My husband and I got matching tattoos for our 1 year anniversary! Paula was SO nice and personal! We would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a very talented tattoo artist! We will definitely be back soon !!! Read Less

Piling on to the Paul love. If you want an artist who...- listens carefully and respects you- is a clever problem solver- brings artistic vision that enhances your design- has *amazing* precision and flawless lines- is personable and charming- will fill you with confidence and put you at ease...then Paula is the artist for you. As an added bonus, I've been inked at Goodfellas, Slave to the Needle and Avalon and Big Fish is hands-down the cleanest shop I've been in. Read Less

Can't say enough about Bigfish Tattoo! Dave is creating a custom arm sleeve for me that's phenomenal ! All the artists in the studio are super friendly and extremely talented. Can't wait to see the finished work! Read Less

Emailed a photo of my dream tattoo. Walked in and met Jake who consulted with me, was able to make adjustments and turn the tattoo into a reality. What an amazing tribute to my fight against cancer. Jake nailed it. I'm so in love with my first tattoo. I will be back Read Less

Chris did a tattoo for me and it came out perfect. The shop is clean and comfortable. Chris worked really quickly and did an amazing job. I couldn't recommend him enough. Awesome experience. Thank you. Read Less

I wish I could give more stars! Jake was my artist. Exceptional skills, extremely patient! Just really rad people in a clean shop doing quality work! I've been to a hand full of spots. I'll never go elsewhere! Thanks guys x Read Less

So let me start with this was my first tattoo experience, I was turning 40 and thought if I'm not going to do it now, I'm never going to do. So I started doing my research to find the artist that I thought would be right for me.  I found Paula on instagram and immediately knew she was  "the one"!  Her work is creative, clean and versatile.  So, for about a month Paula and I emailed back and forth, and I went in for one consultation about two weeks before.  She responded every time and answered every question I had, honestly and professionally.  So the day comes and Paula is ready for me with the perfect design. She is amazinnng! She calmed my fears and began promptly. She is very easy to talk to which made me feel very at ease and felt I was in good hands!  My tattoo came out like  I have always dreamed it would be!  I can't wait to get more from her!  Side note: the shop is squeaky clean, all the artists are very nice and sociable and have their own style. I would trust any of them to do work on me!  Thank you Paula and thank you BFT!  I will update pictures after it heals! Read Less

Chris Sullivan is amazing! I was a walk-in with a cover up request and small rib typography piece. Chris captured my vision for my foot cover up piece BEAUTIFULLY...I connected with his sketch immediately and knew I wanted him to do it. He was able to get me started away and 3hrs later, both pieces are perfect and I am over the moon with his work. Also took amazing care of me. THANKS, CHRIS! Read Less

Happened to have a few hours to kill while in San Diego, my wife and I stopped in and Angel took care of us. Shop is SUPER clean and very well put together, very spacious and functional. She gave Angel the picture of what she wanted and he drew it up real nice. He took the time to make sure it was exactly where she wanted it, worked and adjusted it as he went along and put together a gorgeous piece. Very professionall and talented shop can't wait til we go back!! Read Less

This place is in a great location and super clean! I've been following Paula for a while now so I was stoked when I was able to book an appointment (I was visit from LV). From the moment she came out she was friendly and helpful. She made sure to keep checking on me throughout the tattoo and she was extremely thoughtful. Excited to continue getting work done with her. Read Less

The inside is awesome and very clean. My wife and I both got artwork done by Paula, and she did amazing. All the staff have a broad range of styles which is cool as well. If you like American traditional or Japanese traditional this is the place to go. 5/5 for sure. Read Less

Paula is a really amazing artist. Not to mention the shop is really nice and clean and everyone who works there is super friendly. She has done 6 tattoos for me and will be finishing the rest of my arm :) I highly recommend her! Read Less

I have been going to big fish tattoo for over 6 years now and have logged some 120 plus hours of tattoo. My first tattoo was done by Dave Hartman and I honestly believe that if it wasn't for my relationship with him I wouldn't have any tattoos. I am continuously impressed with his work and the caliber of tattoo artists that he has in his shop. Each artists has a specialty and there is nothing that they can't do. It feels like a family at BFT and I can say honestly that I will probably never get tattoo'd anywhere else. Read Less

