What you'll find at Martinez Marina

Martinez Marina sits on the Sacramento River in Contra Costa County, about 35 miles northeast of San Francisco. The facility offers public boat launch access, moorage, and a fuel dock—making it a working port rather than a recreation-only facility. Most visiting anglers use the launch to reach striped bass and sturgeon in the river's main channel and deeper holes, though some fish directly from the marina's pilings and jetties when the tide and season align.

The marina operates year-round, but water conditions and fish availability shift significantly between seasons. Winter and early spring bring the strongest striped bass runs, when fish move upriver from the Delta. Summer and fall see fewer bass but better sturgeon opportunity, especially in the deeper channels near the marina. Parking is available, and the launch fee is modest—typically under $10 for a single launch, though prices vary by season and day type.

Key Takeaways

  • Martinez Marina provides public boat launch access to the Sacramento River's main channel, where striped bass and sturgeon are the primary targets.
  • Winter and early spring offer the best striped bass fishing; summer and fall shift toward sturgeon in deeper holes near the marina.
  • The launch is open year-round, but tidal conditions and river flows change what techniques work and where fish hold.
  • Parking and facilities are basic but functional; bring your own tackle and bait, as the marina does not stock fishing supplies.

Striped Bass Fishing in Winter and Spring

Striped bass move into the Sacramento River from the Delta during winter and early spring, typically peaking between December and April. At Martinez Marina, the best fishing happens on incoming tides, when fish push upriver and concentrate in the deeper channels and around the pilings. Live baitfish—anchovies, shad, or herring—work better than artificials in these cold, murky waters. Cast near the marina's jetties and along the channel edges where current breaks.

The river here is tidal, so timing matters more than time of day. Plan your launch around the incoming tide, which typically lasts four to six hours. Check tide tables before you go; the Sacramento River's tides at Martinez are predictable but shift daily. Stripers in this section of river average 12 to 20 inches, with occasional fish in the 25-inch range. Most anglers fish from boats, but the marina's pilings and jetties can produce during slack tide or high water when fish move shallow.

Sturgeon in Summer and Fall

White sturgeon inhabit the Sacramento River year-round, but summer and fall offer the steadiest fishing near Martinez. These fish hold in the deepest holes—typically 30 to 50 feet—and respond to live bait fished on the bottom. Anchovies, shad, or live crawfish work well; some anglers use cut mackerel or squid. You will need a sturgeon-rated rod and heavy sinkers to keep bait on bottom in the current.

Sturgeon fishing requires patience and a boat, since the productive holes lie in the main channel away from shore. The fish bite throughout the day, but early morning and late afternoon often produce more hookups. Sturgeon in this section average 3 to 5 feet, with occasional larger fish. Check California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations before you fish—sturgeon have strict size and bag limits that vary by year, and some seasons close entirely.

Tides, Currents, and Seasonal Water Flows

The Sacramento River at Martinez is tidal, meaning water level and current direction reverse twice daily. This tidal influence extends about 90 miles upriver from the Golden Gate, and it shapes where and when fish feed. Incoming tides push fish upriver and concentrate them; outgoing tides scatter them and can make fishing difficult. Current speed increases during high water years (winter and spring runoff) and slows during drought years.

Water clarity also shifts with season and flow. Winter and spring runoff often bring turbid water, which can actually improve fishing by making bait more visible to fish. Summer and fall bring clearer water, which can make fish more cautious but also allows you to see structure and current breaks more easily. Check the U.S. Geological Survey's real-time flow data for the Sacramento River before you launch; flows above 15,000 cubic feet per second can make the current too strong for safe boating or effective fishing.

Boat Launch Details and Facilities

The launch ramp at Martinez Marina is concrete, well-maintained, and wide enough for most trailers. Parking is available in a paved lot near the ramp. The facility includes restrooms and a fuel dock, though fuel prices are higher than off-water stations. There is no bait shop, tackle store, or restaurant at the marina, so bring everything you need before you arrive.

The launch operates during daylight hours; exact hours vary by season. Call ahead or check the Contra Costa County Parks website for current hours and any temporary closures. The ramp can get crowded on weekends and holidays, especially during peak striped bass season (January through March). Arrive early if you plan to fish a weekend morning. Overnight moorage is available if you want to stay longer, though rates and availability should be confirmed with the marina office.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Bring your own tackle, bait, and supplies—the marina does not stock fishing gear. For striped bass, pack light to medium spinning or baitcasting rods, 12- to 20-pound line, and live bait in an aerated bait tank. For sturgeon, bring heavier rods rated for 30-pound line or more, sturgeon-specific hooks (size 2/0 to 4/0), and heavy sinkers. A fish finder is useful for locating deeper holes and structure, especially in summer.

Bring a tide table or download a tide app for Martinez, California. Wear a personal flotation device at all times while boating—it is required by law and essential on a tidal river with boat traffic. The Sacramento River sees commercial barge traffic and ferry service, so stay alert and keep to marked channels. Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks; the river offers no shade once you leave the marina.

Regulations and Fishing Seasons

California Department of Fish and Wildlife sets all regulations for striped bass and sturgeon. Striped bass have a year-round season in most of the Sacramento River, but bag limits and size restrictions vary by water body and season. Check the current regulations before you fish—they change annually and sometimes mid-season. Sturgeon have more restrictive rules: size limits are typically 40 to 60 inches, and bag limits are often one fish per day or closed entirely depending on the year.

A California fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a one-day license online or at most sporting goods stores. Striped bass and sturgeon do not require separate tags or endorsements, but always verify current rules on the CDFW website before you launch. Regulations exist to protect these populations, and violations carry fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish from shore at Martinez Marina?

Yes, the marina's pilings and jetties can produce striped bass during slack tide or high water, especially in winter and spring. Sturgeon fishing from shore is difficult because the productive holes lie in the main channel. Bring a sturgeon-rated rod and heavy sinkers if you want to try, but a boat gives you much better access to deeper water.

What is the best time of year to fish here?

Winter and early spring (December through April) offer the strongest striped bass fishing. Summer and fall shift toward sturgeon in deeper holes. Water conditions and fish availability change with season and river flow, so check current reports before you plan your trip.

Do I need a boat to fish Martinez Marina?

A boat gives you access to the main channel and deeper holes where most fish hold. Shore fishing is possible but limited to pilings and jetties. If you do not have a boat, you can still fish, but your options are narrower and success depends more on tide and season.

How far is Martinez Marina from San Francisco?

Martinez Marina is about 35 miles northeast of San Francisco, roughly 45 minutes to an hour by car depending on traffic. It is accessible via Highway 4 and local roads in Martinez.

What should I do if the river flow is very high?

High water (above 15,000 cubic feet per second) can make the current too strong for safe boating and effective fishing. Check the U.S. Geological Survey's real-time flow data before you launch. If flows are high, consider waiting for conditions to improve or fishing closer to shore where current is weaker.