Surf Fishing
Latitude 32's guided Surf Trips are the perfect way
to spend a warm sunny San Diego day. What better way
to explore the coast than to walk along the beach,
view the beautiful sights and have a chance catching
some extraordinary game fish. Pound for pound, the
Pacific saltwater surf zone species will hold up to
many popular game fish. From the scrappy barred surf
perch to the elusive Corbina you'll have your hands
full exploring San Diego County's pacific coastline.
Some of the species you will encounter are (depending on season):
Some of the species you will encounter are (depending on season):
- - Many varieties of surf perch
- - Spotfin Croaker
- - Yellowfin Croaker
- - California Corbina
- - Leopard Shark
- - Guitarfish
- - California Halibut
- - and much much more...
Activity
Our guided surf fishing charters can cover a lot of
beach. Sometimes we're lucky and the spot is right in
front of where we park our cars, but oftentimes it
involves a bit of walking. This outdoor classroom is
where we'll discuss strategies, and ocean / fish
behavior. And although we may not go very far, we
want to make sure that you can handle walking for a
few miles. Want to learn how to fly fish? This trip
is ideal for the beginning fly angler. We can tailor
the day to make sure you learn quickly and then head
out to the water to catch some fish.
What to Wear
During the winter or spring, its advisable to wear
some sort of waders. We can provide high quality
Simms Waders for you to
use. Please let us know if you would like to
use waders and what sizes. Some anglers prefer
to wear waders all year round. During the warm
summer months, the water is approximately 70+
degrees, and some anglers prefer to walk the
beach with a nice pair of board shorts or
fishing shorts. Water shoes or booties are
generally not a bad thing to have depending on
the fishing spot. We bring a pair of sport
sandals, flats shoes or booties just in case.
The general rule about fishing the coast is
that its better to travel in layers. Bring a
lightweight waterproof jacket, and layer up.
You can always leave your extra layers in the
car or in your backpack. Don't forget a pair
of polarized sunglasses, a
hat. We will also provide the waveproof Headhunter
sunscreen.
Rod / Reels / Gear
Latitude 32 specializes in fly and light tackle
charters. We can provide high quality Temple Fork
Outfitters / Echo Fly & Spinning Rods. If you
would like to bring your own gear, we encourage you
to do so. Sometimes the best rig to use is one that
you are the most familiar with. We recommend:
Spinning
A medium or medium / heavy action spinning rod, with a 200 series/ size reel. Although you can load your line with 10lb test, we generally find that 4lb - 8lb test is ideal. I've even used a basic trout noodle rod and had a great time fishing. Depending on your experience level and season, we can use anything from sand crabs to kastmasters, to artificial grubs & worms. Hook sizes range from a size 6 through 1/0. For beginners, we recommend a Carolina Rig, with a 1/2oz sinker and a size 4 hook.
Fly
A 6-8wt fly rod. I prefer the 8. Easy enough to cast all day and stout enough to handle some bigger fish. A decent reel with a good drag, that has at minimum of 150 yards of 20lb backing. 300-450gr intermediate sinking fly line, shooting heads, etc. A selection of small / medium sized clousers / deceivers works well. Chartreuse, olive, white and orange seem to fit the bill for most surf species. Most of the fish are chasing sand crabs, small baitfish or sand worms. Choose patterns accordingly.
Spinning
A medium or medium / heavy action spinning rod, with a 200 series/ size reel. Although you can load your line with 10lb test, we generally find that 4lb - 8lb test is ideal. I've even used a basic trout noodle rod and had a great time fishing. Depending on your experience level and season, we can use anything from sand crabs to kastmasters, to artificial grubs & worms. Hook sizes range from a size 6 through 1/0. For beginners, we recommend a Carolina Rig, with a 1/2oz sinker and a size 4 hook.
Fly
A 6-8wt fly rod. I prefer the 8. Easy enough to cast all day and stout enough to handle some bigger fish. A decent reel with a good drag, that has at minimum of 150 yards of 20lb backing. 300-450gr intermediate sinking fly line, shooting heads, etc. A selection of small / medium sized clousers / deceivers works well. Chartreuse, olive, white and orange seem to fit the bill for most surf species. Most of the fish are chasing sand crabs, small baitfish or sand worms. Choose patterns accordingly.