Hidden on California’s Lost Coast, the Mattole River is a 62-mile long free-flowing stream. Due to frequent geologic activity and past logging operations, the river receives high amounts of sediment and cannot support large populations of fish. It does produce some of the largest winter steelhead in California, however.

Reports of over 24-pound steelhead have been made on the Mattole, and some say it is next to the Smith River for chances at catching a 20-pound fish. Winter steelhead are present during the open season of January through March. A summer run of steelhead exists as well, although much lower in numbers. The Mattole is potentially the furthest south that summer steelhead exist. Many of the steelhead are found in deeper pools. Fish counts are improving year-over-year due to habitat restoration efforts.

Although Chinook and Coho salmon inhabit the Mattole for spawning, the river is closed to fishing during the fall when many of the Salmon are present. Any salmon caught must be released. Counts of salmon are improving each year.

Some resident trout exist as well, mainly living in rocky areas and deeper pools.
Access to the Mattole is difficult. There is an unimproved road along the river where travel is slow but provides public access. No public boat ramps exist, although there are a few spots where a drift boat could possibly be launched. The rural town of Petrolia provides some amenities, and a few campgrounds are present along the river. Be sure to check regulations as there are closed areas, bait restrictions, and closed seasons.