World-Class Inshore Salmon Fishing in Bodega Bay

Published Date: August 19, 2025
Fishing

Bodega Bay
$600 - $900 price range
Updated Date: October 26, 2025

Summary

Picture this: You're out on the waters of Bodega Bay, rod in hand, ready to reel in some salmon. This half-day trip with Sandy Ann Sport Fishing is perfect if you're new to fishing or just looking for a fun day on the water with family. Captain George knows these waters like the back of his hand and will help you target Chinook, Coho, and Chum salmon, depending on what's running. Don't worry about gear – they've got you covered with rods, reels, and tackle. Want to mix things up? Add some crabbing to your trip and try for fresh Dungeness. Just remember to grab your California fishing license before you hop aboard. With only room for 4 guests, it's a cozy outing that lets you really get into the fishing action. Book early to snag your spot on this local Bodega Bay adventure.

World-Class Inshore Salmon Fishing in Bodega Bay

Salmon Strikes & Scenery

Two people enjoying a day of fishing at Bodega Bay

Best Bodega Bay Crab Season 2022

All smiles! Bodega Bay Crabbing Season!

Bodega Bay Best Boat Salmon Fishing

Family-friendly Bodega Bay Salmon Charter

Reel in Salmon on Bodega Bay's Rich Waters

Get ready for a half-day of salmon fishing action with Sandy Ann Sport Fishing in beautiful Bodega Bay. Whether you're new to fishing or looking for a fun family outing, this trip is perfect for anglers of all skill levels. We'll be targeting some of the tastiest salmon species swimming off California's coast, including Chinook, Coho, and Chum. Captain George knows these waters like the back of his hand and will put you on the fish while keeping things safe and enjoyable. Plus, we've got all the gear you need, so just bring your fishing license and a good attitude!

What to Expect on the Water

Our half-day trips are the sweet spot for most folks - enough time to land some nice fish without wearing you out. We'll cruise out of Bodega Bay and hit some prime salmon spots just offshore. The fishing grounds here are pretty calm, so seasickness usually isn't an issue. Captain George will get us set up with rods, reels, and the right bait or lures for the day. He's always happy to show beginners the ropes or swap fishing stories with more experienced anglers. And if the salmon aren't biting, we can always drop some crab pots for tasty Dungeness - just let us know when you book if you want to add that on.

Trolling Tactics for Salmon

For salmon fishing in Bodega Bay, we typically use a technique called trolling. We'll set up several rods with lines in the water behind the boat as we cruise slowly through productive areas. The movement of the boat makes the bait or lures look like swimming fish, which attracts the salmon. When a fish strikes, you'll hear the reel start to sing! That's when the real fun begins as you reel in your catch. Don't worry if you're new to this - Captain George will coach you through the whole process, from setting the hook to landing your fish. We use quality gear that's well-maintained, so you can focus on the thrill of the fight rather than fiddling with equipment.

Top Catches This Season

Bodega Bay has been on fire lately for salmon fishing. Anglers have been pulling in some hefty Chinooks, with quite a few in the 15-20 pound range. One lucky fisherman even landed a 30-pounder last week! The Coho have been running a bit smaller, but they're known for putting up a great fight. And let's not forget about the Chum - they might not be as famous as their cousins, but they're still a blast to catch and make for some excellent smoked fish.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon: Also known as King Salmon, these are the heavyweight champs of the Pacific salmon world. They can grow up to 50 pounds or more, though most we catch are in the 10-30 pound range. Chinooks are prized for their rich, fatty meat that's perfect for grilling or smoking. They're known for their powerful runs and head-shaking jumps when hooked. In Bodega Bay, we typically see them from spring through fall, with the peak season in summer.

Coho Salmon: Sometimes called Silver Salmon, these fish are a bit smaller than Chinooks but make up for it with their acrobatic fights. They average 6-12 pounds and are known for their bright silver sides and delicate pink flesh. Cohos are lightning-fast and love to leap when hooked, making them a favorite among sport fishermen. We usually target them in late summer and early fall when they're making their way back to their spawning grounds.

