2026 regulation year
California Chinook salmon 2026 — Season, Bag Limit, Size Rules
Oncorhynchus tshawytscha
Last updated
California Chinook regulations are dominated by in-season emergency rules. Ocean recreational seasons are set annually by the Pacific Fishery Management Council, and CDFW frequently issues emergency closures (most years 2023–2026 saw partial or full ocean closures).
Season
Ocean and river seasons set annually by CDFW + PFMC; verify open window before fishing.
Bag & possession
- Daily bag
- 2 / day when open; zone-dependent
- Possession
- 4 in possession when open
Size, slot, trophy rules
- Size
- 20 in minimum (ocean recreational, when open)
Gear restrictions
- Single barbless hook required in most river fisheries
- Salmon report card required statewide for retention
- No motor-trolling restrictions in many river sections
Named water-body overrides
Where statewide rules differ on specific California waters:
Klamath River
In-season emergency closures common; salmon report card required
Sacramento River (upper)
Fall king run zoned; single barbless required Aug 1 – Dec 16 in most sections
Trinity River
Tribal + state co-management; quota-based closures possible mid-season
American River
Catch-and-release on most reaches when run is small
Official source
California Department of Fish and Wildlife publishes the authoritative 2026 Californiafishing regulations. Always verify the current rule before fishing — emergency closures and in-season changes can override what's published here.