Join our premium dawn shore casting trips in San Francisco. Target striped bass and surfperch.

Dawn Surf Cast

Dawn Patrol Surf Casting in San Francisco

Wade San Francisco shores targeting bass & halibut with expert fly gear. Book your morning tide adventure.

Morning Pursuit

Morning Tide Striped Bass & Halibut Pursuit

Learn fly casting for halibut and bass during golden hour on Pacific shores. Book today.

Dusk Shore Clinic

Dusk Shoreline Halibut & Bass Clinic

Expert guided surf casting along SF coastline. Target striped bass and halibut. Book today.

Surf Bay Deep Dive

Full Day San Francisco Shore Fishing Experience

Get California fishing license rules, pricing, and ocean validation details before your trip with Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures in San Francisco.

CA License Info

How to Get a California Fishing License: Visitor & Angler Guide

Discover top things to do in San Francisco, CA! Explore popular sights, dining, and outdoor spots, then book a trip with Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures.

SF Attractions

Beyond the Surf: The Ultimate San Francisco Travel Guide

Top rated twilight shore fly fishing for stripers and surfperch. Book your golden hour adventure.

Golden Hour Cast

Golden Hour Striper & Surfperch Casting

Target trophy striped bass after dark on San Francisco shores. Expert guided night fishing.

Night Bass Hunt

Night Fishing for Striped Bass in San Francisco

Learn more about Spencer Johnson a San Francisco Surf & Bay Fly Fishing Guide in Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures

Spencer Johnson - Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures

Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures is your premier San Francisco fly fishing guide, specializing in fully guided, land-based shoreline fishing across San Francisco Bay and the surrounding Pacific beaches. We offer a highly effective, accessible approach to Bay Area fishing by focusing entirely on wade and surf fly fishing. You do not need a boat to experience top-tier angling; our trips put you right on the sand and shoreline structure, casting directly into productive coastal waters. Whether you are searching for beginner fly fishing in San Francisco or you are a seasoned angler chasing coastal predators, we provide hands-on coaching tailored to your specific skill level. With 15 years of personal fly fishing experience and a deep, lifelong connection to the local waters—having grown up walking these exact beaches—our operation is built on dedicated instruction and authentic local insight. We specialize in fly casting lessons in San Francisco, helping newcomers master line control, read the tides, and ultimately land their very first fish on a fly. Sharing that milestone with our guests is our absolute favorite part of guiding. Our guided trips target some of the most sought-after coastal species, including Striped Bass, California Halibut, and Barred Surfperch. For anglers looking for premier San Francisco striped bass fly fishing, our beach and Bay sessions are carefully timed to put you in the best position to succeed during peak seasonal runs from April through October, as well as productive winter shoulder seasons. Every booking with Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures includes premium, professional-grade fly rods, reels, custom-tied flies, lures, and all necessary leader material. We offer flexible 2-hour, 4-hour, and 8-hour casting and fishing packages meeting at Crissy Field East Beach, allowing you to fish at sunrise or sunset with the Golden Gate Bridge as your backdrop. As a dedicated San Francisco surf fly fishing guide, our goal is to deliver an educational, engaging, and highly productive day on the water. We blend technical casting instruction with a true appreciation for the local ecosystem, providing an unforgettable San Francisco fishing experience that grounds you deeply in the art of shore-based angling.

EPSG:4269

Striped bass catch from fishing trip in El Cerrito CA

Striped bass catch on beach in El Cerrito CA

Striped bass caught while fishing in El Cerrito CA

Fishing rod on beach at sunset in El Cerrito CA with dramatic cloudy sky

Fresh oyster held in hand showing interior meat after being opened during fishing trip in El Cerrito CA

Striped bass catch displayed on beach with fishing rod in El Cerrito CA

Fish caught while fishing in El Cerrito CA showing fishing lure in mouth

Striped bass caught on fly fishing rod lying on sandy beach in El Cerrito CA

Striped bass catch from surf fishing in El Cerrito CA with Golden Gate Bridge visible in background

Striped bass catch held on beach in El Cerrito CA with Golden Gate Bridge visible in background

Angler holding caught striped bass on beach with Golden Gate Bridge in background in El Cerrito CA

Angler holding fish on beach in El Cerrito CA

Three anglers displaying a caught striped bass on beach in El Cerrito CA

Striped bass caught on beach in El Cerrito CA with fishing rod nearby

Striped bass caught fishing in El Cerrito CA with Golden Gate Bridge visible in background

Exploring the Bay Area: Top Activities in San Francisco, CASan Francisco is world-famous for its rolling hills, iconic architecture, and vibrant coast

California Sport Fishing Licenses: Rules, Fees, and Where to BuyPlanning a trip to cast a line along the Pacific coast or within the Bay Area requires

Step onto the sand and conquer the legendary surf of San Francisco with Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures! Reserve your guided trip today and feel the unforgettable surge of pride as you battle powerful coastal predators right from the beach.

