Business Details
9 Years
experience
Monterey Bay Fishing Charters for All Skill Levels
At J&M Sport Fishing, we combine decades of maritime heritage with modern expertise to deliver unforgettable fishing adventures on Monterey Bay. Founded in 2017 through the transformation of Randys Fishing Tripsa local institution since 1949we pride ourselves on connecting guests with the rich fishing traditions of Californias Central Coast. Our team, led by owner Mathew Arcoleo, brings deep generational knowledge and technical proficiency to every charter, ensuring both novice and seasoned anglers enjoy productive, safe, and educational experiences. With a fleet of four vessels, including the high-speed Kahuna, we specialize in targeting rockfish, lingcod, salmon, and Dungeness crab while adhering to the latest conservation practices.Our captains and crew undergo continuous training to maintain compliance with state regulations and safety standards, and we collaborate with local businesses like Cafe Fina to enhance your post-trip experience. From family outings to corporate events, we prioritize personalized service, operational transparency, and a commitment to preserving Monterey Bays marine ecosystem for future generations.
Services
Sport Fishing Charters
Whale Watching
Private Charters
Rockfish/Lingcod Trips
Salmon Fishing
Crab Combo Excursions
Ash Scattering Services
Gear Rentals
Fishing Licenses
Fish Cleaning
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- We offer family-owned expertise with 70+ years of local fishing heritage.
- Our captains are trained in the latest fishing regulations and technologies.
- We provide gear rentals and on-deck assistance for anglers of all skill levels.
- Our fleet includes the fastest boat in Monterey for deep-water expeditions.
- We partner with local restaurants to turn your catch into a gourmet meal.
What people say
Amazing rockfish limits
Knowledgeable captains
Smooth booking process
Scenic whale sightings
Great family outing
Services
Sport Fishing Charters
Our guided fishing charters target prized species like rockfish, lingcod, salmon, and Dungeness crab in Monterey Bay. With four vessels ranging from 4-hour to full-day excursions, we accommodate groups of all sizes. Our crews provide gear rentals, on-deck instruction, and fish cleaning services to ensure a productive and enjoyable experience for anglers of every skill level.
Private Charters
Customize your Monterey Bay adventure with private charters for family gatherings, corporate events, or special occasions. Choose from 4-hour fishing sessions to full-day excursions, with options for ash scattering ceremonies or combined crab-and-fish trips. Our team handles all logistics, including equipment, licenses, and safety briefings for a seamless experience.
Whale Watching
Join narrated whale watching tours led by marine biologists through our sister company Discovery Whale Watch. While primarily a fishing operation, our vessels can accommodate wildlife excursions within the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Trips explore seasonal migration patterns and marine ecosystems under expert guidance.
Crab Combo Excursions
Seasonal November-March trips combine crab trapping with rockfish or sand dab fishing. Participants learn commercial-grade crab pot techniques while catching Dungeness crab (10 per angler limit). Our crews handle baiting, pot retrieval, and equal distribution of catches, providing all necessary gear and instruction for this hands-on winter activity.
Gear Rentals
We offer complete tackle packages for targeted species including rockfish, lingcod, and salmon. Rentals include rods, rigs, weights, and specialized hooks meeting California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations. Prices start at $8.70 for basic setups, with premium options available for deep-sea trolling or mooching techniques.
People
Mathew Arcoleo
Owner
Third-generation Monterey fisherman with 30 years in high-tech leadership. Revitalized Randys Fishing Trips legacy through J&M Sport Fishing. Holds electrical engineering degree and MBA. Combines technical precision with deep local knowledge for operational excellence.
Questions
What fishing species can I catch with J&M Sport Fishing?
We target rockfish, lingcod, Chinook salmon, Dungeness crab, sand dabs, and halibut depending on seasonal regulations and ocean conditions.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes, California requires sport fishing licenses. We distribute official CaDFW licenses and provide necessary crab trap validations at our shop.
Can I bring my own fishing gear?
Yes, but all salmon gear must use barbless hooks. We recommend renting our equipment for guaranteed regulation compliance and optimal performance.
What happens to my catch after fishing?
Deckhands will fillet fish restaurant-style upon return. Partner restaurants like Cafe Fina offer fresh catch meal deals for immediate preparation of your catch.
Are private charters available for special events?
Yes, we accommodate weddings, corporate outings, and ash scattering ceremonies. Custom packages include specialized menus, extended hours, and dedicated crew assignments.
How do weather cancellations work?
Trips operate weather-permitting. We provide real-time updates and flexible rescheduling options if conditions prevent safe sailing.
Reviews (6)
Rob Young
Jan 20, 2022
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Discovery Whale Watch is a fantastic outfit. The staff was amazing, and appreciative towards their customers. Everyone was warm and friendly. Clean boats and comfortable accommodations. I would definitely recommend this business. We will be back!
Sandra G.
Jan 13, 2022
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They hype it up and leave you disappointed. We heard several times that the whales come to the boat, but while on the boat, they tell you they must remain 100 feet from the whale. They tell you 99.9% of the time they see whales, but were ready to leave before we saw one. You get slightly wet on the way out to the ocean and they drive back so fast that you are soaking wet. Then they make sure they throw in we accept tips. Not quite the trip I was expecting. Left me feeling neutral to their service.
Jess Ferrer
Jan 02, 2022
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Drove 4 hours, rented a hotel room for 3 days just to have them cancel on us...TWICE. WHAT A WAISTE OF MONEY AND TIME. A fishing charter has one job, to drive the boat and they couldn't even figure that out. Save your money, and don't take a chance with these unreliable, unprofessional fools.
Andy Stout
Nov 29, 2021
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First time with J&M fishing with Captain JJ and George And will definitely not be the last. Beautiful day, Lots of wildlife seen, including a whale! We all had fun (and I got my limit) Thanks to the great team at J&m fishing. I really liked the captains approach and the effort by everyone there. Cant wait to go again. Worth every penny!
Marc M.
Nov 25, 2021
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Outstanding operation. From the 5:30am check in to the 2:30pm disembarking. Captain JJ saw to it that we had a great time. My son Jack limited out on Ling Cod. The deck hand Daniel assisted everyone on board with a smile. Untangled lines, helped tie knots and gaffed a few huge fish. He also broke out his boning knife and went to town! We live on the peninsula and will always go with J&M.
Thomas Del Grosso
Oct 26, 2021
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I went with a group of good friends for an early A.M. all day trip. It was a fantastic experience, I was told the fish weren't biting like usual, but we all left with enough catch. One of our party got sea sick within the first 30 minutes of the all day trip. Along with the crew members being very attentive to our fishing needs; rat nest reels, untangling lines that met and tangled under the boat, fish stuck on the hook, and more. They also were very attentive to her needs, getting out fresh paper towels, offering her ginger snacks to help settle her sickness. Small efforts, great gestures. We
