Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about fishing with Brass Monkey.
Planning a private fishing charter in Southern California comes with a few questions — especially if you’re heading offshore for tuna, yellowtail, or bluefin. Below are answers to the most common things anglers ask before stepping aboard the Brass Monkey.
Every trip is customized based on the conditions and the bite, so if you don’t see your question here, feel free to call or text. We’re always happy to help you prepare for a successful day fishing out of Mission Bay and the San Diego offshore grounds.
Where do we meet?
We will pick you up at 6:30am (unless otherwise agreed) from the fuel dock located at Dana Landing Market on Mission Bay in San Diego. We suggest arriving to the market at 6:00 to place your food order and load up on other supplies. Dana Landing Market is located at 2580 Ingraham Street, San Diego, CA 92109. You can park anywhere on the street in front of the market.
What is included in the charter price?
Our trips include everything you need for an awesome day on the water except: California/Mexican fishing licenses, tips, food and drink. We will let you know a few days before your trip if we will be fishing in US and or Mexican waters. A CA license may be purchased at the Dana Landing Market the morning of departure and you can get a Mexican license HERE. (Please note – all prices are in pesos at approx. 20 pesos to 1 USD)
What do I need to bring?
California waters offshore can be COLD during early summer and fall. Please bring a few layers to keep you warm and keep the wind and spray off you. A hoodie and a raincoat are perfect for your top half and shorts with wind/waterproof pants work great for the lower half. Please also consider bringing sunscreen, waterproof boots, and anything else to make sure you day is comfortable and fun.
What about food, drinks and tackle?
Fortunately, Dana Landing has a killer deli, full market and tackle shop. They make great sandwiches and have a full selection of snacks, drinks, sunscreen, clothing, and tackle.
Where should I stay?
Can I bring my own gear?
ABSOLUTELY! If you have your own gear and want to use it we will be happy to help you rig it up for the day’s trip. For heavy gear, we prefer to fish our own tackle as it has been set up and rigged specifically to target the big fish that roam our waters.
What do I do with the fish?
Our crew will be happy to fillet and bag up to two tunas (75#s or smaller) or five yellowtail/mahi for you at no charge. Anything more than that and we will be happy to drop the fish off with a local processor who will fillet and vacuum seal (and flash freeze) your catch for you for about $1.80 per pound. San Diego Fish Processing is our preferred processor and they can be reached at (619) 381-5206 or www.sdfishprocessing.com. During the busy summer months, it’s a good idea to call ahead and make a reservation. They can pack your fish for a long plane ride home or ship it right to your door. Our pickup and drop off vendors charge $100 to drop your fish at the processor.
How many people can we bring?
Up to 6 passengers for most trips.
For giant bluefin trips, we recommend 3-4 anglers.
How do deposits work?
A nonrefundable $1,000 deposit is required to secure your date.
What happens if weather cancels the trip?
Trips will be rescheduled based on availability and conditions.