Fishing in San Francisco

Fisherfolk angle for salmon and halibut outside the bay or striped bass and giant sturgeon within. On land, you can cast your line at the Municipal Pier, Fisherman's Wharf, Baker Beach, or Aquatic Park. Fishing licenses are not necessary when casting from public piers. (The exception is sturgeon fishing, for which you need a Sturgeon Fishing Report Card.) Licenses are required for all other types of fishing, and can be purchased from the California Department of Fish and Game (www.dfg.ca.gov). Non-California residents can purchase 1-, 2-, or 10-day licenses for about $14, $23, and $45 respectively. Sportfishing charters depart daily from Fisherman's Wharf during the salmon-fishing season (March or April through October), and cost about $100.

Lovely Martha's Sportfishing. Salmon-fishing excursions and bay cruises are this operator's specialties. Rates range from $100 for half a day to $125 for a full day. Fisherman's Wharf, Berth 3, Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, CA, 94133. 415/509-5552. www.lovelymartha.com.

Wacky Jacky Sport Fishing. Captain Jacky Douglas skippers her sleek, comfortable, 50-foot boat, the Wacky Jacky, on salmon-fishing excursions that start at $100 per person. Foot of Jones St. at Jefferson St., Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, CA, 94133. 415/586-9800. www.wackyjackysportfishing.com.