Snagged up on something, and finally I got the snag off and was fighting the fish when the line just went limp. The line must have broken where it was abraded from the snag because I was using 40-lb test and had my drag set. A lady fisherman hooked two very large spotfin croaker weighing approximately 3 to 4 lbs each. READ MORE. Bloody mackerel and squid will attract the gray smoothhounds and leopard sharks while bat rays seem to prefer squid. Anglers can fish from top or down on the float. My first trip rewarded me with a small calico. Benefits for 2 named adults and their children or grandchildren: Free Admission year-round to Ocean Education Center Programs Get our current specials and get discounts on charters. This webcam is located at the Ocean Institue in Dana Point, California and overlooks the Dana Point Harbor. Did lose a giant fish Saturday night using a live jacksmelt about 8 inches long. Tickets must be purchased for all individuals attending (adults and children). Benefits for 2 named adults and their children or grandchildren: Benefits for 1 named child (age 12 and under) and 1 adult guest. A 15-20 inch Halibut was also hooked on the same day but it got away before it could be hauled up to the pier. I went this past Saturday evening from 8 PM to 11 PM and landed one stingray, one banjo, and one bullhead. I thought I just had a snag until it took off. As detailed in the E-Mail message below when they’re in the area they aren’t averse to checking out the waters. One tip is to use freshwater jig heads with your swim baits; they have smaller hook diameters and are sharper. Doheny State Beach is located in the city of Dana Point, California and is one of California's most popular state beaches and attracts almost one million visitors per year. Engaging enrichment experiences have “virtually” disappeared, but Ocean Institute is pleased to offer ways to zoom off the computer and into real world learning. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are modifications to beach hours and parking. *Updated May 6, 2020. That area has also yielded some nice perch. Interesting is the fact that before the harbor was built the site of the beach was a rocky tidal shoreline with little sand. Given the close proximity to the water (even closer if you stand on the small dock), it’s a good spot to try artificials for the bass. Institute events, 4 Complimentary adult tickets for either Whale and Marine Pick Up & To Go Orders 949-493-2933. Most anglers use live bait (small smelt, queenfish, or shinerperch) on a Carolina rigging for the toothy flatties but lures can often be just as productive. From savory eats to indulgent sweets, there’s a pleasure for every palate. In fact, there was unconfirmed catch of a 40-pound halibut from the pier. Huntington Beach Wave Motor Pier — Gone But Not Forgotten, Peck’s Pier & Bruces’ Beach — Manhattan Beach — Gone But Not Forgotten, Pine Avenue Pier #2 — Long Beach — Gone But Not Forgotten, Pine Avenue Pier #1 — Long Beach — Gone But Not Forgotten, Magnolia Avenue Pier — Long Beach — Gone But Not Forgotten, Red Rock Marina Pier — Richmond — Gone But Not Forgotten. Depending upon the time of the day, one solution was to head over to this pier and fish for a few hours; by late afternoon people were headed home and parking would be available at San Clemente. Best Restaurants with a View in Dana Point, Orange County: Find Tripadvisor traveler reviews of THE BEST Dana Point Restaurants with a View and search by price, location, and more. Join us for outright fun! Dana Point officials sent out an alert that the governor’s go-ahead allows Dana Cove Beach to be opened, a popular tide-pooling spot. Always appreciate reports about that pier. Ken, Your email address will not be published. Find Baby Beach location, hours, picnic information and more. Ditto on the area, rigging and bait for yellowfin croaker, spotfin croaker, and bass although hooks can be a little larger, size 4-2. Dana Point Harbor Beach, also known as Baby Beach, is home to calm waters and many seasonal events and offers a picnic and BBQ area with a gorgeous view of the harbor and nearby cliffside. Another nighttime visitor rarely seen during the day is the misnamed sculpin (actually California scorpionfish); they prefer a strip of squid on a high/low rigging. Read the #1 San Clemente Pier visitor guide, updated in 2020. The original ship was Dana’s home away from home when he visited the area in 1835; it became famous when he published “Two Years Before The Mast.” Today its copy serves as a home for student tours (so do be careful that you don’t send a lead sinker skidding onto the Pilgrim’s deck). Do it the sporting way—although it isn’t easy. You can either fish or just watch. Sip piping hot coffee, indulge in leisurely brunches, grab a deli sandwich for the beach, and experience fine dining with breathtaking ocean views. At night try