Meandering Angler: Trout season underway

While the COVID-19 pandemic has triggered some closures of boat-launch areas and state and local parks near rivers and lakes, recreational fishing is still allowed per the usual seasonal regulations. On Saturday, April 25, trout season opened on many California streams, including our own Sonoma Creek (above the waterfall in Sugarloaf Park).

Inyo, Mono and Alpine Counties are delaying their trout opener to May 31. But you should check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Regulations before you head out, because there are many rivers and lakes that have regulations and seasons that are unique. And remember, you also need a California fishing license. Check wildlife.ca.gov/fishing.

Those who are looking forward to ocean salmon fishing will need to wait until May 1, but that too is subject to change. The projected salmon season for the coastal waters off Sonoma county is May 1 to Nov. 8.

Meanwhile, some professional guides like Kirk Portocarrero are working and reporting good fishing. Kirk guides on Lake Shasta and the Sacramento River between Redding and Anderson, as well as other area waters. For more information email outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com.

Many anglers are simply finding access points to wade and fish on their own. Because of the lack of rain, waters like the upper Sacramento River and the McCloud River (since April 25) are fishable right now. There are lots of access points, and very few anglers, so it’s easy to maintain healthy distance.

There are also wading access points on the lower Sac near Redding. The best source of information is The Fly Shop in Redding (theflyshop.com).

A bit coser to Sonoma, Keith Fraser at the Loch Lomond Bait Shop in San Rafael is open and selling live bait like crazy to anglers who find safe space to fish from shore between the Loch Lomond Marina all along the Marin Shoreline through China Camp and Paradise Park. The parking lots in most parks are closed, but you can park along the road and walk in, as long as you are mindful of safe social distancing. To get more information call Keith at (415) 456-0321.