overnight sport fishing spots

What can I expect on an Over Night 24 Hour Tuna Trip?

This is a Tuna specific trip that we run from early June all the way through November 31. The trip always targets Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna specifically, with any easy opportunities also taken for Yellowfin and Dorado. Overnight 24-hour charter sport fishing is a thrilling and exciting way to experience the beauty of the ocean and the thrill of catching big game fish. In San Diego and Mission Bay, our company offers a fleet of 30 vessels ranging from 23 to 93 feet, providing anglers with the perfect platform for an unforgettable fishing adventure. Our boats are equipped with state-of-the-art fishing gear and staffed with experienced and knowledgeable captains and crew, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip for all.

The waters around San Clemente, Tanner Banks, and Cortez Bank are home to some of the most sought-after game fish in the world, including big bluefin and yellowfin tuna. These fish can weigh anywhere from 90 to 200+ pounds, making them a true challenge for even the most experienced anglers.

The bluefin tuna is a species of tuna found in the open waters of the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Pacific Oceans. They are known for their large size and powerful swimming abilities, making them a popular target for sport fishermen. Bluefin tuna can grow to be over 1,500 pounds and are considered to be one of the most prized catches in the sport fishing world.

The yellowfin tuna is another species of tuna found in the open waters of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. They are known for their bright yellow fins, which give them their name, and are considered to be one of the best-tasting fish in the world. Yellowfin tuna can weigh up to 300 pounds, making them a formidable opponent for anglers.

Our overnight 24-hour charter sport fishing trips depart from San Diego or Mission Bay, and we provide all the necessary equipment and bait to catch these big game fish. Our experienced captains and crew know the best spots to fish and will work with you to ensure that you have the best possible chance of catching the fish of your dreams.

Our boats are also equipped with comfortable sleeping quarters, so you can rest and recharge after a long day of fishing. We also provide delicious meals, snacks, and drinks to keep you fueled throughout your trip.

In addition to fishing, our overnight 24-hour charter sport fishing trips also offer the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful and diverse marine life in the world. You may see whales, dolphins, seals, and sea lions, as well as a wide variety of seabirds and other marine creatures.

Overall, our overnight 24-hour charter sport fishing trips provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the thrill of catching big game fish in some of the most beautiful and remote waters in the world. With our fleet of 30 vessels, experienced captains and crew, and state-of-the-art equipment and amenities, we are committed to ensuring that every trip is safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable. Book your trip today and experience the excitement of catching big bluefin and yellowfin tuna in the 90 to 200+ lb range in the waters of San Clemente, Tanner Banks, and Cortez Bank.

OVERNIGHT FISHING BOATS

Overnight Tuna Fishing Charter Experience

Overnight Tuna Fishing Charter Experience

Catching big game fish is a dream of many anglers, but finding the right charter can be a challenge.

Our overnight 24-hour tuna fishing charters in San Diego and Mission Bay offer a thrilling opportunity to target Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna.

The Ultimate Fishing Grounds

San Clemente, Tanner Banks, and Cortez Bank, a trifecta of exceptional fishing zones, house waters teeming with Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna. Experienced captains navigate these abundant areas, optimizing your chances of landing the trophy catch of a lifetime.

San Clemente Waters

Teeming with bluefin and yellowfin tuna, San Clemente waters are an angler's paradise.

Bluefin tuna are known for reaching speeds up to 45 mph, making them challenging for fishermen, unlike the mahi-mahi, which offers its own unique set of challenges.

Our experienced captains utilize advanced techniques and local knowledge to find the best fishing spots, ensuring an optimal experience.

With high-quality gear and comfortable amenities, your overnight adventure in San Clemente will be both productive and enjoyable.

Tanner Banks and Cortez Bank

Tanner Banks and Cortez Bank are renowned destinations for Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna fishing, located off the Southern California coast.

• Prime Fishing Locations: Rich in nutrient-filled waters attracting large tuna populations.

• Depths and Structures: Unique underwater topography enhances fishing prospects.

