Deep Sea Fishing Charter Boat
Connecting fathers and their children to the ocean. Learn to catch and cook fish, and commune with each other.
Openwaters Foundation is a dedicated to connecting fathers and, father figures to connect with their child(red) between the ages of 5-15 using deep sea fishing experiences. Through these excursions, fathers and their child(ren) can experience the ocean and build a healthy relationship. OpenWater believes that fathers are key teachers to their child(ren) emotional, social, mental and well-being. These valuable trips assist fathers to spend quality time with their child(ren) and increase their connectedness to each other.
OpenWaters operates year-round providing open water, deep sea fishing experiences. Most trips occur during spring to early fall months. OpenWaters helps send fathers, families, and children from various non-profit organizations on free deep sea fishing excursions
OpenWaters operates out of Los Angeles area and provides enriching deep sea fishing experiences from various ocean landings covering Los Angeles county to Orange county. Fishing trips are on U.S Coast Guard licensed fishing charter boats.
Every excursion is designed to foster meaningful interactions, helping fathers and their children learn new skills together while embracing the beauty and power of the open ocean. Participants not only discover the fundamentals of fishing, but also gain hands-on experience in teamwork, patience, and communication, skills that strengthen the parent-child bond long after the trip ends. These shared moments become lifelong memories that anchor families through all stages of life.
In addition to fishing education, OpenWaters emphasizes environmental awareness and stewardship. Fathers and their children learn about marine ecosystems, sustainable fishing practices, and the importance of protecting our coastal resources for future generations. By cultivating a respect for the ocean, OpenWaters instills a sense of responsibility and gratitude for the natural world that benefits communities far beyond the shoreline.
2,000+
Caught Fish
2,000+
Clients Satisfied
12
Years
Openwaters Partners With Local Groups
OpenWaters partners with local community groups, youth programs, and outreach organizations to ensure these opportunities reach families who need them most. Through these collaborations, the foundation is able to provide fully sponsored trips, equipment, and support so that financial barriers never stand in the way of connection. Each partnership strengthens the mission of uplifting families and reinforces OpenWaters’ commitment to creating positive, transformative experiences for fathers and their children.
Through its partnership with the YMCA, OpenWaters Foundation is able to connect with families who are actively seeking positive developmental programs for their children. The YMCA’s long-standing commitment to youth enrichment and family wellness aligns seamlessly with OpenWaters’ mission. Together, they coordinate fishing excursions that give fathers and their children a unique opportunity to step outside their everyday routines and strengthen their relationships while experiencing the natural world.
Collaborating with Scouting America, formerly known as the Boy Scouts of America, OpenWaters provides scout troops with outdoor experiences that complement the organization’s core values of leadership, character-building, and outdoor adventure. These fishing trips serve as an extension of scouting’s long tradition of learning through hands-on engagement with nature. Scouts and their fathers or father figures gain meaningful time together while developing respect for the ocean and understanding important principles of environmental stewardship.
OpenWaters also works closely with local community groups throughout Los Angeles to reach families who may benefit from additional support or accessible enrichment opportunities. These groups help identify fathers and children who are eager to participate but may lack the resources to plan such outings on their own. Through these partnerships, OpenWaters ensures that each trip is inclusive, supportive, and welcoming to families from all backgrounds.
Youth groups across the Los Angeles area play a vital role in helping OpenWaters connect with young people who thrive with mentorship, structure, and positive role models. By providing deep sea fishing trips as part of these youth programs, the foundation gives children and teens valuable hands-on learning experiences that promote confidence, communication, and trust-building with their fathers. These shared adventures often become defining moments in strengthening family bonds.
Outreach organizations, especially those serving underserved communities, are essential partners in extending OpenWaters’ impact. Many of these organizations work with families facing challenging circumstances, and the opportunity to participate in a fully sponsored deep sea excursion provides not only a day of joy but also a renewed sense of hope and connection. OpenWaters collaborates closely with these partners to make the process seamless, from scheduling and transportation to equipment and support, ensuring that every father and child feels valued and cared for throughout their experience.
Deep Sea Fishing Catalina Island
Catalina Island is one of Southern California’s premier deep-sea fishing destinations, offering diverse marine life and year-round opportunities for anglers of all ages. The waters surrounding the island are rich in nutrient flow, attracting both resident and migratory species. Fathers and children participating in OpenWaters Foundation trips are introduced to a variety of fish that thrive in these waters, making each excursion an exciting and educational ocean adventure.
Among all the species found near Catalina, Yellowtail is OpenWaters Foundation’s primary target. Known for their incredible strength and fast, powerful runs, Yellowtail provide a thrilling challenge that creates unforgettable moments on the water. These prized game fish are most effectively caught using live bait, which increases the chances of successful strikes and keeps participants actively engaged in the fishing process. Reeling in a Yellowtail becomes a shared accomplishment between fathers and children, creating memories they talk about long after the trip ends.
Live bait—particularly sardines and squid—is essential when targeting Yellowtail around Catalina Island. Sardines are especially effective due to their movement and natural appeal, enticing Yellowtail into aggressive feeding behavior. Squid, on the other hand, works well during slower bite periods or when fish are deeper in the water. OpenWaters Foundation takes the time to teach families how to properly hook, handle, and release live bait, giving participants hands-on skills that build confidence and excitement.
In addition to Yellowtail, Catalina waters are home to a variety of other sought-after species. Calico Bass, Barracuda, Bonito, Sheephead, and Rockfish are commonly caught throughout the year, offering plenty of action even when larger migratory fish are less active. Each species provides a unique learning opportunity—from identifying fish types to understanding different habitat zones—enriching the experience for both fathers and their children. The diversity of life below the surface helps families appreciate the ocean’s vibrant ecosystem.
Seasonally, anglers may also encounter exciting pelagic visitors such as Dorado and even Bluefin Tuna when warm currents move closer to the island. While these catches are less frequent, they add an element of surprise and adventure to OpenWaters Foundation outings. Regardless of what ends up on the line, every trip provides a blend of education, teamwork, and ocean exploration. Together, fathers and children develop a deeper connection not just with each other, but also with the incredible marine environment surrounding Catalina Island.
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