Updated: Thursday, November 12, 2026 · Next update: Thursday, November 19, 2026
This San Diego fishing report is a seasonal outlook for the week of November 12, based on seasonal patterns and the current forecast rather than verified landing counts. Pacific Northwest forecasters are tracking deep lows late this week that are expected to generate large swell along the West Coast, which can reach Southern California’s west-facing beaches. Mid-November in San Diego usually shifts the emphasis from summer pelagics toward bonito in the bay, calico bass in the kelp and halibut on sandy bottom.
What’s Hitting
Bonito often remain a strong option in San Diego Bay and along the coast into late fall, chasing anchovies and sardines. Calico bass are still found in the kelp beds off Point Loma and La Jolla, though they slow as the water cools. Sand bass and spotted bay bass are available in the bay. California halibut can be caught over sandy bottom near the harbor entrance and along the beaches. Yellowtail are possible near the Coronado Islands, which require Mexican permits, and around local kelp when bait is present.
Where to Find Them
San Diego Bay’s channels near Shelter Island and the harbor entrance hold bonito and bay bass. The kelp beds off Point Loma and La Jolla hold calico bass. Sandy flats near the Coronado shoreline and Imperial Beach hold halibut. The Coronado Islands are a classic yellowtail location for boats with the proper Mexican permits. Mission Bay offers protected water for bay bass and spotted bay bass.
Tides & Conditions
The November 9 new moon produced strong tidal swings that ease toward the November 17 first-quarter moon. Large swell late this week may affect west-facing beaches and kelp areas, especially around Point Loma and La Jolla. Inside the bay, conditions should remain fishable. Check NOAA marine forecasts and swell predictions before heading offshore or to the beaches.
Tackle & Tactics
For bonito, use small metal jigs, Krocodile spoons or feathers, or fly-line live anchovies. Calico bass respond to plastic swimbaits, surface iron and live bait near kelp. Bay bass take grubs or small swimbaits worked along the bottom. For halibut, drift live bait or work swimbaits slowly over sand. Use fluorocarbon leaders in clear water.
Local Intel This Week
Shelter Island Pier provides access to the bay channel. The Imperial Beach Pier offers ocean access for perch and halibut, conditions permitting. Shelter Island and Mission Bay’s public ramps provide boat access. Sportfishing landings in Point Loma run half-day and full-day trips. Check current state and federal regulations and seasons before keeping fish. Trips to Mexican waters require Mexican fishing permits.
This Week’s Tip
Fish the bay channel near Shelter Island at dawn on an outgoing tide, when bait moves toward the harbor entrance. Bonito often appear in short bursts, so keep a jig ready.
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