san clemente Target Species

San Clemente Island Fishing Intel

Fishing off the coast of San Clemente Island is a daunting task for many private boaters. With a minimum distance of 90 miles from San Diego to the island's west end, it's a long journey that requires at least a 1.5 day trip or longer, on any of our six pack or larger vessels. Unpredictable naval closures and limited fishing information available means its best to let us do all the work and planning, so you can just go fishing, without a worry in the world. We know when the fish are there , and where to find them. Kite Fishing is our #1 plan for tuna.

other great sport fishing At San Clemente Island

The species listed below can be fished YEAR ROUND at San Clemente. The fish located at this island are super sized and generally will be much larger than the same species located along the coast line of San Diego. Low to no fishing pressure and abundant food make these fish very large, and very agressive.  Good high speed fun and fishing action just about any time, what more could you ask for.

Halibut fishing at san clemente!

As one of the Channel Islands owned and operated by the US Navy, access to this fishing haven is a privileged experience. At www.sandiegotunafishing.com, we are proud to be one of the select charter boat companies with the expertise and permits to guide you to these productive waters.

The halibut fishing season at San Clemente Island typically spans from late spring to early fall, offering mild to warm weather and calm seas that create ideal fishing conditions. Our experienced captains, with their intimate knowledge of the local waters, will lead you to the prime halibut grounds. These sandy bottoms and flats become a haven for halibut seeking their next meal.

Drift fishing with live or dead bait is a favored technique for enticing halibut. We'll position our boat over productive grounds, allowing your bait to drift naturally at the right depth to誘tempt hungry halibut. If the fish are feeling a bit shy, we might switch things up with jigging, using metal jigs or soft plastics to trigger a bite. Our expertise in reading the water and understanding halibut behavior will maximize your chances of success.

San Clemente Island offers a diverse range of habitats that attract halibut. From sandy flats to drop-offs and structure, our captains will use their local knowledge and advanced fish finders to pinpoint the best locations. The island's south end, and various rock beds and flats around the island hold the promise of abundant halibut action. The California halibut, known for being non-migratory, can reach weights exceeding 60 pounds.

TOP 10 SAN CLEMENTE HALIBUT SPOTS WITH GPS

San Clemente Island, nestled off the coast of Southern California, offers anglers a unique opportunity to target halibut in a variety of settings. From sandy flats to rocky structures, here is a comprehensive guide to enhancing your chances of reeling in these prized flatfish:

1. West End Flats:

   • GPS Coordinates: 32.8858° N, 118.4530° W

   • The west end of the island boasts expansive sandy flats that attract halibut seeking an easy meal. Drift along these shallow waters, keeping your lures or bait just above the sandy bottom. These flats provide an ideal habitat for halibut, making them a prime location for anglers in search of a tasty catch.

2. La Jolla Kelp Beds:

   • GPS Coordinates: 32.8603° N, 118.4245° W

   • While the La Jolla Kelp Beds are known for their abundant calico bass, they can also hold halibut. Halibut tend to patrol the edges of the kelp beds, ambushing prey seeking refuge within. Drift along the fringes, casting ahead of your boat and working your lures back with subtle twitches and pauses.

3. China Point:

   • GPS Coordinates: 33.0042° N, 118.5411° W

   • China Point, located on the northeast side of the island, offers a diverse fishing experience. In addition to calico bass, halibut are drawn to the area's rocky structure and kelp beds. Work your lures along the edges, targeting drop-offs and ledges where halibut often lurk in wait for unsuspecting prey.

4. Pyramid Cove:

   • GPS Coordinates: 33.0125° N, 118.5603° W

   • Pyramid Cove, situated on the north side of the island, provides a sheltered fishing haven. Halibut can be found along the sandy bottom near the cove's entrance, as well as around the rocky structure within. Cast your lures toward the shore, varying your depths to find where the halibut are holding.

5. East End Shoals:

   • GPS Coordinates: 32.8550° N, 118.3917° W

   • The east end of the island features sandy shoals that provide an ideal hunting ground for halibut. These shoals offer an abundance of crustaceans and small fish, attracting hungry halibut. Drift or anchor up-current and cast your baits toward the shallows, allowing them to sink to the sandy bottom.

6. Seal Cove:

   • GPS Coordinates: 33.0186° N, 118.5708° W

   • Seal Cove, on the northwest side of the island, presents a unique combination of rocky structure and kelp beds. Halibut are drawn to the cover provided by the rocks and kelp. Fish the edges or work your lures along the rocky shoreline, experimenting with different depths to locate the sweet spots.

7. Backside Channels:

   • GPS Coordinates: 32.8342° N, 118.3789° W

   • Don't neglect the backside of the island, facing away from the mainland. The backside offers channels and troughs that halibut use as natural highways to navigate the island. Drift along these channels, casting ahead of your boat and employing a slow, enticing retrieve to誘tempt strikes from curious halibut.

8. Rocky Points and Ledges:

   • GPS Coordinates: 32.8789° N, 118.4345° W

   • Keep a keen eye out for rocky points and ledges along the island's coastline. Halibut often position themselves near these structures, waiting to ambush prey. Cast beyond the structure and work your lures back toward the rocks, as halibut often strike when your bait is on the move.

9. Sandy Drop-Offs:

   • GPS Coordinates: 32.8912° N, 118.4656° W

   • Sandy drop-offs can be found along the island's shores, creating depth variations that halibut favor. These drop-offs provide easy access to deeper waters, where an abundance of prey can be found. Cast beyond the drop-off, allowing your bait to sink to the desired depth, enticing halibut lurking in the depths.

10. White Beach:

• GPS Coordinates: 32.9056° N, 118.4892° W

• Even White Beach, known for its sandy shores, can hold halibut. Look for subtle changes in the sand or slight depressions that may indicate the presence of halibut. Cast your baits toward these subtle variations and work your lures with a slow, methodical retrieve along the bottom.

Calico Bass fishing at san clemente!

Now, calico bass fishing at San Clemente Island is an all-year-round affair, but things really heat up during spring, summer, and fall. That's when the water temperatures are just right, and these feisty fish come out to play. Our seasoned captains, with their salt-crusted beards and keen eyes, will lead you straight to where the action is – around rocky reefs, kelp beds, and secluded coves.

Our boats are decked out with all the latest gear and gadgets, ensuring you have everything you need for an epic fishing expedition. Think of it as your own private fishing fortress, complete with comfortable amenities and the latest fish-finding tech. Our crew, a lively bunch of anglers themselves, will be by your side to offer tips, tricks, and tales of the one that didn't get away.

The calico bass is notorious for their forming feeding frenzies on the surface and can put up a fight worthy of a larger fish. These feisty fighters put up a heck of a battle, making them a favorite among anglers craving a challenge. And when you see their dazzling hues of green, blue, and purple, you'll understand why they're a sought-after catch. These bass typically weigh in at a respectable 2 to 6 pounds, with the occasional brute tipping the scales at double digits.

TOP 10 SAN CLEMENTE HALIBUT SPOTS WITH GPS

1. China Point:

   • GPS Coordinates: 33.0042° N, 118.5411° W

   • Located on the northeast side of the island, China Point boasts extensive kelp beds and rocky structure, making it a prime calico bass hotspot. Work your lures along the edges of the kelp and target the rocky outcrops and ledges. This area consistently produces calico bass throughout the year.

2. Pyramid Cove:

   • GPS Coordinates: 33.0125° N, 118.5603° W

   • Situated on the north side of the island, Pyramid Cove provides a sheltered fishing haven. The cove features a rocky shoreline and an abundance of structure, making it a magnet for calico bass. Cast your lures along the rocky outcrops and ledges, varying your depths to find where the fish are holding.

3. La Jolla Kelp Beds:

   • GPS Coordinates: 32.8603° N, 118.4245° W

   • Off the west end of the island, the La Jolla Kelp Beds are a calico bass paradise. These dense kelp forests provide cover and an abundant food source. Drift along the edges, casting jigs and soft plastics into the openings and pockets within the kelp. This area is known for producing trophy-sized calico bass.

4. Seal Cove:

   • GPS Coordinates: 33.0186° N, 118.5708° W

   • Named after the resident harbor seals, Seal Cove is located on the northwest side of the island. This cove offers a unique combination of rocky structure and kelp beds, providing an ideal habitat for calico bass. Fish the edges of the kelp or work your lures along the rocky shoreline to increase your chances of hooking into these colorful fighters.

5. East End Reefs:

   • GPS Coordinates: 32.8550° N, 118.3917° W

   • The east end of the island is a calico bass hotspot. This area boasts rugged reefs, coves, and ledges that provide prime habitat for calico bass seeking cover and ambush points. Drift along the coastline, casting your lures into the turbulent waters around rocky points and ledges.

6. Backside Cliffs:

   • GPS Coordinates: 32.8342° N, 118.3789° W

   • Don't neglect the backside of the island, facing away from the mainland. This less-fished coastline offers wild and untouched fishing grounds. Drift along the dramatic cliffs, casting toward the shore and working your lures in the shallows. Calico bass often lurk in these areas, waiting to ambush their prey.

