The Six Rivers National Forest fisheries program is a nationally recognized leader in anadromous fisheries habitat management. (Anadromous fish spend part of their lives in both fresh and salt water.) Six Rivers National Forest is responsible for the protection and habitat enhancement of over 250 miles of anadromous fisheries. Good management results in a continuous supply of fish for recreational and commercial fishing, fish viewing, and food for wildlife such as the osprey and bear.
What You Can Catch
Chinook Salmon: Also called King Salmon. Averages 20 pounds, but can weigh up to 70 pounds. California's most important salmon to both anglers and commercial fishing. Chinook spawn from October through December in the Smith River.
Steelhead Trout: Average 10 pounds and max out at 27 pounds. Steelhead are an ocean-going version of rainbow trout. Fish for steelhead December through March.
Cutthroat Trout: Range from 8 to 21 inches in length. Fishing season is late spring and summer.
A current fishing license is required! By releasing all fish under 8 inches, you will be giving these young fish a chance to grow into "whoppers" and spawn.
The Lower Trinity Ranger District
The Lower Trinity Ranger District is a tributary to four main watersheds: the Trinity River, South Fork Trinity River, Mad River and Redwood Creek. There are many fishing opportunities in the district, with 198 miles of rivers and streams that contain anadromous fisheries and resident trout populations.
Highway 299 winds its way from the coast along the Trinity River, connecting two major highways in California: Highway 101 on the coast, and Interstate 5 near Redding. The district office is located in Willow Creek on Highway 96, about one-half mile from the corner of Highways 299 and 96.
Fishing on the Trinity River is readily accessible off Highways 96 and 299. For trout fishing, contact district personnel for directions and uses of the backcountry roads.
The Orleans Ranger District
The Orleans Ranger District is tributary to one main watershed, the Klamath River. Steelhead are present from September into April, but the best fishing conditions occur in the fall. There are numerous opportunities for trout fishing in the more remote areas of the district, including five lakes. Fishing in the Klamath River is easily accessible from Highway 96.
The Mad River Ranger District
Fishing is permitted year-round on Ruth Lake. You will find a good population of Trout, Bass, Kokanee Salmon and Catfish. Fishing is permitted from the Saturday preceding Memorial Day to November 15th. For further information contact the Department of Fish and Game.
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