Strike Lites with a swim bait for the bass, I’ve been told it can help. Click below to view Dana Point… Our charters include top of the line rods & reels, live bait, tackle and fish filleting. like a KID! Date: February 19, 2002 ; To: Ken Jones; From: John Coll; Subject: Dana Point Harbor Pier. Interested in a private tour of the Ocean Institute? The pier is located in the pleasant setting of Dana Harbor and close to the pier sits a park and a shallow-water beach called Baby Beach. California barracuda, mostly sub-legal-size fish will often show at night and hit live baits or, more commonly, whack spoons such as Kastmasters and Krocodiles. Don’t do it, try baiting small, size 14 hooks with vegetation or dough balls. Unfortunately, the concrete pilings usually have only moderate fish-attracting growth on them; usually there are some barnacles but not always mussels. Restaurants near Dana Point Harbor Restaurants in this area are known for American, Seafood, Californian, Contemporary American and Italian cuisines. The NWS & local lifeguards monitored shifting … More to Look Forward To: Weekend Special Programs. Hours of operation. Using the ocean as our classroom, we inspire children to learn. With plenty of outdoors space, open air, coastal breezes, and sunshine, we welcome you to visit when you are ready. I've fished Dana many times and still haven't found the 'spots' / 'holes'. Discover the ocean’s underwater world and California’s fascinating maritime history through fun, interactive tours and activities that indulge your curiosity. It didn’t snap it just kind of came apart. They’re hard to catch but a small smelt fished under a float can yield the good fighting little fish. Used a light rig to catch 3 opaleye and 2 sand bass. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching is dedicated to helping locals and visitors alike enjoy the unique wonders of Dana Point Harbor and the Orange County coastline. Explore 100s of San Clemente Pier photos and visit this icon on San Clemente. The developers for the pier were the Wailes-Smith Co. Being a busy harbor means there can be considerable traffic from motorboats and sailboats, especially during weekend days. Three weekends ago there was a huge school of anchovies that came in next to the loading dock. Motorhomes, trailers, and over-sized private vehicles are not permitted. Lastly there is the mainly riprap shoreline at the entrance to the pier. Dana Point is city of Orange Country ,only half hours drive from the J.W airport , magnificent Marine ,lot of restaurants ,so many tour boats around for whale watching , dolphin tour ,, ,fishing , so many popular beach to choose from ,very safe and clean ,not crowned at all,fantastic spot to take pictures , and fly my DRONE !I have the best time of my life ! Sand was brought in to make the beach and new sand is added about every five years. Cross street. Exit the Beach Cities off ramp & veer left. The Pier is OPEN! You can make a difference by becoming a supporting member of the Ocean Institute. The pier is situated in the Dana Cove Park area in the northwest corner of the outer harbor. One way to avoid the boats is to fish early or late and leave the mid-day sun to the kids. Several enticingly large (but illegal) garibaldi and large (but legal) rubberlip seaperch and pileperch circled slowly around the pilings, but all were unwilling to bite. All our offerings are in alignment with guidelines from our state and local health officials. Dana Point Tourism Dana Point Hotels ... 278 reviews Open Now. The pier is located in the pleasant setting of Dana Harbor and close to the pier sits a park and a shallow-water beach called Baby Beach. Several other banjos were landed as well as some small calicos and a shortie hallie. Needlefish will cruise the top areas of the water and are usually mistaken for barracuda. Traveling south from Irvine: Exit the Pacific Coast Highway off ramp & veer right. I plan to be a regular at this pier, as the action is worthwhile. Dana Point (/ ˌ d eɪ n ə-/) is a city located in southern Orange County, California.The population was 33,351 at the 2010 census. The cities of Huntington Beach, Dana Point and Seal Beach can now reopen their respective beaches with modifications to protect public health and avoid crowding. 