Over 20 Years of San Diego Fishing
Our captains are San Diego fishing experts in both fly and traditional methods. Years have been spent searching for and understanding the perfect spots for each species. Hopefully word of mouth about our exceptional team is what brought you here today. It's been a series of strangely connected events that unknowingly led us straight to the creation of Scales n' Tales and we are looking forward to a long future in the San Diego fishing community. We offer an elite experience and true fishing adventure with knowledgeable, clean, and courteous crew members. We know that it takes more than just a fish to make your day a great one. Expect to learn something new, have a good laugh, and be anxious to book again!
The Fleet
Temporarily out of water for upgrades!
THE NIMBUS
Our crown jewel and the most comfortable charter you'll ever experience. Do we dare say luxury? She's 37 feet of open space with a extra wide beam to give every passenger space to work, or just relax! Nimbus is a beautiful powerhouse that gets you to the fish quickly and provides a very smooth ride. Equipped with an in-cabin restroom and plenty of comfortable seating. Used for bay cruises, wildlife viewing, inshore, offshore, and island adventures.
TRIUMPH
Our 20 ft bay boat is perfect for zipping around San Diego bay. It is able to reach areas inaccessible to larger vessels. This is particularly useful for fly fishing fanatics looking for that illusive bite. A comfortable clean ride with the perfect amount of space for up to 3 anglers.
Our Professional Crew
Captain Mike
I was about four when I was handed my first fishing rod, and it didn’t take long before I knew I was hooked for life. Born and raised in Northern California, I grew up close to the sea, waking to fog horns sounding off in the distance, and a brisk salty breeze out my door. I spent my childhood fishing various lakes, rivers, and bays that surrounded me. I love the places fishing has taken me, and the people I’ve met along the way. I moved down to Southern California about 20 years ago to ditch the fog, and never looked back. The saltwater fishery here is truly a gift. There is always something amazing to target in every season! I’ve picked up a variety of tactics throughout the years, and worked hard at perfecting my craft. As a Coast Guard certified captain, I’ve navigated inner and outer waterways all along America’s west coast in vessels from to 20-100ft. It brings me great joy to show, and share, my knowledge of fishing with all who join me on an ocean exploration. Whether we are fishing the local kelp beds for calico and yellowtail or shooting offshore in search of tuna and other big game, every trip is a chance for an adventure. The main objectives of any of my outings, is the safety of all my passengers and crew and the pursuit of a memorable day. ‘Sea’ you on the water!
Captain Bruce
“As someone born and raised in San Diego, I have spent the majority of my life in, on and around the ocean. Each and every day revolves around the ocean, whether that be surfing, fishing, diving, or many other water related activities available here in San Diego. Through these experiences I have developed a serious passion for fishing in our local waters, targeting everything, from Spotted Bay Bass to trophy Bluefin tuna. I attended San Diego State University and obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Business, along with an OUPV Six Pack Merchant Mariner Credential from the Mariners learning system. The resource we have available to us here in San Diego has led me to pursue a career on the ocean, allowing me to share the many special moments we as fishermen get to experience with passengers. From inshore to offshore fishing, there are a plethora of options available to have an incredible day on the water.”
Captain Bruce Gillard
Our Fishing Destinations
Launching out of Mission Bay, The Nimbus can take you to some prime spots just off the coast like kelp beds and submerged structures. The captains partner with other charters to know where the action is. We also fish several offshore locations when the bite is on! And, you won't want to miss a short jaunt to the Coronado Islands down in Mexico's waters, fish flock to these waters, so we do too.
Our bay charters are held in the beautiful Mission Bay, San Diego. It's a beautiful aquatic playground. We know all the best spots and how to fish them. Your day will be full of catching all that the bay has to offer. You're certain to learn something new about San Diego from this unique perspective.