Frequently Asked Questions

Fishing FAQs

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@islandersportfishing.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 a variety of fishing trips. Fisherman’s Landing books our open party trips ranging from overnight to 3.5 days. Our kayak fishing mothership and spearfishing trips to San Clemente Island in the off season (november through May) 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!

Please be aware that trips may incur a fuel surcharge due to increasing diesel prices.

Trip Details

TrIP Schedule