Mad River - Arcata - California
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Mad River – Arcata - Water Flow Chart
Mad River – Arcata - Weather report & radar
Mad River – Arcata - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Stone Flies | Afternoon | #8-12 | Baby Gonga, Morrish’s Medusa |
| Caddis Flies | Evening | #14-18 | Egg-Laying Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis | |
| February | Blue Winged Olives | Afternoon | #16-22 | Pheasant Tail Nymph, Parachute Adams |
| March | Midges | Morning and Evening | #20-24 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
| April | Sculpin | Early Morning | #6-10 | Woolly Sculpin, Sculpzilla |
| Caddis Flies | Evening | #14-18 | Egg-Laying Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis | |
| May | Mayflies | Afternoon | #14-18 | Wet Fly Swing, Hare’s Ear Nymph |
| Caddis Flies | Evening | #14-18 | Egg-Laying Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis | |
| June | Stone Flies | Midday | #8-12 | Baby Gonga, Morrish’s Medusa |
| July | Mayflies | Afternoon | #14-18 | Wet Fly Swing, Hare’s Ear Nymph |
| Caddis Flies | Evening | #14-18 | Egg-Laying Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis | |
| August | Mayflies | Afternoon | #14-18 | Wet Fly Swing, Hare’s Ear Nymph |
| September | Mayflies | Afternoon | #14-18 | Wet Fly Swing, Hare’s Ear Nymph |
| Stone Flies | Midday | #8-12 | Baby Gonga, Morrish’s Medusa | |
| October | Blue Winged Olives | Afternoon | #16-22 | Pheasant Tail Nymph, Parachute Adams |
| November | Midges | Morning and Evening | #20-24 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
| December | Midges | Morning and Evening | #20-24 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
Mad River – Arcata Access Points
The Mad River in Arcata is a premier location for fly fishing. It offers an abundance of steelhead, salmons and trout, attracting anglers from every part of the world. Here are the best access points:
- Hatchery Counting Station: About 6 miles from Arcata, this location is abundant in fish due to the close hatchery.
- Blue Lake: Located at Powerhouse #1 Rd, this site is easy to access with ample parking and provides a striking landscape.
- Pump Station #4: Despite difficult parking, this location offers a peaceful fishing experience.
- North of Mad River Fish Hatchery: Although accessibility is challenging, plentiful steelhead make it worth a visit.
- Under the Hammond Bridge: Accessible from the Hammond Trail, this site fishes well during the steelhead run.
Fly fishing on the Mad River is a rewarding experience, the river offers exceptional opportunities throughout the year.
Mad River – Arcata Fishing Spots
The Mad River near Arcata, in Northern California, boasts some of the best fly fishing locations. These spots offer ample opportunities to catch a variety of fish:
- Dungeness Spit: A splendid place for early season Steelhead, it’s a prominent hotspot for fly fishing.
- Blue Lake: The deep pools and slow runs make it an ideal spot for Rainbow, Brown and Cutthroat trout. You can even find Salmon in fall!
- Mad River Fish Hatchery: Frequented by winter Steelhead, the hatchery is a productive fishing area.
- Mad River Mouth: Lined with gravel bars and deep pools, a great place for coho and steelhead.
Remember, fly fishing on the Mad River is regulated, and all fishermen must follow state guidelines. Happy Fishing!
Mad River – Arcata Local Fish Species
- Steelhead Trout: One of the most sought after species, it moves upstream during the winter to lay eggs.
- Sockeye Salmon: Available in abundance during the fall months, this brightly colored fish is a top choice.
- Chinook Salmon: The king of salmon and a delight for the fly fisherman with its strength and size.
- Coastal Cutthroat Trout: Native to the Mad River, it offers a thrilling chase for fly fishers.
- Brown Trout: Predominantly found in the lower reaches of the river, this species has a penchant for biting flies.
- Rainbow Trout: Known for its vibrant coloration, it makes for an exciting catch.
- American Shad: Although not native, they are found in sizable numbers and make for good sport during the early summer months.
- Pacific Halibut: A challenging species for fly fishing due to its size and strength, but it is highly rewarding.
About the Mad River – Arcata
Arcata’s Mad River sure packs a punch! This humble yet mighty body of water is steeped in age-old mystery and history. The river, known for its tempestuous currents and swift rapids, begins its journey high in the Trinity Mountains before making its journey to the picturesque shores of the Pacific Ocean.
- Indigenous heritage: Did you know that the Wiyot people called it the “Wild, rushing river”? It was an essential lifeline for them, providing sustenance and means of transportation.
- European observation: In the 19th century, European settlers re-named it the ‘Mad River’, impressed by its wild and untamed nature.
- Natural beauty: Now, it’s a haven for fishermen and rafters – and let’s not forget the incredible diversity of wildlife you can spot here, from eagles to salmon.
No visit to Arcata would be complete without experiencing the Mad River‘s awe-inspiring force and tranquil beauty. It’s a genuine symbol of the region’s natural splendor and rich heritage.
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