Dana Wharf Blog

Whether you’re casting off the coast of Dana Point or boarding a Dana Wharf Sportfishing charter, many anglers have one thing on their mind: what can I catch — and eat? Southern California offers an impressive variety of game fish that aren’t just thrilling to catch, but also delicious on the plate. From…

If you’re wondering what’s biting this month at Dana Wharf Sport Fishing, here’s your data-backed answer. Based on recent fish count logs from, November is delivering diverse action, especially for bottom and mixed-bag species. Recent Catches Include: Rockfish: 300+ on 1/9/25, 245 on 11/3, 267 on 11/8. Sculpin &…

As the Southern California fishing scene cools into late fall and winter, savvy anglers shift their strategy. The surface bite slows, but the bottom fishing action is heating up — and the logs show it. What’s Working Right Now From November 1–9, the most dominant catches were: Rockfish: Over 2,200 caught…

Sand bass and calico bass are two of the most sought-after coastal game fish in Southern California. While they share similarities in behavior and habitat, each species has unique traits — and knowing how to target them specifically can lead to much better results on your next Dana Wharf trip. Spot…

When guests board a Dana Wharf Whale Watching vessel, they’re often brimming with curiosity — and we love it! Our captains and naturalists hear a lot of great questions every day, ranging from the practical to the truly fascinating. Whether you’re planning your first trip or just want to know what to expect, here are…

Whale watching is never just about luck—especially not at Dana Wharf. With decades of experience navigating the waters off Dana Point, the captains and marine naturalists at Dana Wharf Whale Watching have fine-tuned the art and science of finding whales. From cutting-edge technology to deep local knowledge, here’s how our team consistently delivers unforgettable whale…

At Dana Wharf Whale Watching, the spotlight often shines on the breathtaking moments when a whale breaches or a dolphin pod surrounds the boat. But there’s far more to see during your time on the water than just whales. Every tour offers the chance to experience the rich biodiversity of Southern California’s marine environment —…

Southern California’s rich marine ecosystem provides an abundant food source for a variety of whale species that migrate through or reside in its waters. From massive blue whales to acrobatic humpbacks, each species has its own unique diet, feeding habits, and preferred hunting times. Understanding what these whales eat and when they feed can offer…

As summer fades and the water begins to cool, anglers in Southern California know it’s prime time to switch gears and start chasing one of the most exciting species of the season: white seabass. These elusive, hard-fighting, and delicious fish are a bucket-list catch for many local and visiting anglers—and fall is a…

Fall in Dana Point brings mild days and cool, salty breezes—ideal for being out on the water, but it pays to come prepared. Whether you’re booking a morning excursion or a late afternoon cruise, dressing in layers is your best strategy. The ocean breeze can drop temperatures noticeably once you’re away from shore,…

As the days shorten and the golden glow of fall sunsets starts earlier, Dana Wharf’s late afternoon whale watching trips take on a whole new kind of magic. Setting out at this time means you’ll get the best of both worlds: the chance to spot whales and dolphins as they feed and play…

Fall is an exciting and often underrated season for whale watching in Dana Point. While the towering blue whales typically dominate summer sightings, autumn brings a changing cast of marine giants to the Southern California coastline. During this transitional period, you’re likely to encounter humpback whales, which are known for their playful behaviors…