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Most popular fishing locations in California

January 14, 2025 7:39 am PST

Most popular fishing locations in California

Here are 10 of the most popular fishing locations in California:


1.Lake Tahoe: This beautiful freshwater lake, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is a popular destination for trout fishing, as well as kokanee salmon, mackinaw (lake trout), and bass.


2.San Francisco Bay: The San Francisco Bay offers a variety of fishing opportunities for anglers, including halibut, striped bass, sturgeon, and salmon.


3.Sacramento River: This river is home to a variety of fish species, including salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and striped bass. Salmon fishing is particularly popular here during the fall run.


4.Mammoth Lakes: This popular Eastern Sierra destination is a great spot for trout fishing. Several lakes and streams in the area are stocked with rainbow, brown, and brook trout.


5.Trinity River: This beautiful river in Northern California is home to a variety of fish species, including salmon, steelhead, and rainbow trout.


6.Lake Shasta: This large reservoir in Northern California is known for its bass fishing, but also offers opportunities for trout, catfish, and other species.


7.Owens River: This scenic river in the Eastern Sierra offers excellent trout fishing, with the upper section of the river designated as a wild trout fishery.


8.Russian River: This popular Northern California river is known for its steelhead and salmon fishing, but also offers opportunities for smallmouth bass, catfish, and other species.


9.Pyramid Lake: This large desert lake in Southern California is a popular destination for fishing Lahontan cutthroat trout, which can reach massive sizes.


10.Big Bear Lake: This picturesque mountain lake in Southern California offers fishing for trout, bass, catfish, and other species, with the annual Big Bear Troutfest drawing anglers from around the state.


It's important to note that fishing regulations and seasons can vary depending on the location and species being targeted, so be sure to check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website for the latest information.