7. Rocky Coves:

   • GPS Coordinates: 32.9152° N, 118.4986° W

   • Keep a keen eye out for the numerous rocky coves scattered along the island's coastline. These secluded hideaways provide cover and protection for calico bass. Work your lures slowly along the craggy depths, varying your retrieval speeds to誘tempt strikes from cautious fish.

8. Kelp Bed Edges:

   • GPS Coordinates: 32.8825° N, 118.4489° W

   • Pay close attention to the edges of the kelp beds. Calico bass often patrol these boundaries, ambushing prey that ventures out from the safety of the kelp. Drift along the fringes, casting ahead of your boat and working your lures with a stop-and-go retrieve to誘tempt hungry calico bass.

9. Offshore Structure:

   • GPS Coordinates: 32.8983° N, 118.4621° W

   • While most calico bass fishing occurs inshore, don't overlook the potential of offshore structure. San Clemente Island has artificial reefs and shipwrecks that provide refuge and attract baitfish. These structures can hold good numbers of calico bass, making them worth exploring.

10. White Beach:

    • GPS Coordinates: 32.9056° N, 118.4892° W

    • Even White Beach, known for its sandy shores, can hold calico bass. Look for rocks or small reefs just offshore, as calico bass often associate with structure. Cast your lures toward these structures and work them back with a steady retrieve, enticing strikes from curious calico bass.

CALICO BASS TACTICS AT SAN CLEMENTE

When targeting calico bass in kelp beds, a effective approach is to use large swimbaits. A 9-inch Big Hammer Sledge Hammer swimbait paired with a 1 to 1 ½-ounce Warbaits Slayer Head can be a deadly combination. This setup mimics the profile of a baitfish, enticing aggressive strikes from hungry calico bass. For your rod and reel setup, consider the following:

• Rod: A 711H Teramar rod offers the right balance of power and sensitivity. It has the backbone to handle larger swimbaits and the fast action tip to deliver precise casts.

• Reel: Shimano Curado 300EJ reel is a workhorse that can handle the demands of fishing in kelp beds. It provides smooth performance and ample line capacity.

• Line: Spool your reel with 65-pound Power Pro Spectra braid for strength and sensitivity. Add a 50-pound fluorocarbon leader to provide some stretch and invisibility.

When opting for a different lure presentation, a Tady 45 lure can be a great alternative. In this case, you can switch to a more specialized setup:

• Rod: Bump up to a 90H Teramar rod. This heavier rod will help you cast larger lures and handle the extra weight if you decide to fish with a larger offering.

• Reel: Go with a TranX 500 reel, which has the power and line capacity to manage heavier lines.

• Line: Spool with 80-pound Power Pro braid for increased strength and sensitivity, especially if you're fishing in areas with structure or targeting larger calico bass. Again, add a fluorocarbon leader, but bump it up to a 60-pound test for added insurance against abrasion and to handle the power of bigger fish.

Now, let's discuss the tactical approach to fishing kelp beds:

• Boat Positioning: Strategically position your boat to take advantage of areas with turbulent water. Active calico bass often feed in these dynamic conditions, so casting into the chaos can increase your chances of hooking a big bass.

• Retrieval: Employ a medium-to-fast retrieval pace. This triggers reaction strikes from calico bass that are actively feeding on baitfish.

• Target Areas: Look for rocks covered with rag kelp. These areas often hold baitfish and provide cover for bass. Also, focus on zones with significant water movement and foam adjacent to clear water. The edge between dirty and clear water can be an effective ambush point for larger bass.

• Surface Iron: Don't forget to try surface iron lures. Work these lures close to the edge of turbid water, taking advantage of the transition zone between dirty and clear water. Big bass often lurk in these areas, waiting to ambush unsuspecting prey.

Remember, fishing kelp beds for calico bass requires a combination of the right gear, lure presentation, and tactical boat positioning.

OTHER SPECIES

Another prized species found at San Clemente Island is the sheephead. These cunning fish are known for their prominent teeth and their ability to nibble bait without getting hooked. They favor rocky structures and piers, often lurking in waters ranging from a few feet to over 100 feet deep. Patience and precision are key when targeting these crafty creatures.

For anglers seeking a tasty treat, the white seabass is a highly prized catch. These fish frequent the island's kelp beds and nearshore waters, growing to impressive sizes. Their mild-flavored meat is a delicacy among anglers. Additionally, the island is home to halibut, flatfish that inhabit the sandy flats and drop-offs. Halibut put up a strong fight and are sought after for their firm, white meat.

