Mattole River - Patrolia, CA

The Mattole River near Petrolia, California, offers a challenging and pristine angling experience within the remote "Lost Coast" region. Its primary species are wild steelhead (winter/spring) and Chinook salmon (fall), navigating its undammed, clear waters.

Angling for steelhead predominantly involves drift fishing with roe or jigs, or precise fly fishing with nymphs and streamers, demanding extreme stealth due to water clarity. Salmon fishing, when permitted, utilizes heavier gear with roe or plugs.

Access is highly challenging, often requiring travel on unpaved roads and significant hiking; carry-in watercraft are common. Regulations are exceptionally stringent and rigorously enforced, mandating barbless hooks, often restricting bait, and imposing precise seasonal and bag limits (frequently catch-and-release for wild fish). All anglers must possess a valid California fishing license and meticulously review current CDFW regulations for the Mattole River system, ensuring both compliance and the preservation of this unique wilderness fishery.