Fishing
Pier fishing doesn’t offer as much excitement, but it’s the cheapest ocean fishing option available. No license is required to fish from a public pier, which includes those at Ocean Beach.
California Department of Fish and Game. A fishing license, available at most bait-and-tackle and sporting-goods stores, is required for fishing from the shoreline. Nonresidents can purchase an annual license or a 10-day, 2-day, or 1-day short-term license. Licenses can also be purchased online through the department's website or at the San Diego headquarters. Children younger than 16 do not need a license. Note that some city reservoirs no longer sell snacks, drinks, bait, or fishing licenses, nor do they rent pedal boats or electric motors. They also accept payment by credit card or check (no cash) for day-use fees. Make sure to check updated concession availability for your specific destination, or obtain a fishing license in advance. You do not need a license to fish from public piers. Any lobster or crab taken on hook and line must be returned to the water immediately. 3883 Ruffin Rd., San Diego, California, 92123. 858/467–4201; www.wildlife.ca.gov.
Freshwater Fishing
Lake Jennings. County-operated Lake Jennings is stocked with trout in winter and catfish during the summer; it's a popular fly-fishing spot and also offers camping and great picnicking. 9535 Harritt Rd., Lakeside, California, 92040. 619/443–2510; www.lakejennings.org. $8.
Lake Morena. This spot near the Pacific Crest Trail is popular for fishing, camping, and hiking. The lake is stocked with trout in the winter, and you're likely to catch bass and catfish year round. 2550 Lake Morena Dr., Campo, California, 91906. 619/579–4101; 619/478–5473; www.sdparks.org. Parking $3; fishing $7; camping from $22.
Sutherland. This city-operated reservoir, open March through September on weekends, is a good spot for catching largemouth bluegill and bass. There's also turkey hunting during the spring and fall. 22850 Sutherland Dam Rd., Ramona, California, 92065. 619/668–2050; www.sandiego.gov.
Saltwater Fishing
Fisherman's Landing. You can book space on a fleet of luxury vessels from 57 feet to 124 feet long and embark on multiday trips in search of yellowfin tuna, yellowtail, and other deep-water fish. Half-day fishing is also available. 2838 Garrison St., Point Loma, San Diego, California, 92106. 619/221–8500; www.fishermanslanding.com. From $50.
H&M Landing. Join the West's oldest sportfishing company for year-round fishing trips, or whale-watching excursions from December through March. 2803 Emerson St., Point Loma, San Diego, California, 92106. 619/222–1144; www.hmlanding.com. From $50.
Helgren's Sportfishing. Your best bet in North County, Helgren's offers fishing and whale-watching trips from Oceanside Harbor. 1395½ N. Harbor Dr., Oceanside, California, 92054. 760/722–2133; www.helgrensportfishing.com. From $48.