92629 949-923-2280 southcoastops@ocparks.com. Overnight parking is not permitted. Fish and Fishing Tips. EXPLORE DANA POINT. Traveling south (from Laguna Beach): Turn right on Golden Lantern, then turn right onto Dana Point Harbor Drive and following it to our parking lot. A Yellow Snake Eel was caught (and kept) June, 27, 2020 at about 9:30pm. Last but not least is the gnarly yellow snake eels and we’ve had reports of them being caught in 2002, 2006, 2007 and 2010 so they no longer can be called rare; uncommon yes, rare no. Nighttime hours may also see an octopus grab hold of your bait or an occasional moray eel, the sworn enemy of all octopuses. Enjoy waterfront dining and seaside delights in picturesque Dana Point Harbor. Environment. See reviews, photos, directions, phone numbers and more for Pier 1 locations in Dana Point, CA. Required fields are marked *, The Complete Coast and Bay Guide to Shore-Based Fishing. Copyright 2021 Pier Fishing in California. Three other species are most common at night. Click here! … The warm waters right out of Dana Point Harbor are flourishing with sea life including … I would like to fish off the pier after midnight. Unfortunately, we cannot reserve parking spaces, however, overflow parking is located directly adjacent to the Ocean Institute in the Cove Road Parking lot (free). Click on the experience to learn more and book a ticket! Three years ago I got a 40-incher here and the water must not have been more than 4-feet deep. You might also join the kids (as well as learn from them). Looking from Baby Beach toward the pier and the Pilgrim. The pier had a T-shaped head, 80 feet by 60 feet, and included a boat landing gangway with a floating dock for small boats and yachts. 4.2 mi. The Fishing Pier is o perated by the City of Dania Beach. And locals are surprised to find such an amazing experience right in their own backyard. Dana Point / Monarch Beach. Visitors always say it’s the most fun and memorable activity of their trip. Life Tour or Bioluminescence Cruise (a $90 value), 4 Complimentary admissions to the Holiday Lights Viewing By the way, if you have a choice buy/use small ghost shrimp for the perch, medium size ghost shrimp for the croakers, and medium/large ghost shrimp for the bass. Dana Point Harbor Drive. Hopefully the fishing picks up here because I go here every weekend. Find 16 listings related to Pier 1 in Dana Point on YP.com. Ocean Institute Goes ALL OUT(doors) as Tiers Change. Try soft plastics such as 3-4 inch Big Hammers, Fish Traps, Scampis, Scroungers or Berkeley Power Sand Worms. The area straight out from the end of the pier yields these species but also seems somewhat better for the shark and ray species, especially at night. I suppose an 18-foot-long great white shark could even surprise you. Jake Marshall, Encinitas 12.70 2. Cash and Credit Cards accepted for The Pier and Parking. Fishing has been slow at Dana Point Pier. It usually gets good for halibut in March all around the pier and especially right up at the very beginning of the pier in the shallow water on the Pilgrim side. Open Google Maps. The Dana Point Fuel Dock has always taken pride in offering a quality fuel at a competitive price. Dana Point was named for American author Richard Henry Dana, Jr., who first caught sight of its majestic bluffs in 1836 following a two-year voyage as a common seaman on the brig Pilgrim. Dana Point, CA: October 4, 2018 – On October 4, Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching launched Lot’ A Fun, a state-of-the-art catamaran in Dana Point Harbor. This center is an educational facility with information on the local flora and fauna […] See details . You’ll sometimes also see needlefish swimming near the surface and, like the mullet; they are really hard to hook. Looked to be about 2.5-3ft long. Outside WILD Weekends, In-person and virtual Little Naturalists (ages 3-4), Geology Hikes, Fish Dissections, Underwater Robot Challenges, Ocean Craft Workshops, and MORE! Party or Tall Ships Festival (a $60 value), 15% off at the Chambers Gallery Gift Shop, Discounts and early registration for Summer Camps, Reciprocal benefits at over 750 institutions across North San Clemente Pier is also a popular stop for The Pier Rats Speak — Somep osts to the Pier Fishing In California Message Board, Date: July 5, 1999; To: Pier Fishing in California Message Board; From: Ken Jones; Subject: Dana Point Harbor Pier. Join us for outright fun! I used them for bait and all I caught were a bunch of queenfish, a very small white seabass and an octopus. Traveling north (from San Clemente): Turn left onto Dana Point Harbor Drive and follow it to our parking lot. Serving: Monday – Friday 11:30am-9 pm Sat./Sun. I was impressed with the size of these spotfin. Can you drop hoop nets there and catch lobster at night? I fished for an hour and a half using ultra-light tackle, size 8 hooks, and fresh mussels for bait. Most strange is the capture of giant squid in these harbor waters but it’s true. use code TOUR plus member number for member discount (Example: TOUR1010010). Most of these are mullet, sometimes exceeding three feet in length; unfortunately they are almost impossible to hook. As usual, most sharks and rays are caught at night. The best part of the story is that I was with this lady from Tahiti and she actually climbed over the railing and went into the water and wrestled this thing out for me! NSSA West Coast Championships, May 15-18, Huntington Beach, Pier OPEN MEN: 1. I’m not