Got my first tattoo here, but forgot to yelp about my experience from a month ago! Overall it was an awesome experience, albeit a little nerve wracking. Shoutouts to JC, who was my tattoo artist. I sent a few messages out to several shops to get an idea of pricing and ultimately went with them because they offered a fair price for what I wanted and were really responsive. The shop might be a little hard to locate since it's somewhat in the back, so it took a little for me to find. Would definitely recommend coming here! Read Less

I finally got up the courage for my first tattoos, and am so happy with the artwork Jake inked on my hard-working feet!!  I chose a few triathlon figures with clean lines for one foot, and an MDot in a bright red that pops for the other foot.  It only took an hour, and is healing quite nicely at day 2.  This is a very professional, clean, efficient shop.  I would highly recommend stopping in to browse, talk to the artists, and make your next appointment. Read Less

I've had a few tattoos by Paula so far and each time I've been even happier than expected with the design and even happier with her work. Her lines are super straight and clean and her color is A+. Each time I have healed quickly and smoothly. Not only is she an amazing artist, she is the absolute nicest person and really listens to what you are looking for and styles it up to an extra degree. I am more than happy with what I've received and booked to have my arm done in a few weeks. Read Less

Dave did my first tattoo! Thank you guys for being the local shop that KILLS it with the service and most importantly the tattoos. I've been following these guys for awhile now on Instagram which is why I decided to get my first tattoo from this shop. I'm a Solana Beach local and wanted to go get my first tattoo at a local shop. This place did not disappoint. Making an appointment was easy, everyone I chatted with was really friendly and as far as my actual tattoo, Dave did an awesome job and I LOVE IT! Will be saving for my next one, and recommending this shop to anyone looking for new ink. Read Less

Wow. What can I say. Big Fish Tattoo and Dave came highly recommended from past clients who are my good friends. And they weren't kidding when they said he knows his stuff and is amazing. 4 hours later, through a little bit of pain in my sensitive armpits which Dave warned me was going to be tender, and my shading looks awesome and I cannot wait to go to see him again to finish a little more shading. Thank you again Dave. I will be sure and bring some Scotch for you to try next time - sweet not smokey! CHEERS!!!!! Read Less

Great experience! Went in yesterday and met with Angel. We discussed what I wanted and I emailed him pics of what I was thinking. Went back today and after a little more discussion he got to work! I love how accurately Angel interpreted what I was looking for. Highly recommend. Very professional establishment. Read Less

They are awesome! New location is beautiful! Dave Hartman ( owner) and all the artists he has working there with him are so talented! And the environment to have tattoo work done is immaculate,clean and enviting. Very cool people. Read Less

First time being tattooed at Big Fish and must say I had a great experience. I have been tattooed before... numerous times before... But I really enjoyed the service at Big Fish and getting to know the artist. Paula, Angel, Dave, Mike, and Jake are all really nice people. As for the tattoo, I choose Mike Lopez. Like I said, I have been tattooed numerous times by many different people. I am not sure if it is Mike's technique or the gun/needle he uses, but I have never had a tattooed that healed this nicely. I mean, the design is awesome. The work is awesome. But I am so impressed at how well it is healing. Read Less