The island's waters also play host to rockfish, a collective term for various bottom-dwelling species that inhabit the rocky reefs. Rockfish are sought after for their flavorful meat and can be found in a rainbow of colors and sizes. Another unique species found at San Clemente Island is the lingcod, a large, powerful fish known for its impressive jaws and aggressive behavior. They inhabit similar structures to rockfish and provide anglers with a challenging and rewarding catch.

In addition to these species, San Clemente Island offers the opportunity to target black seabass, cabezon, and various types of perch. Each species has its own unique characteristics, fighting style, and habitat preferences. By exploring the island's diverse fishing grounds, anglers can test their skills against a variety of non-pelagic fish, each presenting its own set of challenges and rewards.

Strategic Approach to Fishing Non Pelagic Species at San Clemente Island

Strategic fishing approaches are key to maximizing success during a bite at San Clemente Island. Our experienced captains begin by pinpointing promising fishing spots that are likely to harbor active fish. Environmental conditions play a pivotal role, especially the presence and direction of currents, particularly around features like kelp beds. Currents running parallel to the shore or seaward can present more challenging fishing conditions. 

Observing the behavior of surrounding wildlife is the next step in this strategic dance. Bird behavior is a telling sign; diving birds indicate an active feeding frenzy, while resting birds might hint at past action worth investigating. When birds aren't providing clues, the captain turns to the movement of baitfish. Relaxed baitfish suggest a lack of predators, but if they exhibit panicked behavior, it's a sure sign that predatory fish are nearby. Ultimately, we seek a convergence of favorable factors: the right current, active feeding signs from birds, and nervous baitfish. This trifecta of indicators points to an optimal spot for landing large bass. By interpreting and exploiting these natural clues, this seasoned sailor systematically uncovers the most fruitful fishing locations until conditions shift. It's a thoughtful and adaptive approach that ensures success on the water.

Bait and Tackle for Fishing Non Pelagic Species at San Clemente Island

Our Captains carefully consider various factors when selecting the right bait and tackle for the job. Before setting up their equipment, they take the time to assess the environmental conditions on the island. Water color and clarity, along with light conditions, play a crucial role in their decision-making process. Based on these observations, they strategically choose their bait. Darker baits are selected for cloudy days with murky water, while lighter baits are reserved for sunny conditions or when the water clarity improves.

Our Captains' preferred bait of choice is the LK Lures weedless swimbait, a versatile lure that can be found in sizes ranging from 7-inch to 9-inch. This bait's weedless design allows it to navigate through structure without getting snagged. For their fishing gear, they opt for a setup that balances strength and sensitivity. They favor the Abu/Garcia Revo Inshore reel, spooled with 40-pound Berkley Pro-Spec Braid for superior casting distance and durability. To complete the setup, they pair the reel with a 40-pound Pro-Spec fluorocarbon leader, providing stealth and abrasion resistance.

Our Captains emphasize the importance of using tackle that feels comfortable and familiar. They encourage anglers to find what works best for them, rather than simply following popular trends. By focusing on comfort and familiarity, anglers can develop a deeper connection with their gear, leading to more confident and enjoyable fishing experiences. It's all about finding that perfect balance between strength and sensitivity, tailored to the specific conditions and targets at hand.

Rod/Reel/Line Selection for Fishing Non Pelagic Species at San Clemente Island

Fishing at San Clemente Island for non-pelagic species offers an exciting opportunity to target a range of fish, and here's an updated guide with specific recommendations for tackling fish up to 40 pounds: 

Recommended Fishing Rods:

- Length: For non-pelagic fishing, a rod in the 7-foot range offers the best balance. Sensitivity is key to feeling the bite, and a longer rod provides enough backbone to handle stronger fish.

- Power: Medium-heavy power rods are ideal. They provide the necessary power to handle currents and larger fish, while still offering a fun fighting experience.

- Action: Look for a rod with a fast action tip. This will improve casting accuracy and ensure better hook sets.

Specific rod recommendations for fish up to 40 lbs:

1. G. Loomis E6X Inshore Casting Rod: This rod is specifically designed for battling stronger fish. The 7'6" medium-heavy power rod has a fast action tip and can handle fish up to 40 lbs with ease.

2. St. Croix Avid Inshore Spinning Rod: St. Croix's Avid series offers exceptional performance. Go for the 7' medium-heavy power rod, which is perfect for casting lures and fighting powerful fish.

