Travelers – and anglers – flock from near and far to the year-round warmth and sun of California. There is an array of things to do and see, but you just can’t resist dropping a line. Gather your gear, and head to some of the best fishing spots in California for a productive day on the water. Many of these may require a bit of travel from your Thousand Oaks accommodations. Don’t forget to secure the proper California fishing permits before casting a line! Please note some recreation areas require passes or fees for admission.
Day 1:
Santa Monica Pier
While you may think the pier is all about the carnival atmosphere and fun and games, you’d be wrong. While the beaches surrounding the pier and the pier itself load up with tourists, anglers can still find a spot to cast a line. There’s a special spot for it, too! Set up for your favorite water sport on the fishing platforms on either side of the Pier boardwalk, just west of Pacific Park. There’s also a lower fishing platform at the Pier’s west end. Expect to hook black cod, sea bass, walleye, rainbow perch, bonito, mackerel, halibut, and many others. Believe it or not, there is no requirement for a sport fishing license when fishing from public fishing piers like Santa Monica Pier. Other regulations do apply, like minimum size, bag limits, and seasonal catches. However, commercial fishing is not allowed.
Malibu Pier
The public pier designation means there’s no sport fishing license required! The 780-foot-long pier juts out into a small bay. Just moments away is Malibu Lagoon State Beach, famous for Surfriders’ Beach: home of the Gidget movies. Cast a line in search of barred surfperch, croakers, yellowfin croaker, halibut, rays, sharks, and more. It depends on how far out you go! The twin Cape Cod-style buildings offer a restaurant, as well as supplies like bait, tackle, and everything you’ll need for a productive day on the pier.
Day 2:
Deep Sea Fishing
Heading out to the depths of the Pacific Ocean can be a thrilling way to catch your next big fish story. Charter a trip out to the high seas, from short, fun trips where you can catch your next meal, to longer – full day or overnight trips. Set your sights on hooking walleye, bonito, rainbow perch, black cod, sea bass, mackerel, halibut, and many others. For a different thrill to your deep sea excursion, ask about night fishing and shark fishing!
Day 3:
Lake Casitas Recreation Area
About 40 minutes from Thousand Oaks, the fishing is worth the drive. The park is open daily 6:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. for both fishing and boating. Cast a line in search of largemouth bass, rainbow trout, crappie, red-ear sunfish, bluegill, and channel catfish. Canoes and kayaks are allowed, and boats must be between 11’ and 26’ long and 4’ wide. The lake is a drinking water supply, so there is no swimming or other “body contact” allowed. Get your fishing license from the Marina Bait and Tackle Shop.
Day 4:
Lake Piru Recreation Area
The area is open daily and offers fishing as well as boating, water sports, and more. Fish from vessels including boats, kayaks, and float tubes, or simply stand on the shore. Anglers in search of rainbow trout, bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill will find just what they’re looking for here.
Day 5:
Channel Island National Park
Wind up your fishing journey by staying a little closer to your rental. The national park is only a 30-minute drive from Thousand Oaks. The best way to experience fishing the waters is with a charter excursion from companies sailing out of Ventura Harbor or Channel Island Harbor. There are certain protected areas where fishing is not allowed, and charters will steer clear of these areas. If you’re looking to strike out on your own, the locals know the best places. They include Emma Wood State Beach, Port Hueneme Beach, San Buenaventura State Beach, Ventura Harbor, Point Mugu State Park, and many more.
An Angler’s Journey to Thousand Oaks
When you stay in a vacation rental in Thousand Oaks provided by Renters Club, you’ll enjoy easy access to the many area attractions, shopping, dining, and more to make your fishing Thousand Oaks trip fun and easy. Many of the fishing locations on the list are a bit further afield from your accommodations, but the comfort of a Thousand Oaks vacation rental is worth the drive! We offer units as large as five bedrooms in the Thousand Oaks area for you and all your fishing buddies.
Prepare the catch of the day or any other meal in the fully equipped kitchen and enjoy it in a spacious dining area. Afterward, spread out in an open living space. Enjoy a private balcony or patio or spend some time near the private pool of select units. For a premium experience, choose a unit with bonuses like multiple flat screen TVs, stainless steel appliances, and more.
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