Northern California is home to several National Forests and parks, providing diverse wildlife and species of fish for any angler’s delight. Enjoy a deep sea fishing excursion or try your luck on one of the popular piers.
Northern California encompasses the 48 counties in the north of the state. The largest populated areas include the San Francisco Bay area, Greater Sacramento, and the Lake Tahoe-Reno area. The area has a rich history as the home of the California gold rush, to the home of some of the most influential companies such as Apple, Hewlett Packard, Google, Yahoo! and eBay. The Travers Air Base is also in the area, home to the largest Air Force base on the west coast.
Northern California is home to many National Forests, providing diverse wildlife and fishing opportunities. One of the best-known parks is Yosemite National Park. Others include the Redwood National Park, Death Valley National Park, Pinnacles National Park, and Lassen Volcanic National Park. The climate covers multiple climates from the very warm to snow in the winter. The Sacramento region can reach temperatures of over 100 degrees in the summer while snow covers the mountains from the middle of January to February.
Saltwater Fishing
There are plenty of coastal opportunities to fish in Northern California. With miles of coastal shoreline to choose from, surf fishing offers a great low-cost option. With no need for a boat, anglers can grab their pole and a spot in the sand to enjoy all day fishing opportunities. Pier fishing is usually the best option for first-timers. It does not require a lot of fishing equipment or fancy technique, but still provides an opportunity for a catch. The pier offers coverage for the fish from the sun and from large predators, making it a favorite hangout spot. With coastal fishing, you can also move your spot up and down the coast at will, finding the good fishing spots as needed.
For the more advanced angler, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a boat and head out to sea. Fishing excursions are available anywhere from half a day trip for the whole family up to a 15-day fishing adventure for the advanced angler. Hiring a chartered trip gives you the advantage of all the latest equipment including GPS technology to locate the schools of fish. Your local guide will know the most about the area, giving you the best opportunity to make a trophy-worthy catch.
Freshwater
The possibilities for fishing in Northern California are endless. From the coast inward to freshwater, there are many different species which frequent the area at different times of the year. Northern California is home to many different lakes, reservoirs and rivers, all perfect to try out your fishing skills. Bass fishing is a favorite in the area, with the state record fish being just ½ a pound shy of the national record. Trout and salmon are also abundant.
Fish Species in Northern California
There are many species of fish that call Northern California home. From deep sea species to freshwater species, there is truly something for everyone. Here is a short list of some of the popular species found in the area:
- Bass
- Catfish
- Walleye
- Crappie
- Steelhead
- Stripers
- Trout
- Panfish
- Salmon
- Halibut
- Lingcod
- Rockfish
Seek Advice From These Top Fishing Guides for Your Fishing Trip to Northern California.
Consider these guides for your next fishing trip to Northern California. They are available to help you with all of your planning needs and can assist you with the best places to stay plus the best local sights.