Meet Shaun Uyeda | Owner & Operator of Pelican Sportfishing

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shaun Uyeda and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shaun, what do you attribute your success to?
Without a doubt, the most important factor in my success is my focus on customer service. I have always put customer service first, even over catching fish. I tailor the trip to ensure my clients are 100% satisfied. Some days that means feeding bait fish to pelicans and seagulls because a kid is scared or seasick to make the trip to La Jolla. Rather than forcing the fishing experience on them, we still have a great day and the family makes memories to last a lifetime. I also provide instruction and assistance to allow my customers to fully experience fishing.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
San Diego is home to numerous amazing fishing charters. I’d say one thing that probably sets me apart from others is that I really like to get to know my clients. I’m very outgoing and personable which is why I have many locals and out-of-towners return to fish again. I strive for 100% customer satisfaction each fishing trip which has led to consistent 5-star reviews since I began Pelican Sportfishing in March 2019. Having the ocean as my office is a dream come true but I wouldn’t say it’s easy. The fishing charter industry is busiest from July thru October and during that time, we work sun up to sun down, day after day. It can be exhausting but it’s worth it. I’m able to enjoy more time off during the winter while focusing on boat maintenance, business growth and more. I am actually in the middle of preparing a second boat for the Pelican Sportfishing fleet, which will be ran by another Captain, hopefully by mid-Summer 2021.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Our itinerary would definitely consist of fishing and preparing delicious fish dinners with our catch. That’s just a must. For breakfast, I’d definitely have to take him to Hash House A Go Go and Janet’s Cafe and Deli, a little Santee favorite of mine. Garden of Vegan in Bankers Hill never disappoints – their smoothies and acai bowls are amazing. For dinner, we’d go to The Oceanaire. Honestly, I think some of the most enjoyable places in San Diego to visit are in nature. The coastline, beaches, bays, trails, lakes and mountains. Of course, a traditional place for me to take any friends or relatives from out of town is Old Town. The traditional Mexican restaurants, music and local stores are always a must-see.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My Dad. While he was fighting brain cancer, he encouraged me to make the career change from automotive and marine electrician to fishing charter captain. I took and passed the test for USCG 6 Pack Charter Captain while he was still alive but actually received my license in the mail shortly after he passed.

Website: https://www.pelicansportfishing.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pelicansportfishing/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pelicansportfishing/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/pelican-sportfishing-san-diego-3

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiXOGJwM4CgWYAg971jSyBw

Other: https://g.page/pelicansportfishing?gm