The McCloud River and its tributaries offer excellent fishing opportunities. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife regularly stocks the Upper McCloud River at Lower Falls ... morewith Rainbow trout. Anglers also occasionally catch German brown trout from earlier stockings or those that traveled up from the McCloud Reservoir, and Brook trout. Remember that the Bull Trout or Dolly Varden is an endangered species and should be released if caught.
The Lower McCloud River, from McCloud Reservoir to Shasta Lake, has been designated a Wild Trout Stream by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. This portion of the river is not artificially stocked and has special fishing regulations. Only artificial flies and lures with barbless hooks can be used. At the McCloud River Preserve, located one mile below Ah-Di- Na Campground, fishing is limited to catch and release only. Consult the map on the back, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Regulations for further details and restrictions.
Endangered species - The McCloud River is the only fishery in California which supports the now rare Bull Trout, also known as the Dolly Varden Trout. Actually a member of the Char family, it is found between Lower Falls and Shasta Lake. Because it is considered an endangered species by the State of California, it must be released if caught.
On the Water Fishing Reports
Started Here Reports
The river closed on November 15th, 2015 for the year. The McCloud opens for the 2016 season on Saturday April 30th.
The last two weeks on the McCloud River have been great fishing. On one day it was a crazy number, and on the other one of the largest Rainbows I have ever seen. The weather cooled, ... morethen it rained, and then the river lit up. It has been excellent fishing since but alas she closes today, November 15 for a much needed rest. Mark your calendar April 30, 2016 is when she opens again.
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