I had heard about Big Fish Tattoo from two close friends of mine who've been going to Paula for years. So, when I stumbled upon the idea of getting my first tattoo, I knew I had to come here for it.I emailed Paula describing my interest in getting my first tattoo with her, sent her a picture of the design I wanted and asked about the process of putting in a deposit and making an appointment. She got back to me in a little less than a week and we went over the details. She booked me for an appointment about 2 weeks out, which worked out perfectly for me. Paula also said I could either call over the phone to put in the deposit or come by the shop. Because I live in La Mesa, calling in was easier for me.I was really nervous the day of my tattoo appointment, unsure of how I would handle the pain. My friend (one of the girls who's been a frequent client of Paula's) accompanied me that day. Paula was very prompt, friendly and professional. She had the design drawn out and asked about the sizing. I went with her advice on the size as to highlight the details of the tattoo (linework). I reviewed the legal agreements and afterwards was shortly ready to go.Paula's workspace was very clean. It was lined with paper/cloth (???) before I sat down. Paula placed the design on me and asked me to check the placement of it, which was perfect (inner left ankle). Paula had me lay down during my tattoo, which worked best for me, because I get freaked out seeing needles TBH haha! Another artist, Dave, was working on a tattoo for his own client at the same time Paula was working on me. It really helped calm my nerves that they were having regular conversation while I was getting my tattoo done. Also really love that they were talking about the Netflix show, Ozark!I know that pain is different for everyone depending on the placement of the tattoo, the threshold for pain and the design. Thankfully, I'm the type of person to hype up a situation and think the worst, because when Paula first started tattooing, it wasn't as bad as I had anticipated and was totally bearable! There were a couple times where I was low-key cringing when the needle got closer to the ankle bone, but overall, totally bearable.The final product came out even more beautiful than I imagined. Paula's linework and attention to detail is superb. She wiped my new ink down before wrapping it up. Paula thoroughly explained the aftercare process and gave me some Aquaphor on the way out.Thank you so much, Paula!!! I am in LOVE with my new and first tattoo! Nowhere else I would have rather gone to. Highly recommend Paula and the rest of Big Fish Tattoo! Will definitely be back for more ink here! Read Less

This place is great! Mike Lopez is a excellent artist! I'm from Washington State and will be flying here for him to do all my ink from now on! Way worth the flight to get good ink done! I recommend him for all your ink! He did such a fantastic job on my cover up! And vibe here is excellent great music! Thanks a million Mike Lopez for the great tattoo! Be seeing you soon! Read Less

I've had the privilege of being tattooed here twice, once by Paula Hathaway and once by Angel Lopez...both times I was made to feel very comfortable during the creative process and ended up super happy with both pieces I've had done.  The shop is clean and nice and the environment is very chill and comfortable, which was important to me, as I'm not a frequent guest of tattoo shops.  I'll be back...highly recommend! Read Less

It is the cleanest shop I've seen so far and everyone is friendly. Plus I love the Solana Beach vibe. I have 2 small tattoos done by Angel and he's great. Super nice guy and a great artist. I will definitely be coming here for future tattoos. High quality shop! Read Less

All I can say is wow.  Big Fish is one of the best tattoo shops I've been to.  Paula Hawthorne began updating my chest last night in one of many appointments to come and I am already extremely impressed.  Looking forward to working with her again and again.  Solid longevity in years devoted to tattooing and it shows in her line work, it's spectacular.  I sent her photos and met with her beforehand and she knew exactly what I wanted.  The shop is very clean and ran very efficiently, everyone that works there is super professional and friendly, including their apprentice.  I interviewed 5 other well-known shops/artists in San Diego and surrounding areas and Paula/Big Fish was my pick, and so far, I am very satisfied with my decision.  As always, I encourage everyone to interview multiple artists, but if you start here, you won't need to look any further.  Can't wait to see the final piece!  Thank you Paula :)!!! Read Less

Been tattooed here twice, once by Jordan and once by guest artist Knarly Gav.  Always impressed by this shop...they're tidy, efficient, kind, and helpful...and on top of all that, they're incredible artists!  Love Big Fish :))) Read Less

I should've known better than to trust Dave. First of all, I wanted to get a cover tattoo an I asked Dave to put red roses on top of it. To say the least, the petals do not even exemplify real rose petals, the two roses do not even look like one another...they're completely asymmetrical and one rose is larger than the other. When I walked in for my appointment, Dave decided to hand draw my the outline of it rather than take his actual time drawing it on a stencil. Also, I wouldn't mind if the underlying tattoo had shown through...as long as the roses look good. I am not only beyond devastated and angry that I have to live with such a botched tattoo for the rest of my life, I was stupid enough to follow through with the tattoo process even though I had a gut feeling that this just didn't seem right. I wasted hundred of dollars on a cover up when I could have easily used that money on either someone who knew what he or she was doing or laser removal. On another note, I called in asking for a touch up but then I later realized that this tattoo is too damaged for a repair. I will post a picture so you guys can have a better look at what I'm saying. Do not trust these people! Read Less

