Salmon Fishing Trip on Monterey Bay
Santa Cruz, CA
Starting at $117 | Duration: about 8 hours I 2025: DFG Regulations to follow
Come join us for a day of fishing and relaxation in the beautiful waters of Monterey Bay and the California shore!
Rates
- Adults: $117
- Children (Ages 4-15): $82
- Ride Along: $82
- Plus $2/passenger Port Fee
About
Santa Cruz is one of the premier ports on our coast for venturing out in search of the highly prized Chinook "King" Salmon.
- Catch up to 2 Salmon, including the Chinook Salmon! The most important salmon to sport fishermen, Chinook earn the nickname "King" for their enormous size-average weight is 20 pounds (the world record 126!)
- Enjoy a day on the ocean aboard the Velocity or the Legacy, both certified by the US Coast Guard, including walk-around decks and exterior and indoor seating.
- Meet fellow fishermen, veterans and beginners alike, on one of the most popular fishing trips in California. Mingle with the pros to learn something new, or relax with old friends and share the excitement of catching a delicious dinner!
Duration
Trips usually last between 8 and 9 hours. The length of each trip depends heavily upon the "bite,” meaning if everyone catches their limit early, we will return early.
Meeting Location
Stagnaro's office; 1718 Brommer Street, Santa Cruz, CA 60 minutes before departure. (or the day before)
Note: Murray St/Harbor bridge is closed westbound for construction 3/2025-1/2028. Expect delays.
What Is Not Included?
Fishing equipment, licenses, and fish cleaning services: Equipment and licenses can be rented/purchased at the shop prior to departure. Rod/Reel rental $16 + $9 for tackle set-up + $20.52 1-day fishing license (all as needed per person). Fish cleaning is $10 per salmon limit. NO BRAIDED LINE
Fishing License regulations: Anyone 16 years of age or older (and who is fishing on the trip) is required to have a fishing license in their possession before getting on the boat. IF BOUGHT ONLINE at DFG YOU MUST PRINT YOUR LICENSE or display on the App: https://wildlife.ca.gov/LicenseApp.
Food and beverages: Both boats feature a galley, which sells chips & candy as well as your favorite cold beverages (including beer and wine). You many also bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks. NO OUTSIDE BEER/WINE/ALCOHOL OF ANY TYPE
Gratuities: For parties of 8 or more on public trips we will collect a 10% gratuity at check-in. Smaller groups can pay on the boat or at check-in.
Other Policies
Participants must have a fishing license before getting on the boat.
All participants 16 years of age or older (and who are fishing) are required to have a fishing license in their possession before getting on the boat. One-day licenses can be purchased in our shop for $20.52 prior to departure. (IF BOUGHT ONLINE YOUR LICENSE MUST BE PRINTED or display on the App: https://wildlife.ca.gov/LicenseApp)
FAQs
When do salmon trips run and how has the catch been?
2025 Salmon Season to be decided by DFG in April.
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
Advance purchase is strongly recommended, and trips often sell out quickly. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please buy your tickets well in advance. Tickets can only be purchased with a Visa, Mastercard or American Express.
What happens if it rains?
The fishing trip runs rain or shine, regardless of weather conditions. But don't worry. Some of our best trips have taken place in less than perfect weather, so plan your attire accordingly. In the case of severe weather, we may cancel the activity up to an hour before the start time in which case you will be allowed to reschedule tickets (subject to availability) or receive credit for a future event.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes. Anyone 16 years of age or older (and is fishing) is REQUIRED to have a fishing license. It must be in your possession before getting on the boat. If you do not have one, one-day licenses are available online at the fish and game website: www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales/ -OR- at larger sporting goods or drug store before your trip or you can buy the day of the trip at the office during check-in. (IF BOUGHT ONLINE YOUR LICENSE MUST BE PRINTED or display on the App: https://wildlife.ca.gov/LicenseApp)
How many fish can I keep?
