San Francisco Bay also provides a sheltered haven for many boating activities. Numerous marinas, yacht clubs and boat ramps along its shoreline provide easy access for avid boaters of all types. From sailing America’s Cup yachts, sailing schools, power boats, personal watercraft and a variety of fishing charter and boat rental activities, San Francisco Bay has it all.

Approximately 40% of California’s watershed drains through San Francisco Bay. This makes for an extraordinary range of fishing activities all within easy reach of the city center. From fly fishing in the Sacramento River through to deep sea fishing and whale watching, again San Francisco has it all.

Deep sea fishing:

• Rockfish and ling cod are available – June through December
• Chinook or King Salmon – June through October

Estuary or Bay fishing

• Sturgeon – January through March
• Halibut – April through August (available most of the year)
• Leopard Sharks – May through October
• White Sea Bass and Striped Bass – year round

San Francisco Bay is the largest estuary along the Pacific West Coast of the US. It is a globally recognized wetland. The coastal estuary provides a haven for numerous bird species and waterfowl. During their migration hundreds of thousands of shorebirds seek refuge in the San Francisco Bay area.

Some of the best places for bird watching in and around San Francisco Bay are:

• Presidio,
• White Slough, Vallejo,
• Bair Island,
• Hoffman Marsh, Richmond,
• Colma Creek, South San Francisco,
• Palo Alto Baylands Reserve

Not only is San Francisco Bay a great place for boating and fishing activities it also has some spectacular views. Viewing the Golden Gate Bridge from the water is a site to behold. You can also go for a cruise up the Napa River tasting some magnificent wines.