About Booking Guided Surf Fishing Trips, Fishing Lessons, Surf Fishing Tuition, Shark Fishing and Fun Beach Fishing Sessions in Southern California
American Sea Fishing runs guided Surf Fishing Trips - including Surf Fishing Lessons and fun family Beach Fishing sessions - in Southern California; Orange County, San Diego County, Long Beach, Seal Beach, Santa Monica, Manhattan, Malibu, Huntington Beach, Bolsa Chica, Newport Beach, Dana Point, San Pedro and Los Angeles County areas.
Click to Jump to Guided Surf Fishing Information and Session / Lesson Pricing
This page contains everything you need to know about booking a professionally guided Surf Fishing Trip with our company, which is licensed and bonded through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
We offer a variety of beach, shore or land-based sessions - including tuition in any aspect of surf fishing - targeting all of the commonly available and seasonal surf and shark species found in Southern California. The trips are hosted by Ben Hervey-Murray - an experienced SoCal guide and surf angler, and team member and President of the USA Surf Fishing Team.
Commonly-caught species on our guided sessions include: California Halibut, Surf Perch (barred, walleye etc), Spotfin Croaker, Yellowfin Croaker, Leopard Sharks, Smoothhound Sharks & other surf shark species, Bat Rays, Butterfly Rays, Shovelnose Guitarfish, various Bass and California Corbina.
We can accommodate any level of experience and groups from singles to large parties, and we provide all tackle and bait, plus professional photography services to immortalize your experience. Check out our testimonials page here.
American Sea Fishing is proud to offer a 10% discount on any guided fishing session to: Serving Military, Veterans and their families; First Responders; Teachers; Single Parent Families and returning customers. Please mention this discount when booking.
Please see below for a list of the trips currently on offer and for information on how to book your guided surf fishing trip in California.
GUIDED SURF FISHING LESSON, COACHING & TUITION SESSIONS (4 hours)
This all-inclusive surf fishing lesson is ideal for anyone looking to learn how to surf fish in California and catch fish consistently from the beach with a professional, highly-experienced CDFW-licensed guide.
In a single focused session, you’ll learn the skills, tactics, and setups needed to confidently surf fish on your own anywhere along the Southern California coastline; from Santa Barbara to LA, OC and San Diego.
If you’re searching for how to start surf fishing, what gear, baits and setups to use, where to fish from the beach, or how to catch halibut, surf perch, croaker, corbina, or bass, this private lesson provides clear, hands-on instruction in real fishing conditions on your local beach, or one of our regular hotspots.
Each lesson is fully tailored to your experience level — from complete beginners and families, to experienced anglers wanting to refine techniques and better understand local surf fishing conditions. Locations and methods are selected to match age, mobility, and personal goals. Let us know your target species and we'll focus on making it happen.
During the session you’ll cover surf fishing rigs and knots, bait and tackle selection, species identification, reading beach structure, casting technique, sand crab hunting and bait foraging, understanding tides and swell, best times to fish, essential surf fishing apps, safe fish handling, and how to avoid and manage stingrays. The goal is to leave with the knowledge and confidence to fish successfully on your own.
