San Francisco

Fishing Trips in San Francisco

San Francisco is a great place to go fishing, with plenty of options for anglers of all levels. Whether you want to fish in the Pacific Ocean, San Francisco Bay, or nearby lakes, there’s something for everyone. Having fished there myself, I can say that San Francisco offers amazing fishing spots with many different types of fish and beautiful views.

Why fish in San Francisco?
San Francisco has both saltwater and freshwater fishing. You can catch fish like salmon and halibut in the ocean, and the bay is great for striped bass and sturgeon. I’ve found that fishing here is easy, with many spots close to the city. Plus, the weather is mild all year, so you can enjoy fishing whenever you visit.

San Francisco Bay

Fishing in San Francisco Bay is one of my favorite experiences. I’ve fished from piers like Fisherman’s Wharf and Fort Baker, where I caught striped bass and halibut. The piers are a great option if you don’t have a boat. One of my best memories was fishing for leopard sharks from a pier—it was exciting and something I’ll never forget!

Pacific Ocean

The Pacific Ocean near San Francisco offers fantastic deep-sea fishing. I went on a charter boat trip from the city and had the chance to catch salmon and even a big halibut. Fishing off the coast of San Francisco is challenging but rewarding, with a good variety of fish to catch.

Tips for Fishing in San Francisco

From my experience, the best times to fish are early morning or late afternoon. I also found that using live bait, like anchovies or squid, helped me catch bigger fish. If you’re new to the area, joining a local fishing charter can be very helpful—they know the best spots and techniques for catching the most fish.

Preparations

Applying for an ESTA or eTA
When planning a fishing trip to California U.S. or Canada, it’s crucial to apply for the necessary travel authorizations. For the U.S., the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) allows you to stay for up to three months and is valid for two years. The application is straightforward and can be done online. For Canada, an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) permits stays of up to six months and is valid for five years.
Getting a Fishing License
In addition to an ESTA or eTA, you need a fishing license to legally fish in the U.S. or Canada. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service uses the proceeds from fishing licenses to fund conservation efforts. In the U.S., fishing license requirements and costs vary by state, typically ranging from $10 to $30. You can purchase licenses online or at local retailers.
In Canada, fishing license regulations vary by province. In British Columbia, for example, an annual fishing license costs about 100 CAD, while a five-day license costs around 30 CAD. These licenses are also available online or at local stores.
Planning Your Fishing Adventure
With your ESTA or eTA and fishing licenses in hand, you’re ready to explore some of the most fantastic fishing spots in North America. Whether you’re chasing tuna in the warm waters of the Florida Keys or experiencing the grandeur of Alaska’s salmon runs, the adventures are endless. So, book your flights, pack your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable fishing trip in the diverse and beautiful landscapes of the United States.