Hooked on Catalina: Small-Boat Sport Fishing Aboard the RedRum
From $530.00 / 2 Hour Charter • Up to 6 People • For all ages! • 2 - 8 Hours • Monday - Sunday
The harbor at Avalon has a way of rearranging time. Mornings slice open in cold, bright light—seabirds tapping the water, the Casino’s circular silhouette warming to the sun—and a 24-foot center-console called Redrum sits ready at the green pier, bow pointed toward the kelp beds that hug Catalina Island. On a typical trip you’ll step aboard with sunscreen and a cooler, hand your worries to a captain who reads the swell like a book, and tighten a reel on a Custom Cousins rod as the coastline slides away.
Trail Wisdom
Bring a valid California fishing license
One-day licenses can be purchased online; all anglers must present proof before boarding.
Sun protection is non-negotiable
Wide-brim hat, SPF 30+ reef-safe sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses will make the day comfortable and improve visibility.
Wear grippy, closed-toe shoes
A wet cockpit requires non-slip footwear for safe footing while fighting fish.
Plan for motion sickness
If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventive medication before boarding and choose a morning slot when seas are usually calmer.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Kelp-lined reefs just off Avalon that hold calico bass in shallower water
- •Early-morning harbor light ideal for shore snaps of the Casino and cliffs
Wildlife
California sea lion, Brown pelican
Conservation Note
Much of Catalina is protected by the Catalina Island Conservancy; anglers should follow state catch regulations and use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize impact.
Avalon grew as a leisure destination in the early 20th century; the Casino building is a historic centerpiece that served as a social hub rather than a gambling hall.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Bonito runs, Kelp bass action
Challenges: Cooler water, Occasional windier days
Spring produces lively nearshore bites and crisp skies, but temperatures are cooler and mornings can be brisk.
summer
Best for: Calm seas, Yellowtail opportunities, Family-friendly trips
Challenges: Stronger sun, Higher visitor numbers
Summer and early fall are peak times for yellowtail and the calmest sea conditions—expect bright sun and steady charter schedules.
fall
Best for: Warm water, Late-season yellowtail, Lower winds
Challenges: Variable swell on transition days
Fall often offers a sweet spot of warm water and consistent fish activity with fewer crowds than midsummer.
winter
Best for: Serious anglers targeting species offshore
Challenges: Bigger swell, Fewer charters and cooler temps
Winter can bring productive fishing offshore but also larger swell and sporadic charters; check conditions before booking.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and nearby marine life from harmful chemicals while you spend hours in the sun.
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Cuts glare to help you see into the water and spot kelp lines and baitfish.
Non-marking deck shoesEssential
Provide grip on a wet cockpit and protect your toes during fish fights.
Small dry bag for valuables
Keeps phone, license, and camera dry while you’re on deck.
Common Questions
Do I need a California fishing license?
Yes—every angler must have a valid California fishing license; one-day licenses can be purchased online from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Where do we meet the boat?
You will meet the captain at the End Float of Avalon’s green pier; the captain will verify your booking and review safety and fish limits before departure.
What species might we catch?
Common targets include calico/kelp bass, bonito, yellowtail (seasonal), and other nearshore species depending on time of year and sea conditions.
Is fish cleaning included?
Yes—the charter rate includes filleting so you can take your fish home or have it prepared by a local restaurant in Avalon.
Are children allowed?
Yes—RedRum accommodates anglers of all ages, but parents should assess motion-sickness risk and ensure children have appropriate life jackets if needed.
What if the sea is rough?
Captains prioritize safety and will adjust plans or reschedule if conditions are unsafe; check the weather and contact the operator the day before your trip.
What to Pack
Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, non-marking deck shoes, valid CA fishing license — for protection, visibility, footing, and legal compliance
Did You Know
Catalina Island’s interior is largely protected by the Catalina Island Conservancy, which manages roughly 88% of the island’s land to preserve habitat and native species.
Quick Travel Tips
Take the Catalina Express ferry from Long Beach/San Pedro/Dana Point; purchase a one-day CA fishing license in advance; bring cash or card for island services; expect reduced cell service on parts of the island
Local Flavor
After a morning on the water, walk Avalon’s waterfront for island eateries and casual seafood spots that will cook your filleted catch; visit the Catalina Island Museum for local maritime history and the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden for island flora.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Long Beach (LGB) or LAX; ferry: Catalina Express to Avalon (1–2 hour ferry); meeting point: End Float, green pier in Avalon; driving: ~1–2 hours to ferry terminals from LA; cell service: intermittent offshore and around parts of the island; permits: California fishing license required.
Sustainability Note
Use reef-safe sunscreen, observe catch limits and size rules, and pack out non-biodegradable waste—Catalina’s marine habitats are sensitive and rely on responsible recreation.
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