The all-inclusive lesson price also includes:
-
Detailed, laminated A4 surf fishing playbook and setup sheet to keep
-
Ongoing tackle consultation service to help you source new tackle get rigged up correctly and planning successful future sessions around optimal conditions
Info & How to book:
-
Currently booking all-year-round dates for 2026-27
-
For one to six people fishing, spectators welcome
-
Approximately 4–hour sessions (more possible, please ask)
-
This type of surf fishing session is ideal for: Families, couples, solo anglers, anyone looking to learn the basics of surf fishing - from an absolute beginner who's never held a rod before, to the serious angler who wants to get dialed into the local fisheries with a local guide - and reach a competent all-round skill level in a morning
-
Orange County, North San Diego and LA County beaches
-
All bait and tackle (rods, reels, equipment etc) provided - just turn up with a valid CDFW license and fish
-
Target species include: Surf Perch (barred & walleye), Yellowfin Croaker, Spotfin Croaker, Shovelnose Guitarfish, California halibut, Leopard Sharks and California Corbina
Full Surf Fishing Lesson Prices (4 hours)
-
North Orange County area (Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Bolsa Chica, Seal Beach, Long Beach) - $299 for 1-2 people, $349 for 3, $399 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
-
South Orange County area fishing lessons (Dana Point, San Clemente, Capistrano, Doheny) - $329 for 1-2 people, $399 for 3, $449 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
-
South Los Angeles area fishing lessons (San Pedro, Torrance, Redondo, Manhattan) - $329 for 1-2 people, $349 for 3, $399 for 4-6+ (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
-
North Los Angeles area fishing lessons (Santa Monica, Will Rogers, Topanga, Malibu) - $349 for 1-2 people, $399 for 3, $449 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
-
North San Diego area fishing lessons (Carlsbad, Oceanside, Ponto, Encinitas etc) - $349 for 1-2 people, $399 for 3, $449 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
To book a Surf Fishing Lesson, email ben@americanseafishing.com or text 714-642-5770 or fill out the short form at the bottom of this page and we'll contact you direct
Surf fishing lessons and full tuition for any age group. Ideal for families, beginners, couples, regular visitors, local anglers
"GREAT time...so much to be learnt!" Jim F, CA
Click here for more Client Testimonials
FUN GUIDED SURF FISHING TRIPS (4 hours)
Enjoy a relaxed and family-friendly fun guided surf fishing session on a beautiful Southern California beach – from Oxnard to San Diego – with an experienced licensed CDFW guide. This trip is for all ages and experience levels and focuses on catching a variety of seasonal and often edible surf species in a fun setting.
This is the perfect choice for families, couples, solo anglers, vacationers and visitors who want to enjoy surf fishing without worrying about gear or local experience. All bait, tackle, and instruction are provided — just show up and fish on a world-famous SoCal beach (maybe near your AirBnB or Vrbo beach holiday rental home?) with your friends or family.
-
Currently booking all-year-round dates for 2026-27
-
For one to six people fishing, spectators welcome
-
Approximately 4-hour sessions (more possible, please enquire)
-
This type of surf fishing session is ideal for: Families, couples, solo anglers, visitors, parents with kids who fish, locals or anyone who wants to have fun fishing on a SoCal beach catching a variety of species (many are often edible) with an expert guide and all bait and tackle included.
-
Orange County, North San Diego and LA County beaches
-
All bait and tackle (rods, reels etc) provided - just turn up and fish
-
Target species include: Surf Perch, Yellowfin Croaker, Spotfin Croaker, Guitarfish, Leopard Sharks, Rays and California Corbina
All-Inclusive Fun Guided Surf Fishing Session Prices (4 hours)
-
North Orange County area (Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Bolsa Chica, Seal Beach, Long Beach) - $249 for 1-2 people, $299 for 3, $399 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
-
South Orange County area (Dana Point, San Clemente, Capistrano, Doheny) - $299 for 1-2 people, $349 for 3, $399 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
-
South Los Angeles area (San Pedro, Torrance, Redondo, Manhattan, Dockweiler) - $299 for 1-2 people, $349 for 3, $399 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
-
North Los Angeles area (Santa Monica, Will Rogers, Topanga, Malibu) - $349 for 1-2 people, $399 for 3, $449 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
-
North San Diego area (Carlsbad, Oceanside, Torrey Pines, Ponto, Encinitas etc) - $349 for 1-2 people, $399 for 3, $449 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
To book this Surf Fishing Trip email ben@americanseafishing.com or text 714-642-5770 or fill out the short form at the bottom of this page and we'll contact you direct
Fun guided Surf Fishing sessions for any age group. Ideal for families, couples, visitors, groups, solo anglers
GUIDED CALIFORNIA HALIBUT & BASS FISHING WITH ARTIFICIAL BAITS (LURES)
Fish the Southern California surf and rocky shorelines with USA Surf Fishing Team angler Ben Hervey-Murray on a guided, lure-focused predator session targeting California halibut, saltwater bass, white seabass, and other coastal predators.
This trip is designed for anglers who want to learn how to effectively fish artificial baits from the beach and rocks for trophy fish, read water and structure, and capitalize on tides, swell, and bait movement to consistently find big fish from shore.
Whether you're new to surf fishing or looking to refine your techniques for consistent success, this guided session delivers hands-on instruction and real-world tactics used by a competitive surf angler and professional guide.
