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PELAGIC GAME FISH SPECIES

San Diego waters are home to a diverse array of sport fishing species, each offering a unique and exciting angling experience. Some of the top species to target in the area include bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, dorado, yellowtail, marlin, and swordfish. In this article, we will take a closer look at each of these species and provide detailed information on the best methods, techniques, and time of year to catch them.

Bluefin Tuna

Bluefin tuna are one of the most sought-after species in San Diego waters, and for good reason. These powerful fish can reach weights of over 1,000 pounds and put up an impressive fight. They are typically found in the open ocean, but can also be caught closer to shore around San Clemente Island and the outer banks. The best time to catch bluefin tuna is during the late spring and early summer months.

The most effective method for catching bluefin tuna is trolling, which involves pulling lures or live bait behind a moving boat. Common lures used for trolling include feathers, plugs, and jigs. Live bait such as sardines, anchovies, and mackerel can also be effective. Kite fishing and balloon fishing are also popular techniques for catching bluefin tuna in San Diego waters.

Yellowfin Tuna

Yellowfin tuna are another popular sport fishing species in San Diego waters. These fish are typically smaller than bluefin tuna, with most weighing in at around 50-100 pounds. They are found in the open ocean around San Clemente Island and the outer banks, and can also be caught closer to shore. The best time to catch yellowfin tuna is during the summer and fall months.

Trolling is the most effective method for catching yellowfin tuna, and the same lures and live bait used for bluefin tuna can also be used for yellowfin. Sight fishing, where the angler spots the fish and then casts to it, is also a popular technique. Jigging, where a weight is attached to the end of the line and is bounced up and down in the water to attract fish, is also effective.

Dorado

Dorado, also known as mahi-mahi or dolphinfish, are a brightly colored and hard-fighting species found in San Diego waters. They are typically found in the open ocean, and can also be caught closer to shore around San Clemente Island. The best time to catch dorado is during the summer and fall months.

Trolling with lures or live bait is the most effective method for catching dorado. Common lures used include feathers, plugs, and jigs. Live bait such as sardines, anchovies, and mackerel can also be effective. Dorado are also known to be attracted to floating debris such as seaweed, so casting to floating debris can also be a good technique.

Yellowtail

Yellowtail are a highly prized sport fishing species found in San Diego waters. They are typically found in the open ocean around San Clemente Island and the outer banks, and can also be caught closer to shore. The best time to catch yellowtail is during the late spring and early summer months.

The most effective method for catching yellowtail is jigging, where a weight is attached to the end of the line and is bounced up and down in the water to attract fish. Live bait such as sardines, anchovies, and mackerel can also be effective. Yellowtail are also known to be attracted to floating debris such as seaweed, so casting to floating debris can also be a good technique.

Marlin

Marlin are one of the most iconic and challenging sport fishing species in San Diego waters. These powerful fish can reach weights of over 1,000 pounds and put up an impressive fight. They are typically found in the open ocean around San Clemente Island and the outer banks, and can also be caught closer to shore. The best time to catch marlin is during the summer and fall months.

The most effective method for catching marlin is trolling, which involves pulling lures or live bait behind a moving boat. Common lures used for trolling include feathers, plugs, and jigs. Live bait such as sardines, anchovies, and mackerel can also be effective. Kite fishing and balloon fishing are also popular techniques for catching marlin in San Diego waters.

Swordfish

Swordfish are a highly sought-after species in San Diego waters. These elusive fish are typically found in the open ocean around San Clemente Island and the outer banks, and can also be caught closer to shore. The best time to catch swordfish is during the summer and fall months.

The most effective method for catching swordfish is deep-sea fishing, where the angler drops a bait or lure to the bottom of the ocean and waits for the fish to bite. Swordfish are also known to be attracted to floating debris such as seaweed, so casting to floating debris can also be a good technique.

In conclusion, San Diego waters offer a wide variety of sport fishing species, each providing a unique and exciting angling experience. Whether you're targeting bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, dorado, yellowtail, marlin, or swordfish, there are a variety of techniques and methods that can be used to increase your chances of success. The time of year, location, and type of bait or lure used can also play a big role in the success of your fishing trip

What can you expect when you go sport fishing with us?

Rockfish (Various Species): 

Varies in size from 1 to 10+ pounds. Caught year-round. Try bottom fishing with bait or lures. Over 100 different species found off California coast. This the goto species for winter fishing. Awesome tacos!

