Overnight Fishing Trips

Frequently Asked Questions

-------------------------------------DAILY FISH COUNT-----------------------------------------

What is the latest fish count?

Please call Dana Wharf directly at 949.496.5794 x 7 for recent fish counts.

------------------------QUESTIONS ABOUT TICKETS/POLICIES------------------------

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

Advance purchase is strongly recommended, as trips often sell out quickly. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please buy your tickets well in advance. Tickets can only be purchased with a Visa, Mastercard or American Express.

Is there a fuel surcharge?

At the current time, there is no fuel surcharge on this trip!

What happens if it rains?

We still go out. The rain is of no consequence; we are concerned with wind and sea conditions and they are not necessarily bad during the rain. In fact, some of our best conditions can be on a rainy day, so dress appropriately. In the case of severe weather, we may cancel the activity up to an hour before the start time in which case you will be allowed to reschedule tickets (subject to availability) or receive credit for a future event.

Are children allowed?

We love children, and encourage children of all ages to fish with us. Please keep in mind this is an overnight fishing trip, which will require a certain level of patience, attention span and concentration. This trip might not be suitable for all children.

Is the cruise suitable for pregnant women?

While we don't put a limitation on who may or may not attend, pregnant women should always consult with their doctors before participating in any active activities.

How experienced do I have to be?

You don't! We encourage everyone, from novices to experts, to come and join us! We have a very knowledgeable, family oriented captain and crew on every trip to assist anglers of all skill levels.

I don't want to fish, can I still go on the trip?

People who do not want to fish are welcome to attend the trip. If you are not planning to fish, you will not need a license or rod and reel. However, if you plan to help your child fish, or hold a rod and reel at any time, the Fish and Game Department defines you as a fisherman and requires you to have a license. You must also purchase a full priced ticket.

If this trip is sold out can I get on a waiting list?

No, we do not keep a waiting list for our trips. Cancellations are rare, since tickets are non refundable and cannot be rescheduled, but you are welcome to show up at the docks just prior to the departure time to see if a space opens up. To ensure the best chance of fishing with us on your preferred trip, we recommend booking ahead as soon as you know the day you would like to attend.

How early should I arrive to check in before the trip?

Please arrive at least 60 minutes prior to departure for check in, especially because the tickets are non refundable. Our trips generally leave right on time!!!

--------QUESTIONS ABOUT FISHING, LIMITS, & TRIP SPECIFICS----------------

What kind of fish will we be targeting / trying to catch?

Species vary depending on time of year, water temperatures, currents, etc. Typically, in the spring we look for Calico Bass, White Sea Bass, Rock Fish, and Yellowtail.

Do you guarantee that fish will be caught?

We can guarantee fishing but not catching. Our crew will do everything in its power to put you where the fish are. We can not control what does or does not bite the hook.

Do we need to keep the fish we catch?

While you are welcome to keep any legal sized fish, Dana Wharf promotes catch and release and responsible conservation of our natural resources. You may also give your legal sized fish to another angler if you so choose.

How many fish can I keep?

The captain and crew are up to date with the most recent California Department of Fish and Game size and possession limits, and will inform you of these at the start of the trip. Regulations will also vary depending on the season and what we are fishing for today.

What's the limit for a child under 16 with no fishing license?

Even though children under 16 years of age are allowed to fish on our trips without a license, they are allowed the same legal limit as an adult fisherman.

What do I do with the fish I decide to keep?

We will assist you with placing your fish in your sack. After the trip, fish cleaning is available for about $0.50 to $5.00 per fish, depending on the type and size of the fish caught. Fish cleaning is payable in cash only.

Can I sell the fish I catch?

NO! It is illegal to sell fish that are caught by way of "Recreational Sport Fishing." If you are caught violating this law, you (along with Dana Wharf Sportfishing) will be ordered to appear in court, fined, and items can be confiscated.

What happens when everyone catches their limits?

If everyone catches limits of the fish we're targeting for the day, we will simply pull up and start fishing for something else. For example, if the boat limits out on sand bass, we might go farther out and troll for yellow tail or bonito. In any event, we do not simply end the trip early.

What are the return times for the different trips?

All of the overnight and multi-day fishing trips will begin at 8pm or 10pm on a given night. The single night trip will return at about 6pm or 8pm the follow day, the 1.5 day trip will come back around 6am or 8am two days later (about 34 hours after departure) and the 2 day trip will come in at about 6pm or 8pm two days after departure (making for a 46 hour-or-so trip). (Please note all return times are approximate and trips could run slightly longer.)

How much of the trip will be spent fishing versus riding?

We spend about 3 hours to get to Catalina Island, 5 hours to get to San Clemente Island and anywhere from 5 to 8 ours to get to an Offshore destination, depending on where the fish are. The amount of time you spend fishing depends on whether you're coming out for just one night (22 hours from departure to return), a 1.5 day trip (34 hours from departure to return) or a 2 day trip (46 hours from departure to return). Please note, all timing is approximate.

How far does the boat go out?

Typically the overnight fishing trips go anywhere from 30 to 80 miles outside Dana Point Harbor.

What do I see when I'm not fishing?

When we're not fishing, you'll enjoy the stunning California coastline, birds, whales, dolphins, sea lions, breaking fish, other fishing and sail boats, depending on the day, conditions and season.

