Capt James Nelson

08/01/2026

After completing a record 31 trips this month, I can honestly say I will not run another fishing charter in July 2026. Keep in mind,, I was couch-ridden for the first week of this month. Thank you all for your support.

07/06/2026

While bedridden, I have been reflecting the last few days, and I really want to thank all of you who have supported me, and even helped me rebuild my guiding services post-COVID. Some changes may be coming. In the meantime, it looks like there are only a few dates left in July. Currently, August has a few more dates left. If you can't get on the water with me this summer, please find a way. Our inshore bite is all set to top numbers we haven't seen in years. 2026 will be epic. Get out and go!

05/25/2026

As many of you may know by now, I got a new skiff. This one is quite a bit larger than the last one. It sits higher than most bass/bay boats, but isn't quite like an offshore center console. It fits the hybrid class. Great for local kelp and reefs, bay, and even lake (if you can find one with a usable ramp). And, it has already proven itself a fish catching machine.
To those who thought I was retiring from guiding charters (including myself), it looks more like I am doubling down instead. See attached calendar link. There are still some days left available this summer. If you want a ride on the Guitarfish, let me know.
https://www.fishingguidesandiego.com/san-diego-fishing-guide-calendar/

03/25/2026

What a whirlwind month March has been. Spring Break has sprung all over my calendar. Sorry I missed the PCS Show again, but I was working. While March may be a done deal, there are still a few dates left in April. Thank you all for your support.
The bite is good, and the weather is great. Get out there and go fishing.
https://www.fishingguidesandiego.com/san-diego-fishing-guide-calendar/

Professional Fishing Guide, Southern California saltwater, freshwater, fishing charters, sport fishing in San Diego, Los Angeles, Newport Beach, Lakeside, Riverside, and more

03/08/2026

Not a lot of dates left in March for my services. Nonetheless, the bite is great, and you should get on the water. If you can find a date I am available, I would love to have you. If you need to fish a date I am not available, and want to go with a guide, contact me. I know people, and will lead you to whom I would go with.

Professional Fishing Guide, Southern California saltwater, freshwater, fishing charters, sport fishing in San Diego, Los Angeles, Newport Beach, Lakeside, Riverside, and more

11/15/2025

Today, I was reminded of an article the great Jim Hendricks wrote about me guiding for Bonefish in San Diego Bay. It was published in Salt Water Sportsman 13 years ago. Hard to believe how much time has past. Then again, I am now into my 19th year of self employment.

The bonefish of San Diego Bay are plentiful and eager to fight.

09/02/2025

Vincent, Emma, Jace, and Megan came from AZ to gather a few supplies for taco night. Some Barracuda were also caught. They saw loads of marine life, enjoyed a playful Mini-Mako, and Vince got to ski behind a photo-shy Bat Ray. Wanna know a secret? September and October are offer some of our best fishing, crowds are down, and mamy hotels offer discounts.

08/31/2025

Jim, Finley, and Tom rocked the Bay Bass and a few other critters. Finley even caught his first Bonefish, and Shark. Together, they not only had several doubles, but two triples.

08/29/2025

Gene and Jake have been fishing with me since the beginning. That was many boats ago. Almost 20 years of creating memories together. Last year, they brought Erick along, and completed the three generational snapshot. I have a cool job. These pics are from our trip this week.