Discover the finest land-based angling in the Bay Area with Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures, your premier San Francisco fly fishing guide. Led by a passionate captain with 15 years of local fly fishing experience, we specialize in guided shoreline trips targeting Striped Bass, California Halibut, and Barred Surfperch. Instead of navigating crowded boat decks or dealing with seasickness, our accessible approach puts you right on the sand of San Francisco's iconic beaches. With all premium rods, reels, and custom flies included, our expert local guides offer patient, hands-on instruction tailored to your exact skill level, making it easier than ever to read the surf, perfect your cast, and connect with the coastal ecosystem. We are dedicated to providing high-quality, family-friendly trips at affordable prices, welcoming everyone from absolute beginners hoping to land their very first fish to seasoned anglers chasing coastal predators on the fly. Whether you are looking for a quick 2-hour morning casting lesson or an extended 8-hour shoreline pursuit, our flexible packages are designed to fit seamlessly into your schedule. Benefit from the deep local expertise that only a lifetime of walking these Bay Area beaches can provide. Book your fishing trip today and join us on the sand for a uniquely rewarding San Francisco fly fishing experience.

Find answers to your most common San Francisco fly fishing trip questions below, ensuring you have all the specific details, pricing, and gear information needed for a seamless day on the water.

Growing up walking the sandy shorelines of San Francisco, the lead guide behind Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures developed a deep, early connection to the local waters. What started as exploring coastal beaches as a young kid evolved into a true obsession during his teenage years when he first picked up a fishing rod. With over 15 years of fly fishing experience along the San Francisco Bay and Pacific coastline, he has spent countless hours studying the tides, reading the surf structure, and tracking the subtle movements of coastal game fish. Over his past two years as a professional guide, his primary focus has been sharing that lifelong passion with others through hands-on education. Nothing brings him more genuine satisfaction on the water than coaching an angler to land their very first fish on a fly. Known for his patient, encouraging instruction, he excels at breaking down line management, water reading, and casting mechanics into practical steps. Whether working with complete beginners or helping seasoned casters adjust their double haul against coastal winds, his dedicated coaching ensures every guest builds real confidence on the water. Having spent a lifetime along these shorelines, his knowledge of the local fishery goes far beyond basic fishing spots. He deeply values the unique lifestyle that San Francisco offers—where a productive morning reading the surf near the Golden Gate can be followed by exploring the city's celebrated culinary scene and fine dining locations. His intimate understanding of the Bay Area allows him to select the best shoreline locations based on real-time conditions, putting guests in the right position to target Striped Bass, California Halibut, and Barred Surfperch while gaining authentic insight into the surrounding ecosystem. While traditional charters operate from a vessel, Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures delivers a dedicated, 100% land-based experience where the beach itself serves as your platform. By keeping your feet planted on the sand, you avoid crowded boat decks and seasickness entirely while enjoying direct access to active nearshore troughs. Every trip is fully outfitted with high-performance fly rods, reels, custom-tied flies, and specialized leader material built for coastal saltwater species. This grounded setup offers a comfortable, educational, and deeply connected way to experience the best fly fishing the San Francisco coast has to offer.

Expert San Francisco Surf Fly Fishing Guide

San Francisco Fly Fishing Guide Frequently Asked Questions How much does a full-day fishing charter cost in San Francisco?A full-day (8-hour) shoreline casting and fishing session with Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures costs $800 and includes premium gear, hands-on instruction, and snacks. We also offer a 4-hour half-day trip for $522 and a 2-hour introductory casting session for $300 to easily fit into your schedule. Do I need to bring my own fishing gear for the San Francisco surf?You do not need to bring any of your own equipment. Every trip with Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures includes top-tier fly rods, reels, custom-tied flies, lures, and all the necessary leader and tippet material required to successfully target coastal predators. What’s included in a fishing charter with Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures?Your booking includes dedicated, one-on-one casting instruction, all premium fly fishing tackle, flies, and lures. For our 4-hour and 8-hour sessions, we also provide snacks to keep you energized while walking and casting along the beautiful San Francisco coastline. Is cleaning and filleting included in the fishing trip?Because we focus heavily on fly casting education and the health of the local ecosystem, we primarily practice catch-and-release for species like Striped Bass and California Halibut. However, if you land a legal species that you wish to keep for the dinner table, your guide will gladly assist you with local regulations, proper handling, and basic preparation advice. What is the best time of year to fish the San Francisco Bay and beaches?The peak season for our area runs from April through October, which brings warmer currents and active baitfish migrations that draw in Striped Bass and Halibut. However, the winter months from November to March still provide highly productive opportunities to target resident Barred Surfperch right from the shoreline. Can beginners book a San Francisco fly fishing guide?Absolutely. Helping an angler land their very first fish on a fly is our absolute favorite part of guiding. We specialize in beginner fly casting lessons in San Francisco, breaking down everything from basic overhead mechanics to reading the coastal tides. Do we fish from a boat during your Bay Area fly fishing trips?No, all of our sessions are 100% land-based. We wade directly into the surf and fish from the sandy beaches of the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific coast. This approach means you never have to worry about seasickness or crowded deck spaces, allowing you to focus entirely on your casting technique. What should I bring for my San Francisco beach fly fishing trip?Guests need to bring a valid California sport fishing license with an Ocean Enhancement validation. We also highly recommend wearing polarized sunglasses to cut through the water's glare, a hat, sunscreen, layered clothing to adapt to the coastal fog, and waders or waterproof footwear for the surf. Where do we meet for our San Francisco surf fly fishing guide session?Our standard meeting location is Crissy Field East Beach in San Francisco, CA. This central spot gives us immediate access to productive bay waters and serves as an excellent starting point to assess the morning or evening tides. Are these land-based San Francisco shore fishing trips family-friendly?Yes, our foot-based fly fishing trips are highly family-friendly. Fishing from the beach is a safe, stable, and engaging way for newer anglers to learn the sport, making it a fantastic outdoor activity for families visiting the Bay Area who want to experience the local waters up close.