• Expert Guidance: Experienced captains possess in-depth knowledge of the area.

• Diverse Marine Life: Opportunity to spot dolphins, seals, and various seabirds.

These spots offer a challenging yet rewarding experience for anglers of all levels.

Enjoy the breathtaking views and pristine waters while chasing your trophy catch.

Targeted Tuna Species

Our target species for these overnight charters are primarily Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna. These prized game fish are renowned for their size, strength, and challenging nature, with some individuals exceeding 200 pounds.

Anglers may also encounter Yellowfin, Dorado, and mahi-mahi in these areas, providing a diverse and thrilling fishing experience. Each species presents unique challenges and rewards for the avid fisherman.

Bluefin Tuna Challenges

Fishing for Bluefin Tuna presents unique challenges that require skill, patience, and the right equipment.

1. Powerful Swimmers: Bluefin Tuna are renowned for their strength and speed, making them a formidable opponent.

2. Large Size: They frequently weigh upwards of 200 pounds, testing even experienced anglers.

3. Deep Dives: These tuna species often dive deep, making them harder to reel in.

4. Long Battles: Landing a Bluefin can take hours, demanding endurance from the fisherman.

5. Aggressive Behavior: They are known to thrash and fight violently when hooked.

6. Specific Gear: Requires specialized, heavy-duty fishing gear to handle their power.

These challenges, while daunting, make the catch of a Bluefin Tuna all the more rewarding.

Proper preparation and a strategic approach are essential for success.

Overcoming these obstacles offers an unmatched sense of accomplishment for any angler.

Yellowfin Tuna Tactics

Targeting Yellowfin Tuna requires a blend of precise strategy and learned experience due to these fish's unique behaviors.

1. Surface Lures: Use poppers and stickbaits to attract Yellowfin Tuna as they often feed near the surface.

2. Live Bait: Rig live baitfish on circle hooks for a more natural presentation.

3. Chumming: Deploy frequent chunks of bait to draw Yellowfin closer to your boat.

4. Drift Fishing: Allow natural drift to cover more area and locate schools more effectively.

5. Rigging Techniques: Utilize heavy-duty fluorocarbon leaders to avoid line breaks and ensure stealth.

6. Trolling: Employ high-speed trolling methods with feathers and artificial lures to locate active fish.

7. Night Fishing: Take advantage of their nocturnal feeding habits with glow-in-the-dark lures.

Strategically deploying these tactics maximizes your chances of hooking a Yellowfin Tuna.

Mastery of these methods contributes to a more productive and exhilarating fishing experience.

Onboard Amenities and Comfort

Our vessels are outfitted with luxurious sleeping quarters, ensuring your comfort and rest throughout the overnight expedition. Attention to detail in our accommodations guarantees a refreshing break for every angler, making the entire journey more enjoyable and rejuvenating.

In addition to restful quarters, we offer a "galley kitchen". Here, meals are prepared by our skilled chefs, providing flavorful and nourishing dishes. On-board amenities include climate control to keep you comfortable, spacious decks for relaxation, and state-of-the-art safety equipment to ensure peace of mind.

Sleeping Quarters

Our boats are equipped with comfortable sleeping quarters, allowing you to rest and recharge after a long day of fishing.

Each vessel features accommodations akin to a well-appointed guestroom, including plush bedding, climate control, and ample storage. These cabins offer a quiet, private retreat where you can sleep soundly, undisturbed by the journey’s excitement or the ocean’s gentle sway.

Additionally, you will find that our sleeping quarters provide a serene environment. This ensures you wake up refreshed and ready for another day of angling, maximizing your experience and performance on this thrilling adventure.

Our commitment to comfort extends to offering exceptional service, with attentive crew members available to address any needs you may have. Every detail is meticulously planned to ensure your overnight tuna fishing charter is both comfortable and memorable, encompassing all aspects of your trip from fishing to rest.

Meals and Refreshments

Ensuring that all anglers are well-fed and hydrated is a cornerstone of our charter service.

