Mattole River - Petrolia - California
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Mattole River – Petrolia - Water Flow Chart
Mattole River – Petrolia - Weather report & radar
Mattole River – Petrolia - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midges | All Day | #18-24 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
| February | Stoneflies, Midges | Afternoon | #14-24 | Hares Ear, Zebra Midge |
| March | Caddisflies, Midges | Afternoon | #14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis, Zebra Midge |
| April | Mayflies | Afternoon | #12-16 | Adams, Blue Wing Olive |
| Caddisflies | Afternoon | #14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis, Hares Ear | |
| May | Mayflies | Afternoon | #12-16 | Adams, Blue Wing Olive |
| Stoneflies | Afternoon | #10-14 | Stimulator, Hares Ear | |
| June | Mayflies | Afternoon | #12-16 | Adams, Blue Wing Olive |
| Caddisflies | Afternoon | #10-14 | Elk Hair Caddis, Hares Ear | |
| July | Terrestrials | All Day | #8-12 | Hopper, Ant Patterns |
| August | Terrestrials | All Day | #8-12 | Hopper, Ant Patterns |
| September | Terrestrials, Caddisflies | All Day | #8-14 | Hopper, Elk Hair Caddis |
| October | Mayflies | Afternoon | #12-18 | Adams, Blue Wing Olive |
| November | Midges | All Day | #18-24 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
| December | Midges | All Day | #18-24 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
Mattole River – Petrolia Access Points
The Mattole River – Petrolia is a paradise for fly fishers, boasting a rich eco-system teeming with diverse species. Here are some of the best access points to fly fish:
- Mattole River Mouth: Renowned for its robust salmon and steelhead population, the river mouth is easily one of the prime spots for fly fishing.
- Honeydew Bridge: This well-known fishing location provides excellent access to the river.
- Ettersburg Bridge: Situated upstream, it offers a serene fishing experience, particularly for catching steelhead.
Keep in mind that while the Mattole River is an incredible destination for fly fishing, it’s critical to consider and follow local fishing regulations to protect its beauty and biodiversity.
Mattole River – Petrolia Fishing Spots
The Mattole River in Petrolia, California is a serene, picturesque spot ideal for fly fishing. The river, surrounded by lush greenery and teeming with diverse aquatic life, offers several points that are perfect for casting your line and enjoying the sport.
- The Mouth of the Mattole: Located at the end of Lighthouse Road, is one of the most popular spots, especially for Steelhead and Salmon during their spawning.
- A.W. Way County Park: Easily accessible and offers wide river expanses couched in a tranquil setting.
- Honeydew Creek: This joining point is particularly rich in fish species.
- Petrolia Bridge Crossing: A local favorite and the starting point of some great fishing trails down the river.
- Mill Creek: A tributary of the Mattole River with several holes that hold summer Steelhead.
Remember, fishing regulations change yearly, always check with the local Fish and Wildlife department before you go. Enjoy your fly fishing in Mattole River – Petrolia!
Mattole River – Petrolia Local Fish Species
- Steelhead Trout: Known for their acrobatics and fighting strength, they are a primary target for most anglers.
- King Salmon: They are the largest species in the Pacific salmon family and a top target for fly fishing due to their large size.
- Coho Salmon: Also known as silver salmon, they are targeted for their fight and size, which can reach up to 20 pounds.
- Chinook Salmon: The largest species of the Pacific salmon, they can reach up to 50 pounds, providing a great challenge for fly fishers.
- Rainbow Trout: A hard fighting fish, they are a popular choice for fly fishers due to their vibrant coloration and spirited fight.
- Brown Trout: These fish are challenging to catch which adds to the excitement of the sport. They can be distinguished from other trout species by their light haloed black and red spots on their sides.
- Brook Trout: These are a beautiful species of fish that are native to the area, known for their aggressive takes and stunning appearance.
- Chum Salmon: Also known as dog salmon due to their large, dog-like teeth, they provide a strong fight and are particularly exciting to catch on a fly rod.
About the Mattole River – Petrolia
Winding through the verdant beauty of Humboldt County, the mesmerizing Mattole River flows tranquilly around the quaint town of Petrolia. Its journey begins in the King Range mountains, meticulously carving a way through the scenic Lost Coast area before reaching its placid conclusion at the Pacific Ocean.
The river’s rich history is as compelling as its natural beauty. The indigenous Mattole people, for whom the river is named, were the earliest known inhabitants, living in harmony with the river’s bountiful resources.
- In the mid-19th Century, the arrival of settlers hunting for oil led to the establishment of Petrolia, named aptly after the petroleum abundant in the region. Ironically, however, oil was never commercially produced.
- Late 20th Century saw the rise of the environmental consciousness among the locals, leading to several successful conservation campaigns to protect the river’s biodiversity and the endangered Coho salmon.
Thanks to these efforts, the majestic Mattole River continues to be a vital life source and a profound symbol of nature’s resilience.
Community Contributions
Be part of the fishing community!
No updates submitted for this river.