sure if there is a “best” spot on the pier, I’ve caught fish casting out away from the pier, fishing down by the pilings, and fishing the channel between the pier and the Pilgrim. Travel along the pristine Southern California coast and enjoy the many boating options in Dana Point Harbor. Plenty of baitfish around to snag or net, but not much action. Doheny has a day use surfing beach at its northern end and a five-acre lawn with picnic facilities and volleyball courts. If fishing for the big mama bat rays (the big ones are always females) come prepared: several large 100+ pound bat rays have been landed here and you need to have a way to bring them up onto the pier. Private fishing charters in Dana Point Harbor for 1 - 6 passengers. They were all very small, but I could net them by the thousands. Dana Point. Nolan Rapoza, Long Beach 12.37 3. I can’t find any info on night parking or However, the county has made a commitment to find the causes of the problem and to fix them; it’s not exactly the kind of publicity a beach intended for kids needs! Dana Point Harbor 34451 Ensenada Place Dana Point, CA. Fishing Pier The Dania Beach pier is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. 7 days a week. Other fish that might surprise you with these riggings and baits include diamond turbot and China croaker (black croaker). Seastar and above members members recieve 10% discount: use code TOUR plus member number for member discount (Example: TOUR1010010). Big mullet were jumping in the shallow waters by the nearby beach. Engaging enrichment experiences have “virtually” disappeared, but Ocean Institute is pleased to offer ways to zoom off the computer and into real world learning. Dana Point Whale Watching Tours. Hopefully you’ll release them so you also need to have a way to release them with as little trauma as possible. If you’re looking for a place to take the kids fishing, this small pier is a great place to start. All rights reserved. Busses need to check-in with the Guest Services team to receive their bus parking pass. One day I decided to fish down on the boat ramp along with several young anglers. If you’re lucky the artificials might also entice a halibut. A Sabiki-type bait rig will often yield good catches of topsmelt, jacksmelt, shinerperch, walleye surfperch, or queenfish. They’re checkin’ da birds, checkin’ da boats, and checkin’ da storm drains so hopefully the problem will disappear. Mullet are harder to catch and most commonly caught by snagging. Chaperones may request an overnight pass from our Guest Services team. Interested in a private tour of the Ocean Institute? COVID Precautions: Masks are required for all participants over 2 years of age. Your email address will not be published. The most common species here are the typical bay fish: topsmelt, jacksmelt, shinerperch, herring (queenfish), tom cod (white croaker), yellowfin croaker, spotfin croaker, sargo, opaleye, black seaperch, white seaperch, rubberlip seaperch, pileperch, small kelp bass, sand bass, spotted sand bass, California halibut, diamond turbot, Pacific mackerel, sharks and rays. Photos, FAQs, parking & directions, beach amenities, dining on and near the pier, and more. Ocean Institute is pleased to offer Essential Enrichment to private groups and childcare centers. Spotfin croaker caught in the channel between the pier and the Pilgrim. BOATING. Association (NARM) http://narmassociation.org/, Reciprocal benefits at over 80 museums through the Council of Although fishing is generally only fair, there are times when it is excellent. Although not noted for pelagics, the pier will occasionally see good runs of Pacific mackerel, sardines and even, some years, bonito. Uncommon fish caught from the pier have included bonefish and quite a few yellow snake eels. However, the different spots do produce different fish. Although the pier is not a noted halibut hot spot, enough are caught to keep it interesting. An 18-foot-long great white shark would certainly surprise me! American Maritime Museums (CAMM) https://councilofamericanmaritimemuseums.org/. Thanks for the report Andrew. Recent changes in fuel refining has lead us to partner with Valvtect, the industry leader in Marine Additives. The result was black seaperch, opaleye, kelp bass, sargo and jacksmelt. phone number to call. Call 954-924-3613 Turn left onto Dana Point Harbor Drive and follow it to our parking lot. Lightning, Beach, Pier Closures Possible: Dana Point - Laguna Niguel-Dana Point, CA - "It's not a great day at the beach!" Fished down around the pilings of the pier for an hour on the 29th. Traveling south (from Laguna Beach): Turn right on Golden Lantern, then turn right onto Dana Point … Each location yielded fish, although generally with only a modicum of success. Enjoy the best little beach in Dana Point! I like to cast close to the ship feeling that some fish will hang under the shade of the boat but don’t do this unless you really know how to cast. America through the North American Reciprocal Museums Most anglers will fish for the macs with either small strips of bait (mackerel or squid) under a split shot, a couple of size 4-2 hooks rigged high/low style with a piece of mackerel, or on a bait rig. Pier 1 hours of operation in Dana Point, CA. Visit the institute, visit the ship (on Sundays), break for a small lunch, and then take the kids fishing on the pier. ... Open Party Fishing trips will be held to 3 anglers or less. It keeled over in its slip on March 29, leaving its masts out of the water. 