So it was a last minute decision but it was a long time urge to get this tattoo. I contacted a few people and no one wanted the challenge to help me out. I contacted big fish and talked to Mike Lopez, an up and coming bad ass artist with drive and talent. He said he'd be happy to look and see what I'm working with. He gave respectable alterations to my art and dove right in. It's literally my favorite piece and he was the most down to earth artist I've met here on the west coast. If you're looking for good art, good times, and good energy big fish is the way to go. Ask for Mike Lopez. He's a guest artist out here for now but will give you fantastic art at fair price. Read Less

My Big Fish Tattoo experience was first rate. When I arrived my tattoo artist, Angel, had already come up with a beautiful font and some placement options. He put my mind at ease, was helpful and thorough in explaining the process. I will recommend Big Fish to anyone who is considering a tattoo. Read Less

This place is amazing . Dave is one of the best artist and incredibly good at being an amazing boss. Paula is one the best people you will ever have the pleasure of meeting and incredibly talented. My chest was done by Dave we finished it a couple of years ago and to this day it looks amazing and new and I get compliments ALL the time . My sleeve was started out by a tattooer that didn't listen to what I wanted . So I asked Paula to help me and she has. Every time people ask me about my tattoos and take pictures they need to know everything I know about Paula. It's awesome .  The place has a killer location right next to the beach. If you are wondering where or who to be your artists don't doubt to talk to anyone in the shop. Love you guys! Miss you!! Read Less

I have gotten all of my tattoos here and the prices have been reasonable. The artists are respectful to your ideas and will talk with you and help you out. My last tattoo was very special to me as it is a memorial to the cats i have lost and the artist was very respectful to me and keeping it the way I wanted it. He helped me out with placing because i was having trouble with it. It meant so much to me that he respected my wish to keep it the way i had designed the tattoo. Love this place and everyone in it. Read Less

Big Fish Tattoo was an awesome environment to get my most recent tattoo. The staff is very welcoming and knowledgeable. The artist I worked with, Angel Lopez, is really a master of his craft and if you give him the opportunity to put his unique spin on your ideas you won't be disappointed. 10/10 would recommend. I'll definitely be returning again soon. Read Less

First time at Big Fish Tattoo and it's the best shop I've been to, to date. Personally, I'm loyal to my buddy Wyatt Vandergeest who has done most of my tattoos; all of the substantial ones. He's professional, collaborative, reliable and a true artist. Big Fish Tattoo has a great vibe and energy. I'll be back, youse! Read Less

I have other tattoos besides the cherry blossom that Dave added to my body art and his work is by far the best I have. I want to add his art to my other ones now so they can match the beauty of my cherry blossom. Thanks Dave Read Less

My wife has been getting tattooed by Mr. Hartman for years now. I have always been impressed when she returns from here sessions with him. The art is always like a masterpiece. My wife and I decided to do a tattoo/dinner date. We got tattooed together last night by Mr. Hartman himself. The experience, vibe, and tattoo, was work worth talking about. Dave has set the highest expectations and it shows not only in his art but in the way he treats people. I could not be more enthusiastic in my recommendation of Big Fish Tattoo!Get tattooed at Big Fish! Thanks again Dave!!B Read Less

Best Tattoo Shop on the West Coast!! Dave & Paula are amazing artists. The vibe in this shop is bonkers so positive. Old school hip hop with a little Bruce Lee vibe mixed in. Love this place. They tattooed my mom! Read Less

