California Delta Fishing: What to Catch Beyond Striped Bass
By Debbie Hanson
Jul 01, 2024
Overview of California Delta fishing opportunities for species like largemouth, catfish, panfish, sturgeon. Find out which baits to use, where to fish.
While California Delta fishing is often synonymous with striped bass, there are several other species you can catch on a trip to the confluence of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River system. Largemouth bass, channel catfish, white catfish, panfish (bluegill, crappie, sunfish), and white sturgeon all inhabit the Delta’s waterways. Learn more about Delta fishing opportunities beyond striped bass and the types of areas to focus on.
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth bass fishing in the Delta offers a thrilling challenge. Bass fish thrive in weed beds, submerged structure, and around rocky outcroppings. Working through dense vegetation using the right techniques can bring on strikes from trophy-size largemouth weighing over 8 pounds. Topwater lures like hollow-body frogs or poppers often work well early in the morning or late in the evening, but the best lure for largemouth bass in the California Delta would be a crankbait that can be deflected off structure.
Catfish
If you prefer soaking a few natural baits and relaxing while waiting for bites, channel catfish and white catfish are the ideal targets – particularly if you plan on bank fishing with kids around Walnut Grove and Isleton. The best catfish bait for Delta fishing includes chicken livers, stink baits, and cut baits (anchovies, mackerel and sardines). Focus on areas where fish can seek refuge from strong river currents, such as backwaters and side channels with submerged tree branches.
Panfish
The Delta is also home to a variety of “fun-sized” panfish, including bluegill, crappie, and sunfish. These smaller species are perfect for summer family fishing trips, especially when teaching beginners the basics of fishing. They are often found in the shallower, calmer waters near the banks, around docks, and in areas with plenty of underwater vegetation. Simple spincast combo setups rigged with small hooks and live bait like worms or crickets can keep new anglers entertained with consistent bites.
White Sturgeon
California Delta fishing for sturgeon is an adrenaline-fueled experience for seasoned anglers due to the size of these prehistoric fish. White sturgeon can grow to six feet in length and weigh over 100 pounds, so the use of heavy tackle is required. Eel, salmon roe, or shad are the best baits. Delta sturgeon fishing is best during the cooler months, from late fall to early spring, along the upper stretches of the Sacramento River near Knights Landing.
Go Explore Delta Fishing Opportunities
From a family-friendly day spent reeling in panfish to the epic challenge of landing a huge sturgeon, California Delta fishing trips offer something for everyone. Research a few places to boat and fish in the Delta area, get your CA fishing license, and head out on the water this summer!
