The Port of San Francisco is building a new dock to support Retail Fish sales, which is scheduled to be open in November in time for crab sales. This new dock will be the primary location for off the boat fish and crab sales.
Fisherman’s Wharf has been a working commercial fishing hub for more than a century. Today, San Francisco maintains the largest fishing center along the California coast, and the commercial fishing industry has been centered at Pier 45, the northernmost historic pier in the Embarcadero Historic District.
Purchase fresh live crab and fresh caught fish direct from local fishers at Fisherman's Wharf. All fish and crab sold under this permit are to be sold whole (uncooked, whole fish, gilled and gutted only) and in accordance with all Health Code regulations. All fish and crab sales must occur from the vessel.
Fishers will be selling their fresh catch pending weather or availability. Visit the San Francisco Off the Boat Sales Facebook group and Instagram for updates on available crab and fish sales. Individual fishers are also using the Fish Line mobile app to provide details about when and where they will be open to the public for fish or crab sales.
Approximate Fish Seasons (availability may change seasonally or pending the opening of commercial fishing seasons):
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April to October: salmon
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May to November: halibut
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November to June: crab, salmon
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Year Round:
Parking is extremely limited. There are parking structures and street parking available. Visit Getting Around for transit options. There is no parking on Al Scoma Way.
Helpful Hints:
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Before you head out, check when fishers will be docked on Off-Boat Sales Facebook or Instagram. Vessels and availability will vary throughout the season.
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Arrive early. Lines are common, and fishers often sell out.
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BYO container, preferably something thicker like a cooler or bucket.
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Cash is preferred, but some fishers also take electronic payments.
Sport Fishing Excursions
Want a more hands-on experience? Head onto the bay for a sport fishing expedition. Sport fishing charters can accommodate individuals and groups for fishing parties or crab hauls. Find an available sport fishing charters at the inner lagoon on Jefferson Street and Hyde Street Harbor.