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Book Santa Barbara, CA Fishing Charters

Find and book top fishing charters in Santa Barbara.

people1 Guest
Adults
Ages 13 or above

1

Children
Ages 2 - 12

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Santa Barbara Fishing Charters(3 charters available)3 charters available

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True Blue Adventures
True Blue Adventures
Star5(8)

locationSanta Barbara

31 Yrs experience Master Guide Live Bait Good with New Anglers Saltwater Fishing Deep Sea Fishing Drift Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Guests love Captain Darryl's infectious enthusiasm and expert navigation skills

(5)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon12 Hours

5 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$1,400

Check Availability
Pismo Adventures
Pismo Adventures
Star5(1)

locationPismo Beach, CA

9 Yrs experience Good with kids Live Bait Good with New Anglers Good with Families Saltwater Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Guests love Mike's helpful guidance and amazing kayak fishing experience

(1)
people2-8 Guests
clockIcon4-8 Hours

3 Trips

Available in 7 Months

Starts from$500

Check Availability
Santa Lucia Outfitters
Santa Lucia Outfitters

locationSanta Barbara

25 Yrs experience
people1-8 Guests
clockIcon1 Hour

4 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$1,200

Check Availability

Complete Guide to Santa Barbara Fishing

Discover everything you need to know about fishing in Santa Barbara - from top species and techniques to the best times to visit.

Top Species

Learn about the most sought-after fish species in Santa Barbara waters

Atlantic Halibut

Size

30 - 150 lbs

Length

52" - 185"

Habitat:
NearshoreOffshoreContinental Shelf

Lingcod

Size

25 - 85 lbs

Length

20" - 60"

Habitat:
Onshore

Vermilion Rockfish

Size

6 - 7 lbs

Length

14" - 22"

Habitat:
Reefsoffshore

Yellowedge Grouper

Size

8 - 40 lbs

Length

26" - 45"

Habitat:
OffshoreDeepwaterReefWreck

Yellowtail Amberjack

Size

15 - 96 lbs

Length

22" - 98"

Habitat:
OffshoreReefWreck

Why Book Adventure in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is famous for its picturesque coastline, sunny weather, and bustling harbor, but it’s also a premier destination for anglers seeking a memorable fishing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or trying your luck for the first time, the area offers access to rich fishing grounds, abundant coastal waters, and a variety of fish species. From private charters to group trips, there’s a perfect option for every visitor who wants to spend time on the water and make lasting memories.

Local charters specialize in providing guided trips that emphasize both the thrill of catching fish and the natural beauty of the area. Target species can include salmon, rockfish, and other coastal favorites, and many trips include fish cleaning services to make the day hassle-free.

Booking a charter is the simplest way to maximize your time and ensure a productive day on the water. Experienced captains know the best fishing grounds, seasonal patterns, and successful techniques, helping both beginners and advanced anglers improve their chances of landing a big catch. For those who want a more personalized experience, private charters offer tailored trips where captains focus on your skill level and goals, creating an unforgettable adventure on Santa Barbara’s coastal waters.

Santa Barbara’s waters are highly productive and diverse, offering a variety of fishing experiences. Short half-day trips are perfect for families or those new to fishing, while full-day excursions give anglers the opportunity to explore further offshore hotspots. Local charters often provide all the necessary gear, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle, so you can focus on fishing and enjoying the scenery. Many trips combine the experience of fishing with wildlife watching, giving visitors a chance to see dolphins, seals, and other marine creatures.

Popular target species include salmon, rockfish, and sometimes larger pelagic fish depending on the season. Inland anglers and shore fishermen can also find productive spots along piers, beaches, and shallow coves. No matter your preferred method—Santa Barbara offers plenty of opportunities for success. Fishing guides and captains provide valuable insight into the local waters, helping visitors learn about seasonal migrations, bait choices, and effective fishing techniques.

