Ready to angle? Port of San Diego’s Day at the Docks returns for all-day, free fun
April 4, 2019
One of California’s most unique fishing events for 40 years, Day at the Docks provides a whole fleet of boating- and angling-related entertainment.
SAN DIEGO—Remember that clichéd saying “the best things in life are free?” In Southern California, that sentiment definitely rings true with the beautiful sunny weather — but on April 14th lovers of SoCal’s coastal arena in San Diego get an extra treat when annual Day at the Docks festival comes to town. For no cost, guests can celebrate boating, angling and all-things marine-related.
According to a release by Port of San Diego, “The festival marks the official start of San Diego’s Spring Saltwater Fishing Season and there is no other event quite like San Diego’s Day at the Docks.” Situated near San Diego’s sportsfishing fleet in Point Loma, at cross streets Harbor Drive and Scott Street, the festival is a family friendly environment open to all ages. Whether or not guests have experience fishing or boating does not matter – this event is aimed towards highlighting the important role San Diego’s sportsfishing industry holds in the community. Needless to say, anglings pros and novices alike are encouraged to join in for the fun.
Many an angler has recalled their time on the water and how it has impacted their lives, especially when it comes to the thriving fishing scene in Californian and Mexican waters. There’s a reason prolific writers such as John Steinbeck and Ernest Hemingway have chosen to immortalize fishing in their novels. Organizers for Day at the Docks have planned a variety of exciting activities to entertain seasoned fishermen and introduce the next generation to the joys of angling.
Just a few of these activities include:
- An open house featuring Sportsfishing fleet’s boats
- A series of fishing and boating seminars presented “by an all-star lineup of captains and fishing experts”
- More tackle displays than could be used in a lifetime, boating industry reps and community groups
- Cooking and fish fillet demonstrations by local chefs
- Boat rides around San Diego Bay for $3 per person
- Casting and knot-tying contests and prize drawings for thousands of dollars in merchandise
- Free fishing area for children
- Live music, art and other shopping booths to browse, and entertainment such as a captain’s dunk tank.
According to the press release, “The day provides the opportunity to discover new adventures, explore the latest in fishing tackle and techniques, walk aboard and tour boats in the fleet, talk with captains and crews, take a ride on a boat and partake in many activities planned for the day.”
The 40th annual Day at the Docks offers a full day of activities officially from 9 a.m-5 p.m., but visitors can arrive early and stay later. Another perk is the free parking – something most Californians are not used to – that will be available on Shelter Island via roundtrip shuttle services from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
The San Diego Sportsfishing Council, who are the center of this event, is considered “the world’s largest and most modern sportsfishing fleet.” Year-round they bring angling activities and awareness for the West Coast’s unparalleled beauty to California’s locals and guests.
For more information about Port of San Diego’s Day at the Docks and to learn more about San Diego’s Sportsfishing Council, visit sportfishing.org.
