Join Chris's Fishing and Whale Watching for a 7.5-hour salmon fishing expedition starting at dawn in Monterey. Perfect for families and anglers seeking an unforgettable coastal adventure.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7.5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic stamina for standing and moving on a boat for several hours.
Wildlife
History
Monterey has a rich fishing heritage dating back to the early 1900s, once the historic hub of West Coast sardine canneries.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on sustainable fishing practices and protecting salmon populations with seasonal limits and strict regulations.
Chris's Fishing and Whale Watching
Join Chris's Fishing and Whale Watching for a 7.5-hour salmon fishing expedition starting at dawn in Monterey. Perfect for families and anglers seeking an unforgettable coastal adventure.
Chris's Fishing and Whale Watching is a Monterey, California charter operator based on the Monterey Peninsula, offering a range of whale watching and sportfishing trips in Monterey Bay. As the oldest charter company on the Monterey Peninsula, the business operates guided outings through the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and specializes in both wildlife viewing and recreational fishing.
Experienced skippers lead whale watching tours that explore local migration routes and marine habitats where gray whales, dolphins, and other marine life are commonly observed. Sportfishing options include salmon trips with a dawn check‑in at 5:00 AM, 7.5‑hour Petrale Sole and Sanddab trips, 7.5‑hour Rock Cod/Ling Cod trips, and a shorter 4‑hour Rockcod afternoon trip at 2:00 PM. Deckhands provide on‑board instruction and assistance for anglers of all ages and skill levels.
Trips emphasize hands‑on guidance and clear expectations for trip length and check‑in times. Daily fish counts are provided on applicable trips, and skippers and deckhands focus on making outings accessible and educational for families and individual anglers alike. Located in Monterey Bay, the fleet operates within the protected waters of the sanctuary and serves visitors looking for wildlife encounters and California sportfishing experiences. Chris's Fishing and Whale Watching is featured on The Adventure Collective and offers options for guests seeking guided marine excursions in Monterey.
Established Operator
Oldest charter
Oldest charter on the Monterey Peninsula
Location
Monterey, CA
Operates in Monterey Bay National Sanctuary
Crew Support
Skippers & Deckhands
Onboard instruction for all ages
Trip Lengths
4–7.5 hours
Includes 4hr and 7.5hr options
Reserve whale watching or fishing charters with experienced skippers — limited seats per trip, early check‑in for salmon trips.
Arrive Early for Check-in
Plan to arrive by 5:00 AM to complete check-in and get settled before departure.
Dress in Layers
Morning temperatures can be chilly, so wear layered clothing to stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Bring Sunscreen and Sunglasses
Protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s reflection off the water, even in early hours.
Listen to Your Guide
Follow the guide’s safety instructions and tips to improve your fishing success and ensure a safe experience.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against wind and possible rain during early morning or cooler months.
fall
Non-slip Shoes
Ensures safety moving on the wet and slippery boat deck.
Sun Protection Kit
Includes sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses to prevent sunburn and glare on the water.
summer
Insulating Layers
Helpful for staying warm in early morning chill before the day warms up.
spring