I live out West too, and bought a used Seafarer 228 a few years back. I hired a reputable surveyor to check her out, as she was for sale on the east coast.
The surveyor told me he would be comfortable in 4-6' seas as far as safety goes. I also had a mechanic do a compression check on the cylinders.
I used go out of Half Moon Bay for salmon in a 17' boat, single 50HP engine 30 years ago. I picked my days of course, but I was young and reckless as I look back. I would not do that today.
My boat does not have trim tabs, that wouldn't be a deal killer for me if the price was right. If you are handy you can install them later if you end up purchasing the vessel.
Mostly what has been previously said is my experience as well, I don't want to be out in heavy chop. The boat can take it, but it's a real PIA to fish in those conditions, so I stay home.
Likely you won't be going too far offshore, but the Bay Area winds can be fierce, and the seas there rougher than most because the continental shelf rises so quickly right off the coast, and the prevailing winds usually come from the west. You will want to choose your days wisely.
Good you are asking these questions!
