Get ready to reel in some serious action on the waters around San Francisco! Our full-day charter gives you 8 solid hours to chase after the hottest bites this bay has to offer. Whether you're after hard-fighting halibut, monster stripers, or even prehistoric sturgeon, we've got you covered year-round. Our seasoned captains know these waters like the back of their hand and will put you on the fish. So grab your lucky hat and let's hit the bay for an unforgettable day of fishing!
One of the best things about fishing San Francisco Bay is how the action changes with the seasons. In spring and fall, we're all about chasing halibut and striped bass. These fish move into the bay to feast, and we know just where to find them. As the water warms up, the shark fishing heats up too - nothing gets your heart pounding like hooking into a toothy predator! When winter rolls around, we switch gears to target white sturgeon - these prehistoric beasts can grow over 7 feet long and put up one heck of a fight. The colder months also bring in some of the biggest striped bass of the year, giving you a shot at a true trophy fish.
We provide all the top-notch gear you'll need to land the big one. Depending on what we're targeting, we'll use a mix of techniques to maximize our chances. For halibut and stripers, we often drift live bait or troll with artificial lures. When shark fishing, we'll set up a chum slick and use heavy tackle to battle these powerful predators. Sturgeon fishing requires specialized gear to handle their size and strength - we use stout rods and reels spooled with braided line to give you the best shot at landing these giants. Our experienced crew will walk you through each technique, so even if you're new to fishing, you'll be casting like a pro in no time.
"Our family had a wonderful experience with HelpUfish and Captain Anthony Langes. He was patient, knowledgeable, and made the trip exciting for everyone, including the kids. We caught some great fish and made lasting memories." - James
"Had an amazing time with Captain Anthony on HelpUfish. He knew all the best fishing spots and made sure we had a wonderful time. The boat was clean and well-equipped. Can't wait to go again!" - Sarah
"Captain Anthony Langes and HelpUfish exceeded our expectations! His knowledge of the area and friendly attitude made our fishing trip both fun and productive. We caught more fish than we imagined. A must-do in San Francisco!" - Michael
Halibut: These flatfish might look funny, but they're no joke when it comes to table fare. San Francisco Bay halibut typically range from 10 to 30 pounds, with the occasional 40-pounder making an appearance. They love to ambush their prey on sandy or muddy bottoms, so we'll often drift or slow-troll baits near the bottom to entice a bite. The best halibut fishing usually runs from late spring through early fall, with peak action in the summer months. When you hook one, get ready for some hard headshakes and powerful runs!
Striped Bass: Stripers are the bread and butter of Bay Area fishing, and for good reason. These hard-fighting fish can be found year-round, but the biggest specimens typically show up in the winter months. Stripers in the 10 to 30-pound range are common, with trophy fish pushing 40 pounds or more. We target them using a variety of methods, from trolling with artificial lures to live-baiting with anchovies or shad. The excitement of seeing a big striper crash a topwater lure is something you won't soon forget!
Sharks: For pure adrenaline-pumping action, it's hard to beat shark fishing in the Bay. We primarily target leopard sharks, sevengill sharks, and the occasional thresher shark. These toothy predators range from 3 to 7 feet in length and put up an incredible fight on rod and reel. We typically anchor up, set out a chum slick, and wait for the action to begin. Shark fishing is best from late spring through early fall when water temperatures are warmest. It's catch-and-release for these apex predators, but the thrill of the fight and photo op is well worth it!
White Sturgeon: Often called the dinosaurs of the bay, white sturgeon are a bucket-list fish for many anglers. These prehistoric-looking creatures can live for over 100 years and grow to truly massive sizes. The state record is over 9 feet long and weighed 468 pounds! While fish that size are rare, sturgeon in the 4 to 6-foot range are not uncommon. We target them in the winter months when they move into the bay to spawn. Sturgeon fishing requires patience and specialized techniques, but when you hook into one of these giants, it's an experience you'll never forget.
When you step aboard our well-maintained fishing vessel, you're in for a treat. We'll start the day with a quick safety briefing and rundown of our game plan. Then it's time to motor out to our first fishing spot. Don't worry if you're new to fishing - our experienced crew will show you the ropes and make sure you're comfortable with the gear and techniques we'll be using.
As we fish, keep an eye out for the Bay Area's famous landmarks. You might spot the Golden Gate Bridge peeking through the fog or see Alcatraz Island in the distance. It's not uncommon to have curious sea lions pop up to check us out, or to spot pelicans diving for their own catch nearby.
We'll move around throughout the day to find the best bite, always adapting our tactics to what the fish are doing. Some days they're aggressive and we'll be reeling them in left and right. Other days it might be a bit slower, but that's fishing! No matter what, we'll work hard to put you on the fish and make sure you have a great time on the water.
To make the most of your day on the bay, here are a few insider tips:
1. Dress in layers: San Francisco weather can be unpredictable, so it's best to be prepared. Start with a base layer, add a warm mid-layer, and top it off with a wind and waterproof outer layer. Don't forget a hat and sunglasses!
2. Bring snacks and drinks: While we provide the fishing gear, you'll want to pack your own food and beverages for the day. A small cooler works great for keeping things fresh.
3. Don't forget the camera: You'll want to capture those big fish moments, so make sure your phone is charged or bring a separate camera.
4. Sunscreen is a must: Even on cloudy days, the sun's reflection off the water can be intense. Protect your skin with a good waterproof sunscreen.
5. Motion sickness remedies: If you're prone to seasickness, consider taking medication before the trip or bringing along some ginger candies.
Ready to experience some of the best fishing San Francisco has to offer? Our full-day charters give you the time and opportunity to really get into the action, whether you're chasing halibut, battling stripers, or going after prehistoric sturgeon. With our experienced captains, top-notch gear, and intimate knowledge of these waters, you're in for a fishing trip you'll be talking about for years to come.
Don't let another season slip by without getting out on the water. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak times, so don't wait to book your trip. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking for your next trophy or a first-timer wanting to see what all the fuss is about, we've got the perfect trip for you. Give us a call or book online today - the fish are waiting!
June 10, 2023
Had an amazing time with Captain Anthony on HelpUfish. He knew all the best fishing spots and made sure we had a wonderful time. The boat was clean and well-equipped. Can't wait to go again!
July 20, 2023
Captain Anthony Langes and HelpUfish exceeded our expectations! His knowledge of the area and friendly attitude made our fishing trip both fun and productive. We caught more fish than we imagined. A must-do in San Francisco!
October 18, 2023
What an incredible fishing adventure with HelpUfish! Captain Anthony Langes's expertise and enthusiasm made our trip unforgettable. We caught some impressive fish and had an amazing time. Highly recommend!
May 20, 2023
Had a fantastic time fishing with Captain Anthony on HelpUfish. He was knowledgeable, friendly, and made the trip enjoyable for everyone. The boat was well-maintained, and we had a successful day of fishing.
May 20, 2023
A fantastic fishing trip with HelpUfish and Captain Anthony Langes! His professionalism and dedication to customer satisfaction made for a memorable experience. We caught plenty of fish and had a blast. Will definitely be returning!
April 19, 2023
Our family had a wonderful experience with HelpUfish and Captain Anthony Langes. He was patient, knowledgeable, and made the trip exciting for everyone, including the kids. We caught some great fish and made lasting memories.