Fishing

Fisherfolk angle for salmon and halibut outside the bay or striped bass and the occasional sturgeon within. On land, you can cast your line at the Municipal Pier, Fisherman's Wharf, Baker Beach, or Aquatic Park. Fishing licenses are not necessary when casting from public piers. (The exception is sturgeon fishing, for which you need a Sturgeon Fishing Report Card.) Licenses are required for all other types of fishing, and can be purchased from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (www.wildlife.ca.gov). Non-California residents can purchase 1-, 2-, or 10-day licenses for about $15, $23, and $47 respectively. Sport-fishing charters depart from Fisherman's Wharf during the salmon-fishing season (March or April through October), and cost about $250 per person.

Lovely Martha's Sportfishing. Fishing excursions and bay cruises are this operator's specialties. Rates range from $100 for half a day to $130 for a full day. 300 Jefferson Street , Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, California, 94133. 415/509–5552; www.lovelymartha.com.

Wacky Jacky Sport Fishing. Captain Jacqueline Douglas skippers her sleek, comfortable boat, the Wacky Jacky, on fishing excursions that start at $120 per person. Berth #1 on Jefferson St., Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, California, 94133. 415/586–9800; www.wackyjackysportfishing.com.