Chum Salmon: Don't let the name fool you - Chum (also called Dog Salmon) are no joke when it comes to fishing. They typically weigh in at 7-15 pounds and are known for their firm, light-colored meat. Chums are strong fighters and can really make your reel scream. While they're not as common in our catches as Chinooks or Cohos, landing a Chum is always a treat. We see them mostly in the fall months as they prepare for their spawning run.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Folks love our Bodega Bay trips for a bunch of reasons. First off, the fishing is just plain good. We've got a knack for finding where the salmon are biting, and our success rates are solid. But it's not just about the fish - it's the whole experience. You'll get to soak in the stunning coastline views, maybe spot some seals or whales, and just enjoy being out on the water. Captain George's easy-going nature and wealth of local knowledge make the trip fun and educational for everyone on board. And let's be honest - there's nothing quite like the pride of bringing home your own fresh-caught salmon for dinner.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to get out on the water and try your luck with some Bodega Bay salmon, now's the time to lock in your trip. Our half-day charters are perfect for fitting some fishing into a busy schedule or for those who want to test the waters before committing to a full day. Remember, we're limited to four guests per trip to keep things comfortable and ensure everyone gets plenty of fishing time. The salmon don't wait around, and neither should you - our prime dates tend to fill up fast, especially during peak season. So grab your fishing buddies, your kids, or just treat yourself to a morning or afternoon of world-class salmon fishing. Give Sandy Ann Sport Fishing a call today and let's get you hooked up with some Bodega Bay beauties!

Learn more about the species

Chinook Salmon

Chinook salmon, also known as Kings, are the heavyweights of the Pacific salmon world. These bruisers typically run 15-30 pounds, but can top 50 in the right conditions. You'll find them hanging out in deeper, cooler water, often near structure or drop-offs. Kings are famous for their hard-fighting spirit - when one hits, hold on tight! They're most active in our waters from spring through fall, with peak season usually in July and August. Anglers love targeting Kings not just for the thrill of the fight, but also for their rich, flavorful meat. If you're after a trophy fish and a great meal, Chinook are tough to beat. One local trick: try trolling with whole herring at different depths until you find the right zone. These fish can be picky, so don't be afraid to switch up your presentation if they're not biting.

Chum Salmon

Chum salmon, sometimes called dogs, are the underdogs of the salmon world - but don't overlook 'em. These fish average 10-15 pounds and can put up a scrappy fight. You'll find chums in coastal waters and estuaries, often in shallower spots than other salmon. They're not as picky eaters, which can make for consistent action. Chum usually show up in our area from late summer through fall. While they might not have the glamour of Kings or silvers, chums are fun to catch and make great smoked fish. Anglers enjoy targeting them because they often school up, meaning multiple hookups are possible. Here's a local secret: use bright, flashy lures in chartreuse or pink. Chums are suckers for anything that catches the light. Just remember, they spook easily, so cast beyond the school and retrieve through it for best results.

Coho Salmon

Coho, or silver salmon, are the acrobats of the salmon family. They're smaller than Kings, usually 8-12 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in aerial displays. These fish love to jump when hooked, making for an exciting fight. You'll often find them in shallower water than Chinooks, especially near kelp beds or current edges. Coho season typically runs from July through September, with the best action often in August. Anglers prize silvers for their hard-fighting nature and excellent table fare. Their bright orange flesh is a favorite for grilling or smoking. If you're looking for non-stop action, Cohos are your fish. Here's a tip: on calm days, watch for them finning at the surface and cast small, flashy lures their way. They can't resist chasing down a fleeing baitfish!

About the Sandy Ann Sport Fishing

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Volvo

Maximum Cruising Speed: 25

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 250

Ready for some salmon action? Captain George's got you covered on this laid-back half-day trip out of Bodega Bay. Perfect if you're new to fishing or just want a chill day on the water with family or friends. We'll cruise the inshore waters, hunting for tasty Chinook, Coho, and Chum salmon, depending on what's biting. All the gear you need is included, so just bring yourself and a valid California fishing license. Want to mix things up? We can add some crabbing to snag some fresh Dungeness too. With room for up to 4 guests, it's an ideal way to get your feet wet (figuratively speaking) in the world of salmon fishing. Captain George knows these waters like the back of his hand and he's great at helping newbies get the hang of things. Book early though - spots fill up fast for this popular trip!

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