San Diego, California

What's biting

• Pacific Mackerel

  Where: Nearshore kelp beds and open water from Mission Bay to La Jolla Shores; also accessible from Ocean Beach Pier and Crystal Pier.

  Early fall is prime mackerel season as water temps drop. Use small silver spoons (5–7 cm), live anchovies, or sardines; fish dawn and dusk in 6–12 m depths. Jigging works well over structure.

  Caution: Handle carefully—sharp spines and teeth. Check bag limits with CDFW before you go.

• Bonito (Pacific Bonito)

  Where: Kelp forests and rocky reefs off Point Loma, Sunset Cliffs, and the Coronado Islands; accessible by private boat or charter.

  Water temps around 24°C are ideal for bonito. Cast small plugs, metal jigs, or live mackerel; work fast-moving water at structure edges. Fight is aggressive—use 8–12 lb (3.6–5.4 kg) test minimum.

• Calico Bass (Kelp Bass)

  Where: Kelp forests and rocky outcrops in Mission Bay, Pacific Beach, and La Jolla Cove; shore-accessible at many points.

  Fall cooling triggers feeding. Use soft plastics (4–5 cm), small crankbaits, or live anchovies in 3–6 m depths around kelp edges. Early morning and late afternoon are most productive.

  Caution: Protected in some areas—confirm local regs. Size and bag limits vary; verify with CDFW.

• California Halibut

  Where: Sandy flats and channels in Mission Bay, San Diego Bay, and off Ocean Beach; also deeper (12–18 m) offshore.

  Halibut hunt in low-light conditions. Fish dawn/dusk with live anchovies or small mullet on or near bottom. Jigging works in deeper water; use 6–8 oz (170–230 g) jigs.

• Yellowtail (Yellowtail Amberjack)

  Where: Offshore reefs and banks 8–15 km from shore; requires boat access. Popular at Coronado Islands and Tanner Bank.

  Fall is excellent for yellowtail. Live mackerel or sardines are standard; also use metal jigs in 15–30 m depths. Fish structure and current breaks. Expect strong runs—bring 20+ lb (9+ kg) test.