A Few Spots to Help You Know Where to Go Fishing in Bay Area

Decide where to go fishing in bay area, CA with these family freshwater, saltwater spots. Find top bay area fishing spots for your next California fishing trip

Making a decision about where to go fishing in the bay area can take you a bit of time since there are quite a few top-notch bay area fishing spots. Don't worry though; you can easily narrow down your options depending on the type of fishing your family wants to do.

Thinking about freshwater fishing for largemouth bass? Or, maybe a few hours of saltwater fishing for flounder? All you have to do is read through these quick tips and then decide which bay area spot to start with.

Pacifica Municipal Pier

Located in western San Mateo County, the Pacifica Municipal Pier at Sharp Park Beach is a favorite among local anglers who want to catch ocean species such as salmon, striped bass, kingfish, or California corbina. Pier amenities and free parking add to the perks of this particular spot. Amenities include fish cleaning stations, benches, public restrooms, and a snack bar.

Lake Chabot

Looking for freshwater and wondering where to go fishing in the Bay Area? Since Lake Chabot is stocked with trout and catfish, it can offer consistent bites to keep kids and beginners entertained. Trophy largemouth bass and crappie also inhabit the waters of Lake Chabot, making it a haven for bay area freshwater fishing fans. Boats can be rented at Lake Chabot Marina, and bank anglers can cast a line out near Raccoon Point.

California Delta

One of the best fishing spots in bay area is the California Delta, particularly if you want to catch striped bass. If you're wondering where to fish the California Delta from a pier or the shore, you can drive to the Antioch Downtown Fishing Pier or head to Sandy Beach Park near the town of Rio Vista. Boaters can investigate an unlimited number of Delta spots such as Steamboat Slough and Lost Slough.

Clear Lake State Park

Clear Lake is the largest freshwater lake within the state of California, covering roughly 68 square miles. If you follow the professional bass fishing tournaments on television, you may already be aware that it's among the best bay area fishing spots for largemouth bass. You certainly don't have to be a pro to fish Clear Lake though. In fact, it's one of the best California fishing spots to take the family for a fun freshwater fishing experience. You can bring your boat and launch from the public ramp at Clear Lake State Park or scout out a prime bank fishing spot.

Coyote Point Recreation Area

Located on the shore of the South bay, Coyote Point Recreation Area is an option if you want to wet a line at a saltwater bay area fishing spot. Boaters can launch at Coyote Point Marina while shoreline anglers can fish from the banks near the Marina Trail for flounder, sturgeon, striped bass, and spotted seaperch.

Before you grab your fishing rods and head out with the family, be sure to get your California fishing license online and check the regulations.

Debbie Hanson

Debbie Hanson is an award-winning outdoor writer, women’s sport fishing advocate, IGFA world record holder, and freshwater guide living in Southwest Florida. Hanson’s written work has appeared in publications such as Florida Game & Fish Magazine, BoatUS Magazine, and USA Today Hunt & Fish. To learn more about her work, visit shefishes2.com or follow her on Instagram @shefishes2.