I'm sorry to have to be the one to break the 5-star bubble of Big Fish Tattoo, but it ain't all what it's cracked up to be. At least not for me.I've heard a lot of hype about Dave, so I decided to try him out. I gave him some freedom in making choices regarding my tattoo, which I have come to regret. What I thought would happen is that, because of the hype, the tattoo would turn out amazing no matter what he did. A lot of people proclaim that Dave is amazeballs! I beg to differ. Perhaps he's good at a certain style, one that I don't like. But I digress.I thought he'd at least check in with me about color choice, design, etc. When I asked for changes to be made, it wasn't like, "Sure man, this is your tattoo! Let's do it up the way you want!" But instead was more like, "I guess, if that's what you want." After the tattoo is all said and done, I see uneven lines, areas where the outline is thicker and areas where it's thinner (no consistency), and there's even some scarring under the tattoo (raised skin). There is also good color choice and good work within, but again, it's just not consistent. And it's just not 5 stars. I feel bad leaving this review because I like the people there, but I personally do not like the tattoo, and want people to be able to see another opinion. Read Less

Big fish tattoo sets the standard for what a tattoo shop should be. Located right on hwy 101, its a breezy and laid back, full of palm trees sets the atmosphere for a relaxing visit. When you first walk in you notice how clean and open everything is. With white walls and all the artwork in frames and a big window let's you peak in and see the tattoos being done, it feels incredibly professional, clean, and crisp. Unlike other shops in the area that are cluttered, feels scrambled and disorganized and things done behind dark walls and doors, big fish is organized and really makes you feel comfortable right off the bat. With old school hip hop playing and the sound of tattoos being applied its quite the experience. The artists- the artists there are amazing. Their work is amazing and really know their skill. Dave does work that would win awards, with crisp and clean readable tattoos gives you that extra needed confidence boost going in knowing a tattoo from him is going to look fantastic. Paula can have the same said for her work as well. She has an incredible portfolio of beautiful tattoos that would win awards. With a soft touch and great work any tattoo you are going to have done, know they are some of the best of the best. Both artists are friendly and understanding and willing to work with what ever you the customer wants. The cleanliness of the shop matched with the chill vibe and the ocean breeze blowing in through the doors is more than enough to make you feel at home. I have personally gotten all 4 of my tattoos done there at big fish and couldn't be more happy with the work. Although they may be a little priceir than other shops the atmosphere and artists and the experience is worth every penny of it. I will be coming back for all my work there at big fish. Read Less

Paula is awesome! Very professional and the staff is great. Made an appointment after my friend went in to get a tattoo and I saw their work and how clean it was. Went in to get a tattoo fixed and came out with a brand "new" tattoo that looks amazing. Im very happy with my results :) I would definitely recommend this place to anyone. Read Less

I went to big fish tattoo after looking at reviews on Yelp. It was for my first tattoo. I couldn't be more happy with my experience. Jordan was an amazing artist and I will definitely choose him again for my next. He got me hooked. His knowledge and skillful hand kept me calm and confident throughout the whole process. I'll be back for sure. Thanks! Read Less

It's easy to become jaded when one has worked many hours at mastering their craft. I've walked into shops only to walk out due to an artist talking down on a costumer. I don't care how good you are I don't want any association with that. The Vibe one gets at BigFish tattoo is a true genuine care for the craft and customer service is top notch. This is a custom shop that prefers to create a masterpiece with and for the client. It's not your average walk-in and pick flash off the shop wall. However if that's what you want these guys can do it. I've been working with them on a full torso piece and it's all original. They take my ideas and work them until I'm satisfied. I highly recommend this shop for anyone who is looking for a custom tattoo by artists who have a genuine love and care for their craft. Read Less

This tattoo shop is fantastic.  Small, clean with three artists-one is a woman which always impresses me.  I've had two tattoos done here.  Both are dates in Roman Numeral form.  The first was done by Gavin, who is no longer there in March 2012.  The second was done in February 2015 by Jordan.  Both turned out fantastic, and I'm feeling the need for a third... So Big Fish here I come... Read Less

I am so ridiculously happy with my tattoo. it was hard to show it while I was there because I was feeling a little light headed but I promise you Jordan I am stoked!!! It is exactly what I wanted, placement wise, length wise, and the fact that you drew it on the spot and completely nailed it lets me know I definitely chose the right place! So glad you were able to get me in today!! I am so happy and can't wait to come back in the future! Thank you for being so awesome! :) Read Less

