Your Barbarossa Fishing charter comes fully equipped with everything needed for a successful day on the water. We provide professional fishing rod and reel setups matched to your target species, high-quality bait and tackle, and large coolers for storing your catch on the boat. Ice is typically provided to keep your fish fresh throughout the trip. Our goal is to ensure you have access to top-tier fishing equipment without the hassle of bringing your own gear.
Fishing License Requirements: A valid California fishing license must be purchased beforehand and kept with you at all times while on the boat. You can purchase licenses at any Walmart, Big 5, West Marine, or directly through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s website. In Santa Cruz specifically, licenses are available at West Marine, Bayside Marine, and Big 5.
Important License Notes: If purchasing online, you must download and print your fishing license immediately after purchase – you won’t be able to access it later. Alternatively, download the “CDFW License” app where you can purchase and display your license digitally on your phone.
Special Tags: When targeting sturgeon or crab, you’ll need additional sturgeon tags or crab trap validation tags beyond your basic fishing license.
Gratuities: Please bring cash tips for your captain and crew! A 20-30% tip based on your trip cost is customary and greatly appreciated. Our crew works long, demanding hours to ensure all gear is rigged and ready, and your recognition of their hard work means everything to them.
Fish Cleaning: Complimentary fish cleaning service is included with most trips, ensuring your catch goes home ready for the table.
Food and Beverages: Bring a small soft-sided cooler for your food and drinks. Please leave any large coolers in your car, as we provide storage for your catch on board.
Personal Comfort Items:
Optional Gear: Feel free to bring your own fishing gear and favorite lures if you have personal preferences or want to use familiar equipment.
The waters off Santa Cruz experience some degree of ocean swell nearly 365 days a year, so it’s important to be prepared. Only you know how your body typically reacts to motion on the water.
Prevention Recommendations: If you’re unsure about your sea legs or have experienced motion sickness before, take Bonine or Dramamine original formula according to the label’s recommendations well before departure.
Important Warning: Avoid non-drowsy formulas as they don’t work effectively for most people when it comes to seasickness prevention. Don’t risk ruining your fishing adventure by using ineffective medication.
Our equipment selection is matched specifically to target species and fishing conditions:
Rockfish and Halibut Fishing: Penn rod and Avet reel combinations featuring 7-foot rods spooled with 50-pound braid for optimal bottom fishing performance.
Tuna Fishing: Heavy-duty XXXH Phenix Rods paired with Penn 50VISX reels spooled with 130-pound braid, designed to handle the power and speed of these offshore gamefish.
Salmon Fishing: Scotty electric downriggers combined with premium Lamiglas, Okuma, and Penn 8’6″ rods paired with Penn Fathom reels. These setups are spooled with 50-pound braid and 40-pound monofilament leaders for precise trolling presentations.
Standard Cancellation Terms: All fishing trips include a 14-day no-penalty cancellation policy, giving you flexibility for planning changes.
Within 14 Days: No refunds are available if you cancel for any reason within 14 days of your scheduled trip date.
Replacement Option: If you cancel within the 14-day window and we successfully find a replacement customer for your spot, you’ll have the opportunity to move your reservation to a future date rather than losing your deposit entirely.
Weather Cancellations: When the captain needs to cancel due to weather conditions or any other safety-related reason, you’ll receive either a full refund or the option to reschedule your booking to another available date.
Santa Cruz Departures: Meet at the Santa Cruz Small Craft North Harbor at U Dock, located at the corner of 7th Avenue and Brommer Street in Santa Cruz.
Navigation Notes: Google Maps and Yelp provide correct directions to this location. However, Apple Maps shows an incorrect location, so please use alternative navigation.
Detailed Directions: Drive past the RV Park on the left side of the harbor and continue to the dead end where you’ll find U Dock.
Parking Instructions: Park in designated visitor spots with parking meters near V Dock. Payment options include exact change with coins only ($2 per hour) or payment at the blue kiosk near X1 Dock. Remember to leave your receipt visible on your dashboard.
San Francisco Departures: Meet at Oyster Point Marina in South San Francisco at Dock 4, which is the fourth dock on your left as you enter the marina. Look for numbers 3 and 4 posted on the locked gate leading down to the dock. Parking at this location is abundant and completely free.
Gift cards are available for purchase exclusively for private charters, making them perfect presents for the fishing enthusiast in your life. All gift cards are delivered digitally for immediate availability and convenience.
Purchase Information: Please call or email us directly to arrange gift card purchases. Gift cards are final sale with no refunds available.
Veteran and Active Duty Military Discount: We proudly provide special pricing for veterans and active duty military members who present proper military identification.
How to Apply: Please call us directly for discount details and to arrange your discounted charter booking. Thank you for your service to our country.
Hoodies Available: Show your Barbarossa Fishing pride with our official charter hoodies!
Product Details:
Ordering Process: Please ask Captain Justin before your scheduled trip if you’d like hoodies, and he’ll bring them on the day of your charter for immediate purchase.
Have additional questions not covered here?
Don’t hesitate to contact Captain Justin directly at (925) 813-0379 for personalized answers about your upcoming fishing adventure. We’re here to ensure you have all the information needed for an incredible day on the water with Barbarossa Fishing.
