San Diego is one of the best places in the world for sportfishing, specializing in world-class yellowfin tuna, bluefin tuna, dorado (mahi-mahi), and marlin offshore fishing. However, the best time for an offshore charter needs to be considered, in order to enhance your trip.
The right time will depend on what kind of fish are targeted, weather conditions, as well as ocean temperatures. Below is an in-depth guide designed to allow you to have the perfect offshore charters San Diego trip of a lifetime.
Spring (March – May): Early Action and Transition
Spring is considered the opening of the fishing season as the warmer waters begin to move into the range. It is a good period for anglers who are looking for variety, as bluefin tuna start to trickle in with yellowtail and bonito in early to mid season.
As the temperature of the water increases, so do the pelagic fish species like bluefin. This time of year can be very unsettled as winter is still in the region with windy days and chillier water temperatures.
Summer (June – August): Prime Season for Offshore Charters
Summer months are the best for catching bluefin and yellowfin tuna, as this is the time when warm water shifts to the north. Such warmth brings in dorado and marlin to the offshore waters of San Diego.
Experienced anglers are take advantage of the tuna run that happens at this time. It is also the time when long-range charters to the Outer Banks and into Mexican waters are more popular.
Fall (September – November): Big Game and Trophy Fish
Offshore charters San Diego providers are still active during the fall season, as the confluence of good weather offers great fishing prospects. Bluefin tuna season is at its peak during the months of September and October, as these large fish can weigh more than 300 pounds. Yellowfin tuna (along with the dorado) are also still around, making it a perfect season to fish for many different species on the same trip.
Winter (December – February): Off-Season with Opportunities
Even though winter is not a peak season, there is still some fishing which one can look forward to. The local yellowtail continue to be caught, followed by an increased frequency of rockfish and lingcod.
Bluefin tuna can, on an infrequent basis, still be in the region if the water is not too cold, which can be great for offshore fishermen. A lot of fishermen prefer half-day trips in this area due to the fact that winter storms can create less than ideal offshore conditions.
Booking the Best Offshore Charters San Diego
Depending on what your trip goals are, each season offers something a little bit different. For efficient action for tunas and more peaceful waves for boats, summer and fall are the preferred months. No matter the day or month of the year, San Diego and its waters are gifted with a variety of fish species and other sea creatures which makes every fishing trip worthwhile.
