Northern California conjures images of towering redwood forests and breathtaking stretches of coastline in the minds of many, but it is also one of the world’s premier fishing destinations. Its numerous rivers, lakes, and bays provide plenty of ripe territories for fishermen to explore. Depending on your preference for fishing grounds, you can enjoy inland or coastal fishing in a region that can give you all of the thrills of the untamed wilderness, the quaintness of rural towns, and the excitement of city life.

Eureka, California

The city of Eureka in Humboldt County is a picturesque place in the far north of California. The entirety of it has been designated a state historic landmark, due in large part to its proliferation of exquisite Victorian homes and its Sequoia Park Zoo, which is the oldest of its kind in the state.

Eureka is ranked as one of the nation’s best small art towns. Multiple theatres, art galleries, and museums pepper its lovely streets, and annual cultural events make any season a good time to experience Eureka.

Commercial fishing remains a major industry of Eureka, and the bay, known for its salmon fisheries, is still home to the biggest oyster farming operations on the entire western coast of the United States. Rent a kayak to go fishing in Eureka, or enjoy a paddleboard rental when you aren't making catches. Book a sportfishing charter or rent a fishing boat in Eureka, and you will have the opportunity to fish for specimens such as:

  • Halibut
  • Rockfish
  • Lingcod
  • Salmon
  • Tuna

Redding, California

The delightful city of Redding is situated along the Sacramento River in Shasta County and serves as its county seat. Renowned for its lively outdoor lifestyle scene as the site of several annual mountain bike events, it is also a boater and fisherman’s dream. Here, you'll have access to Lower and Upper Sacramento River, McCloud Falls, Pit River, Hat Creek, Fall River, Manzanita Lake, and Trinity River. It has the best trout fishing near Sacramento and is great for catching other species too. Rent a fishing boat on your own, or opt for a guided fishing charter in Redding.

Given the number and extent of these magnificent waterways, it is no surprise that there are multiple parks (including the enormous Turtle Bay Exploration Park) and the famed Redding trail system to wander through.

While enjoying a guided fishing trip, fly fishing expedition or a day on the water with your own rented drift boat or dinghy in beautiful Redding, you might expect to reel in fish such as:

  • Sturgeon
  • Catfish
  • Trout
  • Largemouth bass
  • Bream

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Sacramento, California

The seat of its namesake county and the capital of the state of California, Sacramento is also a popular fishing destination for many visiting boaters. A guided fishing trip will take you to the best spots to fish for bass, salmon, trout, and more in Sacramento.

The city is named for the majestic river that makes up its western border, which provides boaters with plenty of rich, watery terrain for fishing. The historic city itself has plenty of cultural and sports institutions, including numerous art galleries and theaters, as well as sports organizations and competitions.

Sacramento is also known for its 5000-acre park system and its many annual events, which range from film festivals and music award ceremonies to free museum day and beverage weeks.

While undertaking a charter fishing trip or embarking on a private fishing expedition in Sacramento, you can try your luck with fish like:

  • Bass
  • Catfish
  • Panfish
  • Suckerfish
  • Trout

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Rent a fishing boat in Sacramento and get out to make a great catch.

Emeryville, California

Nestled between the major cities of Berkeley and Oakland in the coastal county of Alameda, Emeryville is a quaint, artsy city that spans a little over a full square mile. However, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm and fishing opportunities. This Northern Californian gem, once known in its early gold rush days as “the most rotten city on the Pacific Coast” long ago abandoned its more notorious reputation in favor of parks and greenways, a wildlife sanctuary, and marinas. After a day of boating and fishing, you can stroll the idyllic streets to sample delectable local dishes and view the art installations which are hallmarks of Emeryville’s recent cultural renaissance.

Emeryville fishing charters, boat rentals, and guided fishing trips will put you directly in the path of such desirable fish as:

  • Halibut
  • Rockfish
  • Striped bass
  • Albacore tuna
  • Shark

San Francisco, California

Since it was first founded by Spanish colonists in the 1770’s, San Francisco has been a hub of history, culture, and activity – popular with visitors from all over the world. Tourists come here to see iconic sites like the Golden Gate Bridge, the historic Fisherman’s Wharf, and Chinatown, as well as the notorious Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary.

San Francisco has been a Spanish city, the heart of the California Gold Rush, the western center of American maritime activity during World War II, and the geographical face of the “hippie” counterculture movement of the 1960s. In addition to its countless cultural, shopping, and dining establishments, it also boasts over 220 parks and serves as a major port for international watercraft, including cruise ships.

Boating and fishing opportunities abound in the great city of San Francisco, such as sport fishing charters, guided fishing tours, and fishing boat rentals. During your stay, you are likely to be able to catch fish such as:

  • Sanddabs
  • Rockfish
  • Bass
  • Shark
  • Halibut

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Strike Fisherman’s Gold in Northern California

Northern California is a varied and spectacular region of the western United States that truly must be seen to be believed. Sensational experiences and sights of every variety can be found there, and your next great fishing adventure is just a boat ride away. Fishing in Northern California will provide you with the chance to catch an extensive variety of fish, as well as likely leave you with the distinct feeling that you ought to book a return fishing trip soon. 

Search and book the best fishing charters in Northern California with the Getmyboat app. Download it for free on the app store.