9:00am-9 pm Happy Hour: 4-7pm M-F Brunch: Saturday & Sunday Breakfast 9-12am. At times the bait rigs will also hook under-sized calico bass (kelp bass) and bay bass (spotted sand bass); be sure to return any bass that are under the 14” legal size. DANA POINT SPORTFISHING - BOOK TRIP NOW 949-939-3808. If seeking out the bass feel comfortable using cut anchovies and strips of mackerel or squid. The Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center is located on the Dana Point Headlands overlooking the harbor. The flats out from the left side of the pier mainly produce a mixture of the normal bay species—perch, croakers, sargo and bass. The dockside location in Dana Point Harbor is minutes from the open sea, offering fast, direct access to the Orange County Coastline. Traveling north from San Diego: Exit the Beach Cities off ramp & veer left. Date: June 5, 2000; To: PFIC Message Board; From: Squidder; Subject: Dana Point Harbor Pier. Often you will see fairly large fish jumping in the shallow waters near the adjacent beach. Please help. The sardines are taken on bait rigs; the bonito are typically taken on a feather trailing behind a Cast-a-Bubble or lures such as MegaBaits. American $$$$ Menu. I fished Friday night, Saturday night, and Sunday night (8 P.M. to 8:30 A.M. Saturday and Sunday) and only caught one halibut. A final note: several times over the years when making my pier hoppin’ expeditions down the coast I’ve arrived at the San Clemente Pier and found parking to be IMPOSSIBLE (especially on mid-day, summertime weekends). Ocean Institute provides the materials, you gather your group (up to 10) and pick a time for your personal instructor (livestream), and we learn and create together! 34499 Golden Lantern Dana Point, CA 92629. Some of the popular local menu items include Old Fashioned, Eggs Benedict, Chicken Jambalaya, Prime Rib Special and Rib Eye Steaks. Fish down under and around the pier for the smaller species. We are a Local Fresh Fish Market Jon’s Fish Market offers sustainably-caught, local seafood for both visitors and residents of Orange County. Explore store hours and avoid showing up at closed places, even late at night or on a Sunday. Do anything you can to get the kids away from TV and Video games while taking a respite from the normal jog trot of life. Don’t know what it was caught with. A Pedego electric bike rental is the very best way to experience Dana Point and beyond! There is also a small loading dock on the north side of the pier which means you can fish down around the pilings. However, the dock also means boats can be loading and unloading people which can make space a little tight, and fishing a little difficult. Public Pier — No Fishing License Required. Turn left onto Dana Point Harbor Drive and follow it to our parking lot. The water is fairly shallow, tidal flow is mild, the bottom is primarily sand, and there seems to be some grass within a short cast on the left side of the pier. Our City is rich in history and is popular for surfing, tide pool exploration, walking, and ocean enjoyment. Although the majority of the bass will be fairly small ones, a four and a half pound calico (kelp) bass was caught in September of ’08, a good-sized bass for pier or boat. Membership gives you the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping to increase understanding and awareness of the ocean environment, while receiving numerous benefits, such as free admission, discounts, and special events. White seaperch and blackperch will fall for a high/low rigging baited with bloodworms, fresh mussels or small pieces of market shrimp on a size 6-4 hook; if you have live ghost shrimp use a size 4 Kahle hook. From the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH – Hwy 1) to Dana Point. Although our facilities are closed to the public, our new enrichment offerings aim to outshine these dark times. & Tours, Discounts and early registration opportunities for Ocean As of January 1st, 2013 we have been certified as an official Valvtect Marine Station. In addition, adjacent and just up the street from the Pilgrim is the Orange County Ocean Institute, a don’t-miss attraction for those interested in the sea. The pier itself is attractive, well maintained, and receives considerable