Fishing Returns to Klamath, Trinity and Sacramento Rivers
After three years of closures, California anglers will once again be able to fish for Chinook salmon on parts of the Klamath, Trinity, and Sacramento river systems this summer and fall.
The reopening, announced by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), marks a major shift after multiple seasons of restrictions tied to drought conditions, low salmon numbers, and ongoing concerns about population survival.
For many Northern California fishing communities, the return of Chinook season is significant. Salmon fishing has long been both a recreational tradition and an economic driver for river towns, guides, and local businesses throughout the region. 
Under the new regulations, late spring-run Chinook fishing on the Klamath River opens July 1 and runs through mid-August, while the Trinity River season continues through the end of August. Fall-run Chinook opportunities begin later in August and September, depending on the river system.
CDFW also announced expanded inland salmon fishing opportunities on the Feather, American, and Mokelumne rivers after shortened seasons in recent years.
The reopening comes during a period of major change for California salmon habitat, including ongoing restoration work throughout the Klamath Basin following the removal of four hydroelectric dams last year — the largest dam removal project in U.S. history.
“The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is incredibly encouraged to see our public and private collaborative efforts pay off,” CDFW Director Meghan Hertel said in the announcement. “It is a moment of genuine celebration for everyone invested in the health of our watersheds.”
State officials say the updated regulations are intended to provide renewed fishing access while continuing long-term salmon conservation and recovery efforts.
Source: California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)