From the moment we set sail, our experienced galley staff works tirelessly to prepare and serve delicious meals. These include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, ensuring that no one goes hungry during the expedition.

The menu features a variety of culinary delights, ranging from freshly caught seafood dishes to hearty comfort foods. Special dietary requirements can also be accommodated upon prior request, ensuring everyone has an enjoyable dining experience.

To keep you energized, a selection of beverages is available, including coffee, tea, soft drinks, and water. For those who wish to partake, a limited range of alcoholic beverages is also provided to enjoy responsibly while admiring the stunning ocean views.

Our dedication to quality extends beyond the fishing experience, ensuring that every meal is as memorable as the catch.

Means and Methods

Maximizing your success in landing a prized tuna relies heavily on the expertise of our captains and the quality of our equipment. Using advanced fish-finding technology, robust tackle, and specialized bait, we employ proven techniques such as kite fishing, live bait drifting, and deep-water jigging to target the bigger Bluefin and Yellowfin. These methods, refined through years of experience, enhance your chances of hooking these powerful and elusive fish.

Kite Fishing with Frozen Flying Fish

Kite fishing requires expert techniques.

This method uses a kite to suspend a bait. The kite allows the bait to hover just above the water's surface, imitating the flight and splash of a real flying fish, which proves irresistible to predatory game fish like bluefin and yellowfin tuna. Consequently, this approach significantly enhances the chances of a successful hook-up.

The frozen flying fish serves as bait.

Their lifelike appearance and natural buoyancy make them ideal. By mimicking the airborne movement of live flying fish, the frozen counterparts attract large tuna from below the water surface, leading to exhilarating strikes.

Additionally, kite fishing provides the advantage of covering more water and maintaining optimal bait presentation, even in rough sea conditions. This makes it a versatile and effective technique for targeting big game fish.

Our captains are highly proficient in this method and can adjust the setup to match specific fishing conditions, ensuring the greatest possible opportunities for success. This commitment to excellence makes kite fishing with frozen flying fish a cornerstone of our overnight tuna fishing charters.

On the Troll

Trolling is an essential method in our overnight tuna fishing charters, offering a dynamic approach to angling bluefin and yellowfin tuna. Utilizing a variety of lures and baits, this technique increases your chances of attracting these prized game fish.

Our vessels are equipped with top-of-the-line trolling gear.

High-quality outriggers and downriggers enable the precise deployment of lures, optimizing effectiveness.

Lures are strategically selected to mimic the appearance and movement of tuna prey.

Trolling speeds and depths can be adjusted to suit the specific conditions and target species, ensuring maximum efficiency.

Successful trolling requires keen attention to detail and experience; our captains and crew excel in these aspects, constantly monitoring for bites and adjusting tactics.

When trolling, the excitement peaks with the scream of the reel, signaling the taking of your bait. This is where your adventure transforms into an action-packed fight against a powerful adversary.

Using SideScan Sonar with Down View and 360 View

Our overnight fishing charters are equipped with advanced SideScan Sonar technology, including Down View and 360 View capabilities.

SideScan Sonar provides detailed images of the underwater landscape.

This technology allows us to pinpoint schools of bluefin and yellowfin tuna with remarkable accuracy, greatly enhancing your fishing experience.

With Down View, anglers can observe what is directly beneath the boat, while the 360 View offers a comprehensive image of the surrounding area. This ensures no fish escapes unnoticed, making your trip efficient and exciting. Our expert crew leverages this tool to maximize your fishing success.

Catching Giant Bluefin on Live Bait

Catching giant bluefin on live bait is an exhilarating experience that every angler dreams of achieving. The rush comes from the moment you feel the powerful tug on your line.

Our crew uses premium live bait to attract these formidable fish. This method significantly increases your chances of landing a trophy catch.

The bluefin tuna's reaction to live bait is nothing short of spectacular. As soon as they bite, you're in for an intense battle that can test the most seasoned fisherman.

Our boats are outfitted with bait wells to keep your live bait in optimal condition. This ensures effectiveness in luring the bluefin. Coupled with the expertise of our crew, who provide strategic advice throughout your adventure, you'll have the best possible chance of landing that giant bluefin tuna. Come prepared for an unforgettable challenge and a potential record-breaker.

Other Species We May Encounter

While bluefin and yellowfin tuna are primary targets, other exciting species also inhabit the waters we fish.

Among these, we often encounter dorado, known for their vibrant colors and acrobatic displays, adding extra exhilaration to your fishing expedition. Additionally, yellowtail and various species of rockfish frequently make guest appearances, providing variety and challenge.

Occasionally, anglers may hook a marlin, offering an unexpected thrill. These powerful fish are known for their speed and agility, making them a prized catch that adds to the excitement of the trip.

Beyond the targeted game fish and occasional surprises, the rich marine environments of San Clemente, Tanner Banks, and Cortez Bank host numerous fascinating species. This offers anglers a unique glimpse into the diverse ecosystem, enhancing the overall adventure with unforgettable wildlife encounters.

When do overnight tuna charters depart?

Overnight tuna charters typically depart in the late afternoon.

Fishermen will usually gather at the marina around 3:00 PM. This time allows for check-ins, gear organization, and briefings related to the target species and fishing regulations. It comprehensively ensures safety protocols are followed before heading out to sea. The boats generally set sail between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM, depending on factors such as weather conditions and the specific charter service's schedule.

Check-in procedures are quite thorough.

Anglers must ensure they have their fishing licenses and any required permits. Proper documentation is crucial for a compliant and successful trip.

Once underway, these charters often sail 60-100 miles offshore, targeting prime tuna grounds. This evening voyage means anglers are positioned for early morning bites, maximizing their chances of a high-yield catch.

What equipment is essential for tuna fishing?

Fishing for tuna, particularly off the coast of San Diego, demands specialized equipment tailored for targeting these powerful and large pelagic fish. The right gear ensures both the safety and success of your fishing venture.

Rods and reels are the backbone of any tuna fishing setup. For rods, a conventional 5.5 to 6.5 feet stand-up rod with a heavy action is recommended. Paired with this, a two-speed reel with a high line capacity, such as a 50-130 pound class, provides the strength and versatility needed to handle the aggressive runs of tuna.

Line and leaders also play a critical role. Monofilament line, ranging from 80 to 130 pounds test, is commonly used due to its strength and elasticity. Additionally, fluorocarbon leaders are essential for their abrasion resistance and low visibility in clear offshore waters. Typically, leaders should be around 8 to 15 feet in length to ensure discretion.

Terminal tackle includes heavy-duty hooks, swivels, and weights. Circle hooks, sized according to the bait and the size of the target tuna, are preferred for their efficient hook-up rate and fish-friendly release. Swivels, ideally ball-bearing types with snap releases, prevent line twists and should match the test strength of your main line.

Also essential are bait and lures. Live bait like sardines or mackerel is highly effective, but artificial lures, such as skirted trolling lures, poppers, and jigs, also perform well. Each of these lures mimics the natural prey of tuna, and their selection can depend on the specific feeding habits observed on the fishing day. Attention to these details can greatly enhance the success rates in tuna fishing expeditions.

Where are the best spots for tuna fishing?

San Diego offers some of the finest tuna fishing in the world. Anglers can target yellowfin, bluefin, and albacore tuna in the abundant offshore waters.

A prime location for tuna fishing is the Coronado Islands. These islands are known for their prolific tuna populations.

Further offshore, the Outer Banks offer deep-sea anglers the chance to land larger specimens. The shelf edges and underwater canyons create ideal habitats for tuna.

Additionally, the Butterfly Bank is another productive site. Located about 50-70 miles offshore, it requires careful planning and a capable vessel. Tuna flock here due to the convergence of nutrient-rich currents, making it a hot spot for seasoned fishermen.

Should anglers bring their own meals?

All meals and beverages are included on our overnight charters, private or open party!