Inviting and mellow atmosphere and Paula is your girl! She took the time to help me design the perfect tribute tattoo to my son Henry who has Autism. It's perfect!!! I can't stop looking at it!!! ❤️ the lines are so intricate and it's just so well done. I've had it for a little more than 24 hours and I've gotten so many compliments on it and how it's so well done! Bravo Paula Hathaway! You have a forever client Read Less

Had my second experience at Big Fish...did a few small tattoos on both my wrists about 2.5 years ago with Paula (I believe was her name) and was a great first 'ink-ing' experience.Walked in on my birthday a few days ago and asked if they had time for me that afternoon to create a new piece (specifically a Merkabah) on my right forearm.  Jordan was extremely helpful, asked me to send him some examples of what I wanted via email and come back at 3pm to get the work done.Was immediately impressed by the sketches he did when I arrived back later that afternoon and during our conversation even learned that Jordan was an animator prior to becoming a tattoo artist -- not to mention he apprenticed his tattoo skills with a pretty badass old school guy.  Conclusion: This guy can definitely make beautiful work.  I saw a lot of examples of people who had created similar designs and I was very cautious about what I wanted because online examples showed some pretty horrendous shading jobs.  I showed Jordan exactly what I didn't want and he assured me it would not look like that.  He did a STELLAR job on the shading and I couldn't be happier with the way the piece turned out.  Enjoyed our conversation as well -- seemed like a really nice guy and I'd recommend his service to anyone. Already thinking about going back for another one on the opposite arm :) f#c*king tattoos Read Less

So often, when you check into a place on Yelp, you get a special offer.  It could be an appetizer, a free drink, or 10% off; here at Big Fish, I would so love to see a "FREE SKULL, HEART, OR KANJI BONUS TATTOO WITH CHECK-IN!!!"You know, I have no ink on me (or strings for that matter).  And I've never begrudged anyone who does, either.  I've seen some hits and misses, some brilliant portraits that look perfect and some truly frightening screw-ups that serve as comic fodder on pop-up websites.  My lady love has two of her own, a simple design on her neck and a more intricate religious design from a Disturbed album cover with additional lining on her lower back.Yet, that isn't enough!  With a few scars on her hand that she wanted to cover up, we came down to Big Fish to see what they could do.  Paula, her chosen artist, quickly drew up a few suggestions and we were both extremely impressed by the skill and detail she displayed in such a short sketch time.  So, we set up an appointment and came back a week later to get the job done.The tattoo covered a good area, a flower of about 2.5 inches square in size along with a small heart on her finger, and was done within a single session of just about an hour.  My girlfriend was very happy with the finished product and both of us had an excellent time while it was getting done.  The staff was laid back, very open to questions, and extremely nice people (considering you're paying them to inject ink into your skin and essentially scar you for life with a beautiful image of your design).Add in the fact that they play great techno (my kind of music, not her's) and offer to share a beer when you're done and I really have nothing but praise for this place!  So much, in fact, that she's already planning to come back and have a few more done in the future.And while I didn't get "***PROPERTY OF JULIE***" tattooed on my scrotum as was suggested, there is always next year. Read Less

I've been here twice and I have loved every moment of being here!! The first time I came here was to get a simple twinkle star tattoo on my right wrist. The gal who did it was very nice and professional (everything I look for in an artist) and was able to design something very quick of what I wanted. Granted its very small and simple, but she added a few highlights to make it pop and her own personal touch which I was happy about. The second time I came here was this past weekday. I stopped by when they opened and a gentleman greeted me and asked what I wanted. Jordan is the artist that I have been searching for!! Nice and talented, this man can do wonders with his needle!! I got an octopus on my right thigh, and the small deatils he added to the head and shading just makes him pop off my leg. I am so happy I was able to stop by and get inked up by a fellow sea lover!! Jordan is the tattoo artist that I will be sticking with for life!! Read Less

Came out from Colorado on vacation and came to Big Fish with two of my friends based on a recommendation from a friend's friend. I was definitely not disappointed. The vibe you get at Big Fish is extremely positive and every artist there is extremely talented and passionate about their work. Plus, they are friendly and professional and will listen to anything you have to say and do their best to accommodate what you want. Plus, they were bumping old school hip hop which is great in my book.Read Less