Depends on what we are fishing for. If we are fishing for Salmon, we can only keep 2 legal size salmon (24 inches). It is imperative that all regulations as governed by the DFG and PFMC be followed at all times. The crewmembers will remind each individual. DFG are constantly patrolling the area, whether it is on the water or on land. It is not worth the risk. The fines can be a substantial amount.
What's the limit for a child under 16 with no fishing license?
Even though children under 16 years of age are allowed to fish on our trips without a license, they are allowed the same legal limit as an adult fisherman.
When do I buy my fishing license?
You should purchase your license the day before your trip. You should specify the day you want it valid when purchasing. The one-day licenses are $20.52 each. www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/Internet Sales or larger sporting goods stores or the check-in office. (IF BOUGHT ONLINE YOUR LICENSE MUST BE PRINTED or display on the App: https://wildlife.ca.gov/LicenseApp)
OR, you can purchase the 1-Day license at the office during check-in.
I have never been fishing before. Is that okay?
Oh sure, nothing like a new experience! Our crew will assist you and, often times, some of the "seasoned" veterans are willing to offer advice.
Can you provide me with fishing gear, bait, and tackle?
Yes, you can rent (or purchase, depending on the item) the necessary gear along with your tickets. Rod & Reel Rental is $16.00 and a Tackle Kit (1 leader + 1 weight) is $9.00. Or buy at check-in.
What type of gear do I need?
We can supply you with all the gear you need! You can purchase a full equipment package when you book your tickets. You can also bring your own gear. Even if you have some equipment at home, our rods and tackle are specific to the type of fish we will be catching. If you are a first-time fisherman, we recommend you purchase our equipment to ensure that you have all the best supplies!
NO BRAIDED LINE
I don't want to fish, can I still go on the trip?
Yes. Ride-Along tickets are available for this fishing trip (full child rate). Ride-Along passengers are not entitled to a limit of fish for the trip and if you are helping another fisherman in any way you will need a 1-day license. Please keep in mind that our route depends on the best fishing areas, and we may not pass by any wildlife along the way. If you are more interested in seeing wildlife, please check our Whale Watching, Wildlife Trips, and Scenic Cruises instead.
What is the difference between the Regular and Ride-Along tickets?
Each Regular ticketholder (Adult or Child) is entitled to one limit of fish, whereas Ride-Along passengers cannot catch any fish. Anyone without a fishing license, regardless of the type of ticket they buy, will NOT be allowed to hold a fishing pole at any time. For example, if your child is purchasing a Regular ticket and you are only attending as a Ride-Along, you will not be able to hold your child's fishing pole unless you have a valid fishing license in your name. If you do have a license, you can help out, but you and your child will still only be allowed one limit of fish between the two of you. If you purchase a Ride-Along ticket and don't have any intention on fishing or even helping, you do not need a license.
Are children allowed?
Due to the inherent motion of the boat, and for safety reasons, children ages 5-6 and younger are not allowed on the trip. If you'd like to take your young child on one of our trips try the 4.5-hour Rock Cod trip to start with.
Is this cruise suitable for pregnant women?
For safety reasons, this cruise is not suitable for pregnant women.
Is my child too young to go fishing?
It depends on the child. You know your child best. Age 5-6 may be a good age to get a child oriented with this traditional sport. We do recommend starting out on a “4.5-hour Rock Cod” Fishing Trip as it is very likely that a child will catch something.
What types of food and beverages are available in the galley?
You can purchase chips and candy. Our drink selection includes soda, bottled water, beer, and wine. Cash or credit ok.
I am planning on eating in the galley, how much money should I bring?
Approximately $15.00 should cover the cost of snacks and cold beverages. cash or credit ok
Can I bring my own food and/or beverages?
Yes. You can bring your own food and beverages, but outside alcohol cannot be brought onto the boat. Please limit your cooler size to less than 20 inches. Beer and wine are available for purchase in the galley.
NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOL
Can I bring an ice chest?
Yes, however, coolers longer than 20" are not allowed. Also, it is illegal to bring your own alcohol on board. But you can purchase beer and wine aboard the boat.
How long will the fishing trip last?
