Dana Point

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…

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…

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…

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…

Dana Point, California, isn’t just another scenic coastal town—it’s earned its nickname as the Whale Capital of the World for good reason. With year-round whale sightings, calm seas, and a unique geography that supports rich marine biodiversity, Dana Point offers one of the most consistent and rewarding whale watching experiences on the planet….

Whale watching has come a long way from its early days as a niche hobby for marine enthusiasts. At Dana Wharf Whale Watching in Dana Point — where the first whale watching trips began in Orange County back in 1971 — we’ve seen the transformation firsthand. What was once a quiet coastal activity has grown…

When planning your Dana Wharf whale watching trip, one of the most common questions we get is: Should I book a morning or afternoon tour? The good news is, both times offer amazing opportunities to see whales, dolphins, and other marine life — but each comes with its own unique experience….

Looking for a fun, educational, and unforgettable activity for your kids this summer? Dana Wharf’s Kids Fishing Clinics are the perfect way to introduce young anglers to the world of sportfishing and spark a lifelong love for the ocean. What Are the Kids Fishing Clinics?Every Sunday, Dana Wharf hosts a hands-on…

When summer arrives at Dana Wharf, one fish consistently steals the show: calico bass. These beautifully marked, hard-fighting fish are a local favorite and a top target for both new and experienced anglers. Calico bass season is a highlight of summer fishing trips, and here’s why you should join in the action.

Experience the magic of fishing under the stars with Dana Wharf’s Twilight Fishing Trips. These evening excursions offer a unique opportunity to catch a variety of fish species while enjoying the serene nighttime ocean environment. Benefits of Twilight Fishing Cooler Temperatures: Escape the daytime heat and enjoy the cool ocean breeze…