Merced River California

General Description:

Featuring spectacular scenery, punctuated by sheer rock cliffs (such as El Capitan) and beautiful pools in the Yosemite National Park portion of its flow, the Merced River still tends to be one of the most overlooked California trout fisheries.  This is simply because most people come, not to fish the river, but to experience the other sights of the national park.  Keep in mind that you will have to pay a fee to drive into the national park.

With headwaters beginning nearly 8000 feet above sea level in the Clarke Range, the Merced River begins its journey in Yosemite National Park's Southeastern corner.  After flowing over Nevada and Vernal Falls, it gains size in the park, being fed by Illilouette, Bridalveil, Yosemite, Tenaya, and Pigeon Creeks as it approaches the tail of the valley.  Next, Cascade Creek adds its flow, and the river flows through the Merced River Canyon prior to exiting the national park.  Just a few miles downstream from the park, the North and South Forks of the Merced River come together.

This nearly 150 mile long river begins at the feet of the Sierra Nevadas, and flows into the Central Valley.  After flowing through Yosemite Valley in a rough and tumble manner, its character transforms dramatically as it extends into the Merced Canyon and lowland.  Along its more peaceful flow through the valley, rafters can be quite a nuisance during periods of nice weather.

While long, slow pools predominate in the main valley of the park, immediately downstream the Merced is characterized by its pocket water.  Then, prior to entering the eight mile long Merced River Canyon, the river is accented by plunges and deep, fast runs.  Though difficult to reach the stream because of the rock walls leading down to the water, Highway 149 follows the river through this gorge.  Periodic parking areas along the highway provide occasional access points.  As a side note, be sure to fill your tank with gas before leaving the town of Mariposa.  The river in this area is littered with huge bolders and runs deep.  Snow runoff typically ends sometime in June or early July, after which the trout fishing can commence.

Rainbow trout, which are indigenous to the West coast states, are protected with a catch-and-release only policy inside Yosemite.  Anglers are allowed to keep as many as five brown trout per day, or to have a total of ten in possession.  Neither species of trout is currently stocked inside the park; they are stream bred fish.  Flies or artificial lures with barbless hooks are mandatory.  As of my visit to the park, it was possible to purchase fishing licenses in the village area in the park.

Spring:

Generally, the trout season starts the last Saturday in April. The fishing in the spring is difficult but some fishing opportunities are availabile prior to the spring runoff.

Summer:

Summer presents the best opportunity for fly fishing the Merced River. Just after the runoff will start the best time.

Fall:

Fall fishing is productive with the terrestrials and streamers, as well as cadis flies.