There are many factors that determine the duration of your fishing trip. Typically, the trips last between 8 and 9 hours. If the fish are aggressive, and everyone has caught their limit, we may come in a little earlier. If the fish are more elusive we'll stay out for a little longer.
How early should I arrive to check in before my trip?
Please arrive an HOUR before departure at the office: 1718 Brommer Street. (or the day before) Before the trip, you'll need to get your equipment, purchase your license, sign the U.S. Coastguard registry, and get directions to the boat. Remember to take traffic into account when making your plans.
Do you guarantee that fish will be caught?
We can guarantee fishing but not catching. The captain will do everything in his power to put you where the fish are. We cannot control what does or does not bite the hook.
Where will we be fishing?
Our captains draw on years of experience and intimate knowledge of the salmon migratory patterns to take you where the fish are biting. They could lead us 20 or 30 miles North, or 20 miles into Monterey Bay.
What do I do with the fish I have caught?
We recommend that you have the deckhand clean/fillet them - so much easier than having this mess at home. The cost of fish cleaning is not included in the price of your ticket. Fish cleaning is $5 per salmon.
Can I sell the fish I catch?
NO! It is illegal to sell fish that are caught by way of "Recreational Sport Fishing." If you are caught violating this law, you (along with Stagnaro Charter Boats) will be ordered to appear in court, fined, and items can be confiscated.
Will I get seasick?
We sure hope not. Unfortunately, this is not something we can predict. While we can't recommend you take any medications, prevention might be a good idea if you are susceptible to motion sickness.
Are there life jackets on the boat?
Yes, there are life jackets for every adult and child on board. The location of the jackets is clearly posted and verbally announced by the skipper.
Do I have to wear the life jacket?
No. You may choose to wear a life jacket if you feel you need one. They are primarily for emergencies only.
Is the boat safe?
Absolutely. In addition to modern safety equipment (EPIRB, Life Floats, Life Jackets, etc.) our vessels are constantly maintained and inspected twice a year by the United States Coast Guard, a Division of Homeland Security.
Are there restrooms on board?
Yes, there is a bathroom on board.
Will we see whales or dolphins while we are fishing?
Maybe. Should the whales pass by, then great! You got a bonus for the day. If they do not, then please do not be disappointed as the original objective is to go fishing.
Where does the boat depart from?
Trips depart from the Santa Cruz West Harbor at Atlantic Avenue. HOWEVER, check-in 1 hour prior to departure at Stagnaro’s office at 1718 BROMMER STREET, Santa Cruz. The staff will then direct you to the boat, which is about a seven-minute drive away. Don't worry - exact meeting location details and directions will be provided upon ticket purchase!
Where does my trip end?
Your trip will end in the exact place that it starts from.
Are dogs or pets allowed on the boat?
Unfortunately, no pets or dogs are allowed on our fishing trips.
Is there shade on the boat?
Yes. Indoor seating and awnings are available if you need to get out of the sunlight.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Our boats are accessible to those with walkers and canes. Though we are often able to accommodate people in wheelchairs as well, our boats are not wheelchair accessible by average standards. If you are in a wheelchair, please keep in mind that steps leading to the boats prevent you from wheeling directly on board. As a result, you will need to be able to walk up the 4 stairs with help or have friends with you that will have to physically carry you from the dock, on to the boat, and back into your chair.
Will there be room on the boat to stow my belongings?
There is a limited amount of space on the boat for your personal belongings. Please keep your coolers under 20 inches in length. Out of respect for your fellow passengers, please keep your personal items to a minimum. Leave your fish cooler in your car.
Are gift certificates available?
Yes! Gift certificates for Stagnaro Fishing Trips are great for any occasion. To purchase a gift certificate, click on the "Contact Stagnaros" link. You can call us direct at (831) 427-2334 or email us at info@stagnaros.com.
Can I book a private fishing trip?
Yes! Stagnaro Fishing can accommodate a variety of special requests. Click on the "Contact Stagnaros" link for more information on private trips. You can call us direct at (831) 427-2334 or email us at info@stagnaros.com.