The best way to catch a fish is to think like a fish, which means fretting about how to put all 4,000 of your kids through fish college. Catch a whole school with this Groupon.

Choose Between Two Options

$25 for a five-hour fishing-trip package (up to a $53.50 total value)

• Five-hour fishing trip (up to a $46 value)
• $7.50 voucher for soda, snacks, or hot sandwiches from the cash galley

$35 for a nine-hour fishing-trip package (up to a $71.50 total value)

• Nine-hour fishing trip (up to a $64 value)
• $7.50 voucher for soda, snacks, or hot sandwiches from the cash galley

Trips set sail on waters right outside Dana Point Harbor in search of seasonal fish such as barracuda, halibut, yellowtail, bonito, and calico bass, with the ship’s crew offering guidance for all ability levels. Although the trips focus on fishing, boats occasionally sail within sight of whales, dolphins, and other creatures. All buyers must bring a rod, reel, and tackle, or rent them from Dana Wharf Sportfishing for an additional $14, which is not included in this Groupon. Some trips also require buyers to purchased additional tackle for $3–$10. If you do not have a fishing license, you must purchase a day license for $14.04. Click here to purchase the license in advance from the California Department of Fish and Game.

For current conditions, Dana Wharf Sportfishing recommends that fishers bring a 10- to 20-pound test line and a mix of hook sizes including 1, 2, 1/0, and 2/0, as well as a mix of 1/2-ounce to 2-ounce weights. The crew keeps abreast of the California Department of Fish and Game’s size and possession limits for fish to ensure everyone knows how many fish they can keep if they choose—though the crew also promotes catch-and-release to conserve natural resources. If guests choose to keep their catches, the crew will help put them in the guests’ sacks. After the trip, Dana Wharf Sportfishing can have them cleaned for about $0.50–$1 per fish, cash only.