3. Shimano Teramar Southeast Casting Rod: The Teramar series is well-suited for heavier fish. The 7' medium-heavy rod can handle lines up to 50 lb test, making it a great choice.

4. Okuma Makaira Inshore Casting Rod: The Makaira series offers exceptional durability. Their 7' medium-heavy rod can handle lines up to 40 lb test and features a sensitive tip for detecting bites.

5. 13 Fishing Envy Black Casting Rod: The Envy Black is a versatile rod, capable of handling a wide range of situations. The 7' medium-heavy rod can manage lines up to 50 lb test and provides excellent sensitivity.

Recommended Fishing Reels:

- Spinning Reels: Spinning reels offer ease of use and versatility. Look for a reel with a high line capacity and a smooth, robust drag system.

- Conventional Reels: Conventional reels provide more cranking power and control, making them ideal for heavier lines and larger lures.

Specific reel recommendations for fish up to 40 lbs:

1. Shimano Stradic CI4+ Spinning Reel: The CI4+ is lightweight yet powerful. With a high line capacity and smooth drag, it can handle fish well beyond your target range.

2. Penn Spinfisher VI Spinning Reel: The Spinfisher VI is built for durability. It has a full metal body and a powerful HT-100 drag system, making it perfect for battling larger fish.

3. Shimano Curado DC Casting Reel: The Curado DC is a high-performance conventional reel. It offers precision casting and a smooth drag, making it ideal for various fishing situations.

4. Penn Squall LevelWind Conventional Reel: The Squall LevelWind is a workhorse reel. With a line capacity of up to 390 yards of 50 lb test, it's perfect for heavier lines and fighting strong currents.

5. Daiwa Saltist Lever Drag Conventional Reel: The Saltist is a durable, smooth reel. It offers a high line capacity and a powerful drag system, making it well-suited for larger fish.

Recommended Fishing Line:

- Braided Line: Braided line is the way to go for non-pelagic fishing. It provides strength, sensitivity, and a thin diameter, allowing you to feel even the subtlest bites.

- Monofilament Leader: A monofilament leader adds stretch and invisibility, increasing your chances of hooking wary fish.

Specific line recommendations for fish up to 40 lbs:

1. Power Pro Maxcuatro Braided Fishing Line: Maxcuatro is an ultra-strong braided line with a small diameter. The 50 lb test offers plenty of strength and sensitivity.

2. Spiderwire Ultracast Invisi-Braid Superline: This line is designed to be invisible underwater. The 40 lb test offers a good balance of strength and stealth.

3. Seaguar Blue Label Fluorocarbon Leader: Seaguar's Blue Label leader material is abrasion-resistant and virtually invisible. The 30 lb test is a good choice for most non-pelagic species.

4. Berkley Trilene 100% Fluorocarbon Leader: Berkley's Trilene leader is known for its shock strength and invisibility. The 40 lb test will handle larger fish with ease.

5. AFW Surflon 1x7 Leader Wire: When targeting toothy fish, a wire leader is essential. Surflon's 1x7 strand leader is strong and flexible, available in 40 lb test.

With these rod, reel, and line combinations, you'll be well-equipped to tackle non-pelagic species up to 40 pounds at San Clemente Island. Remember to adapt your lures and techniques based on the specific species you're targeting, and always be mindful of local regulations and environmental considerations. Happy fishing!

OTHER EQUIPMENT NEEDED for fishing San Clemente

It is crucial to have a chart plotter, fish finder for fishing at San Clemente Island. The topography of the island, characterized by both shallow and deep ridges, plays a crucial role in fishing success. The plotter, equipped with topographical charts, allows fishermen to visually identify these ridges and other key features such as knuckles and offshoots along the island’s landscape. These features are crucial for they accumulate bait and attract a variety of fish, making them ideal spots for fishing. The fish finder will help you locate structure, single out large fish, and if it is side scan chirp enabled, you can use it to check under patties. All of our boats comes with this advanced side scan chirp sonar.

San Clemente Seals will steal your fish! Watch out.

Seals present challenges for fishing at the island, no doubt about it. Adapting fishing strategies is essential for success despite the seals' interference. One effective method is trolling, which involves moving baits along underwater ridges where fish are known to frequent. This proactive technique contrasts with the traditional method of anchoring and waiting for fish, which is less effective due to the seals' disturbances. By bringing the baits directly to the fish, fishermen can increase their chances of a successful catch while mitigating problems caused by seals. If you do hook up, and seals are in the area, reel hard and fast and get that fish on the deck at all cost. You have about 10 seconds before its gone. That is one of the major reasons why you use a heavier than needed rod and reel combo. Strongarm fishing!