Opening Day of California Trout Season

It's Fishmas Time!


Opening day of the California trout fishing season is known by some as Fishmas — the most exciting day of the year for trout anglers. This is the day lakes and rivers, closed to fishing for the past several months, come alive with eager trout and ambitious anglers. Make sure you have your fishing license in hand before hitting the water.

The general trout opener will commence on Saturday, April 29, one hour before sunrise. Given California's significant snowpack and associated run off, many rivers will be experiencing swift and cold water conditions which can be dangerous. CDFW reminds anglers to be cautious when fishing streams or rivers for the opener. Given the potential high water conditions, focusing on lakes and reservoirs may be the best bet for anglers. Most lakes, rivers and streams have a limit of five trout per day and 10 in possession. However, regulations differ on season dates, bag limits, minimum and maximum size limits, and gear restrictions.

2017 - 2018 Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations