I was thinking about buying a boat. Are there any specific procedures and licenses that I need to go ocean fishing? Where would I launch the boat from and what is the average cost (bait, gas) to go fishing in southern California. I am not much of a fisherman so I am quite ignorant on this subject. Any answers appreciated.
How do I go fishing in the ocean with a private boat?
March 4th, 2010 
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I’m not from Cali and am not familiar w/ their information when it comes to licenses ect., but here in florida you need to have your boat registered, a current license for the type of fishing that you will be doing(brine),you may also need a boat operation license in cali. im not sure. you will also need all of your saftey equiptment ( private flotation device, fire extenguisher ect.) As far as boat ramps go, I would try to locate a bait and tackle shop in the area you are wanting to fish, and question them for ramp locations and fishing advice. As for cost of gas and bait, it all depends on what kind of fishing you will be doing. You may need live bait or artificial, you may use 20 gallons of fuel per trip or you may use 2. I would also suggest finding a buddy boat to go out w/ a few times for safety and guidance.
Brandon gave a fantastic answer.
I would only add this to BW’s answer:
You may want to start your boat & fishing “learning process” in a sheltered bay or freshwater lake instead of the Ocean.
Having no experience as a boater, and venturing into any offshore situation is asking for distress.
No book or website can lecture you all of what you want/need to know.
At the very least, learn how to handle your boat in inshore/nearshore, cool waters.
Hope this helps somewhat? Excellent luck!