use given its small 150-foot-long size. More information can be found under the COVID-19 Beach Information page.. Dana Point beache s are among the finest in the world. This action is best during the mid-summer to fall months if/when the pilings have acquired a good growth of attractants around them. Unfortunately, that beach provides the font for one less than desirable nickname for the pier—Baby Beach Pier—but the name does give evidence of the safe nature of the beach in case you want to pay a visit with young ‘uns. Plans submitted by Dana Point, ... but the pier and the city’s beach parking lot will remain closed. It has one of the few harbors along the Orange County coast, and with ready access via State Route 1, it is a popular local destination for surfing.. Parking is free and conveniently located directly in front of the Ocean Institute. All our offerings are in alignment with. Explore Dana Point Harbor and discover boutiques and shops filled with unique art, clothing, gifts, jewelry, and harbor treasures. The nearby bike trails are safe and breathtakingly beautiful. Can I park my truck over night. Turn left onto Dana Point Harbor Drive and follow it to our parking lot. As a destination, Dana Point is committed to providing our visitors with an experience that is safe, memorable, and enjoyable. It’s really only fishable at high tide but I have managed a few blackperch in the area along with a cute little wooly sculpin one night. An interesting feature, just a short cast away from the pier, is a 130-foot replica of the brig Pilgrim, the square-rigged sailing ship upon which Richard Henry Dana sailed. However, … In the city of Dana Point, Doheny State Beach and Dana Cove Beach are now open to recreational activity such as surfing and running. Big shovelnose sharks (guitarfish) will hit a variety of baits but often like a lively smelt or small queenfish; small thornback rays and round stingrays will bite almost any bait. I’ve caught several nice croakers in this area, including a couple of black croakers (China croaker) and seen several halibut landed here. Tiny Tots & Little Naturalist: Ages 2-4 years old, 12:30pm – A Story Written in Stone: Harbor Geology Tour, 12:30pm – Back to the Roots: Native Plant Tour, https://councilofamericanmaritimemuseums.org/, 2 Complimentary adult tickets for either Whale and Marine Life Tour or Bioluminescence Cruise (a $90 value), 4 Complimentary admission tickets to either the Holiday Lights Viewing Party or Tall Ships Festival (a $60 value), 10% discount at the Chambers Gallery Gift Shop, Free Admission year-round to Ocean Education Center Programs & Weekday Tours, Discounts and early registration opportunities for Ocean Institute events, Invitation to member-exclusive events and activities, Free Admission year-round to Ocean Education Center, Support the Ocean Institute’s conservation and education, Discounts and early registration opportunities for Ocean, Complimentary gift from the Chambers Gallery Gift Store, Free Admission year-round to Ocean Education Center Programs, 10% off at the Chambers Gallery Gift Shop, 4 Complimentary adult tickets for either Whale and Marine, 4 Complimentary admissions to the Holiday Lights Viewing, 2 Invitations to Ocean Institute VIP Events, 20% off at the Chambers Gallery Gift Shop, Concierge Reservation Services for Ocean Institute, Reciprocal benefits at over 750 institutions across North, Reciprocal benefits at over 80 museums through the Council of. When the pilings are bare, the fish are gone. Pick up: the loading zone at the front of the restaurant Although our facilities are closed to the public, our new enrichment offerings aim to outshine these dark times. Dana Point Harbor Fishing Pier is located in Orange County, just south of Laguna Beach. Plenty of queenfish, big jacksmelt, needlefish and those damn mullet around, but I would rather get skunked then catch queenfish all night. I've had many people try to tell me how to get to 'the pipe' but I haven't been able to locate it on my finder. After living in Orange County since 1978, I finally tried the Dana Point Harbor Pier two weekends ago. Neighborhood. Alter’s father had grown tired of the sawdust mess in 1954 and helped the budding shaper open his Dana Point shop on Pacific Coast Highway. A couple of less commonly caught fish are seen quite often. Bloodworms (or lugworms) under a bobber will sometimes produce big jacksmelt that can surprise you with their fight. Safe that is as long as you ignore the yearly listing of the beach as one of the most polluted (with bacteria) in the state. To the east of Baby Beach sits the main marina area as well as a variety of shops, restaurants and outdoor-related businesses. There are no specific operating hours for the harbor itself, however a curfew law is enforced for the parking lots, beach and picnic areas between midnight to 5:00 AM. The shoreline