Yosemite National Park Introduces a Year-Round Fishing Season

Yosemite National Park today announced year-round fishing in Yosemite Valley is now available to expand opportunity for anglers and align with California fishing rules. Seasonal closures that previously restricted winter fishing access have been removed.

"These updates expand recreational opportunities while maintaining our responsibility to protect Yosemite's natural resources," said Yosemite National Park Superintendent Ray McPadden. "Visitors can now enjoy fishing throughout the year, including in areas like Hetch Hetchy, with regulations that are easier to understand and more consistent with state guidelines."

The Hetch Hetchy area of the park offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience a more remote setting with relatively easy access compared to other backcountry locations. Anglers are reminded to exercise caution while moving around the rocky waterline of the reservoir. Hetch Hetchy parking is limited, and visitors should plan ahead.

While fishing access is expanding, key protections for native fish species will remain in place. Area-specific regulations, including gear restrictions, catch-and-release requirements for certain species, and limits designed to reduce the spread of non-native fish, will continue where necessary to support long-term ecosystem health.

Anglers are responsible for following all applicable California fishing regulations, including licensing requirements, seasonal guidelines for gear and catch limits, and species-specific protections. Artificial lures with barbless hooks are required in Yosemite Valley, South Fork Merced River, and the Tuolumne River including all tributary streams. Rainbow trout are catch and release only for Yosemite Valley and south fork Merced River. These protections are in place all-year.

Fishing regulations in Yosemite are detailed in the park's Superintendent's Compendium. Yosemite National Park does not allow hunting, and that policy remains unchanged.