Fish finder
Garmin Striker 4 Fish Finder with GPS
The default budget fish finder for a reason: CHIRP sonar, built-in GPS for marking spots, and a price that won't sting. Ideal for inshore and small boats.
San Diego, California fishing
San Diego is the West Coast's offshore tuna hub — the long-range fleet sails from here — but inshore the kelp beds and bays hold calico bass, halibut and prized white seabass. The bay's tidal current sweeps bait along the kelp edges and around the points.
San Diego at a glance
- Target species
- yellowfin tuna, yellowtail, calico bass, California halibut, white seabass
- NOAA tide station
- #9410170
- Position
- 32.72°, -117.18°
Fishing the tide here
Inshore, fish the kelp edges and bay points on a moving tide — the bigger swings stir bait best. Offshore, warm late-summer water brings tuna and yellowtail within range; check the Point Loma South buoy for sea state before crossing.
Chart map
Toggle Esri Ocean ↔ official NOAA ENC chart · OpenSeaMap seamarks overlay · reference only, not for navigation.
Gear for San Diego
Tackle and electronics that suit this fishery. See our full gear guides for the detail.
Fish finder
Humminbird HELIX 5 CHIRP GPS G3
A step up with a bigger, sharper display and Humminbird's excellent mapping. A great all-rounder for anglers who've outgrown an entry unit.
Reel
Penn Battle III Spinning Reel
A near-bulletproof saltwater spinning reel: full metal body, sealed drag, and the workhorse choice for stripers, reds and inshore species.
Tides and conditions are from NOAA public data and may lag real time. Always check the official NOAA marine forecast and your state's regulations before going out.