The San Joaquin Delta is in Northern California. It has existed for 10,000 years and formed because of melting glaciers. As the connection area for California’s water system, it is also one of the largest estuaries in North America. With over 500 different species living in the waters, there are plenty of great fishing spots along the riverbanks.
Here’s a list of some of the species available for fishing in the Northern California area:
- Bluegill Sunfish. Bluegill prefer quiet waters filled with hiding places. The smaller Bluegills come towards the shore during the day, while the larger fish prefer to stay in the deeper areas.
- Redear Sunfish. The Redear Sunfish looks and acts a lot like the Bluegill Sunfish, except for coloration and a larger size. They prefer to settle near logs and vegetation in the San Joaquin Delta.
- Largemouth and smallmouth bass. Both largemouth and smallmouth bass provide an active fishing experience for anglers of any skill level.
- Striped bass. Spring spawning season is the best time to catch a striped bass, but they can also be active in the fall. Typically, September to June there is a good chance of a catch. California regulations state you can only bag two a day with a minimum size of 18 inches.
- Crappie. Crappies are great for the table. They like to gather around and under logs, weeds, and rocks. They are most often caught in the cool spring and fall weather. They tend to feed on the surface in the early morning or later in the evening.
- Bullhead Catfish. Bullhead catfish can be strong, so appropriate tackle is a must. They live anywhere in the San Joaquin Delta and at any time during the year. They tend to go out to deeper depths in the winter. They feed most actively at night, using touch and smell.
- Channel Catfish. Channel Catfish prefer clear waters but can tolerate muddy habitats when needed. They eat their food both dead and alive, consisting of frogs, fish, insects, plant material, crayfish, worms, and snails. They are typically found near debris like logs, plants, and rocks.
- Shad. Shad is an excellent game fish. The best season for Shad is April to June when the water reaches 58 degrees. The Shad head upstream to spawn, increasing the numbers in the San Joaquin Delta. Some types of Shad require regulations while others do not.
- Salmon. There are several different species of salmon in California. The Chinook or king salmon spawn in clean oxygenated water and then die two weeks later.
- Steelhead trout. Steelhead trout are almost the same as rainbow trout except they migrate to the ocean during their first or second year. They then return to the river during their third year to spawn. The ones that migrate to the ocean are typically bigger in size than the ones who don’t, and they change color from freshwater to ocean water.
- Sturgeon. White sturgeon can weigh up to 1300 lbs while the Green Sturgeon can weigh as much as 350 lbs. They are most active from the start of winter until early in the summer season.
Contact These Top Fishing Guides for Your Trip to the San Joaquin Delta
The top fishing guides in the San Joaquin Delta area know the best times and places for fishing success. For more information, reach out to these guides to plan the best fishing trip to the San Joaquin Delta.