Each year on June 18, anglers across the country are handed the perfect excuse to play hooky — National Go Fishing Day. This celebration of bait, bobbers, and big catches is a gentle nudge to leave the office behind and head for the nearest body of water with a rod in hand and the promise of adventure in tow.
Fishing, in its many forms, has long been more than just a means to catch dinner. It’s a ritual, a connection to nature, and for many, a lifelong hobby filled with stories that grow bigger with each retelling. National Go Fishing Day invites both seasoned anglers and first-timers alike to join in the fun, casting their lines into streams, lakes, and ocean waters across the country.
According to Nationaltoday.com, the roots of fishing go deep. Archaeological discoveries point to our prehistoric ancestors catching fish by hand more than 500,000 years ago. Over time, humans developed tools and techniques — from spears used by the Egyptians in 3,500 B.C. to nets and boats navigated by the Romans across the Mediterranean. In medieval Europe, river fishing was tightly controlled by feudal lords, while religious communities were granted selective access. The innovation of fish farming began around the 11th century with the construction of ponds. Fast-forward to the 15th and 17th centuries, and new ship designs and the advent of steam power turned fishing into a booming global industry. By the 19th century, fishing had become both a commercial powerhouse and a leisurely escape.
Today, recreational fishing in the United States is regulated by rules, licensing, and gear restrictions to promote sustainability. But at its heart, it remains a beloved pastime. All that’s required is a rod, reel, line, and some bait — or even just a drop line — and you’re in business. Anglers fish for fun, for food, and for the sheer peace of being near the water.
Nowhere is the fishing lifestyle more alive than in California. From the warm waters off San Diego to the windswept piers of Santa Barbara, the Golden State is teeming with opportunities to drop a line.
Southern California, in particular, is a playground for anglers of all experience levels. Major fishing landings and wharfs stretch from San Diego to Santa Barbara, offering everything from quick morning jaunts to multi-day deep sea expeditions. Popular charter locations include Dana Wharf in Dana Point, Davey’s Locker in Newport Beach, and Fisherman’s Landing in San Diego. Farther south, Point Loma, Helgren’s, and H&M Landing in San Diego are bustling hubs for offshore action.
Dana Wharf is famous for its friendly, accessible half-day and twilight fishing trips. It’s a great option for beginners who want to get their feet wet. More seasoned anglers can opt for 3/4-day trips targeting yellowtail, bonito, and white seabass. Halibut fishing is also a standout here, with trips dedicated specifically to the prized flatfish.
At Davey’s Locker, guests can choose from private charters or join a group excursion. This landing offers everything from quick inshore trips to hardcore overnight journeys chasing tuna and dorado. The captains and crews know these waters like the backs of their hands, ensuring every trip offers the best possible chance for a great haul.
Fisherman’s Landing in San Diego is a favorite among those chasing serious offshore excitement. These trips venture far beyond the kelp beds, targeting big game species like bluefin, yellowfin, and dorado. Some trips even push into Mexican waters, offering a broader range of species and a truly international experience.
Other respected operations include Channel Islands Sportfishing in Oxnard and Hook, Line & Sinker in Santa Barbara. The latter has been part of Santa Barbara’s fishing community since 1976, recently taken over by another father-daughter team dedicated to keeping the tackle shop’s legacy alive. If you’re in town, stop in, say hello, and swap a story or two.
In Huntington Beach, American Sea Fishing offers surf fishing trips, guiding services, lessons, coaching, specialized courses, and tackle for anglers of all skill levels.
Planning a fishing trip? A few things to keep in mind:
Different species bite better during different seasons. Check with your charter or a local tackle shop to see what’s hot. Half-day trips are great for beginners or families, while full-day or overnight trips offer the chance for bigger fish and bigger stories. Not all charters are created equal. Research your options, check reviews, and consider what kind of experience you’re after — family-friendly fun, hardcore offshore, or something in between.
Another great option for new anglers is joining a fishing club. As a new member of the Dana Wharf Lady Anglers, I can promise you that clubs offer a welcoming community where you can learn from others, attend events, and sometimes gain access to exclusive fishing locations. Sites like FishExplorer.com list California fishing clubs that are a perfect fit for newcomers and veterans alike.
National Go Fishing Day is more than a fun excuse to escape to the water — it’s a celebration of a tradition that spans millennia. It’s a reminder of how fishing has fed our ancestors, shaped our cultures, and continues to unite us around the thrill of the catch. Whether you’re pulling up halibut off the coast, tossing lures into a calm lake, or simply enjoying the view from a pier, June 18 is the perfect day to grab your tackle box, cast a line, and make a memory.
Happy National Go Fishing Day — tight lines and tall tales await!
