Looking for top Yosemite fishing? For anglers of every stripe, Yosemite Mariposa County offers visitors an exceptional variety of sport and fly fishing opportunities. Boasting 58 permanent streams stretching a combined length of 770 miles, plus a multitude of mountain lakes and excellent rainbow and brown trout keepers, Yosemite offers visitors world-class fishing in a one-of-a-kind setting.

Yosemite National Park’s season for stream and river fishing begins on the last Saturday in April and continues through November 15, with the exception of Frog Creek near Lake Eleanor, which opens June 15. All other lakes and reservoirs (including Merced Lake) are open to visitors for fishing year-round.

For visitors who plan on fishing during their stay at Yosemite, we ask that you are aware of and respect the NPS Regulations on wildlife fishing. All persons 16 years of age and older must have a valid California sport fishing license to fish in Yosemite National Park. For information about licenses and fishing, please contact Yosemite’s visitor centers. In need of the proper gear?

A couple of things to keep in mind, whether you’re fly fishing in Yosemite or just casting a line for a day of fun. Prior to mapping out your fishing trip, we ask that you remember that special catch and release regulations apply for native rainbow trout caught in the Merced River, from Happy Isles downstream to the Foresta Bridge. Visitors are asked to use only artificial lures or flies with barbless hooks. Please keep in mind that all bait fishing is prohibited and is strictly enforced throughout the park.

Still in the mood for more? Outside of the park, there are tons of great, quiet fishing spots, especially along the Merced River throughout Yosemite Mariposa County.