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

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

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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.

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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

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Expert land-based fly casting instruction and guided shore fishing trips for striped bass and halibut across the San Francisco Bay Area.

Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures | San Francisco Fly Fishing Guides 

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.

Your dedicated, expert team for highly educational and rewarding San Francisco shore fly fishing trips.

Built on a Deep Respect for the San Francisco Surf

Discover the finest land-based angling in the Bay Area with Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures, your dedicated San Francisco fly fishing guide. Led by passionate guides Mike Olausen and Spencer Johnson, with a combined 15 years of local fly fishing experience, we specialize in guided shoreline trips targeting Striped Bass, California Halibut, and 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, 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.

Frequently Asked Questions About San Francisco Shore Fly Fishing

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Professional Guides with Deep San Francisco Surf Expertise

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Land-based casting instruction and guided outings targeting Striped Bass and California Halibut across the San Francisco Bay Area.

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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.

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Meet the Guides

Memorable San Francisco Shore Fly Fishing Moments

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.

Add DescriptionStay up to date with our San Francisco shore fly fishing reports to see exactly what is happening in the surf zone. Each update breaks down recent catches, shifting tidal and water conditions, and the latest seasonal patterns driving the bite along the beaches. Whether we are tracking the summer arrival of aggressive striped bass, finding California halibut in calmer water, or casting to barred surfperch, these reports give you a clear, honest picture of the current coastal fishery.Knowing the water is the first step to success on the sand. Use our latest updates on the current bite to plan your next outing and identify the most productive times to book your time on the water. Because our schedule is dictated by the tides and fish behavior, prime dates fill quickly when the fishing is good—review our recent reports below and visit our trips page to reserve your day with Spencer and Mike.

San Francisco Fishing Reports

See why anglers consistently choose our educational San Francisco shore fly fishing trips to learn the surf zone and target striped bass on the fly. Our guests share their honest feedback regarding our hands-on casting instruction, expert local knowledge, and the highly rewarding feeling of successfully reading and fishing the beach.Whether you are a beginner picking up a fly rod for the first time or an experienced caster refining your technique against the coastal breeze, read how Spencer and Mike provide top-tier guidance and a welcoming environment. These reviews highlight the dedication, patience, and true 50/50 partnership that make our land-based outings a memorable and foundational experience for every angler.

Hear From Our San Francisco Shore Fly Fishing Guests

We work hard to keep our calendar updated. Our schedule reflects real-time availability, so the fastest way to reserve your date is to book online. After you book, we’ll follow up to confirm the beach meeting location and details to help make your San Francisco shore fishing experience unforgettable.

Start Planning Your San Francisco Fly Fishing Trip

Experience world-class, 100% land-based fly fishing along the iconic beaches and productive tidal zones of the San Francisco Bay Area.

San Francisco Shoreline Fly Fishing

From our signature half-day outings to dedicated two-hour lessons, our educational trips are designed to build your casting skills and target striped bass right from the sand.

Guided Shore Trips & Casting Lessons

See why anglers consistently praise our exceptional hospitality, welcoming approach, and the practical, lifelong fly casting skills they gain on every trip.

5-Star Guest Reviews

San Francisco Bay & Pacific Coast Shorelines

Your trip includes all necessary beach-specific fly fishing equipment, carefully selected for your skill level and the daily coastal conditions. We also provide our custom, hand-tied flies designed specifically to target local striped bass and halibut. Throughout your time on the sand, you will receive personalized casting instruction and expert environmental knowledge from your guides.

Trip Inclusions

All anglers must purchase and bring a valid California sport fishing license before stepping onto the beach. We highly recommend wearing comfortable, layered clothing so you can easily adapt to the shifting San Francisco coastal weather. Finally, be sure to pack polarized sunglasses and a hat for essential sun protection and improved visibility when reading the water.

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San Francisco Fly Fishing Lessons & Guided Shore Trips

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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.

Crissy Field East Beach, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA

Crissy Field East Beach

8 hrs 

Shoreline Fly Presentation and Advanced Distance Casting

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.

2 hrs 

Evening Surf Fly Presentation and Overhead Casting Sessions

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.

First Light Surf Fly Casting and Double Haul Sessions

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

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Expert Tips for Fishing in El Cerrito

How to Prepare for Fishing in El Cerrito

At Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures, the success of your day on the beach relies on the deep local knowledge and shared dedication of co-owners Spencer Johnson and Mike Lawson. Operating as a true equal partnership, they have spent over a decade collectively dialing in the nuances of the San Francisco Bay Area shoreline. Their deep connection to the Northern California coast drives their educational philosophy, ensuring every guest learns to read the complex tides, shifting sands, and coastal currents that define this unique urban fishery.Spencer brings a distinct blend of high-end hospitality and technical instruction to the sand, rooted in his extensive culinary background and years of prior guiding experience on the demanding rivers of Colorado. He specializes in translating complex casting mechanics into approachable, easy-to-understand lessons for anglers of all skill levels. By focusing heavily on patience, clear communication, and elevated guest service, Spencer creates a welcoming environment where beginners can build a solid foundation and seasoned casters can refine their technique against the Pacific wind.Complementing Spencer's instructional approach, Mike is a master of local surf tactics and custom saltwater fly design. His specialty lies in decoding the specific diets of California halibut and striped bass, hand-tying the exact baitfish patterns needed to fool them in the shallow tidal wash. Mike's analytical approach to the local surf zone means you are not just getting a guide, but a coastal tactician who understands exactly where the fish hold and how to present a fly naturally in challenging water, rounding out an unmatched educational team on the beach.

Meet Your San Francisco Shore Fly Fishing Experts

The Ideal Setting for West Coast Anglers San Francisco is famous for its iconic bridges, rolling fog, and dynamic tidal shifts, but it is also home to a unique and deeply rewarding coastal fishery. The complex network of beaches, tidal flats, and rocky points creates an environment perfectly suited for our specialized approach to San Francisco fly fishing. Unlike traditional boat charters, the shoreline here offers a rare accessibility to world-class angling right off the sand. Anglers can easily reach productive waters without the hassle of a marina, finding solitude and focus just minutes from the city center. The mix of Pacific swells and bay currents churns up nutrient-rich waters, creating an ideal habitat for predatory fish. For those willing to learn the rhythm of the tides, this region offers an unmatched urban angling experience where the city meets the surf.Reading the Dynamic Coastal Environment Stepping onto a Northern California beach with a fly rod is a masterclass in environmental awareness. The beauty of these waters lies in their constant change. Anglers are treated to sweeping views of the Golden Gate, coastal headlands, and a vibrant ecosystem alive with diving birds and crashing waves. Success here requires keen observation, looking for nervous baitfish, and understanding how the sand structure shifts with every tide. While our shore fly fishing season peaks during the summer and fall when striped bass aggressively patrol the surf zone in search of food, resident fish offer year-round opportunities. During softer tidal swings, presenting specialized flies along the sandy bottom can yield impressive California halibut, adding a highly rewarding layer of variety to the outing. It is a visually engaging, hands-on experience that grounds you entirely in the natural rhythm of the coastline.A Legacy of Surf Zone Angling The San Francisco Bay Area has a rich, albeit niche, history of land-based angling. While offshore commercial and recreational fleets have long dominated the local narrative, a dedicated subculture of surf casters has spent decades quietly decoding the beach bite. Historically, conventional gear was the standard for casting beyond the breakers. However, as fly rod technology advanced and localized knowledge grew, a modern wave of anglers proved that presenting a carefully tied artificial fly in the shallow tidal wash is highly effective. This localized movement has also championed marine stewardship, ensuring that the beaches and fisheries remain healthy for future generations. Today, the region is recognized globally among dedicated fly casters as a premier destination for targeting striped bass from the sand, requiring a specialized blend of casting skill, oceanography, and persistence.The Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures Standard At Strip Set Fly Fishing Adventures, co-owners Spencer Johnson and Mike Lawson have spent years translating this complex coastal puzzle into an accessible, education-first experience. Drawing from over a decade of high-end hospitality and extensive local guiding background, we approach San Francisco fly fishing differently. We are not just a fishing charter; we are an educational outfitter dedicated to building your skills. Unlike traditional guide services that focus solely on the day's catch, our primary goal is to empower you with the knowledge to read the water and fish independently long after your trip concludes. We specialize in providing premium, beach-ready gear and custom hand-tied flies designed precisely for local water conditions. Whether you are a beginner receiving patient casting instruction or a veteran angler learning to double-haul into a Pacific breeze, our true 50/50 owner partnership ensures you receive consistent, top-tier guidance directly from the founders.Book Your San Francisco Shore Experience Today The tides dictate the schedule, and the most productive days on the sand fill up quickly. If you are ready to learn the mechanics of the surf, improve your casting technique, and target local species on foot, we invite you to join us on the beach. Visit our booking page to view real-time availability and secure your date seamlessly online. Plan your San Francisco shore fly fishing trip today, and let Spencer and Mike show you exactly what it takes to succeed on this remarkable coastline.

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