• Blackrock Rockfish (Sebastes melanostomus) – This species features blackish-gray scales on its body, with a distinctive yellow line running vertically down its eye. They inhabit rocky areas and reefs, growing up to 20 inches in length.

• Vermilion Rockfish (Sebastes ceruleus) – Characterized by their vibrant red-orange coloration, vermilion rockfish can be found near rocky structures and kelp beds. They grow up to 16 inches in length.

• Quillback Rockfish (Sebastes maliger) – Named for the quills on their head, quillback rockfish sport a brownish-purple hue with darker blotches. They dwell in rocky areas and can reach lengths of up to 24 inches.

• Brown Rockfish (Sebastes auratus) – With a golden-brown color and a series of dark bars across their body, brown rockfish are commonly found near rocky substrates and kelp forests. They can grow up to 28 inches in length.

• Copper Rockfish (Sebastes caurinus) – Known for their coppery color and distinctive black markings, coppers inhabit rocky environments and kelp beds. They generally grow to be around 14 inches in length.

• Yellowtail Rockfish (Sebastes flavids) – Often seen in schools, yellowtail rockfish have a greenish-yellow color and can be found around rocky areas, reefs, and kelp beds. They can reach lengths of up to 17 inches.

These six rockfish species are among the most common and readily available in San Diego waters, offering anglers a diverse array of fish to pursue, however, there are many species and you never know what you might pull up.

Sand Bass: 

Sand bass (Amblopetalum kowasi), also known as barred sand bass, are a popular game fish found in Southern California waters, including San Diego. They are characterized by their elongated bodies, distinct vertical black bars, and silver sides. Adult sand bass generally grow to be around 1 to 3 feet in length and weigh between 1 and 6 pounds. Sand bass are most abundant and active during the warmer months, from early spring to late fall. The peak season for sand bass fishing in San Diego runs from March to October. However, they can still be caught during winter months, albeit less frequently.

Prefer drift fishing with small baitfish or plastic grubs. Sand bass can form schools and cause a feeding frenzy.  

My favorite spots for catching Sand Bass are:

Point Loma: The kelp beds and rocky structures around Point Loma provide an excellent habitat for sand bass. The area is accessible from the shore or by boat.

La Jolla Shores: This spot is known for its calm waters and abundant sand bass population. Anglers can cast from the beach or rent a kayak for better access to nearby kelp beds.

Coronado Islands: Just south of San Diego, the Coronado Islands offer great opportunities for sand bass fishing. Boat trips are necessary to reach these locations, but the reward is often a productive day on the water.

Calico Bass: 

Calico bass (Kentrochrysis nepos) are a popular gamefish found along the southern California coastline, including San Diego. Also known as sand bass or kelpfish, they are recognized for their distinctive color pattern featuring yellowish-white bellies, blueish backs, and dark vertical bands. Adult calico bass usually measure between 1 and 5 feet in length and weigh anywhere from 1 to 10 pounds.

Season: 

Calico bass can be caught year-round in San Diego, although their activity levels vary depending on the time of year. The prime season for calico bass fishing runs from late spring to early autumn, with peak activity occurring from June to October. During these months, the fish are more aggressive and prone to biting.

Locations:

• Mission Bay: As the largest aquatic park in the United States, Mission Bay provides plenty of opportunities for calico bass fishing. Anglers can launch boats or fish from shorelines near kelp beds and rocky structures.

• La Jolla Shores: Known for its calm waters and abundance of marine life, La Jolla Shores is home to a healthy population of calico bass. Both shore and boat anglers can enjoy success in this area.

• Point Loma: The rocky structures and kelp beds surrounding Point Loma serve as ideal habitats for calico bass. Boat access is preferred, but shore fishing is possible from the point itself.

• Coronado Islands: Just south of San Diego, the Coronado Islands offer fantastic calico bass fishing. Accessible by boat, these islands provide anglers with the chance to encounter trophy-sized bass.

Drift fishing with live bait, such as mussels, clams, or ghost shrimp, can also yield success. Attach the bait to a sliding sinker rig with a swivel and leader, and let it drift naturally with the current. Artificial lures like plastic grubs, swimbaits, or soft plastics can mimic the appearance and movement of real baitfish, provoking strikes from calico bass. Medium to heavy action rods and spinning or conventional reels are suitable for calico bass fishing. Spool your reel with 10 to 30 lb test braided line or fluorocarbon leader to handle the species' strength and aggressiveness. The daily bag limit is 5 fish per angler, with no minimum size requirement. Check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website for updates and restrictions.

