Trout season 2026 is open across California with prime fishing destinations and local exceptions to know

One of California's most beloved outdoor traditions is officially underway. The 2026 statewide general trout season opened Saturday, April 25, drawing thousands of anglers to mountain lakes and rivers from Mammoth Lakes and Bishop to the scenic stretches around Burney. Whether you have already been out on the water or are still planning your first trip of the season, there is plenty of great fishing ahead — and the timing could not be better for getting outside and enjoying California's stunning spring landscapes. For outdoor lovers closer to the Folsom and El Dorado County area, a few important local exceptions apply. The South Fork of the American River in El Dorado County and the American River and its tributaries do not open for trout take until May 23. Until then, those waters are open for catch-and-release fishing only, with artificial lures and no barbed hooks permitted. Tributaries of Lake Tahoe follow the same May 23 catch-and-release schedule with artificial lures and barbless hooks required. Checking the 2026 California Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations before heading out is strongly advised, as bag limits, gear restrictions and dates vary by location. All anglers ages 16 and older need a valid California sport fishing license, available through CDFW's online license portal, the CDFW License App or a licensed local sales agent. For those looking to plan the perfect outing, the California Inland Recreational Angler Survey offers real angler-reported data on catch species, size and overall experience to help identify the best spots. Thrill-seekers can also take on the Heritage Trout Challenge, which tasks anglers with landing six forms of California native trout from their historic drainages. More information on licenses, trout plants and fishing locations is available at wildlife.ca.gov.