Ventura Harbor Sportfishing offers a unique and dynamic fishing experience, taking full advantage of Ventura’s prime coastal location and proximity to the Channel Islands. With over 60 years of history, Ventura Harbor Sportfishing (formerly Ventura Sportfishing) has established itself as a premier sportfishing charter service, offering a variety of trips that cater to all types of anglers – from novices to experienced fishers.
“In 2019 my wife Brittani and I made the move to purchase Ventura Sportfishing from Greg and Teresa Ewart,” said Owner, Captain Tucker McCombs. “It had been a long running sportfishing operation in Ventura Harbor and we have done our best to expand on the success of the landing by offering top notch customer service and above all, the best fishing opportunities the northern Channel Islands have to offer.”
Ventura Harbor Sportfishing offers a range of trips, from multi-day and overnight adventures for seasoned anglers to half-day excursions where kids fish for free on Sundays, McCombs explained. Their boats are staffed with experienced, friendly crew members who are committed to ensuring that all guests, especially those new to fishing, feel welcome and comfortable. According to McCombs, first-time anglers frequently join the overnight trips and return with bags of fish and a newfound passion for fishing.
What sets Ventura Harbor Sportfishing apart is the diversity of its fleet, including the Endeavor, which provides overnight trips, the Pacific Eagle, which offers both overnight and full-day trips, the Californian, known for its full-day excursions, and the Island Spirit, which runs half-day trips. Each boat is equipped with knowledgeable crew members who prioritize both comfort and an exceptional fishing experience.
Fishing in Ventura is particularly attractive due to the region’s unique confluence of marine conditions. In the summer, warm waters attract a wide array of species, including those typically found farther south, while in the winter, the cooler currents from the north bring a different variety of fish. Ventura’s location between Southern and Northern California offers a blend of species and fishing environments, making it a year-round destination for fishing enthusiasts.
The Channel Islands, located just offshore, further enhance the fishing experience, offering not only diverse species but also scenic beauty and wildlife encounters. Fishing near these islands often means reeling in species like yellowtail, bass and rockfish, while enjoying the stunning backdrop of kelp forests, sea lions, dolphins, and sometimes even sharks.
“The close proximity to the northern Channel Islands makes Ventura Harbor Sportfishing the go-to spot to fish out of to access the abundant amount and variety of fish species surrounding Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, and San Miguel Islands,” said McCombs. “The main draw to this area is the access to the States best recreational White Seabass fishery with the F/V Endeavor being the top boat for seabass counts three years running. The area is also home to the best California Halibut fishing opportunities south of San Francisco. The size and number of Halibut caught from the Ventura area is unmatched.”
Chartering a trip with Ventura Harbor Sportfishing provides several benefits. For one, the charter service allows anglers to focus on enjoying their time without worrying about the logistics of a fishing trip. The boats in their fleet are well-equipped and staffed by experienced captains who know the best fishing spots and techniques, ensuring successful trips. The experience is made even more exciting by the possibility of encountering rare marine life or landing an unexpected catch.
For those looking for a longer adventure, overnight trips aboard the Endeavor provide a unique opportunity to fish around the clock, maximizing the potential to catch a wide variety of fish. These trips are often a favorite for dedicated anglers seeking to explore deeper waters and experience the excitement of fishing at different times of day and night. The thrill of an overnight trip lies in the anticipation of what might be caught in the early morning hours or late into the night, creating memories that resonate far beyond the trip itself.
Ventura Harbor Sportfishing’s Pacific Eagle also offers overnight and full-day trips, with the full-day option providing ample time for anglers to explore more fishing grounds while still returning to port by evening. The full-day trips on the Californian cater to those who want a comprehensive day on the water, targeting a variety of species in and around the Channel Islands.
For those looking for a more relaxed yet equally rewarding experience, the half-day trips on the Island Spirit are ideal. These shorter excursions offer the perfect balance of leisure and fishing, making them a great option for families or those new to the sport. Captain Daniel and his crew bring local expertise and a passion for fishing, making each trip enjoyable and successful.
The history of Ventura Harbor Sportfishing adds to its charm. The company has been providing fishing excursions for over six decades, and its long-standing reputation reflects its commitment to creating good memories for clients. The legacy of Ventura Harbor Sportfishing is built on its deep knowledge of the local waters, its ability to adapt to the evolving needs of its customers and its dedication to maintaining a high standard of service.
Overall, fishing in Ventura with Ventura Harbor Sportfishing is not just about the catch – it’s about the experience. The combination of stunning scenery, expert crews, well-equipped boats and the rich diversity of marine life makes every trip unique. Whether you’re on an overnight adventure on the Endeavor, a full-day trip on the Pacific Eagle or Californian or a quick half-day trip on the Island Spirit, each journey offers the chance to connect with nature and enjoy the excitement of the sport. Ventura’s balance of southern and northern fishing conditions, coupled with the Channel Islands’ distinct ecosystem, makes it a remarkable location for sportfishing year-round.
Chartering a trip with Ventura Harbor Sportfishing provides more than just a day on the water. It offers an immersive adventure where fishers can focus on the thrill of the catch while leaving the complexities of the trip to experienced professionals. The fleet’s diversity ensures that each angler, whether seeking a quick trip or an overnight expedition, finds an option suited to their preferences.
