Southern California offers a variety of fishing areas whether you are fishing for saltwater or freshwater fish. If you aren’t in the mood for boating most public piers allow fishing without a license. Anyone over the age of 16 must have a California fishing license. There are great fish to catch in the Pacific Ocean such as: Albacore, Sea Bass, Halibut, Rockfish, Marlin and many others. All day or half day fishing cruises are easy to sign up for if you would rather have someone else drive the boat. Boat rentals are also available on many lakes if you’re looking to catch catfish or a bass.

The San Bernardino Mountains have several lakes that are great places to fish. Silverwood Lake is only 24 miles from San Bernardino. It has 13 miles of shoreline and 976 acres of surface area. Trout, Channel Catfish, Stripper Bass, Largemouth Bass and Crappie are abundant in the lake. The marina has an excellent launch ramp that is paved and has seven lanes so the wait to launch is minimal during the high season.

Lake Hodges is fed by the San Dieguito River and 31 miles north of San Diego. Known for its 20+ lb Largemouth Bass it is a magnificent setting to fish, boat or picnic. The catch limit is five bass and they must be 15 inches or better. There is no limit on Bluegill but you are only allowed five catfish. When fishing form the shore you might also catch a Bluegill, or Crappie. Lake Hodges also has horseback riding or any number of trails for hiking for those members of your family who aren’t interested in “wetting a line.”