Trout fishing in California is considered one of the best types of fishing available within the borders of this west coast state. The state has thousands of miles of streams and rivers that are teeming with trout. Whether you want the challenge of the rushing waters of a high mountain stream or you'd rather wade out into a gentle flowing river to try your luck, California has an opportunity for you.
Where To Find Them
In addition to the numerous stocked lakes throughout California, river fishing is just as abundant. You just have to know where to look.
On the western side of the Sierra range, the mountain streams in the area are typically good trout waters. The Kings River in the same region as well as the area of the Kern River upstream from Johnsondale Bridge is excellent for catching wild trout. Fishing the Merced and other smaller streams in the western Sierras and the Central Valley will provide you with a good chance to catch fish.
In the eastern Sierras, near the border with Nevada, the East Walker River is an easily accessible and trout-filled fisherman's paradise. The areas along both sides of the state line are great for catching trout.
Species
California is home to several varieties of trout, all of which are sought after by anglers throughout the state.
According to the California Department of Fish and Game website, the state has populations of Coastal Rainbow-Steelhead Trout, three varieties of Redband Trout, Bull Trout, three varieties of Cutthroats, the Eagle Lake Rainbow Trout, and two varieties of Golden Trout.
Limit Regulations
Keep in mind when you are fishing in California that there are strict limits on the number and size of trout you may take from the water. Limits vary by season based on the estimates by the state's Department of Fish and Game concerning the prior year's harvest and the current numbers.
Trout limits may include a maximum number of fish or a minimum size. If you catch too many of a specific species or land a trout that is smaller then the minimum you should immediately release it back into the water unharmed. Some waters are protected and allow only catch and release fishing throughout the year. Check with the California DFG for the current regulations.
Fly Fishing
For many trout fishing enthusiasts in California, there is no better way to catch a trout than with a fly. Fly-fishing is a method of fishing in which the angler casts a nearly weightless lure, a fly, with a long rod and a specific type of fishing line. The lure momentarily taps the top of the water in hopes that the trout will strike at the lure. The technique involves whipping the lure on and off the water to recreate the action of a tempting insect at the surface.
When fishing in rivers and streams in California, fly-fishing is among the most common methods for catching trout.
Licenses
You must obtain a fishing license in order to legally catch trout in California if you are age 16 or older. Licenses are valid for one calendar year and may be obtained through the California Department of Fish and Game website or at any DFG license sales office.
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