San Clemente Pier, CA

Location and Overview
San Clemente, located on the coast of southern California about 60 miles north of San Diego, boasts that it has the best weather in the world. Whether that's true or not, one thing we do know for sure: the municipal pier there offers a chance for some good saltwater fishing, which the locals are quick to take advantage of. It's easy to get to, by taking Interstate 5 to El Camino Real, then heading toward the beach on Avenida Del Mar (check out the map). Metered public parking is located conveniently close to the pier, or you can park on the street if you choose.

Fishin' the San Clemente Pier
At 1296 feet in length, this pier allows anglers to try their luck anywhere from the inshore portion where the waves are breaking all the way out to the far end, which offers a chance at various pelagics. The inshore and mid-pier area can yield a variety of species including corbina, barred and walleye surfperch, yellowfin and spotfin croaker, and shovelnose sand sharks (also known as guitarfish). The occasional halibut will put in an appearance, and during the summer and fall mackerel are plentiful.

The end portion of the pier is best for sharks, halibut, yellowtail, barracuda, mackerel, and bonito, particularly during the late spring, summer, and fall. A deadly combination for bonito is a clear plastic casting bubble with a white feather jig trailing two to three feet behind it. Retrieve this in a series of short jerks and hold on! Flashy spoons like a Kastmaster or Krocodile also work well for bonito, mackerel, and barracuda.

Many fishermen do well with natural baits, including anchovies, squid, and pieces of fresh-caught mackerel. Live bait is popular and very effective, but you'll have to bring or catch your own.

Amenities for anglers include a bait and snack shop, restrooms, and sinks for cleaning your catch. There are benches scattered along the length of the pier, but you might consider bringing a folding chair just to be on the safe side. Need a pole and tackle? You can rent it at the bait shop for a small fee.Fisherman's Restaurant and Bar, located at the base of the pier, provides a great place to have a sit-down lunch or dinner, and features - what else? - some really tasty seafood.

Weather
Southern California weather is usually temperate, and along the coast can get downright cool during the winter. The beach is a great place to escape the summer heat, as temperatures here are usually a good ten degrees cooler than inland areas. Highs typically run from the 70's into the 80's during the summer months, while winter sees temperatures in the 50's and 60's during the day. As with any coastal area, always check the weather forecast before heading out, and don't forget your sunscreen if you plan on spending the day on the pier.

Click here to see current weather conditions and forecasts for the city of San Clemente.

Lodging and Camping
South Orange County contains a number of hotels, although room rates here tend to be somewhat higher than in other areas. San Clemente itself has several lodging options for those who want to stay close to the beach; click here for more information including room rates or to make reservations.

Camping is also available for those so inclined. Nearby campgrounds include San Clemente State Beach and San Onofre State Beach to the south, and Doheny State Beach and Capistrano Beach (949-661-7013 for info) to the north. Of course, these are just the closest ones, and other campgrounds can be found throughout Orange and San Diego counties.

Licensing and Regulations
The San Clemente Pier is managed by the City of San Clemente, and is open for fishing daily from 4 a.m. to midnight.

Since the San Clemente Pier is a public fishing pier, no fishing license is required. Each angler may fish with up to two poles. Make sure you check the CA Department of Fish and Game website and familiarize yourself with the most current ocean sportfishing regulations, including minimum sizes and bag limits for various species.

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