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With a name like Oceanside, you better believe this destination has great fishing on its doorstep. Located halfway between San Diego and Dana Point, the Oceanside fishing scene offers up the opportunity to hook into some of the state’s most sought-after game fish. Factor in the beautiful Southern California backdrop, and you’ll have a hard time leaving.
Cast your rod from the legendary Oceanside Pier or set sail towards Catalina and San Clemente Island for incredible bluewater action. Whatever you choose, to the California angler, these fishing grounds are just as thrilling as any theme park.
Best Fish to Catch in Oceanside
Oceanside’s diverse aquatic landscape makes it home to a variety of fish species. An incredible artificial reef system, plenty of vibrant kelp beds, and deep offshore waters are home to some of California’s most desirable fish. We’ll start in shallower waters, move into bluewaters, and end off with an unexpected surprise. Keep reading!
Calico Bass
Calico Bass makes for excellent angling action in Oceanside. Also referred to as Kelp Bass, these non-migratory fish are native to Southern California’s marine waters. They love to hang out around structures and rarely move far from where they were born. Stick close to the kelp beds, bridges, and the artificial reef system for your best shot.
While they do make for great table fare, Calico Bass are slow to grow. It takes them between five and 10 years to reach full size and they can live as long as 34 years. As a result, California anglers are conscious of how they harvest them.
The state-imposed daily bag limit is five fish, but most anglers say 1–2 is more than enough. Keepers must be over 14 inches, with the most delicious catches coming in at around 15–17 inches.
California Halibut
While you search those rocky reefs for Calico Bass, chances are you’ll come across California Halibut too. Despite the name, these large flatfish actually belong to the Flounder family. Don’t let that put you off though – their lean flesh makes for excellent eating!
These opportunistic fish will gobble up any live bait you cast their way. Like we mentioned earlier, they’re drawn to structures, and depth doesn’t really play a factor in their choice of home. You’ll hook into them from shore, just as often as you will in deeper waters. Best of all, there’s never a bad time to go fishing for California Halibut!
Yellowtail Amberjack
When you think of California game fish, Yellowtail Amberjack is probably the first to come to mind. Heading into Oceanside’s deeper waters is more than worth it for a chance to battle this fierce (and delicious!) competitor. These fish don’t tire easily and you’ll have to work hard for your dinner.
Yellowtails come closer to the coast as the waters warm up, making spring and summer your best bet for targeting them. To reel in a Yellowtail weighing between 15–25 pounds, gear up with trolling feathers, jigs, poppers, or flies. Make sure to keep your bait moving and don’t allow for any slack – these fish are deep divers and can easily cut your line.
Tuna
Although Yellowtails are widely considered California’s most famous game fish, Tuna steals the show in Oceanside. And we’re not talking about just any Tuna, we’re talking about Bluefin, Yellowfin, Skipjack, and Albacore. Thanks to nearby Catalina and San Clemente islands, Oceanside has some pretty incredible bluewater opportunities to offer.
To make the most of them, hop aboard a charter boat and bring plenty of bait. Trolling and chumming are two of the most surefire ways to land Tuna. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, ask your captain about techniques like kite fishing. Oceanside is the place to be in the summertime for a number of reasons, and the opportunity to hook into Tuna tops that list!
Sharks
For an adrenaline rush, arm workout, and thrilling chase, there’s no better opponent than a Shark. Luckily, Oceanside is home to quite a few different varieties! Whether you’re fishing from the pier or heading into deeper waters, there’s a year-round supply of fierce creatures to go up against.
For mega-sized Makos head into deep waters. These fish are incredibly intelligent and put up a serious fight. To maximize your chances of outsmarting them, chumming and trolling with oily live bait is essential. If you’re new to Shark fishing, test your skills against fierce Bull and Thresher varieties inshore to get a taste of the action.
And There’s More…
Thought Oceanside only had saltwater fishing to offer? Think again! Heading inland adds plenty of freshwater fish to your target list. There are several lakes scattered across Oceanside, and although you’ll have to go slightly out of your way to reach most of them, it’s more than worth it.
Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Carp, Catfish, and Crappie are all on the menu. What’s more, Lake O’Neil, the Miramar Reservoir, and Buena Vista Lagoon have more to offer than just fishing! All are prime examples of California’s natural beauty and you can partake in bird watching, hiking, and cycling too.
How to Go Fishing in Oceanside
Now that we’ve covered some of the fish you can get your hands on, you’re probably wondering how to go about it. Well, there’s more than just one way to reel in California’s finest in Oceanside. Here’s a quick summary of some of the most popular fishing methods in the area.
Charter Boat Fishing in Oceanside
There’s no denying that the best way to reel in a big fish is from a charter boat. You’ll have the Pacific at your fingertips and the freedom to change spots in pursuit of a trophy. Are you most drawn to taking home some Yellowfin Tuna or battling it out with a huge Mako? Then charter boat fishing is the choice for you.
