Charter Boat Fishing in Santa Monica
With its beautiful blue waters, sun-drenched air and mild temperatures, Southern California, specifically the Santa Monica Bay, is a popular for charter boat fishing. There are a number of businesses in the Santa Monica area that offer charter boat fishing. Group rates are available, as are guided tours.
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Availability
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A large variety of charter boats are readily available, year-round, near Santa Monica. Just three miles to the south of Santa Monica is Marina Del Rey, one of the most popular locations for chart boat rentals. There are an estimated 7,000 boat charters, pleasure craft and cruise yachts available in Marina Del Rey alone. Spring and summer months are the most popular time for charter boat fishing.
California Halibut
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Fishing for California halibut is one of the most popular activities for Southern Californian anglers. The fish are plentiful and can be caught from Baja California all the way to British Columbia. California Halibut do not reach the enormous size of their Alaskan cousins. The fish can grow to as large as f5 feet, although that is rare. Most adult California Halibut will be approximately 20 to 25 inches long.
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Pacific White Sea Bass
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Charter boat fishermen also target the Pacific white sea bass. White sea bass are primarily fished with live bait. Live squid is the most popular choice, although anchovies and sardines are also used. According to Captain Jerry Barber, Pacific white sea bass are the best tasting fish in the world. Fishing for white sea bass generally begins in March, but Barber says the most productive months are April, May and June.
Equipment
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Many charter boats will come equipped with a captain, crew, fishing gear and bait, but often you will be responsible for supplying your own equipment. Local businesses have numerous rods and reels for rent. For halibut fishing, use an 8 foot rod with at least a 20 lb. test main line and leader. Bring either live bait or artificial lures, which could include plastic shad bodies, curly-tail jigs and paddle-tail grubs.
Warning
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Charter boat fishing is a fun and popular activity, but the sport is not without its dangers. Anglers should not set out on any boat that is not fully equipped with the proper floatation devices, including life jackets. Inexperienced boaters should also pay special attention to their surroundings. Drifting off course or boating in inclement weather can be dangerous.
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References
- Photo Credit charter boat image by pearlguy from Fotolia.com
