Fishing in the 805: A Guide to the Central Coast’s Best Angling Spots

The 805 region, stretching across the Central Coast of California, offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the state. Whether you’re casting from the sandy shores of Pismo Beach, dropping a line into Morro Bay Harbor, or heading out on a deep-sea adventure from Avila Beach, the variety of fishing experiences here is unmatched. This guide covers everything you need to know about fishing in the 805, from surf fishing to deep-sea charters, the best spots, and what you can expect to catch.

Surf Fishing: Catching Big from the Beach

Surf fishing is one of the most accessible and rewarding ways to fish in the 805. With miles of coastline, you’ll find plenty of spots to cast a line.

Best Surf Fishing Spots

• Pismo Beach – A popular spot for perch, halibut, and even striped bass. The sandy bottom makes it great for beginners.

• Morro Strand State Beach – Known for its healthy populations of barred surf perch and the occasional halibut.

• Cayucos Pier – While not strictly surf fishing, this pier allows you to target perch and other inshore species without wading in.

• Oceano Dunes – A prime spot for surf fishing, with fewer crowds and good access to deep water close to shore.

What You’ll Catch

• Barred Surf Perch (most common)

• Halibut (near deeper pockets)

• Striped Bass (seasonal)

• Leopard Shark (for those seeking a challenge)

Best Baits and Tackle

• Sand crabs – Easily found on the beach and a favorite for surf perch.

• Gulp! Sandworms – A reliable artificial option.

• Swimbaits and jerkbaits – Great for halibut when retrieved slowly in sandy areas.

Harbor Fishing: Easy Access, Big Rewards

For those looking for a more relaxed fishing experience, harbor fishing offers easy access and a wide range of species. Morro Bay and Avila Beach are two of the best locations for this style of fishing.

Best Harbor Fishing Spots

• Morro Bay T-Pier – A great spot for rockfish, halibut, and even lingcod.

• Port San Luis Pier – Located in Avila Beach, it offers halibut, perch, and sometimes bat rays.

• Harford Pier – A prime location for catching halibut and baitfish, plus an easy place to drop crab traps.

What You’ll Catch

• Halibut (seasonal but common)

• Rockfish (great for table fare)

• Bat Rays (big fighters, often mistaken for sharks)

• Crabs (drop a trap and check back later)

Best Baits and Tackle

• Squid strips – Good for rockfish and rays.

• Live anchovies – A favorite for halibut.

• Sabiki rigs – Great for catching baitfish.

Deep-Sea Fishing: A True Offshore Adventure

For those looking to target bigger fish, deep-sea fishing charters out of Morro Bay and Avila Beach offer access to some incredible fisheries.

Best Deep-Sea Fishing Charters

• Patriot Sportfishing (Avila Beach) – Runs trips for rockfish, lingcod, and tuna.

• Virg’s Landing (Morro Bay) – A legendary charter service with full-day and half-day options.

• Morro Bay Landing – Offers trips for everything from rockfish to white seabass.

What You’ll Catch

• Rockfish & Lingcod (year-round, especially in deeper waters)

• Halibut (found near drop-offs and reefs)

• White Seabass (elusive but worth the effort)

• Bluefin Tuna (if you head far enough offshore)

Best Baits and Tackle

• Live bait – Anchovies and sardines are best.

• Jigs – Heavy metal jigs work well for rockfish and lingcod.

• Tuna poppers – If you’re chasing big game.

Lake & Freshwater Fishing: Inland Opportunities

While the Central Coast is best known for its saltwater fishing, there are some great freshwater options too.

Best Freshwater Fishing Spots

• Lopez Lake – A great spot for bass, crappie, and catfish.

• Santa Margarita Lake – Known for largemouth bass and bluegill.

• Nacimiento Lake – Offers excellent white bass fishing.

What You’ll Catch

• Largemouth Bass

• Catfish

• Crappie

• Striped Bass (Nacimiento Lake)

Best Baits and Tackle

• Plastic worms – Great for bass.

• Chicken liver – A classic for catfish.

• Minnows – Best for crappie and striped bass.

Fishing Regulations and Tips

Licensing

• A California fishing license is required for all anglers 16 and older.

• Free fishing days are available twice a year—check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website for details.

Best Time to Fish

• Spring & Summer – Best for surf perch, halibut, and deep-sea trips.

• Fall – Great for rockfish, tuna, and white seabass.

• Winter – A good time for crabbing and targeting lingcod.

Pro Tips

• Check the tides – Incoming tides bring in fish closer to shore.

• Use local bait – Fish in the area are used to eating what’s naturally available.

• Respect the environment – Pack out what you bring in and be mindful of protected species.

Conclusion

Fishing in the 805 offers something for everyone, whether you’re a casual angler looking to catch perch on the beach or a hardcore fisherman heading out for tuna. The diverse range of fishing spots, combined with the rich marine life of the Central Coast, makes this one of the best places to fish in California.

No matter your experience level, the waters around Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay, and the Five Cities area have plenty to offer. Grab your gear, check the tides, and get ready for an unforgettable fishing experience in the 805!