Not only will you have a well-equipped vessel at your disposal, but you’ll also be in the company of a knowledgeable captain. This is likely the most valuable asset of all! Boasting years of local experience, your captain will share his top tips and tricks, ensuring you make the most out of your time on the water.
Kayak Fishing in Oceanside
If you still want to get out into the blue without breaking the bank on a charter boat, kayak fishing is an excellent choice. Explore the inshore waters from Oceanside, all the way up to Dana Point. Novice anglers can easily hook into Bass, Halibut, and Rockfish in the kelp beds and reefs.
More experienced anglers can try their hand at hooking Yellowtail Amberjack and Seabass. There are a number of retailers who will rent you a fishing kayak in the area, just remember, you’ll need to bring your own tackle. Also, kayak fishing isn’t for the faint of heart – prepare for a day of serious physical activity!
Pier Fishing in Oceanside
If you’re hoping to get familiar with pier fishing, there’s no better place to do it than Oceanside. Home to the longest pier on the West Coast, many fishing records have been set from its wooden planks. Sharks weighing in at 200+ pounds and 10 lb Lobsters have all been pulled up from the waters surrounding the Oceanside Pier.
It’s not all about trophies either. Reel in Corbina, Croakers, and Guitarfish near the beginning of the pier and watch your targets diversify as you make your way down. Right at the very end, you can even get yourself some Mackerel, Bonito, Barracuda, White Seabass, Rockfish, or even a small Yellowtail Amberjack.
Oceanside Fishing Spots
Everything in Oceanside is beautiful, and that extends to its fishing grounds. Not only are the locations below fish magnets, but they also happen to be nestled against SoCal’s recognizable backdrop.
- Oceanside Pier: This prolific wooden pier spans 1,942 feet, allowing for a range of fishing opportunities. Hook Corbina and Croaker inshore and Sharks, Seabass, and Rockfish as the waters get deeper. Best of all, you don’t need a fishing license!
- Oceanside Harbor: There’s no better starting point for charter boat and kayak anglers. Paddle towards inshore kelp beds hiding Bass and Halibut or rev up the engine and head offshore. Plenty of shops, restaurants, and beaches make this a one-stop location for fun.
- Buena Vista Lagoon: California’s first ecological reserve, the Buena Vista Lagoon offers plenty of shore fishing opportunities. Hook into Crayfish and Bass, while taking in the vibrant plant and birdlife.
- Miramar Reservoir: Located about an hour away, it’s home to some of the best Largemouth Bass fishing in the country. Many other freshwater species like Catfish and Bluegill inhabit this outdoor playground too.
- Catalina and San Clemente Island: From bottom fishing to trolling, the islands are a hotspot for bluewater fishing. Hook into Tuna, Sharks, Lingcod, and Yellowtail. Getting here requires more extensive travel time so set aside a full day to make the most of what’s on offer.
When to Go Fishing in Oceanside
| Species | Open Season | Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Bluefin Tuna | Year Round | 2 |
| Yellowfin Tuna | Year Round | 10 |
| Calico Bass | Year Round | 5 |
| Yellowtail | Year Round | 10 |
| Lobster | Last Sat in Sept – First Wed after Mar 15 | 7 |
Summertime in Oceanside is unparalleled, and that applies to fishing too. Warmer waters provide the best conditions for hooking big fish like Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna, and even Marlin come early fall. Inshore fishing, however, is a year-round activity. You’ll find a healthy supply of Calico Bass, Halibut, California Sheephead, and Sculpin throughout the seasons.
It’s always best to consult the California Department of Fish and Wildlife before heading out. Check out our fish calendar for a more comprehensive list.
Oceanside Fishing Regulations
Before you head out on your Oceanside fishing trip, here are a few important rules and regulations to bear in mind. We’ve included the basics on fishing licenses, fishing seasons, and bag limits to help get you started.
Depending on what kind of fishing you’re doing in Oceanside, you may need a California fishing license. If you’re planning on hopping aboard a charter fishing boat, you’ll need to pick up a valid fishing license for all anglers over the age of 16. Your captain will provide the rest, including all of the necessary gear and on most occasions, bait too.
If you’re casting from a public pier, you’re in luck! No fishing license is required. Everything else you need including equipment rentals, bait, and snacks is usually available on the spot. Looking for more information on California fishing licenses? Check out our quick guide for purchasing one here.
Oceanside Fishing: A Southern California Dream
With year-round gorgeous weather and a laid back vibe, Oceanside is the personification of Southern California living. Whether you’re casting from the landmark Oceanside Pier or heading out for an exciting adventure in the Pacific, this beach town is your personal angling paradise. The hardest part is waking up and going home when it’s all over.
I you want to find out more about fishing in California, visit our blog.
Have you been fishing in Oceanside? Have any stories to share? Let us know in the comments below!
Iva
Iva’s been traveling for as long as she can remember. The places that she gravitates to most are always by the water, so writing about fishing comes naturally to her. Come summertime, catch her on the shores of Lake Ontario in her hometown of Toronto.