Sheephead: 

Sheephead (Semicosaurus pulcher), also known as sheepies, are an intriguing species of fish found in the coastal waters of Southern California, including San Diego. They possess a distinctive look, characterized by their thick lips, sharp canine teeth, and a mottled gray-blue coloration with white patches. On average, adult sheephead grow to be around 1 to 3 feet in length and can weigh between 2 and 15 pounds.

When considering sheephead fishing in San Diego, it's important to take into account factors such as the prime season, optimal locations, effective techniques, appropriate equipment, and helpful tips. The prime season for sheephead fishing in San Diego occurs during the cooler months, specifically from November through March. Although they can be caught throughout the year, the colder months seem to spark increased activity and aggression in this species.

San Diego offers a variety of prime fishing spots for sheephead, many of which are located near structural features that provide ample hiding places and hunting grounds for these opportunistic predators. Notable hotspots include:

• Point Loma: The rocky structures and kelp beds surrounding Point Loma provide an attractive environment for sheephead, making it a popular destination for both boat and shore anglers.

• La Jolla Shores: Known for its calm waters and abundance of marine life, La Jolla Shores is another suitable location for targeting sheephead. This area is accessible by boat or shore and offers a mix of kelp bed and rocky structure fishing.

• Coronado Islands: Situated just south of San Diego, the Coronado Islands present excellent opportunities for sheephead fishing. Accessible by boat, these islands offer a chance at landing larger sheephead in addition to other sought-after species.

Bonito: 

Bonito (Sarda chiliensis), sometimes referred to as "silver sprinters," are a fast and agile pelagic fish species found in the warm-temperate waters of Southern California, including San Diego. Bonitos are characterized by their streamlined shape, metallic blue-green color, and prominent dorsal fins. They typically grow to be around 2 to 4 feet in length and can weigh between 5 and 15 pounds.

Bonito fishing in San Diego waters presents an exhilarating opportunity for anglers seeking high-energy encounters with powerful, acrobatic fish. The prime season for bonito fishing in San Diego extends from mid-May through September, with peak activity occurring during the summer months. This period coincides with the arrival of warmer waters, which brings bonito closer to the shore.

The San Diego area offers numerous fishing spots where bonito can be encountered, often in proximity to other desirable gamefish such as yellowtail and dorado. Noteworthy locations include:

• Point Loma: The rocky structures and kelp beds around Point Loma attract a variety of pelagic species, including bonito. This area can be accessed by boat or shore, providing opportunities for both types of anglers.

• Mission Bay: This expansive aquatic park is known for its calm waters and abundant marine life. Bonito can occasionally be found cruising the edges of kelp beds and open water within Mission Bay.

• Ocean Beach Pier: For those looking to fish from shore, the Ocean Beach Pier can offer decent opportunities for bonito, especially during periods of surface activity.

• Coronado Islands: Located just south of San Diego, the Coronado Islands present a chance to encounter bonito as well as other pelagic species. Accessible by boat, these islands provide ample fishing opportunities.

Effective techniques for targeting bonito in San Diego waters include:

• Trolling: As bonito are known for their speed and strength, trolling is a popular method for targeting them. Using trolled lures such as Clark spoons, Rapala Magnums, or Caballito-style ballyhoo can be highly effective.

• Casting and jigging: If bonito are spotted breaking the surface or following lures, casting and jigging with metal jigs or stickbaits can lead to explosive strikes. Fast retrieves and erratic movements will often trigger aggressive hits.

• Live bait: Drifting with live bait, such as mackerel or sardines, can also be successful when targeting bonito. Attaching the bait to a wire leader will prevent bonito from stealing hooks.

Appropriate equipment for bonito fishing in San Diego consists of medium to heavy action rods and conventional or spin reels spooled with 20 to 30 lb test braided line or fluorocarbon leader. Due to their propensity for long, powerful runs and aerial acrobatics, having sufficient drag capacity is crucial for managing these energetic fish.

Lingcod: 

Lingcod (Ophiodon elongatus) are a fascinating and powerful fish species native to the North Pacific Ocean, including the coastal waters of Southern California, such as San Diego. They are characterized by their unique appearance, featuring a flattened head, wide mouth, and rough skin covered in tubercles. Adult lingcod can grow quite large, reaching lengths of up to 6 feet and weights exceeding 60 pounds.