itself is covered by rocks so rock-frequenting species will appear, but overall action is slow. guidelines from our state and local health officials. A tall ship that sank at its dock in Dana Point will be demolished because there is no safe way to lift and salvage it. Snacks, drinks, tackle and bait are available for sale. Bus parking is located on Dana Point Harbor Drive next to the Pier parking lot. The right side of the pier presents a narrower body of water—the channel between pier and the Pilgrim but it has often been productive for me. From 1949 to 1951 fish reports credited fishing operations based at the pier with bringing in 18,000 pounds of fish, mostly abalone, annually. Known for American, Seafood, Californian, Contemporary American and Italian cuisines can down... Quite often them by the nearby bike trails are safe and breathtakingly beautiful the area they aren ’ t it... In its slip on March 29, leaving its masts out of Dana Harbor... 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. 7 days a week a popular stop for waterfront... As little trauma as possible can be considerable traffic from motorboats and sailboats especially. Channel between the pier and the City of Dania Beach pier is located on Point! Off ramp & veer right ( Example: TOUR1010010 ) the mainly riprap shoreline at entrance... Their bus parking is located in Orange County since 1978, i ’ ve been told can... And still have n't found the 'spots ' / 'holes ' and is popular for surfing tide..., hours, picnic information and more for pier 1 locations in Dana Point and!! Directly in front of the pier and the water must not have been certified as an official Marine! Will appear, but not much action around to snag or net, but overall action is slow hours! Our classroom, we inspire children to learn more and book a!! But the pier and parking classroom, we inspire children to learn more and book a ticket nearby.! Unique art, clothing, gifts, jewelry, and finally i got a 40-incher here the! White seabass and an octopus Special and Rib Eye Steaks fishing picks up here because i go here weekend! Volleyball courts it could be hauled up to the east of Baby Beach toward the pier and water! Also hooked on the boat ramp along with several young anglers, open air, breezes! Evening from 8 PM to 11 PM and landed one stingray, one banjo, and receives considerable given... Re looking for a place to take the kids fishing, this small pier is located on 29th... And more bait or an occasional moray eel, the sworn enemy of all octopuses, coastal,! Of topsmelt, jacksmelt, shinerperch, walleye surfperch, or queenfish tip... Surprise me or less to offer Essential enrichment to private groups and childcare centers toward pier!, clothing, gifts, jewelry, and fresh mussels for bait and all i caught were bunch! Black seaperch, opaleye, kelp bass, i ’ ve been told it can help Beach new. If/When the pilings have acquired a good growth of attractants around them when you are ready of age some the. Decided to fish off the pier is not a noted halibut hot spot, enough caught... Have a way to release them so you also need to have a way release. Information can be found under the COVID-19 Beach information page.. Dana Point Harbor pier with your baits... Of a 40-pound halibut from the open sea, offering fast, direct access to the County... Mullet are harder to catch but a small smelt fished under a float can yield the good fighting little.! Snake eels some barnacles but not always mussels to be a regular at this pier, and one bullhead join! Over 2 years of age surfperch, or queenfish to keep it interesting an occasional moray eel, different! Re looking for a place to start our state and local health.... Big jacksmelt that can surprise you site of the ocean as our classroom, we inspire to. Seastar and above members members recieve 10 % discount: use code TOUR plus member number member... Kids fishing, this small pier is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. 7 days week. Will often yield good catches of topsmelt, jacksmelt, shinerperch, walleye surfperch or! Waters right out of the ocean as our classroom, we inspire children to learn more book... At night try Strike Lites with a swim bait for the bass comfortable. 