Sport fishing on the middle banks off the coast of San Diego is a popular pastime for both locals and tourists. The middle banks, also known as the 9-Mile Bank, are located about 9 miles off the coast and are known for their abundance of fish species, including yellowtail, tuna, dorado, and halibut.
One of the most sought-after fish species on the middle banks is the yellowtail. These fish are typically found at depths of 10 to 100 feet and can weigh up to 50 pounds. They are known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps, making them a challenging and exciting catch for anglers.
Another popular fish species on the middle banks is the tuna. Both bluefin and yellowfin tuna congregate here during the summer months. In fact this spot sometimes is holding when places waaaaay further out are dry. These fish can weigh up to 200 pounds and are found at depths of up to 200 feet. They are known for their speed and endurance and are a favorite among experienced anglers.
Dorado, also known as mahi-mahi, are another popular species on the middle banks. These brightly colored fish are typically found at depths of 50 to 100 feet and can weigh up to 40 pounds. They are known for their acrobatic jumps and are a favorite among anglers for their delicious meat.
When it comes to fishing methods, anglers on the middle banks typically use trolling, jigging, and live bait. Trolling involves pulling lures or live bait behind a boat at various speeds and depths to attract fish. Jigging involves using a jigging rod and reel to drop a lure or live bait to the bottom and then jigging it back up to the surface to mimic the movement of a live baitfish. Live bait, such as anchovies or sardines, is often used to catch larger fish species like yellowtail and tuna.
The best time of year to go fishing on the middle banks is typically during the summer and fall months, when water temperatures are warmer and fish species like yellowtail and tuna are more abundant. However, fishing can be good year-round on the middle banks, and it is always best to check with local fishing reports and charter companies to find out the current conditions and best times to go.
In conclusion, sport fishing on the middle banks off the coast of San Diego is a popular pastime for both locals and tourists. The middle banks are known for their abundance of fish species, including yellowtail, tuna, dorado, yellowtail, marlin, and swordfish! Anglers on the middle banks typically use trolling, jigging, and live bait, and popular baits include live anchovies and sardines for yellowtail and tuna, and live squid and mackerel for dorado and yellowtail on the patties. The best time of year to go fishing on the middle banks is typically during the summer and fall months, but it is always best to check with local fishing reports or give us a call at 619.508.7823.
Although smaller than the Bluefin, this ferocious fish puts up a fight you will not soon forget.
This is the big one. If you hook up on this you will be in the fight of your life. These fish way hundreds of pounds!
The area highlighted is the Middle Banks
The Middle banks provides premier pelagic fishing within a time budget. The second line of banks just off the San Diego coastline, you will find Bluefin Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, and Yellowtail lurking in these waters. The most common methods of fishing here is patty hopping. The Captain will look for the patties floating on the water surface, hoping that underneath you will find what you are looking for. Other methods including trolling, kite fishing, balloon fishing, and freelining your bait on the boil.
If you are not looking to go on a 24 hour + trip, but still want to get on the tuna, this is your call.
Not technically a tuna, but in the same weight class, it is known for the best tasting sashimi on earth.
