9 Best Bait and Tackle Shops in California

9 Best Bait and Tackle Shops in California

From the sparkling Pacific Ocean to shimmering mountain streams, California is king for top-quality fishing opportunities. With such a diverse topography and the opportunity to catch bass, perch, halibut, and more, it’s an angler’s haven. Make sure you’re outfitted with all of the right rods, reels, and bait, before you head out. Here are nine trustworthy bait and tackle shops in California. 

1. Pacific Coast Bait & Tackle, Oceanside, CA

Pacific Coast Bait & Tackle is for serious fishermen only. If you’re looking to catch a big fish in the surrounding waters, head here for the best gear, the best advice, and the best overall knowledge of fishing in California. Due to its proximity to the ocean, the shop mostly focuses on saltwater angling.

2. The Longfin, Orange, CA

The Longfin has been catching fish since the 1980s and has continued to grow since then. Now, the Longfin is stocked both in store and online and has an expert staff ready to help you with your fishing needs. You can book exclusive fishing tours and find other unique help with your catch. 

3. CharkBait, Huntington Beach, CA

With two Southern California locations to serve you and online help available, CharkBait is serious about fishing. They help you whether you’re looking for something small or big and can answer pretty much any question you have while suppling all of your fishing needs.

4. Pier Bait, Oceanside Pier, CA

It’s always good to have insider information and Pier Bait has it all. The shop may be new but the staff has been fishing off the Oceanside Pier for years and knows all the secrets of how to land your catch. You can rent gear and find all the stuff you need to spend a relaxing day fishing.

5. Penny Rod & Bait, West Sacramento, CA

Penny Rod & Bait has created a beloved presence in the fishing communities of West Sacramento. Early opening hours and a location near the freeway make it an easy place to stop in on your way to a number of fishing spots in the river-filled area.

6. Bob’s Bait Shop, Isleton, CA

Bob’s Bait Shop is located in one of the best fishing regions in the country. The nearby rivers are filled with bass, sturgeon, and salmon and Bob’s Bait Shop has what you need to catch them all. It is a rare bait shop in that it carries live crawdads and other specialty items.

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7. Johnny’s Sport Shop, Pasadena, CA

Johnny’s Sport Shop is where locals head to get their gear repaired between fishing trips. The shop is where fishermen stop by on the way to fish the waters of Catalina or Mexico and need to stock up on supplies. The friendly staff makes recommendations and offers everything you need for a great trip.

Jiggling along. #fishing #johnny'ssportsshop

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8. Coyote Discount Bait & Tackle, Coyote, CA

Coyote Discount Bait & Tackle has deals on gear and equipment whether you’re looking to fish the rivers and lakes of Northern California or head further away to snag your catch. The knowledgeable staff keeps a well-stocked store so that locals always find something new each time they stop in. 

9. Last Chance Tackle, Hemet, CA

Last Chance Tackle draws its name from its location as the last chance to get gear before you head up the mountain to fish. From a bare bones operation, Last Chance Tackle has grown to offer everything you need to enjoy a successful fishing trip—whether it’s local or far.