Charter Options

Santa Cruz Fishing Calendar

Plan your perfect fishing adventure with our seasonal guide to what's biting when.

🌸 Spring (March - May)

Active Species:

  • Rockfish & Lingcod - Season opens April 1st
  • Halibut - Moving into shallower waters
  • Sand Dabs - Excellent action year-round
  • Salmon - Opener in April usually
Best Charter Options: 7-hour combination trips

☀️ Summer (June - August)

Peak Season - All Species Active:

  • Halibut - Peak fishing in sandy shallows
  • Tuna - Bluefin and Albacore runs
  • Rockfish & Lingcod - Lingcod moving into the shallows
  • Salmon - When seasons are open
Best Charter Options: Rockfish & Lingcod, Halibut, Family 3 Hour Trips

🍂 Fall (September - November)

Trophy Season:

  • Tuna - Peak bluefin fishing
  • Salmon - Limited availability (check dates)
  • Rockfish & Lingcod - Aggressive feeding
  • Halibut - Continued excellent fishing
Best Charter Options: Salmon expeditions, tuna charters

❄️ Winter (December - February)

Year-Round Opportunities:

  • Sand Dabs & Sole - Peak winter fishing
  • Rockfish & Lingcod - Season closes Dec. 31st
Best Charter Options: Deep water Rockfish