San Francisco Bay & Pacific Coast Shorelines

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Trade the busy city streets for the rhythmic crash of the Pacific surf as evening approaches. Whether you are dialing in your mechanics or just learning the basics of fly presentation, this shore-based session strips away the distractions of a boat. We meet directly on the beach and supply all the high-end gear and tippet required to target predators pushing into the shallows under the changing coastal light. With dedicated, patient coaching, you will master overhead casting, line management, and reading subtle water shifts. Standing firmly on the sand offers a grounded connection to the local ecosystem, allowing you to focus entirely on your technique. It is a deeply rewarding way to end the day, perfecting your fly game and chasing that satisfying hookup as the sun dips below the horizon.

Barred Surfperch

Pacific Halibut

Striped Bass

2 hrs 

Evening Surf Fly Presentation and Overhead Casting Sessions

Immerse yourself in the nuances of the San Francisco coastline by tracking shifting bay structures across multiple tide changes. This comprehensive shore-based session turns the beach into an expansive classroom, allowing you to cover serious ground while hunting for productive feeding zones in the surf. Using our supplied top-tier rods, reels, and custom fly patterns, you will receive hands-on coaching to fine-tune every part of your technique. We focus on everything from dialing in basic mechanics to punching advanced distance casts through challenging coastal winds. Taking breaks for provided snacks right on the sand, we evaluate changing water conditions in real time to target species like Barred Surfperch and Pacific Halibut. By the time you reel in, you will have the practical skills and local understanding to read the surf and fish these waters independently.

8 hrs 

Shoreline Fly Presentation and Advanced Distance Casting

Step into a completely different angling environment by targeting the San Francisco surf after the sun goes down. When darkness falls, larger coastal predators push right into the shallow shorelines to feed. This focused, nighttime session strips away visual distractions, challenging you to rely entirely on your rhythm. We outfit you with specialized gear and large, dark-profile flies specifically designed to create noticeable water displacement. You will learn to execute your hauls, manage your line, and detect strikes strictly by muscle memory. Between casts, we take breaks on the sand for provided snacks while breaking down how to read nocturnal tides and structure using ambient city light and the sound of the crashing waves. It is a highly specialized, foot-based approach that refines your fundamental mechanics while hunting predators in the shallows.

Night Cast Big Dark Fly Patterns into the Surf

Trade the quiet city streets for the rhythmic crash of the Pacific surf as morning approaches. Whether you are dialing in your mechanics or just learning the basics of fly presentation, this shore-based session strips away the distractions of a boat. We meet directly on the beach and supply all the high-end gear and tippet required to target predators pushing into the shallows. With dedicated, patient coaching, you will master overhead casting, line management, and reading subtle water shifts under the early coastal light. Standing firmly on the sand offers a grounded connection to the local ecosystem, allowing you to focus entirely on your technique. It is a deeply rewarding way to start the day, perfecting your fly game as the sun rises over the horizon.

4 hrs 

Morning Surf Fly Presentation and Overhead Casting Clinic

Experience the shifting coastal ecosystem as late afternoon fades into twilight. This shore-based session strips away the boat and puts you right on the sand, focusing on how to adapt your fly presentation as light conditions and tides change. We supply the premium rods and specific fly patterns you need to entice predators moving in to feed under the cover of dusk. Between casts, we will take a short break for provided snacks right on the beach while breaking down the specific mechanics of low-light line control. Your guide will share deep local knowledge regarding how the surf structure transforms throughout the evening. It is a highly focused, hands-on way to sharpen your technique, build confidence in your cast, and connect with the rhythm of the bay entirely on foot.

Twilight Shoreline Fly Casting and Low Light Water Reading

Start your morning with sand under your boots as the sun breaks over San Francisco. Whether you are a total novice aiming for that first hookup or a seasoned angler looking to dial in your casting rhythm, this hands-on shore session strips away the complications of boat fishing. We supply the premium rods and custom-tied flies so you can focus entirely on technique. You will learn how to read coastal trough structures and master mechanics like line control and double hauling against the early breeze. By standing right on the beach, you get direct, grounded instruction tailored to the waking coastal waters. It is a highly productive, focused way to improve your fly game and target species like Barred Surfperch or Pacific Halibut before the rest of the city even stirs.

Meet your Captain Spencer Johnson

Articles by Spencer Johnson

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