San Clemente island

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This trip goes to the backside of San Clemente Island to fish for Bluefin Tuna during the night and early morning and Kite fish during the day. Bluefin range in size from 20 to 250 lbs!!! Don't worry, we have the heavy rods and reels at the ready, and glow in the dark flat falls. We arrive in the middle of the night and drop flat falls on the meter marks until we hook up.

Fishing in the Outer Banks off the coast of San Diego can be an exciting and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. The area is home to a variety of species, including bluefin tuna, yellowtail, dorado, yellowfin tuna, swordfish, and marlin, making it a popular destination for sportfishing.

One of the main attractions for anglers in the Outer Banks is San Clemente Island, which is located approximately 70 miles northwest of San Diego. This island is home to a diverse population of fish, including yellowtail, dorado, and bluefin tuna, which can be found in the waters surrounding the island during the summer months.

Another popular fishing spot in the Outer Banks is Hidden Bank, which is located approximately 60 miles southwest of San Diego. This area is known for its large population of yellowtail, dorado, and bluefin tuna, which can be caught using a variety of methods, including trolling and jigging.

Tanner Bank is another fishing spot that is worth visiting. It is located about 80 miles west of San Diego, this area is known for its large population of yellowtail, dorado, and bluefin tuna, which can be caught using a variety of methods, including trolling and jigging.

Cortez Bank is located about 100 miles west of San Diego. The bank is known for its large population of tuna, swordfish, and marlin, which can be caught using a variety of methods, including trolling and live baiting. This spot is considered more challenging to fish, but it can be very rewarding.

The best time of year to go fishing in the Outer Banks depends on the species you are targeting. For example, bluefin tuna can be found in the waters around San Clemente Island during the summer months, while yellowtail and dorado can be found in the area throughout the year. Swordfish and marlin are usually found at Cortez Bank in the summer and fall.

There are a variety of methods for catching fish in the Outer Banks, including trolling, jigging, live baiting, and kite fishing. Trolling is a popular method for catching bluefin tuna, yellowtail, and dorado, while jigging is often used for catching yellowtail and dorado. Live baiting is another effective method for catching yellowtail and dorado, and kite fishing can be a good option for catching swordfish and marlin.

It's important to note that fishing in Mexican waters requires a fishing license and is subject to different regulations and laws. It is important to check with the local authorities before fishing in Mexican waters to make sure you are in compliance with all regulations and laws.

Overall, fishing in the Outer Banks off the coast of San Diego can be an exciting and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. With a variety of species to target, including bluefin tuna, yellowtail, dorado, yellowfin tuna, swordfish, and marlin, and a variety of fishing spots to choose from, including San Clemente Island, Hidden Bank, Tanner Bank, and Cortez Bank, the area offers something for everyone. With the right timing and methods, anglers can experience a successful fishing trip that they will remember for years to come.

It is hard fishing, but if you catch a bluefin that is over 100 lbs you will be in for the fight of your life. Our experienced deckhands and Captain will ensure that if you hook it, you will have the best chance to land it. We have fighting belts and a fighting chair and harness if you hook the big one. If by morning we want more action, we go on the troll with a kite and a gummy flyer flying fish. Both of these tactics are proven. We also carry 4 scoops of bait, just in case. Includes all meals and snacks, soda, water, rods, reels, tackle, and bait.

The only thing NOT included is a fishing license and any alcoholic beverages you wish to bring with you. (Coolers are OK!)

To make a reservation to join one of our open party charters, please call 619-508-7823.

san clemente Target Species

Arguably the best fighting fish for its weight, and they can get up to 300 pounds each!

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!

Not technically a tuna, but in the same weight class, it  is known for the best tasting sashimi on earth.

The colorful skin of this fish is iridescent!
It is also known for its high flying antics.

This beautiful fish is an exotic species that you have to target at deep depths.

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:



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


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:

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:

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

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!