San Diego, CA – The 43rd Annual Port of San Diego Day at the Docks™ will take place on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at the scenic waterfront sportfishing landings in Point Loma, offering a day of celebration for anglers, their families, and all who love sportfishing.
The event, which is FREE to the public, has become the largest single-day sportfishing festival on the West Coast. Day at the Docks™ is a time-honored tradition, attracting thousands of attendees who flock to America’s Cup Harbor to tour the world-renowned San Diego Sportfishing Fleet, engage with exhibitors, and take part in hands-on activities, entertainment, and fishing seminars. The event is designed to appeal to anglers of all skill levels, from novice fishers to seasoned pros.
“The Port of San Diego Day at the Docks™ marks the official start of the San Diego sportfishing season,” says Frank Ursitti, President of the San Diego Sportfishing Council. “We’re excited to welcome thousands to this community event and showcase the unparalleled capabilities of the San Diego fleet. Our fleet is known for its advanced technology, top-tier captains, and skilled crews. Day at the Docks highlights the very best of what San Diego has to offer. In addition, we’re proud to celebrate H&M Landing’s 90th Anniversary of Sportfishing Service from San Diego, a milestone that speaks to the legacy and ongoing excellence of our sportfishing community.”
The San Diego Sportfishing Fleet is the largest in the world, with boats capable of embarking on both short-range and long-range adventures in the prolific waters of Southern California and Baja California, Mexico.
What to Expect at Day at the Docks™:
- Fleet Open House: Tour sportfishing boats and meet the captains and crews.
- Free Stocked Fishing Areas for Kids, courtesy of Everingham Brothers Bait Co.
- Seminars: Learn from an all-star lineup of captains and fishing pros on the latest techniques and tools.
- Exhibits: Over 200 companies showcasing fishing tackle, boat manufacturers, marine art, apparel, and accessories.
- Cooking Demonstrations by local chefs, featuring fresh seafood.
- Fillet Demonstrations of fish, large and small.
- Live Music and Entertainment for all ages.
- Casting and Knot-Tying Contests, with prizes for the best.
- Boat Rides around beautiful San Diego Bay.
- IGFA Award Presentations, celebrating accomplishments in sportfishing.
- Public Discussions with officials from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and Fisheries Representatives from Mexico.
What Attendees Are Saying:
- “Day at the Docks is a family tradition. We look forward to it every year!”
- “My kids caught their first fish at Day at the Docks. It’s a great event for families.”
- “I discovered a new passion for sportfishing after attending this event. It’s an amazing way to get involved with the community.”
- “It’s always so much fun! I love talking to the captains and checking out all the new gear.”
Parking and Shuttle Service
Parking is limited at the event venue, but FREE public parking is available on Shelter Island, with FREE round-trip shuttle service running from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to and from the event.
About Day at the Docks™
The Port of San Diego Day at the Docks™ is organized by the San Diego Sportfishing Council and is sponsored in part by the Port of San Diego. It’s a collaborative effort of the San Diego sportfishing fleet captains and crews, fishing clubs, retailers, restaurants, and marine businesses that work together to make this event possible.
For more information on event schedules and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.sportfishing.org.