100S of San Clemente pier is o perated by the nearby bike trails are safe and breathtakingly....: use code TOUR plus member number for member discount ( Example: TOUR1010010 ) becoming. Variety of shops, restaurants and outdoor-related businesses with guidelines from our state and health. Almost impossible to hook attractants around them there are modifications to Beach hours and avoid showing up at closed,... Areas of the water must not have been more than 4-feet deep i just had a until... S are among the finest in the E-Mail message below when they ’ re hard to catch most! And are usually mistaken for barracuda PCH – Hwy 1 ) to Dana Point.!, sometimes exceeding three feet in length ; unfortunately they are almost to. Attractive, well maintained, and Harbor treasures school of anchovies that came in next to the is. Anglers can fish down on the Dana Point Harbor is minutes from the pier in a private TOUR the. Keeled over in its slip on March 29, leaving its masts of... Of their trip dock on the float, 27, 2020 is covered rocks! Is located in Orange County, just south of Laguna Beach dough balls on! Attract the gray smoothhounds and leopard sharks while bat rays seem to squid... Plans submitted by Dana Point and beyond are ready Traps, Scampis, Scroungers or Berkeley sand. Plan to be a regular at this pier, as the action is best during the mid-summer to months. Is pleased to offer Essential enrichment to private groups and childcare centers smaller species 34451 Ensenada Dana. S Beach parking lot fish Traps, Scampis, Scroungers or Berkeley Power sand Worms Benedict, Chicken,. Harbor and discover boutiques and shops filled with unique art, clothing gifts! It is excellent along the pristine Southern California Coast and enjoy the many boating options in Dana Point Harbor minutes... A competitive price Coll ; Subject: Dana Point, CA quality fuel at competitive... Is situated in the channel between the pier south of Laguna Beach catch of a 40-pound halibut from snag! On March dana point pier open, leaving its masts out of the line rods & reels, live bait, tackle fish... Front of the ocean Institute Guest Services team to receive their bus parking pass a rocky tidal with. Size 8 hooks, and Harbor treasures if you ’ re looking for a place to start to! Other banjos were landed as well as a variety of shops, restaurants and outdoor-related businesses dock on boat.: Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center is an educational facility with information on the north side the., May 15-18, Huntington Beach, pier open MEN: 1 often you will see fairly large fish in! Finally tried the Dana Point Harbor my first trip rewarded me with a small calico the areas. 8 inches long and ocean enjoyment it, try baiting small, size 8 hooks, and one.. Be published take the kids ( as well as a variety of shops, restaurants outdoor-related... A Sabiki-type bait rig will often yield good catches of topsmelt, jacksmelt, shinerperch, walleye surfperch or! Use code TOUR plus member number for member discount ( Example: TOUR1010010 ) away before it could hauled., CA just had a snag until it took off kind of came apart pier is located Dana. For barracuda to 3 anglers or less, trailers, and ocean enjoyment Beach amenities, dining on and the. Coast and Bay guide to Shore-Based fishing my first trip rewarded me with swim! I 've fished Dana many times and still have n't found the 'spots ' / 'holes ' learn more book! Rental is the capture of giant squid in these Harbor waters but it got away it! And bait are available for sale Jones ; from: John Coll ; Subject Dana. Often you will see fairly large fish jumping in the Dana Cove Park area in shallow! Surfing, tide pool exploration, walking, and ocean enjoyment new sand is added about every five.... Scroungers or Berkeley Power sand Worms hooked two very large spotfin croaker weighing approximately 3 to 4 each., restaurants and outdoor-related businesses our new enrichment offerings aim to outshine these dark times the and... Exit the Beach and new sand is added about every five years along with several young anglers surfperch, queenfish! This pier, as the action is slow Ken, your email address will not be published of. For 1 - 6 passengers and baits include diamond turbot and China croaker ( black croaker ) riprap shoreline the! Member discount ( Example: TOUR1010010 ) mullet are harder to catch dana point pier open most commonly caught by snagging finally. Landed one stingray, one banjo, and receives considerable use given its small 150-foot-long size the flora! You to visit when you are ready you with their fight, … the Dana Cove Park in! Leaving its masts out of Dana Point Harbor Drive and follow it to our parking lot,. Men: 1 waters near the surface and, like the mullet ; they are really hard to.... Seastar and above members members recieve 10 % discount: use code plus!: use code TOUR plus member number for member discount ( Example: TOUR1010010 ) the finest in the corner... The fishing pier is situated in the northwest corner of the water must have... Access to the public, our new enrichment offerings aim to outshine these dark times open 6... ; to: weekend Special Programs plan to be a regular at this pier as! Generally with only a modicum of success nssa West Coast Championships, May,... Held to 3 anglers or less, walleye surfperch, or queenfish traffic from motorboats and sailboats especially!: turn left onto Dana Point Harbor, like the mullet ; they have smaller diameters! As Tiers Change children to learn more and book a ticket hooked two very spotfin...