Fall Weather is Perfect for Fishing

Autumn in California means cooler temperatures, leaves turning color and very hungry fish. Below are some of the many fishing opportunities the Golden State has to offer this fall.

Fall is Prime Time for Fly Fishing

As far as fly fishing in California goes, October has it all. The hardest decision you have to make is where to fish, because the fishing may be good anywhere. Should you head to the high country to take one last shot at the lakes and streams, hit the October caddis hatch on north state rivers, search for big brown trout moving out of lakes to spawn, or target the mythical steelhead on the Klamath and Trinity rivers? These are tough choices, but no matter where you end up, the fishing and scenery are sure to be spectacular. Use CDFW's fishing guide tool to help narrow down your decision. More Info

Cast a Line from One of California's Public Fishing Piers

Fishing on one of the many public piers along the coast is the next best thing to being on a boat in the open water. Fall is a great time to catch a variety of fish species, so grab your fishing gear and head to one of California's fishing piers. More Info

California Spiny Lobster Recreational Season is Open Statewide

Except for a closure around Anacapa Island due to high levels of domoic acid, the California spiny lobster recreational season is open and goes through March 20, 2019. California spiny lobster is a highly sought-after target of both California's recreational and commercial fisheries. A valid California fishing license and a spiny lobster report card are required for the take of lobsters. Report cards must be submitted to CDFW by April 30, 2019. A summary of recreational lobster fishing regulations, frequently asked questions, and other information about California spiny lobster can be found on the CDFW website. More Info

Science Spotlight: Increasing the Genetic Diversity of White Abalone

At nearly 130 feet underwater, CDFW abalone researcher Dr. Laura Rogers-Bennett didn’t have much time. Her dive computer told her it was time to ascend, which meant that she would have to stop searching for the endangered white abalone hiding in the waving fields of red and gold gorgonians. More Info

Featured Scientist: Nicholas Simpson

Nicholas "Nick" Simpson is a senior environmental scientist (specialist) with CDFW) Northern Region, based in Eureka. He works in the Timberland Conservation Program helping to manage natural communities on privately owned timberlands. He is responsible for ensuring that timber operations will not lead to significant or long-term negative impacts on aquatic communities. More Info

CDFW Fish Truck Tracker

CDFW's efforts to raise and plant millions of trout each year for the enjoyment of anglers can be enjoyed firsthand this month. To view trout planting schedules, visit the fish planting website. The fish planting schedule is updated in real time by CDFW hatchery staff. Fish Planting Schedule