fishing excursion

Question

My teen and I are flying into LAX on a Saturday morning. By the evening, we will be in Anaheim. My teen loves to fish. Is there someplace we wouldn't need a reservation for (in case of travel delays) that would be convenient to Anaheim for us to take a fishing tour?

Answer

Great question. While there aren’t many fishing “tours” that are last-minute or completely walk-on (charter companies generally recommend or require reservations), there *are* a few more flexible options near Anaheim, plus some good public fishing spots you can hit up in a pinch.

Here are some ideas for you and your teen to consider, plus tips to make things easier given travel uncertainties:

Deep-Sea Sportfishing from Newport Landing: Newport Landing (Newport Beach) runs “open party” fishing trips. According to their schedule, they have a ½-day trip that departs at 7:00 PM (limited-load) during some days.
- The ½-day “extended” ticket runs into the evening window, giving you a chance to get on the water after your day in Anaheim.
- You’ll need a one-day fishing license for ages 16+ (Newport Landing carries them).
- Gear rental (rod + tackle) is available, so if you don’t bring your own you’ll be covered.
Davey’s Locker Sportfishing: Based in Newport Beach, they offer half-day and full-day trips.
- Their half-day trips are very beginner-friendly, and they operate out of Newport Harbor, which is relatively close to Anaheim.
- Although they request reservations, you can try calling the morning of to check for open spots — sometimes open-party trips have last-minute availability. (949-673-1434)
Pier Fishing in Newport or Huntington Beach: If a boat trip is too unpredictable given your travel, you can always try pier fishing.
- Balboa Pier (Newport Beach) is a classic spot for catching mackerel and flounder.
- You don’t necessarily need a fishing license at some public piers (depending on local regulation), according to community reports. > “You can fish off the public piers … without a fishing license.”
- These piers are relatively walkable and don’t require chartering a boat, so they’re more flexible for last-minute plans.
Lake Fishing Option: Santiago Creek / Irvine Area: If you want freshwater fishing (and something more low-key), Santiago Creek in the Irvine area is mentioned as a spot for fishing.
- That might be further out than the coast, but it's an option if you're okay driving a little and want a calmer fishing experience.
- Be sure to check whether you need a fishing license for that particular spot, depending on local regulations and stocking status.

Tips to Make It Work Given Your Travel Schedule:

Call in advance (mornings): Even if you're hoping for a walk-on, call the charter companies (Newport Landing, Davey’s Locker) the morning of your desired trip. They may have open-party spots or cancellations.
Be flexible with trip types: The “extended ¾-day” or evening trips are more likely to fit your schedule than a strict morning departure.
Bring or plan for a fishing license: For many of these trips, anglers 16+ need a valid California one-day fishing license.
Pack for the water: Bring layers, sunscreen, and gear-appropriate clothing in case of wind or chilly evening ocean air.
Consider pier gear: If you go the pier route, bring or buy a basic rod + tackle combo; some local tackle shops around Newport or Huntington Beach can help set you up quickly.

Bottom line: You *can* find fishing opportunities near Anaheim that don’t necessarily require a far-future reservation — pier fishing is the most flexible, and there *are* open-party charters (like Newport Landing) with later departure times. If you call ahead (the morning you land), you’ll maximize your chances of getting on a boat.

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