Lingcod fishing in San Diego waters presents an exciting opportunity for anglers seeking a challenging adversary and delicious table fare. The prime season for lingcod fishing in the area occurs from November through May, with the best fishing taking place during the winter months. During this period, lingcod become more active and aggressive due to lower water temperatures and increased food availability.

San Diego offers several prime fishing spots for lingcod, often found near structural features that provide shelter and ambush points for these voracious predators. Notable locations include:

• Point Loma: The rocky structures and kelp beds surrounding Point Loma create an ideal habitat for lingcod. This area can be accessed by boat or shore, providing opportunities for both types of anglers.

• La Jolla Cove: Known for its clear waters and abundant marine life, La Jolla Cove is another suitable location for lingcod fishing. Accessible by boat, this site offers a chance to encounter larger lingcod.

• Coronado Islands: Situated just south of San Diego, the Coronado Islands present exceptional opportunities for lingcod fishing. Accessible by boat, these islands provide a chance at landing trophy-sized lingcod alongside other prized species.

To successfully target lingcod in San Diego waters, several effective techniques can be employed, such as:

• Bait fishing: Using whole fish baits, such as mackerel, sardines, or squid, is a popular choice for lingcod anglers. Attach the bait to a jighead or a sliding sinker rig with a swivel and leader.

• Artificial lures: Jigs, especially those with a large profile and bright colors, can be effective when targeting lingcod. Soft plastic lures, such as grubs or swimbaits, can also be successful if paired with a jighead.

• Fly fishing: Fly fishing for lingcod is becoming increasingly popular. Flies designed to mimic crustaceans or large baitfish can be effective in drawing strikes from these powerful fish.

Appropriate equipment for lingcod fishing in San Diego consists of medium to heavy action rods and conventional or spin reels spooled with 30 to 50 lb test braided line or fluorocarbon leader. Given the sheer strength and power of lingcod, having adequate drag capacity is critical for managing these fish.

THE YEARLY MIGRATION

The fishing season in San Diego varies significantly throughout the year, as different species of fish populate the region's waters at distinct times. This diversity in species composition creates a dynamic and engaging angling scene for enthusiasts.

Rockfish, for example, can be found in San Diego waters year-round, with their numbers peaking during the milder months of spring and fall. These hardy fish prefer cooler temperatures and can tolerate a wider range of depths than many other species. Consequently, they can be targeted throughout the year, though their distribution and abundance fluctuate according to seasonal changes.

Sea Bass, another resident species in San Diego waters, exhibit similar seasonal trends. Like Rockfish, they can be caught throughout the year; however, their numbers tend to surge during the transition periods between seasons, particularly in the spring and fall. This phenomenon can be attributed to temperature fluctuations and shifts in food sources, leading to heightened activity levels and aggregations of Sea Bass in specific areas.

California Yellowtail, a coveted gamefish in the region, primarily inhabit San Diego waters during the summer months. These pelagic fish migrate northward along the California coastline in search of warmer waters and abundant food resources. As a result, Yellowtail fishing reaches its peak from July through September, presenting anglers with a brief yet intense window of opportunity.

Members of the Tuna family, such as Yellowfin and Bluefin Tuna, pass through San Diego waters during their annual migrations. These mighty predators travel vast distances, following thermal fronts and concentrations of baitfish. In San Diego, Tuna fishing typically heats up in the late spring and continues through the summer and early fall, with the exact timing varying depending on each species' migration patterns and environmental factors.

YOU NEVER KNOW

One of the most amazing things about the variety of fish in San Diego is that every single cast has the potential to turn into a lifelong memory. Charter trips here often demonstrate this unpredictability, as beginners discover they can catch impressive fish on their very first try.

Recently, we went on a half-day trip hoping to catch Rockfish and Vermillion Rockfish in water deeper than 100 feet. We used two-hook rigs and mixed live bait and squid as bait. Everyone in the family dropped their lines to the bottom when suddenly, one of the rods bent almost double and the line began moving rapidly. There's no doubt, this wasn't just a Rockfish!

Excitement built as we watched the intense battle play out. Everybody knew they were witnessing something special. After a few tense minutes, a beautiful Mako Shark appeared, shining in the sunlight as it fought its way to the surface.

We couldn't believe our luck - the Mako was a rare and exciting catch! Photos were taken, memories were made, and everybody left with a new appreciation for the surprises that await beneath the waves of San Diego's diverse and mysterious waters.

Each cast holds the promise of a thrilling surprise, from the tiniest fish to the massive Mako. That's what makes fishing in San Diego so magical - there's always a possibility of discovering something truly remarkable with each cast.

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