Western Outdoor Times - Times Spent Outdoors: Priceless!

A San Diego sportfishing tradition, The Port Of San Diego's Day At The Docks is the West Coast's largest public celebration of sportfishing. Signaling the official start of Southern California's spring saltwater fishing season, Day At The Docks takes place on Sunday, April 7, 2024 against the colorful and dynamic backdrop of world renown sportfishing fleet on San Diego Bay.

In 2024, we are expanding our focus and invite you to discover and explore the many marine recreational opportunities on our waterfront, the restaurants and breweries in the area and the Port's bayside walkway which makes San Diego Bay tidelands accessible. This annual event provides marine attractions for the whole family.

Fishing Seminars

The serious fisherman can explore the latest fishing tackle presented by the industry's leading manufacturers. Historical displays underscore how far saltwater tackle design has come. How-to seminars by expert fishermen reveal secrets on improving both technique and results.

Kids Fishing Adventure

Sponsored by Okuma Fishing Tackle & Everingham Bros Bait Company. From 9 am-4 pm. For kids 4-12 years old. The Kid's Fishing Adventure is made up of areas set aside and stocked with fish, providing kids with the chance wet a line and make a catch. Expert assistance is provided by members of the San Diego Rod & Reel Club and the San Diego Anglers. Don't miss out – there just might be a tasty fish biting at the end of the line.

Catch, Prep & Cook Center

Throughout the day on April 15th, our CATCH, PREP & COOK DEMOS will provide ideas and techniques to improve the enjoyment of your catch. There will be presentations on proper handling, storage and preparation of fresh fish to ensure that every fish caught and kept is fully enjoyed. Recipes and samples will be available at the seminars. Schedule to be Announced Soon!

Casting Contests

You've got to try your hand at this true test of an angler's skill. If you have never cast a line in your life, don't worry. This competition is for everyone, pro and novice alike. Competition is set for 11 am and 2 pm. Points are awarded for distance and accuracy.

Izorline Knot Tying Competition

Young and old alike can try their hand at tying the strongest fishing knot with assistance from the pro staff at Izorline. Knot tying demonstrations will be followed by hands-on competition in which individual knots will be tested against the Izorline Knot Gauge, a device that measures a knot's breaking point by pressure. Competition will take place in three divisions: Small fry (up to 10 years old), Juniors (11-16 years old) and Adults. A voluntary donation of $1-5 to enter the competition will benefit the Friends of Rollo a non-profit organization that takes kids fishing. The contest runs all day at the Izorline exhibit booth. Winners in each division will be announced at the end of the day. Prizes include ½ day and full day fishing trips.

Fishing Videos

Look inside the Sportfishing Landings for continuous showings of dramatic sportfishing videos. From San Diego to Baja, Clipperton Island and Costa Rica ... get a glimpse of the sportfishing adventures and action that are available on the San Diego fleet.

Boat Rides Around The Bay

Boat Rides Around BayThe whole family will want to take a boat ride around San Diego Bay and it only costs $4. Trips run continuously throughout the day from the three sportfishing landings.

Gourmet Galley

There is great variety to choose from... Seafood, Thai, Chinese, Mexican and more. Many local restaurants around the harbor will also be serving up DAY AT THE DOCKS specials.

Hot Tackle

Find out what's hot on the fish equipment market. The top manufacturers will be there to show off their latest. Some really new technology has hit the scene. Be prepared this season with the latest and greatest! You'll find some great bargains on fishing tackle from exhibitor retailers and in the landing tackle shops.

Lots Of Boats

You'll find boats of all shapes and sizes. The modern sportfishers in the San Diego fleet will be hosting a grand open house. You are welcome to climb aboard and look around. Joining the fleet for the day will be several small boat dealers.

Marine Art

Peter J Galleries art features painting atop marine charts and Gyotaku, the traditional Japanese method of printing fish. Larry Beard Ocean Fine Art displays beautiful marine photography printed on aluminum, Marea Baja Designs will be offering beautiful sea glass mosaics. And, there are many other marine artists on display.

Open House On Boats In The Fleet

Step aboard and meet the captains in the San Diego fleet. Have you never been on a San Diego sportfishing boat before? Well now is you chance. You'll see that the accommodations are quite nice, with many of the comforts of home.

Entertainment All Day On Stage

On the Main Stage things get going at 9:00 AM. The day will also feature three raffles benefiting The Burn Institute. Raffles will be drawn at 12:00 noon, 2:30 PM and 4:15 PM – all from the Main Stage. Great Prizes include fishing trips, tackle, tickets to area attractions and much more!

Come join in the fun and help us celebrate the season's official start!