Highlights & What’s Included:
-
Guided surf fishing trip led by Ben Hervey-Murray, member of the USA Surf Fishing Team and experienced local CDFW-licensed guide
-
Target species include California halibut, calico bass, barred sand bass, spotted bay bass, white seabass, and other nearshore predators
-
Primary focus on artificial lure tactics, including weedless swimbaits, jerkbaits, jig head swimbaits, drop shot and other tactics relevant to the conditions and target species
-
Beach and location selections across SoCal from Malibu and LA to OC and San Diego based on tides, swell direction, water clarity, and seasonal fish movement
-
Instruction on reading the surf, identifying structure, casting technique, casting angles, retrieve styles, and bite detection
-
Full rundown on bait selection including the best brands and models to use, color selection principles, when to use different styles and our top 10 list of reliable artificial baits for SoCal
-
Premium quality rods, reels, tackle, terminal gear and baits all provided (anglers welcome to bring their own setups if preferred)
-
Can accommodate groups up to 6 people – inquire for pricing if desired option not listed below. Spectators welcome.
Trip Details:
-
Typical session length and time: 4 hours - early mornings
-
Available year-round, with peak opportunities varying by species and conditions
-
Pricing varies by location, season and group size; contact directly via text on +1 714-642-5770 or email ben@americanseafishing.com for current rates and latest availability. Prices start at $299.
Ideal For:
-
Anglers interested in learning how to approach surf fishing with any sort of artificial lure
-
Visiting anglers wanting a fun morning lure fishing iconic California beaches for trophy halibut and bass with a professional guide and Team USA member
To book this Surf Fishing Trip email ben@americanseafishing.com or text +1 714-642-5770 or fill out the short form at the bottom of this page and we'll contact you direct
CORBINA & LIGHT LINE SURF FISHING – SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (4 hours)
Target one of the West Coast’s most sought-after shallow-water game fish — the California corbina (Menticirrhus undulatus) — using proven light line surf fishing techniques on Southern California’s famous sandy beaches.
This guided session is led by a CDFW-licensed surf fishing specialist with extensive experience targeting corbina in ultra-shallow water. This trip focuses on stealth, presentation, and reading beach structure, making it ideal for anglers who want to learn how to consistently catch big corbina from the surf using light tackle.
Sessions run May through November when corbina are most active and visible. Trips are limited to one to four anglers, with spectators welcome. Typical sessions last approximately 4 hours, with longer options available by request.
This experience is ideal for families, couples, and anglers specifically wanting to learn California corbina fishing, sight fishing in the surf, and light line techniques on Southern California beaches. Anglers are welcome to bring suitable fly fishing gear.
-
Currently booking May to November dates for 2026
-
For one to four people fishing, spectators welcome
-
Approximately 4-hour sessions (more possible, please ask)
-
This type of surf fishing session is ideal for: Ideal for families, couples, anyone wanting to catch the amazing California corbina (Menticirrhus undulatus) using light line surf fishing tactics on SoCal's famous shallow sandy beaches. Clients are also welcome to bring suitable fly fishing tackle, too
-
Orange County, North San Diego and LA County beaches
-
All bait and tackle (rods, reels etc) provided - just turn up and fish
-
Target species include: California Corbina, plus Spotfin Croaker and Surf Perch
Corbina Light Line Surf Fishing Session Prices (4 hours)
-
North Orange County area (Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Bolsa Chica) - $249 for 1-2 people, $299 for 3, $399 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
-
South Orange County area (Dana Point, San Clemente, Salt Creek etc) - $299 for 1-2 people, $349 for 3, $399 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
-
South Los Angeles area (Torrance, Redondo, Manhattan, Dockweiler) - $299 for 1-2 people, $349 for 3, $399 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
-
North Los Angeles area (Santa Monica, Will Rogers, Malibu) - $349 for 1-2 people, $399 for 3, $449 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
-
North San Diego area (Carlsbad, Oceanside, Torrey Pines, Ponto, Encinitas etc) - $349 for 1-2 people, $399 for 3, $449 for 4 (please inquire for pricing for more anglers)
To book a Corbina fishing trip, email ben@americanseafishing.com or text 714-642-5770 or fill out the short form at the bottom of this page and we'll contact you direct
A session specifically targeting California corbina using light line surf fishing tactics
"I had a BLAST fishing with and learning from Ben!" Stephen W, NE
Click here for more Client Testimonials
Looking for more information on Surf Fishing Trips, Fishing Lessons and Fishing Tuition in California? Please take a moment to fill out the form below and a representative will contact you directly
Tips on Booking Guided Surf Fishing Trips in California
-
We only take bookings by phone / text or email: ben@americanseafishing.com or +1 (714) 642-5770 Sending a short text can often be the best way of contacting us - we'll call you straight ba
-
Booking are on a session-by-session basis. Let us know what you want to catch, where you're based and when you can fish, and we'll make a plan to suit you. The more notice you can give us, the more likely we are to have availability (we often get booked up a month or two in advance for the best tides and slots, or weekends)
-
If we're fishing or with clients it can be tricky to take calls, so if you can't see a trip listed above that suits you or just want some more info, please email, text or WhatsApp us on ben@americanseafishing.com or +1 (714) 642-5770 with a line or two about what you're interested in and we'll get back to you directly with availability and pricing.
