Klamath Basin – updated May 19, 2023
In response to the low returns in 2022, and decreased ocean abundance estimates, the California Fish and Game Commission (FGC) at their May 17th teleconference meeting adopted the “Closed to salmon fishing” option for the Klamath River Fall Chinook recreational fishery for the coming season. Additionally, the FGC adopted emergency regulations that close the late spring/early summer Chinook Salmon fishery in the Klamath Basin, along with other North coast rivers open to salmon fishing.
Despite this closure, fishing for steelhead in the basin is unaffected and remains open pursuant to subsections 7.40(b)(50)(E)(2) and (6). Additionally, fishing for brown trout on the Trinity River is unaffected and remains open pursuant to subsection 7.40(b)(50)(E)(6).
Coho salmon regulations (no retention) also remain unchanged, as they are protected under state and federal listings.
Fall Chinook salmon regulations for the Klamath Basin are adopted each year by the FGC at their May meeting. As a result, digital publication of all supplemental regulations content is not completed until early Summer and may not be available at the time of this update.
Up-to-date Klamath Basin regulations will be found in the 2023-2024 Fishing Regulations Supplement, expected to be published by July 1, 2023.
We remind anglers to call the Klamath and Trinity River Information Hotline: 1 (800) 564-6479, where up-to-date information is available. This hotline includes Klamath/Trinity salmon and steelhead regulations, Fall Chinook quota updates and other information.
Sport fishing regulations for the American, Feather, Mokelumne and Sacramento rivers are adopted each year by the California Fish and Game Commission at their May meeting. As a result, digital publication of all supplemental regulations content is not completed until early summer around July 1. See the 2022-2023 Supplemental Regulations (PDF) (opens in new tab).