4 Must-Know Fishing Knots for Every SoCal Saltwater Angler
Solid Knots = Solid Hookups It doesn’t matter how good your rod, reel, or bait is—if your knot fails, the fish wins. For Southern California saltwater fishing, knowing a few key knots is essential to maximize your catch rate and avoid heartbreak at the rail. 1. Improved Clinch KnotA go-to for…
How Water Temperature Influences Seasonal Fishing in Dana Point
When you think about what makes a successful day on the water, most anglers jump to tackle, bait, and skill. But there’s a hidden force beneath the surface that can determine whether you catch limits or just stories — water temperature. In Dana Point and across Southern California, seasonal shifts in ocean temperature…
How Tides and Current Impact Bass Fishing Off Dana Point
Understanding Water Movement for Better Bass Results If you’ve spent time chasing calico bass or sand bass along the Southern California coast, you know success isn’t just about having the right bait—it’s about being in the right place at the right time. That’s where tides and current…
How to Catch Yellowtail: Live Bait vs. Surface Iron
Yellowtail fishing off Dana Point heats up in summer, and knowing how to target this prized game fish can mean the difference between a strike and a miss. Two of the most effective methods used aboard Dana Wharf Sportfishing trips are fly-lining live bait and throwing surface irons—each offering…
How to Read a Tide Chart and Why It Matters for Your Fishing Trip
Want to fish smarter, not harder? Learning how to read a tide chart is one of the easiest ways to improve your catch rate. Tides affect where fish go, when they feed, and how you should fish — and at Dana Wharf, we use them to our advantage. What Is a Tide Chart?A…
Full-Day vs. 1/2-Day vs. Twilight: Which Dana Wharf Trip Is Right for You?
Not sure which fishing trip to choose at Dana Wharf? Each trip offers a unique experience, and the best choice depends on your goals, skill level, and schedule. Here’s a closer look at what each option offers. ½-Day Trips – Great for Beginners and Families Trip Length: ~5 hours
The Evolution of Sportfishing Gear: Then vs. Now at Dana Wharf
Since opening our doors in 1971, Dana Wharf Sportfishing has seen massive changes in fishing technology. From rods and reels to sonar and bait systems, today’s gear is more powerful, efficient, and user-friendly than ever. But one thing hasn’t changed — the thrill of the catch. Back Then: Simplicity & GritEarly anglers fished…
Top 5 Mistakes First-Time Saltwater Anglers Make (and How to Avoid Them)
Trying saltwater fishing for the first time can be both thrilling and overwhelming. Dana Wharf Sportfishing welcomes thousands of first-timers every year, and we’ve seen it all—from tangled lines to seasick struggles. Here are the top five mistakes beginner anglers make and how to avoid them so you can focus on catching fish and having…
Overnight Fishing Adventures with Dana Wharf: Southern California’s Premier Deep Sea Experience
Looking to take your fishing game to the next level? Dana Wharf Sportfishing’s overnight trips are the perfect way to do just that. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner eager to learn, these 1- to 1.5-day excursions offer an exciting opportunity to fish some of the most productive offshore waters in…
Hook Into the Action: Your Ultimate Guide to Calico Bass Fishing at Dana Wharf
If you’re an angler in Southern California, the thrilling fight of the calico bass (also known as kelp bass) is likely a familiar and exciting experience. These iconic sport fish, with their distinctive mottled patterns and aggressive strikes, are a prized target for both novice and seasoned anglers along the Orange County coastline. At Dana…