Looking to plan a fishing trip to Central California? Try the Tuolumne and Merced River areas. The rivers date back thousands of years, making the area rich in history. There are plenty of spots along the river for fishing fun, making these two rivers the most popular recreational destinations in the area. The Tuolumne and Merced Rivers also flow through some of the most beautiful Central California countrysides, giving travelers a lot to see and do during their visit.
Tuolumne River
The Tuolumne River has been home to human inhabitants for more than 10,000 years. It provides a source of hydroelectric power for Central California as well as popular fishing areas. Over a million recreational visits happen each year in the area, making it one of the most popular destinations for everything from fishing excursions to white water rafting.
Merced River
The Merced River is 145 miles long and a tributary of the San Joaquin River. It travels through the beautiful Yosemite National Park and is the primary source for Yosemite Valley. The river formed over 10 million years ago, giving the area a rich history. It has seen everything from Native American inhabitants to the dawn of the railroad and beyond. The area is home to over 37 species of fish, 127 species of bird, and 140 species of insects and invertebrates.
- Sacramento Sucker. The Sacramento sucker tends to be a spearfishing prize. They are typically less than two feet long, and they eat bottom-dwelling insects and other small fishes.
- Smallmouth bass. The smallmouth bass is part of the sunfish family. It is a popular game fish and one of the more prominent species in the area. The maximum recorded size was 12 pounds and 27 inches with the males being smaller than the females.
- Largemouth bass. The largemouth bass eats small insects and other fish. Prey for the bass can be as big as 50% of the bass’ body length and they prefer to hang out in areas that are clear.
- Carp. Carp tend to provide a welcomed challenge for most anglers. They are a rough fish, making up a lot of commercial fishing in the area. They are also popular as ornamental decorations in ponds and aquariums.
- Chinook salmon. The Tuolumne and Merced River areas are the southernmost location to carry Chinook salmon in North America. They contain high levels of Omega-3s, making them popular for food purposes.
- Pacific lamprey. The adult Pacific lamprey can grow to be about 31 inches in length. They were an important source of ceremonial food for the Native American tribes. After they spawn, the adults usually die within four days.
- Striped bass. Wildlife officials introduced striped bass to the California area for recreational fishing. They respond to a variety of angling methods, making them a popular catch among fishing enthusiasts.
Reach Out to The Best Fishing Guides in the Tuolumne and Merced River Area
If you are planning to visit the Tuolumne and Merced River area for a fishing trip, contact one of these guides for the top information on California trips. They can help you find the best fishing spots, complete with where to stay, places to eat and more.