Between its coastal waters and freshwater lakes, the varied landscape and waterways in the Golden State create a paradise for anglers looking to add to their bucket list. If you’re looking to choose your next fishing destination in California, we’re here to help.
So, get your fishing boat ready and check out our list of top spots to cast a line for fishing in California.
The California Delta
The California Delta is a massive inland river delta and estuary located in Northern California. With over 1,000 miles of waterways and a plethora of fish species, it’s a top spot for many anglers in the U.S.
Available fish species include large and smallmouth bass, bullhead and channel catfish, salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, bluegill, crawdads, and more.
Anglers trying to choose a location within the delta have multiple options to choose from. Various shorelines, piers, recreation areas, preserves, and parks offer fishing opportunities. You can also choose to head out in your fishing boat and cast a line just about anywhere.
If you’re feeling competitive, numerous derbies are held within the Delta during the spring and winter months — some of which offer pretty sweet prizes.
Don’t forget: anyone planning a fishing trip in the delta needs all of the required permits and licenses.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park offers nearly 1,200 square miles of wilderness, waterfalls, winding rivers, and 58 permanent streams to explore. It also boasts a wide variety of fish species, including bass, crappie, sunfish, and trout.
Fishing season for river and stream species within the park begins on the last Saturday in April. The park also offers both sport and fly fishing opportunities. However, certain special regulations may apply to anglers within the park.
For example, certain fish species (such as rainbow trout) are catch-and-release only within certain areas of the park. Additionally, various species may have take limits or size limits. Anyone planning on fishing within the park should familiarize themselves with the restrictions before casting their line.
Fishing The McCloud River
Located east of the Sacramento River, the McCloud River stretches just over 77 miles beneath Mount Shasta. The river is known for its scenic views, including multiple waterfalls, and for being a fishing destination for Californians.
The River is home to various species, including multiple types of trout, and offers a variety of different fishing landscapes depending on your chosen spot. In fact, it’s so varied that it’s often described as being two rivers, depending on whether you fish above or below the reservoir (McCloud Lake), resulting from the construction of an earth dam in 1965.
If you’re fishing above the reservoir, you’ll find a smaller portion of the river, which has become a popular destination for families since it’s easier to wade and is home to multiple campgrounds. Below the reservoir, waters are deeper and larger, making them a popular destination for fly fishermen.
If you don’t mind working a bit harder to reel in your catch, you can hike the trail to the falls located mid-river. You’ll find fewer visitors and plenty of fish in multiple pools below the flowing waters of the falls. Anglers may also head to the reservoir for beautiful mountain views and plenty of rainbow and brown trout.
Clear Lake
Clear Lake is a bass fisherman’s paradise in Lake County, California, just south of Mendocino National Forest. It’s also the largest natural freshwater lake located wholly within the State — and it’s got a pretty stellar view.
Two-thirds of the fish caught from the lake are largemouth bass, but it’s also home to channel catfish, perch, and crawfish. Many fish species also become tasty fat-filled meals for the bass population, reaching double-digit weights (the record catch was just over 17 lbs).
If you’re planning to cast your line in Clear Lake, rumor has it you can find success just about anywhere. This makes it a great time to try out new techniques and different bait options or just relax and wait for a bite. Anglers can also choose from shallower areas to much deeper areas, depending on where they prefer to fish.
The lake produces well most of the year, but anglers who frequent the lake tend to prefer the spring and fall months. If you’re able to visit throughout the year, you’ll also enjoy the lake’s color-changing tricks — from green to blue to copper colored, depending on the time of year.
Clear Lake is the perfect choice if you’re looking to reel in a good-sized bass, enjoy some scenic views, hone your fishing skills, or try out some new techniques.
Fishing at Shasta Lake
Located in Shasta County, Shasta Lake is the state’s largest Reservoir and third-largest body of water. Featuring stunning views of Mount Shasta, bright blue waters, and a variety of fish species for the taking, Shasta Lake is another of California’s many prime fishing locations.
Popular species for anglers who frequent the lake include a variety of bass and trout species, salmon, bluegill, and crappie, among others. The lake offers multiple marinas, docks, and launch points, so finding a spot to get on the water and cast your line is easy.
There are also fishing boat rentals and a few bait shops available, so if you need to stock up on bait or you don’t have a boat, you can still head to the lake and pick up what you need for a successful day.
Shoreline fishing is also a popular option, and there are several spots to choose from around the lake, including several coves and points accessible by either road or trail, depending on which you choose. Visitors should note that private properties are located around the lake — so be sure you’re familiar with the lay of the land and respect the rights of property owners.
Stay Safe (and Have Fun) When Fishing in California
After reading this guide, we hope you’re excited about fishing in California! However, we also hope you’re excited to prioritize safety when on the water.
Whether you fish alone or with a fishing buddy or your family, understanding how to stay safe is crucial — especially if you fish from a boat. Taking the California boater education course through BOATsmart! is the best way to learn everything you need to know to boat safely. Plus, our course is fun and engaging!
So, as you plan your trip, make sure boater education is on your list of to-dos. Then, pick one of the fishing spots we mentioned today and haul in a boatload of fish!
Originally published in June 2020. Content most recently reviewed and updated for accuracy and relevancy September 10, 2024.
