What You Can Fish at Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco is a working pier where you can fish from the public areas without a license, targeting species that move through the bay year-round. The main catches are jacksmelt, surfperch, herring, and mackerel, with occasional larger fish like striped bass and leopard sharks during specific seasons. The wharf itself is a commercial fishing harbor, so the water is active with boat traffic and the smell of fish processing is constant — this is not a quiet or scenic fishing spot, but it is accessible and productive.

Spring and early summer bring the best conditions for variety. Jacksmelt and surfperch bite consistently from April through September. Herring runs occur in winter and early spring. Mackerel show up in warmer months, typically June through October. Striped bass are possible in fall and winter, though less predictable. The pier is sheltered from ocean swell, so conditions are calmer than the open coast, but the water is colder and murkier than you might expect — visibility is usually just a few feet.

Key Takeaways

  • No California fishing license is required to fish from Fisherman's Wharf public piers, but you must follow all size and bag limits for each species.
  • Jacksmelt and surfperch are the most reliable catches year-round, while mackerel and herring are seasonal and depend on water temperature and bait availability.
  • The wharf is a working commercial harbor with heavy boat traffic, so fishing is best during off-peak hours — early morning or late afternoon — and you must stay clear of active loading areas.
  • Bring your own tackle and bait; no rental shops operate on the wharf itself, and nearby bait shops are a short walk away on the Embarcadero.

Access and Where to Fish

Fisherman's Wharf is located at the intersection of Jefferson Street and Taylor Street in San Francisco, directly on the waterfront. Public fishing is allowed on Pier 39 (the outer sections), Pier 47, and the open areas of the main wharf itself, though specific sections change based on commercial operations. The easiest entry is through Pier 39, which is free to walk and has clear public access to the water's edge. Parking is available in nearby lots and garages, though rates are high — expect to pay $15 to $30 for a few hours during the day.

The piers can be crowded, especially on weekends and during tourist season (May through September). Early morning, before 8 a.m., is the quietest and often the most productive time to fish. Avoid the inner working docks where commercial boats are loading and unloading — those areas are off-limits and actively monitored. The outer sections of Pier 39 and the railings along Pier 47 are your best bets for casting without interference. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip; the piers are wet and slippery, and the concrete is rough.

Tackle, Bait, and Technique

Light to medium spinning tackle works well for the species here. A 6- to 7-foot rod with 8- to 12-pound test line is standard. For jacksmelt and surfperch, use small hooks (size 6 to 10) with live bait or cut bait. Herring strips, squid, and small shrimp are effective and widely available. Mackerel will take small spoons, shiny jigs, or live bait. Striped bass, if they show, prefer larger baits like live mackerel or herring, and heavier tackle (12- to 20-pound test).

Cast near the pilings and along the edges where structure creates current breaks. The water depth varies from 15 to 40 feet depending on where you stand, so adjust your weight accordingly. Fishing the incoming tide is generally more productive than the outgoing tide, because bait and fish move with the current. The bay's tidal range is significant — roughly 5 to 6 feet — so plan your session around tide tables, which you can find free online through NOAA or tide prediction apps.

Regulations and Licensing

California does not require a fishing license to fish from public piers in San Francisco Bay, including Fisherman's Wharf. However, you must follow all state size and bag limits. Jacksmelt have a minimum size of 5 inches and a daily bag limit of 20 fish. Surfperch have a minimum size of 4 inches and a daily bag limit of 10 fish. Herring have no size limit but a daily bag limit of 25 fish. Mackerel (Pacific mackerel) have a minimum size of 10 inches and a daily bag limit of 10 fish. Striped bass have a minimum size of 12 inches and a daily bag limit of 2 fish.

These limits change occasionally, so check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website before you go. The regulations are enforced, and wardens do patrol the wharf. Keep your catch in a cooler or on a stringer where it is visible — you may be asked to show what you have caught. If you plan to keep fish, bring a cooler with ice; the wharf has no facilities for storing your catch.

When to Fish and Seasonal Patterns

Spring (March through May) is the most consistent season. Water temperatures are warming, bait is abundant, and jacksmelt and surfperch are active. Herring runs peak in March and April, so if you want herring, target those months. Summer (June through August) brings mackerel and continued jacksmelt fishing, but the wharf is most crowded and the water can be warmer and less clear. Fall (September through November) is still productive for mackerel and surfperch, and striped bass begin to appear in October. Winter (December through February) is quieter, herring return, and striped bass are possible, but water is cold and conditions can be rough.

Avoid fishing during heavy rain or strong wind, which make the piers slippery and reduce visibility for the fish. Fog is common year-round and does not affect fishing, but it can make the wharf feel isolated and cold — bring a jacket. The wharf operates 24 hours, but fishing is most practical during daylight or early evening. Night fishing is possible but less common because the crowds thin out and the piers feel less safe after dark.

Nearby Bait and Tackle Shops

Wacky Tackle is located at 2779 Taylor Street, about a 5-minute walk from Pier 39. They stock live bait (herring, anchovies, shrimp), frozen bait (squid, mackerel), and basic tackle. Hours are typically 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, though they close earlier in winter. Fisherman's Wharf Bait and Tackle is at 250 Jefferson Street, even closer to the piers. Both shops are small and can run out of specific baits during peak times, so arrive early if you are fishing on a weekend.

If you do not have tackle, you can purchase basic rods and reels at these shops, though prices are higher than you would pay online or at larger sporting goods stores. A basic spinning combo costs $40 to $80. If you already have tackle at home, bring it — you will save money and have more options. Neither shop rents equipment.

What Makes Fisherman's Wharf Different

Fisherman's Wharf is not a destination for solitude or pristine scenery. It is a working commercial harbor where fishing is secondary to the business of the port. The smell of fish processing, the sound of boat engines, and the presence of tourists and sea lions are constant. What it offers instead is reliable access to fish without a license, no long drive, and the chance to catch dinner-sized fish in the middle of a major city. The water is cold and murky, but it holds fish year-round.

The wharf is best suited to anglers who want a quick outing, are comfortable in an urban environment, or are visiting San Francisco and want to fish without planning a trip to the coast or a lake. If you want a quiet, scenic fishing experience, the Marin Headlands or Half Moon Bay are better choices. If you want to fish now, with minimal gear and no license, Fisherman's Wharf works.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a California fishing license to fish at Fisherman's Wharf?

No. California does not require a license to fish from public piers, including Fisherman's Wharf. You must still follow all size and bag limits for each species. These limits are enforced, so keep track of what you catch.

What is the best time of day to fish here?

Early morning, before 8 a.m., is quietest and often most productive. Late afternoon (after 4 p.m.) is also good. Avoid midday on weekends, when the wharf is crowded with tourists and fishing pressure is high.

Can I keep the fish I catch?

Yes, as long as they meet the size and bag limits. Bring a cooler with ice to keep them fresh. The wharf has no storage or cleaning facilities, so plan to take your catch home or to a restaurant that will cook it for you.

Is it safe to fish at night?

The wharf is technically open 24 hours, but night fishing is uncommon and the piers feel less monitored after dark. Most anglers fish during daylight or early evening. If you do fish at night, bring a headlamp and stay aware of your surroundings.

What should I bring besides a rod and reel?

Bring a cooler with ice, a small net or gaff, pliers for removing hooks, a knife for cutting bait, and a jacket — it is windy and cold on the water. Wear shoes with good grip. Sunscreen and a hat are useful during the day. You can buy bait at nearby shops, but bringing your own saves time.