Half Priced 3/4 Day Fishing

What Is Not Included?

Meeting Location

What is the latest fish count?

2/4/13 - Our 3/4 day trips are currently fishing locally off the coast. On the last trip, we caught 4 Sculpin, 21 Sand Bass and 2 Calico bass. Water temps are in the high 50's. Air temps are in the low 60's under sunny skies. Be prepared to bring 15-20 pound test line. Hook sizes vary depending on the bait (a mix of size 1, 2, 1/0, 2/0 hooks are always a good idea to bring). Bring a mix of 1/8 ounce - 8 ounce weights as the current can change on a daily basis.

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

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

Advance purchase is strongly recommended, as these half priced Tuesday 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.

Should I book a Tuesday trip or another trip?

Tuesday trips feature half-priced tickets and so are a great bargain! However, please note that Tuesday trips generally sell out. The boat could get crowded and the experience especially may not be ideal for a beginner. For a less crowded boat and a more ideal environment for an inexperienced angler, please consider booking a full-priced ticket on another day of the week. To see other available trips, click on the "Calendar of Other Activities" link on the left of the page and view our overall calendar.

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 a nine hour fishing trip, which will require a certain level of attention span and concentration. Note that because this trip is half priced, there is one price for all attendees of all ages.

Is the trip 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.

What is the difference between this trip, the 1/2 day fishing trip, and the twilight fishing trip?

All three trips are fantastic. The main difference between the half day trip and the three quarter day trip is time. On the three quarter day trip, we are much more likely to limit out on one kind of fish and start fishing for different species. The twilight trip is ideal for those wanting to stay out of the sun or folks who work during the day; sometimes the evening bite is even better than the morning (although you never can tell till you get out there).

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, but you must also purchase a full priced ticket. 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.

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

Cancellations are rare, as tickets are non refundable and cannot be rescheduled. However, you are welcome to show up at the docks just prior to the departure time. To ensure the best chance of fishing with us on your preferred trip, we recommend booking your trip 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 30 to 45 minutes prior to departure for check in, especially because the tickets are nonrefundable. Our trips generally leave right on time!!!

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

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 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 $.50 to $1.00 per fish, for most fish. 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.

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

You will spend about six hours doing actual fishing on this trip.

How far does the boat go out?

Typically the 3/4 Day fishing trips stay within 10 miles of the harbor and fish up to 1 mile out.

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 near by 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?

The 3/4 day trip consists of local surface fishing. We fish in anywhere from 30 to 90 feet of water. Light tackle is recommended. Typically we use 10 to 20 lb test line, 1/2 to 2 oz. sinkers, and size 1 hooks, although recommended equipment changes with conditions.

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

Standard rods and reels are available for rental when you purchase your tickets for $12, and includes a package of five hooks and two sinkers. Bait is included in the trip price. Additional tackle can be purchased in the tackle shop. You can also rent rods with spinning reels that are easier to cast and less likely to tangle in the tackle shop for $18 (requires a credit card authorization).

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. 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 a lunch, 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, BLT, and grilled cheese. Also assorted chips and candy are available. Drinks include water, beer, soda. Additional items may be available depending on the boat and trip you are on. Bring any other food items you may need with you!

How much extra cash should I bring?

Besides the price of the ticket, you will need $1 per fish sack per person (if you are keeping fish), $5 per person for the voluntary jackpot, about $10 per person if you plan to eat in the galley. Fish cleaning runs about $.50 to $1.00 per fish (all cash only). Additional rod and reel rentals, tackle purchases, clothing, etc may all be purchases before the trip with either cash or credit.

What is the voluntary jackpot?

The voluntary jackpot is an optional pool for the biggest fish of the day. If you choose to participate and put $5 into the pool, the person with the largest fish at the end of the day wins the pot!

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 are $5-10 per adult passenger and can be given to the crew at the end of the day.

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 day's trip.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

That depends on the boat! If you would like to fish with us in a wheelchair, please click on “Contact DanaWharf” to the left of the page and we will make arrangements to accommodate you.

Is there shade on the boat?

Sometimes. Indoor seating and awnings are not available on all of our boats. Please take this into consideration and dress appropriately with hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

Which boat will we be going on?

There are four boats in our fleet, and all of them are great. Because of regularly scheduled maintenance, variable passenger loads, and private charters, there is no way to guarantee a particular boat for a particular trip.

Are there restrooms on board?

Yes, There is a clean marine head on board each of our boats.

Is the boat safe?

Absolutely. In addition to modern safety equipment (EPIRB, Life Floats, Life Jackets, etc.) our vessels are 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?

All boats are 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.

Will I get seasick?

While our vessels are 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 for the Dana Wharf trips?

Yes, gift certificates are available for 3/4 Day Fishing Trips, 1/2 Day/Twilight Fishing Trips, and the 2 hour whale watching trips (both Gray Whale Season and Blue Whale Season), and they make a perfect gift for holidays, birthdays or any other occasion! To purchase a gift certificate for one of these activities, please click on "List of All Activities" to the left of the page and then on "Buy a Gift Certificate" at the bottom of the page. Please note that gift certificates are priced at regular ticket value and there aren't any available at the half priced Tuesday rate.

How is my gift certificate delivered? Can I print it out now and give it to the recipient myself?

Yes, you can! When you purchase your gift certificate online, you will be presented immediately with your gift certificate so that you can print it out and deliver it. If you buy it over the phone, a link to your gift certificate will be emailed to you as soon as your purchase is completed.

What if I want the gift certificate emailed to the recipient instead?

That's no problem, either! When you purchase your gift certificate, just select the option to have the certificate emailed directly to the recipient and provide their email address. You'll even be able to decide whether you want the email sent immediately or if you'd prefer to schedule it to be emailed on a future date. (For instance, if you want to buy it today so you don't forget, but you don't want it emailed to the recipient until their special day!)

Refund/Rescheduling Policy

Non-refundable, cannot be rescheduled.

Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded and cannot be rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed at the event.

Weather Policy

Activity may be cancelled due to severe weather.

The activity usually runs in light rain and other moderate weather conditions, but the seller may cancel the activity up to an hour before the start time in the event of severe or unsafe weather conditions. If the seller cancels the event, ticket-holders will be allowed to reschedule tickets (subject to availability) or receive credit for a future event.

Other Policies

Anglers must have a fishing license before boarding the boat.

All anglers 16 years of age or older are required to have a fishing license in their possession before boarding the boat. One-day licenses can be purchased in our shop for $14.04 prior to departure. Non-anglers are not required to have a license, and may board with a discounted child's ticket.

Participants must have a rod and tackle to fish on the trip.

Participants fishing on the trip must have a rod and tackle suitable for the day's fishing, which are not included in the regular price of the trip. If you do not have your own, you can rent a rod, as well as purchase tackle at our shop prior to departure.

Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching