Is prior fishing experience required?

No, all skill levels are welcome. Our crew offers expert assistance to help you fish successfully.

What types of fish can I expect to catch?

Common catches include yellowtail, bass, calico bass, sand bass, and various offshore species depending on the season.

Are food and drinks provided on the trip?

Light snacks and beverages are recommended to bring yourself, although some charters may provide refreshments—please confirm when booking.

Can kids participate in this fishing trip?

Yes, this trip is family-friendly and suitable for kids, though they should be supervised and prepared for a long day on the water.

What if the weather is bad on the day of the trip?

Trips may be rescheduled or canceled in case of unsafe weather conditions to ensure passenger safety.

Is fishing gear included or do I need to bring my own?

Fishing gear is typically provided by Dana Wharf, but you can bring your personal equipment if preferred.

All Day Limited Load Fishing Trip in Dana Point, CA

Embark on an unforgettable 12-hour All Day Limited Load Fishing Trip with Dana Wharf Whale Watching & Sportfishing from Dana Point, California. This private adventure offers a scenic 2.5 to 3-hour boat ride either to the iconic Catalina Island or out to the rich offshore waters. Perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike, the trip blends thrilling sportfishing opportunities with a focus on conservation and respect for the ocean. With a limited number of guests aboard, you’ll enjoy a more intimate, hands-on experience while trying to reel in bass, yellowtail, calico, and more. The knowledgeable crew provides expert tips and guidance to maximize your catch and enjoyment. Between casts, soak up stunning ocean views and marine life sightings. Whether you're after a fun family outing or a focused fishing day, this trip delivers a rewarding outdoor experience in Southern California’s beautiful coastal waters.

About Dana Wharf Whale Watching & Sportfishing

Dana Wharf Whale Watching & Sportfishing, based in Dana Point, California, operates whale-watching, sportfishing, and harbor cruise experiences departing from Dana Point Harbor. The company offers a diverse range of ocean outings for families, anglers, birders, and sightseers, emphasizing comfortable vessels and memorable marine encounters.

Whale-watching options include the EPIC Whale Watching 4 Hour Adventure aboard the fast, comfortable New San Mateo with a strict 12-passenger limit for an intimate wildlife experience. That EPIC adventure highlights the Gray Whale migration and may include sightings of humpback whales, fin whales, and multiple dolphin species. Pelagic Bird Watching runs as a six-hour expedition on a fast catamaran with a local bird expert guiding the search for pelagic birds, whales, and dolphins.

Sportfishing offerings range from half-day fishing trips—designed for all skill levels with friendly crew support, limited capacity, and onboard food and drinks—to a 3/4 Day 9 Hour Fishing Trip targeting seasonal species such as tuna, halibut, and yellowtail while drifting offshore.

Dana Wharf also presents special-event cruises: Live Music Harbor Cruises aboard the 95' Dana Pride, Champagne & Sunset Sails on the historic 1926 Schooner Curlew, Fourth of July dinner cruises with prime fireworks views, a 60-minute Evening Holiday Harbor Cruise on select December dates, and a Father’s Day Dinner Cruise with live acoustic music, BBQ, and beer tasting. Family programming includes Story Time with Nona, limited to 15 children plus parents with a make-and-take craft and live streaming.

All experiences depart from Dana Point Harbor and combine local knowledge, comfortable vessels, and a focus on enjoyable ocean experiences across skill levels.