In addition to the fishing itself, a Santa Barbara trip is about the overall experience. Many anglers enjoy combining their trips with local exploration, sampling fresh seafood at nearby restaurants, or simply soaking in the coastal views. Booking a charter ensures a stress-free outing, with professionals handling navigation, safety, and equipment, allowing you to focus on the fun and relaxation of being on the water.

Ready to make the most of your time in Santa Barbara? You can book now to secure a spot on a guided adventure. Whether you’re aiming for a trophy salmon, observing sea lions near the shore, or simply enjoying the peaceful rhythm of the ocean, Santa Barbara delivers a rewarding experience for anglers of all levels. With expert captains, well-stocked boats, and some of the best fishing grounds along the California coast, your Santa Barbara fishing trip is sure to be unforgettable.

Whether you’re visiting from San Francisco or planning a local getaway, Santa Barbara offers the perfect combination of scenic beauty, productive waters, and expert guidance. From a casual half-day fishing experience to a full-day expedition on a private charter, this coastal destination is ideal for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a chance to connect with nature while chasing the thrill of the catch.

Top Activitiesgreen-underline in Santa Barbara

Experience the Best of Santa Barbara — Enjoy unforgettable adventures, stunning views, and relaxing moments that capture the true spirit of this beautiful destination.

Fishing
Fishing

Ratings & Reviews Summary in Santa Barbara

AI ReviewAI Generated Review Summary

Fishing in Santa Barbara, California offers access to diverse Pacific waters where anglers explore both nearshore and offshore opportunities. Local waters provide varied fishing experiences along the scenic coastline, with guides navigating familiar territories for productive outings. The fishing scene benefits from knowledgeable local captains who bring extensive expertise of regional waters and seasonal patterns. Guides create welcoming atmospheres that work well for families and groups of all experience levels. The combination of favorable weather conditions, accessible waters, and enthusiastic local guide services makes Santa Barbara a solid choice for anglers seeking memorable fishing adventures along California's central coast waters.

Top Reviews

Santa BarbaraRating5 / 5

Based on 9 reviews by Guidesly users

RW

Rodney Williams

May 12, 2024

Guests
1 Guest
We had a fantastic time with the captain. My crew and I wanted a fishing trip to get away from our busy lives. We thought we were just going fishing. Instead we had a comprehensive tailored guide trip for plenty of fish to not only fill our freezers but a memory to last a lifetime. I cannot wait to go on the trip again. We started with rock fish then headed over to the sheepshead and other specials then ended with king cod fishing. I could tell the captain loved what he did and wanted us to have the best fishing experience, and boy we were not disappointed. I’ve been on many chartered trips from Alaska to Florida’s coast to overseas trips, but this one takes the cake. If you are hesitant about booking, call the captain and he will tailor a specific trip from the novice to the well experienced! Highly recommended and can’t wait to go again!!!
True Blue Adventures
True Blue Adventures
Star5(8)

locationSanta Barbara

31 Yrs experience Master Guide Live Bait Good with New Anglers Saltwater Fishing Deep Sea Fishing Drift Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Guests love Captain Darryl's infectious enthusiasm and expert navigation skills

(5)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon12 Hours

5 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$1,400

Check Availability
TM

Tony M

May 31, 2021

Guests
1 Guest
Had a great time fishing. Mike is an awesome person. He was very helpful and understanding. Good conversation. Fun fishing. Amazing experience. I would definitely recommend if you ever want to try kayak fishing.
Pismo Adventures
Pismo Adventures
Star5(1)

locationPismo Beach, CA

9 Yrs experience Good with kids Live Bait Good with New Anglers Good with Families Saltwater Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Guests love Mike's helpful guidance and amazing kayak fishing experience

(1)
people2-8 Guests
clockIcon4-8 Hours

3 Trips

Available in 7 Months

Starts from$500

Check Availability

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about booking and enjoying your Santa Barbara Fishing charter experience.

FAQs about Santa Barbara

Who are the best rated guides in Santa Barbara?

Some of the best rated guides in Santa Barbara are:

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