Cast a Line, and Watch the World Go by
What: Salt Water Fishing
When: Year-round, best times are late spring to fall months
Reservations: No
Salt water fishing of all types is popular in San Simeon by boat or kayak, as well as surf and pier fishing. Surfperch and white croaker can be caught year-round from the beach of the pier. Further from shore, cabezon, lingcod and rockfish are common. Flatfish, including sand dabs, sole and halibut have been caught from San Simeon pier and in coastal waters. Summer and fall are the prime time for migratory pelagic fish, including mackerel, jacksmelt and striped seaperch. In some years, sardines and anchovy have been recorded in San Simeon Bay in huge numbers in late summer.
Pier Fishing
Located just off Highway 1 across from Hearst Castle, William Randolph Hearst Memorial State Beach offers a public pier where anglers can pull in barred surf, rainbow, rubberlip and walleye perch all year long. Fishing from San Simeon pier is allowed without a fishing license.
Surf Fishing
Surf fishing is popular along the entire San Simeon coastline. Barred surfperch and white croaker are common year-round.
Creek Fishing
Please note that both San Simeon and Santa Rosa Creeks are closed to fishing most of the year.
San Simeon Tides
Fish are out and ready to bite at the bait during early morning hours when the tide is low and sea is calm from the lack of wind. Mid-day when the waters are choppy from the standard Central Coast breeze, there are high populations of fish towards the surface. Discover San Simeon tide information in preparation for your San Simeon fishing expedition.
Boat and Kayak Launching
Leffingwell Landing serves aluminum-hulled, rigid inflatable boats and kayaks. San Simeon Cove Beach is suitable for launching small boats and kayaks by hand.
Be sure to stay advised of local fishing restrictions, including marine conservation areas and marine reserves. View California Fish and Wildlife regulations.