California · Southern California
DEEP SEA FISHING FISHING
IN CATALINA ISLAND
Explore the best deep sea fishing fishing charters in Catalina Island. Book verified captains, compare prices, and fish the legendary deep Gulf waters beyond the continental shelf, blue water, and offshore reefs.
About Deep Sea Fishing Fishing in Catalina Island
Catalina Island, California offers some of the finest deep sea fishing fishing on the Gulf Coast. Catalina Island sits 22 miles off the Southern California coast, surrounded by crystal-clear waters that hold trophy calico bass, yellowtail, white seabass, and seasonal bluefin tuna. The island's kelp forests and rocky reefs create outstanding habitat, while Avalon and Two Harbors provide scenic bases for multi-day fishing trips. Accessible by charter from Long Beach, Newport, and Dana Point. The deep sea fishing waters here — deep Gulf waters beyond the continental shelf, blue water, and offshore reefs — provide world-class angling opportunities that draw fishermen from across the country.
Deep Sea Fishing anglers in Catalina Island target an impressive roster of species including Pacific Bluefin Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Swordfish, Striped Marlin. Peak season runs through September, August, October, but productive deep sea fishing fishing is available year-round.
We're actively partnering with the best deep sea fishing fishing captains in Catalina Island. Request a quote and we'll connect you with a top-rated local captain. All charters include gear, bait, tackle, California fishing licenses, and fish cleaning — everything you need for an unforgettable day on the water.
What's Biting in Catalina Island This September
Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Calendar — Catalina Island
Month-by-month availability for deep sea fishing species. Plan your trip around peak season for the best action.
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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| Pacific Bluefin Tuna |
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| Yellowfin Tuna |
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| Mahi Mahi |
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| Swordfish |
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| Striped Marlin |
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Best Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Spots in Catalina Island
From legendary bays to productive reefs, here are the top deep sea fishing fishing spots your captain will target in the Catalina Island area.
Farnsworth Bank
Farnsworth Bank is a submerged seamount two miles off Catalina's leeward coast that rises from 300 feet to within 55 feet of the surface, creating one of the premier fishing destinations in Southern California. Trophy yellowtail, giant black sea bass, white seabass, and calico bass concentrate over the bank's rocky pinnacles and purple hydrocoral gardens.
Catalina's East End
Catalina's East End features deep rock walls and pinnacles that drop into the San Pedro Channel, holding yellowtail, white seabass, bluefin tuna, and calico bass. The east end's currents push baitfish along the rocky coastline, creating feeding lanes that charter boats intercept with live bait.
China Point
China Point on Catalina's windward side features exposed deep-water structure where yellowtail, barracuda, bonito, and white seabass patrol the current-swept rocky coast. The point's position in the prevailing current means it consistently holds baitfish concentrations that attract pelagic predators.
Ben Weston Point
Ben Weston Point on Catalina's south shore faces the open Pacific where deep water comes close to shore, attracting yellowtail, white seabass, and bluefin tuna along the rocky coast. The point's exposure to open-ocean currents brings in pelagic species not commonly found on the island's sheltered leeward side.
Top Deep Sea Fishing Fish Species in Catalina Island
These are the primary deep sea fishing species you'll target on a Catalina Island charter. Click any species to learn more.
Pacific Bluefin Tuna
Thunnus orientalis
Peak: Jul, Aug
Pacific bluefin tuna are apex ocean predators that have surged in Southern California waters in recent years, with fish regularly exceeding 200 pounds...
Yellowfin Tuna
Thunnus albacares
Peak: Jul, Aug
A powerful open-water predator prized for sashimi-grade flesh. Found in blue water near rips and structure.
Mahi Mahi
Coryphaena hippurus
Peak: Sep
Also called Dolphin or Dorado. Stunningly beautiful and acrobatic. Excellent eating.
Swordfish
Xiphias gladius
An iconic deep-water species prized for incredible fights and outstanding flesh.
Striped Marlin
Kajikia audax
Peak: Sep, Oct
The striped marlin is the premier Pacific billfish, found in the warm waters off Southern California and Hawaii. These electric-blue acrobats are one ...
Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Boats & Tackle in Catalina Island
Here's what to expect when you book a deep sea fishing charter in Catalina Island.
Boats
Deep Sea Fishing fishing in Catalina Island is typically done on center consoles, sportfishers, and offshore charter boats (28-65 ft).
Tackle & Gear
Deep Sea Fishing charters in Catalina Island typically use heavy conventional and trolling gear with 30-80 lb test line. Live bait, trolling lures, and heavy jigs are standard.
What to Bring
Motion sickness medication (if prone), sunscreen, hat, light rain jacket, non-marking shoes, food and drinks. All fishing gear and licenses provided by the captain.
Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Charters in Catalina Island
We're partnering with top deep sea fishing fishing captains in Catalina Island. Request a quote below and we'll match you with the best local experts.
Captains Coming Soon to Saltwater Pros
We're actively partnering with the best deep sea fishing fishing captains in Catalina Island. Request a quote and we'll connect you with a top-rated local captain within 24 hours.
Request a Free QuoteFrequently Asked Questions About Deep Sea Fishing Fishing in Catalina Island
Deep sea fishing 20+ miles out. Chase tuna, marlin, mahi mahi, wahoo and other pelagic gamefish in blue water.
The top deep sea fishing species in Catalina Island include Pacific Bluefin Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Swordfish, Striped Marlin. Availability varies by season — check our seasonal calendar above for month-by-month details.
The peak months for deep sea fishing fishing in Catalina Island are September, August, October, when the most species are at peak availability. However, Catalina Island offers productive deep sea fishing fishing year-round.
Deep Sea Fishing fishing in Catalina Island is typically done on center consoles, sportfishers, and offshore charter boats (28-65 ft). These vessels are specifically designed for navigating the deep Gulf waters beyond the continental shelf, blue water, and offshore reefs.
No — when you book a charter in Catalina Island, your captain provides all required California fishing licenses as part of the trip. You don't need to purchase a separate license.
Motion sickness medication (if prone), sunscreen, hat, light rain jacket, non-marking shoes, food and drinks. All fishing gear and licenses provided by the captain.
Deep Sea Fishing fishing can be more challenging due to longer boat rides and heavier tackle, but experienced captains in Catalina Island welcome anglers of all skill levels. Let your captain know your experience level when booking so they can tailor the trip accordingly.
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