensive foraging knowledge and delicious meals from fresh ingredients

(14)
people1-8 Guests
clockIcon4-5 Hours

3 Trips

Identity Verified

Starts from$150

Check Availability
SJ

Sam J

September 14, 2024

Guests
1 Guest
Awesome Trip
Fluid Boat Charters
Fluid Boat Charters
Star5.0(1)

locationSan Diego

aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Captain Zachary praised for knowledge and making family fishing trips exciting

(7)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon5-12 Hours

5 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$950

Check Availability
JS

Justin S

April 12, 2024

Guests
1 Guest
We booked a 4 hour trip and had a great time with our 3 children. Arron was great with the kids and put us on the fish
No Patience Sportfishing
No Patience Sportfishing
Star5.0(9)

locationSan Diego, CA

22 years experience Good with kids Live Bait Good with New Anglers Nature / Wildlife Views Good with Large Groups Good with Families Deep Sea Fishing Fly Fishing Drift Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Praised for putting guests right on fish and working hard all day for success

(10)
people1-6 Guests
clockIcon4-14 Hours

11 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$1,035

Check Availability
JB

Jerry B.

September 13, 2023

Guests
1 Guest
Had a great time bonding with my kids together with Captain Ethan. Definitely will come back again for some fishing
California Sport Fishing Co.
California Sport Fishing Co.
Star5.0(9)

locationSan Diego

6 years experience Good with kids Live Bait Good with New Anglers Good with Large Groups Good with Families Saltwater Fishing Deep Sea Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Customers rave about Captain Ethan's bluefin tuna expertise and phenomenal deep-sea fishing trips

(9)
people6-8 Guests
clockIcon4-30 Hours

7 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$1,100

Check Availability

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about booking and enjoying your San Diego Fishing charter experience.

FAQs about San Diego

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