Where do you go when you want to escape the flash and hype of Los Angeles? Sometimes, the beach isn’t far enough. When you want to go back to the basics, head to open waters and the eternal battle of human vs. slippery beast. When you’re ready to try deep-sea fishing off the LA coast, these spots offer some real action.
Santa Monica Bay
With the right equipment and strategies, you can take out your own boat with your buddies. But if you want to concentrate strictly on angling, you can book a charter boat and let the crew take care of the details. If you’re going out for just a few hours, a charter boat can really maximize your time. You can reach two marinas via the Pacific Coast Highway: Marina Del Rey and Redondo Beach.
Catch of the Day
If you’re fishing between March and December, you’ll get a real thrill by going after shark species like spiny dogfish, soupfins, and leopards.
Catalina Island
The scenery is gorgeous around Catalina Island, and the picturesque coves and reefs attract all kinds of fish. It’s a popular place for fishing, so don’t count on a quiet day. Catalina is known as the birthplace of modern sportfishing, so if you’re not content with watching the schools of baitfish, try for a tuna. You might not land it, but it’s a worthy opponent.
Catch of the Day
Both beginners and experts have a good time angling for calico bass. Catalina’s 65-degree waters are packed with them, and their size qualifies them as trophy fish.
Long Beach
Deep-sea fishing off the LA coast doesn’t get better than Long Beach in the summer when migration patterns bring an impressive variety of species closer to boats. It’s not rare for boats to come back with hundreds of fish, thanks to the steep drop-off not all that far from land. Choose from marlin, halibut, rockfish, yellowtail amberjack, and more.
Catch of the Day
If you want a real challenge, set your sights on white seabass, which grows up to 60 pounds. Stock up on chopped squid and some patience because it might take a while.
