Bay Area Pier Fishing: Sturgeon, Sharks, and Stingray Hunt

Exciting Pier Fishing Adventure in California for $350

The Bay Area Pier Fishing: Sturgeon, Sharks, and Stingray Hunt offers a full-day experience that combines the thrill of catching prehistoric White Sturgeon with the excitement of safely handling sharks and rays. With a price of $350 per person and a duration of approximately 10 hours, this tour is designed for fishing enthusiasts eager for a unique challenge. Starting at Eckley Pier in Crockett, the tour takes participants through practical techniques, safety protocols, and a chance to land some truly impressive game fish.

This private tour from Westcoast Eclectic Pier Fishing emphasizes learning heavy tackle setups, proper fish handling, and building effective bait cocktails. While the experience suits those with good physical fitness, it’s perfect for anglers interested in prehistoric species and apex predator release techniques. Keep in mind that good weather is necessary for the trip to proceed, with full refunds offered if canceled due to poor conditions.

Key Points

• Full-day fishing adventure targeting White Sturgeon, sharks, and stingrays
• Learn professional techniques for bait, rigging, and handling dangerous fish
• Build custom bait cocktails using ghost shrimp, eel, and mud sucker
• Safety protocols include de-hooking stingrays and calming sharks with Tonic Immobility
• Inspect terminal tackle with military-grade standards to prevent breakage during fights
• Private tour with personalized guidance starting at Eckley Pier in Crockett

White Sturgeon: Land a Dinosaur from California Waters

The tour’s highlight is the chance to target White Sturgeon, a prehistoric fish that has existed for over 200 million years. These “dinosaurs” are blind hunters that rely solely on smell, making the building of specific bait cocktails essential. Participants learn how to create bait using Ghost Shrimp, Eel, and Mud Sucker combinations, designed to attract these giant fish.

Landings of fish over 100 pounds are possible when using specialized “Pulley Rigs” and heavy leaders, which are explained and demonstrated during the trip. The focus on rig setup and line management ensures a high chance of success and minimizes gear failure. The sturgeon encounter provides an exciting opportunity to connect with California’s prehistoric aquatic life.

Safe Handling of Sharks and Rays: Techniques and Protocols

Beyond big fish, this tour dedicates significant time to safe handling procedures for dangerous game species like sharks and stingrays. Participants learn how to safely de-hook a stingray without contacting its barb, reducing injury risks. The Tonic Immobility technique is taught to calm sharks, making safe release possible.

These protocols emphasize professional standards, helping anglers develop the confidence to manage apex predators responsibly. The focus on proper handling ensures that both fish populations and participants’ safety are priorities, highlighting the tour’s educational value.

Building and Inspecting Terminal Tackle for Heavy Fish

Fighting large fish demands reliable gear. The tour guides teach non-destructive inspection (NDI) of terminal tackle, a military-standard method that ensures knots and lines can withstand the intense fight. Participants learn to inspect their gear thoroughly, reducing the risk of snap-offs during the battle with giant fish.

This focus on gear integrity helps anglers develop better habits for heavy surf fishing, leading to more successful catches and safer releases, especially when dealing with highly powerful species like sturgeon and sharks.

The Meeting Point and Logistics in Crockett

The adventure starts at Eckley Pier, located at 5700 Eckley Rd, Crockett, CA 94525. The 10:00am start time allows for a relaxed morning, with the tour ending back at the same pier. As the tour is private, only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention and a tailored experience.

Participants are advised to have a strong physical fitness level to handle the physical demands of heavy gear and fighting large fish. The tour is accessible near public transportation, making it easier to reach Crockett without hassle.

What Makes This Tour Unique in California

This trip stands out because it combines big game fishing with educational safety protocols. Unlike typical pier fishing, this experience specifically targets prehistoric sturgeon alongside dangerous sharks and stingrays. The inclusion of rig setup training, bait cocktail creation, and gear inspection makes it a comprehensive learning experience.

The private nature ensures a more focused environment, with guides who emphasize technique and safety. The 10-hour duration provides ample time to try multiple techniques, land fish, and gain practical skills under expert supervision.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

At $350 per person, the tour offers a full-day immersive experience that includes all equipment and guidance. The free cancellation policy allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, accommodating weather concerns or scheduling conflicts.

It’s worth noting that good weather is required for the trip to proceed, with canceled trips rescheduled or refunded. This policy protects participants from unfavorable conditions, ensuring safety and enjoyment.

Final Thoughts on the Bay Area Pier Fishing Tour

This 10-hour pier fishing trip in California delivers a unique opportunity to land prehistoric sturgeon and safely handle sharks and rays. The hands-on instruction in rigging, bait building, and fish handling makes it attractive for anglers wanting to improve their skills while pursuing large game fish.

While the experience demands physical fitness and good weather, it rewards participants with practical knowledge and exciting catches. Ideal for serious fishing enthusiasts or those curious about California’s marine giants, this tour offers a focused, educational, and memorable day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $350 fee covers guidance, equipment, and instruction for the entire 10-hour experience.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While it involves heavy tackle setups and big fish fighting techniques, the professional guidance makes it accessible for anglers eager to learn advanced skills. Physical fitness is recommended.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours before the scheduled start due to poor weather.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Eckley Pier in Crockett, located at 5700 Eckley Rd.

What species can I expect to catch?
Expect to target White Sturgeon, sharks, and stingrays during this specialized fishing experience.