FAQs about guided surf fishing trips in California
What should I bring on a guided surf fishing trip with American Sea Fishing?
-
A valid California fishing license with saltwater validation stamp from: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Licensing/Online-Sales
-
Suntan lotion, sunglasses (polarized), peaked hat
-
Buff-style neck protector for sun protection and warmth in the evening, a hoodie is a good idea too Plus: Suitable clothing for spending the day in the sun and possibly getting wet (we recommend a long-sleeved, UV-resistant, rash vest-style top, board shorts due to their quick-drying properties, leggings to keep the sun off your legs and a warm jacket for evening sessions) and bveach towel and/or change of clothes if you want to get in the water with the fish
-
If fishing into the evening, please also be aware that temperatures at night can be quite low by comparison, so please bring a warm / windproof jacket, hoodie and pants to change into
-
A good quality head-torch / head-lamp with fresh batteries or fully charged for afternoon-into-evening sessions
-
Drinks and food to keep you well fuelled for the day (please be aware that alcohol is prohibited on most beaches)
-
Camera or smartphone
-
Fishing licence: please ensure you are properly licensed before your trip. The CDFW license page has all the information you need and enables you to book a fishing license for any duration or location. You will need the ocean enhancement stamp to fish in saltwater.
What equipment is provided on a guided surf fishing trip with American Sea Fishing?
-
All fishing equipment (rods, reels, rigs etc)
-
All bait
Can I bring my own fishing tackle?
Yes, please bring any tackle you’d like to use and we’ll accommodate where possible. This is a great idea on tutorial sessions. However, we provide everything for fishing, so you don’t need to bring tackle.
Can my family / friends come too?
Yes, non-anglers are welcome but please ensure you bring enough chairs etc for everyone if extra spectators are coming. Almost all of our venues are suitable for young children and have parking nearby. We are happy to accommodate any requests regarding venue access and parking, please enquire.
Will there be bathrooms where we fish?
Yes, we choose beaches and venues where there are good quality public bathrooms available nearby.
Where will we be fishing?
Our guide will select a venue the day before the session, or sometimes on the day, somewhere as convenient as possible for the client. We will always contact the client in advance regarding venue choice and give them as much notice as possible.
Will I have to do much physical work?
Our guide/s will carry and transport all the equipment needed. Beyond this, you can do as little or as much as you like. We are flexible and happy to accommodate any special physical requirements - please speak to our guides in advance regarding this.
What are the booking terms?
A deposit is required to secure bookings - this is non-refundable and forms part of the overall fee for the booking (so not a separate charge) The main reason for this charge is to cover our expenses in the run up to a session - we have to catch fresh bait, prepare tackle, build fresh rigs, scout locations etc. This is time-consuming but vital for a successful trip.
The full balance of the deposit is due 24 hours before the booking takes place, unless otherwise arranged with American Sea Fishing’s representative.
If for any reason you wish to cancel a booking, please do so with more than 48 hours notice so we can re-book your trip at a later date using the same deposit. For any trips canceled with less than 48 hours notice, we reserve the right to hold up to 100% of the total fee. By booking with American Sea Fishing, you are agreeing to these terms and conditions.
Call, text or WhatsApp +1 (714) 642-5770 for bookings and more info