• What fish are we targeting?

    That answer will change based on the length of trip and season, but typically summer trips target offshore species including Albacore, Bluefin Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, Yellowtail, Dorado and more. Typically the decision of what to target is made at the time of departure based on the prior day’s catch and where the best fishing has been spotted.

  • Where will we be fishing?

    Again, the answer depends on trip length and season, but also on where the fish are located. Sometimes 3 day trips will fish within 50 miles of the harbor and other times 1.5 day trips will fish 100+ miles. Our network of fishermen out on the water keeps us abreast of where the most action is.

  • What should I expect for weather?

    The weather on the ocean changes constantly. Temperatures are usually mild and we recommend bring several layers as things warm up and cool down. Many of our guests wear shorts but recommend having at least one pair of pants. Rubber boots are recommended as the deck is often wet, but they not required.

  • Do I need a passport?

    All trips 2.5 day and longer require a passport. We may not need them, but if fishing within 12 miles of the coast or we wish to visit an island in Mexico, a passport is required.

  • What do you recommend for tackle?

    Tackle for 1 to 3 day trips

    Rods and Reels:
    • 25 / 30 lb live bait outfit
    • 40 lb live bait outfit
    • 50 / 60 lb live bait outfit
    Terminal Tackle:
    • Hooks – Eagle Claw L118 Mag – bronze or Mustad 94150 or 94151
    • 2 dozen each size – 2, 1/0, 2/0, 4/0, 5/0 ( check sizes for your trip)
    • Casting and Fish Traps lures – These vary from time to time, check what is hot at the time you’re going.
    • Trolling feathers – 1 each – Zuker Mexican flag, Zucchini, Black & purple
    • Leader material – 25 / 30 and 40 lb fluorocarbon

    Tackle 4 to 6 day trips

    Rods and Reels:
    • 25 / 30 lb live bait outfit
    • 40 lb live bait outfit
    • 40 / 50 lb yoyo outfit
    • 50 / 60 lb live bait outfit
    • 80 lb trolling /dropper loop
    Terminal Tackle:
    • Hooks – Eagle Claw L118 Mag – bronze or Mustad 94150 or 94151
    • 3 dozen each size – 2, 1/0, 2/0, 4/0, 5/0
    • 1 dozen size 7/0
    • Weights –
    • 1 dozen-¾ oz. and 4 – 2oz. sliders
    • 3 each – 8oz., 12oz., 16oz. Torpedoes
    • Casting lures – 4 – 6x jrs in blue & white, scramble egg, dorado, blue & chrome
    • These vary from time to time; check what is hot at the time you’re going.
    • Trolling feathers – 1 each Mexican flag, Zucchini, Black & purple
    • Trolling lure – 1 cd 18 or cd 22 Rapala
    • Squid jigs – 2 in your favorite size and color
    • Leader material – 25 / 30 lb, 40 lb, 50 lb fluorocarbon
    • Swivels – ½ dozen – 4/0 black McMahon
  • I don’t have a lot of these items. Where can I buy or rent gear?

    Fisherman’s Landing Tackle Shop is an excellent resource. Their employees are knowledgeable and happy to help set you up with whatever you need for a trip, to rent or purchase. They can be reached at 619-221-8500. We also carry some terminal tackle onboard if needed.

  • Anything else you recommend bringing?

    As mentioned above, rubber deck boots are helpful on the sometimes slippery deck. Clothing layers are the best way to deal with wide-ranging temperatures. A jacket, hoodie or lined windbreaker will be helpful when breezes pick up. Although most people wear shorts during the day, we recommend bringing long pants for the cooler evenings.

    Other Suggested Items

    • Sunscreen and Hat
    • Polarized Sunglasses
    • Bath Towel
    • Camera
    • Binoculars
    • Seasickness Prevention
    • Other Medication Needed
    • USB flash drive (for photo sharing)
    • Books/iPod/Tablet/Laptop/DVDs
    • Personal Toiletries
  • Can you clean my fish?

    On trips 1.5 to 2.5 days in length we offer on board fish cleaning. On three days and longer you can take your fish home whole or utilize one of three processing companies that will meet the boat.

  • Can I bring my young child?

    The answer to that question often rests with you. We do not have a specific age limit as some young children are very well-suited to this type of trip. Some, however are not. We recommend you email (info@islander-charters.com) or call our office (619-224-4388) if you have any questions about your child coming on a trip.

Interested in a full boat charter? Or just a couple of spots on an open party trip?

The Islander can accommodate your needs for all type of fishing trips. Fisherman’s Landing books our variety of open party trips ranging from overnight to 3.5 days. Our kayak fishing mothership and spearfishing trips to San Clemente Island in June are 1.5 or 2.5 days. Full boat group charters from 1.5 days up to 6 days can be booked directly with our office. We look forward to having you aboard with us!

See the Schedule

Have a question?

If it's about an upcoming trip, our vessel, or other questions you are contemplating, we would love to hear from you.

Contact Information

Hours of Operation:

Monday through Friday:
9 AM to 6 PM PST
Saturday and Sunday:
hours vary by season


Office:

(619) 224-4388


Email:

info@islander-charters.com