Newbie Sturgeon, where to go

I was asked for some help by someone that wants to learn Sturgeon fishing. He is looking to "fish somewhere where there is at least a possibility of hooking something. Relatively easy launch/landing and modest current/minimal debris." The closer to the South Bay the better. I'm up in Vacaville and I don't know about the South Bay. Can anyone suggest a good spot for a guy new to sturgeon, not new to kayak fishing.

Haven't heard of anything poppin off in the South Bay. Their best bet is San Pablo

Haven't heard of anything poppin off in the South Bay. Their best bet is San Pablo

Besides the hot spots, where are the spots with easier launch and conditions? Some place good for learning.

In the south bay you can go to Alviso.  They have a launch and parking that is free.  Once you launch you go towards the bay about 5 miles. If on a kayak its best to go at the peak of high tide and ride it out to the bay when the tide is going out.  if you time it right you can ride the incoming tide to get back.  Keep in mind that the current is strong when going against it.  i have first hand knowledge of this.

In the south bay you can go to Alviso.  They have a launch and parking that is free.  Once you launch you go towards the bay about 5 miles. If on a kayak its best to go at the peak of high tide and ride it out to the bay when the tide is going out.  if you time it right you can ride the incoming tide to get back.  Keep in mind that the current is strong when going against it.  i have first hand knowledge of this.

I would not recommend alviso for a beginner. The 5 miles alone is a journey in itself and not many people are able to do that. Catching the tides wrong can get you into even more trouble. I fished there once and it got a little hairy.  Alviso isn't really a place for kayakers unless you really know what you are doing and got a back up plan in case of an emergency. 

I know some of the guys fish near the Oakland airport or even coyote point.

I usually fish China camp in San Pablo bay. Easy launch from bullhead flats. Only about 1-1.5 miles out to the grounds. Just have to be careful not to come in at the bottom of a big minus tide. It gets pretty shallow.

traildad- the Napa river is a hot spot right now! I'd go!

Justin

Thanks. Where are they at?