Santa Ana River - Santa Ana, CA

The Santa Ana River offers fishing opportunities along its 100-mile journey from the San Bernardino Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. Angling is best in the upper river near Seven Oaks and Angeles Oaks, where stocked and wild rainbow trout can be caught during spring and early summer. These headwaters support fly fishing, spinning, and bait methods with salmon eggs, worms, or small lures.

Further downstream, the river transitions into an urban waterway. Though not traditionally managed for angling, certain park-adjacent segments in Riverside and Orange counties contain populations of carp, bass, and catfish. City programs occasionally stock catfish and panfish in urban zones for community events. Carp are targeted with dough baits or corn, while bass prefer plastics near structure.

Fishing success along the river depends on flow conditions and access. High flows after storms can reduce clarity and access. Upper river areas require hiking, while urban sections often offer paved trails and park amenities. A valid California fishing license is required throughout most of the river.

The Santa Ana River is not a trophy fishery but offers opportunities for adaptable anglers seeking accessible or scenic local waters. Upper river trout fishing and urban bass/carp angling make it a surprisingly viable fishery in heavily developed Southern California.