Will we see whales or dolphins while we are fishing?

We will occasionally see whales, dolphins, sea lions, and birds while fishing depending on the season. Please keep in mind this is a fishing trip, so any such sightings are a bonus. If there is something worth seeing nearby which does not inconvenience the trip, the captain will generally take a few minutes to check it out.

----------------------FISHING EQUIPMENT AND LICENSES----------------------------

I have my own equipment. What type of gear do I need?

For the overnight trip tackle varies. We suggest bringing two or three rods with different pound test (line) ranging from 20lb test for bass and yellowtail to 30lb test for yo-yo or surface irons and 40lb test for shallow water rock fishing or offshore albacore.

Can you provide me with fishing gear, bait, and tackle?

TLD 20-40 rods are available for rental in the tackle shop, and require a credit card authorization in our shop before you go out on the trip. This includes a package of five hooks and two sinkers. Bait is included in the trip price. Additional tackle can be purchased in the shop.

What kind of bait will we be using?

In the spring we try to get live squid at Catalina Island to use for bait for white sea bass and other species, but mostly we have either sardines or anchovies, and sometimes both.

Am I required to have a fishing license?

Everyone 16 years and older is required by law to have a fishing license. If you do not already have one, you may purchase a one day license for $14.04 or a two day license for $19.45 prior to your trip. To inquire further about year licenses, please visit our tackle shop.

-----------------------------------WHAT SHOULD I BRING?-------------------------------------

Can I bring my own food and/or beverages?

You are welcome to pack food, including soft drinks or water. However, no coolers or alcoholic beverages are allowed on board. We do have a full service galley on each of the boats where you may purchase hot food, snacks, water, soft drinks, and beer.

What kinds of food and beverages are available in the full-service galley?

Grilled sandwiches such as burgers, BLTs, and grilled cheese, as well as assorted chips and candy are available in our full-service galley. Drinks include water, beer, and soda, and additional items may be available depending on the day. Bring any other food items you may need or want with you (but no personal coolers)!

How much extra cash should I bring?

Besides the price of the ticket, you will need $10 per person for the voluntary jackpot and about $20 per person if you plan to eat in the galley. Fish cleaning runs about $0.50 to $5.00 per fish (all cash only). A typical tip for our excellent crew is $20-25 per adult passenger and can be given to the crew before you leave. Additional rod and reel rentals, tackle purchases, clothing, etc may all be purchased before the trip with either cash or credit.

The crew was awesome! Can I leave a gratuity?

Tipping the crew members is optional but greatly appreciated, as they work very hard to make your trip as good as can be. Typical tips range from $20-$25 per adult ticket on overnight trips and can be given to the crew before you leave.

Can I bring an ice chest?

Due to space constraints on board, we do not allow ice chests on board. The only exception is in the case of a special medical related dietary need, such as diabetic, etc.

--------------------------QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR LOCATION-------------------------

Where exactly is Dana Wharf located within Orange County?

Hopefully these landmarks will help you to find us better: Dana Wharf is located 40 minutes south of Disneyland in Anaheim, 1 hour south of LAX airport in Los Angeles, and 60 minutes north of Sea World in San Diego. We are basically in the heart of Orange County!

----------------------------------QUESTIONS ABOUT THE BOAT----------------------------

Will there be room on the boat to stow my belongings?

There is limited room to stow your belongings on board. Please only bring what is absolutely necessary for the night's trip.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately not, as the bunks are located downstairs and the galley is located upstairs from the main deck.

Is there shade on the boat?

Yes. Indoor galley seating and bunkroom are available, but you should still be sure to dress appropriately with hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

Which boat will we be going on?

The Fury, a 65' vessel with bunks for 46 passengers.

What are the sleeping arrangements on the trip?

The Fury has bunk beds for up to 46 passengers located downstairs (beneath the deck). Bunks are taken on a first-come first-served basis, and no bunks are reserved in advance!

Are there restrooms on board?

Yes, there is a clean marine head on board.

Is the boat safe?

Absolutely. In addition to modern safety equipment (EPIRB, Life Floats, Life Jackets, etc.) the boat is constantly maintained and inspected once a year by the United States Coast Guard, a Division of Homeland Security.

Are there life jackets on the boat? Do I have to wear one?

The boat is outfitted with safety equipment for both adults and children. While you are not required to wear one, you may do so if you choose. The captain will explain and demonstrate all safety equipment before the trip.

Are there any TV's on the boat?

Unfortunately not. the Dana Pride is the only boat going out of Dana Wharf that is equipped with plasma screen TVs, but she is not available for overnight trips.

Will I get seasick?

While the boat is very safe and stable, we will be in the ocean. If you are susceptible to motion sickness, you may consider taking preventative measures beforehand, although we cannot officially advise you to do so.

------------------PRIVATE CHARTERS AND GIFT CERTIFICATES-----------------------

Can I book a private fishing trip?

Absolutely! Custom dates and times are available for all of our vessels. Please click on "Contact DanaWharf" to the left of the page to inquire further.

Are gift certificates available?

Gift certificates are available at our tackle shop. If you would like more information, please click on the "Contact DanaWharf" link to the left of the page.