Fisheries in the Chico Region
Chico is surrounded by important waterways. The Sacramento River flows just west of the city, while Big Chico Creek, Butte Creek, and the Feather River support salmon, steelhead, and other native fish. These waters are central to recreational fishing, ecological restoration, and the regional economy.
Fisheries in the Chico area include salmon hatcheries, sustainable aquaculture operations, seafood suppliers, conservation organizations, and retailers. Butte Creek is famous for its spring-run Chinook salmon, one of the healthiest populations of this threatened species in California. Local rice fields have even been used in innovative research to help juvenile salmon grow.
How We Selected These Fishery Companies
We evaluated fishery companies and organizations based on sustainability, conservation impact, product quality, community involvement, and relevance to the Chico region.
The Top 10 Fishery Companies Connected to Chico
1. Feather River Fish Hatchery
The Feather River Fish Hatchery in Oroville is operated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. It raises Chinook salmon and steelhead to support fisheries and conservation. Visitors can watch salmon return each fall through its viewing windows.
2. Coleman National Fish Hatchery
Coleman National Fish Hatchery, located near Anderson, is one of the largest salmon hatcheries in the United States. It produces millions of fall-run Chinook salmon each year, supporting commercial and recreational fisheries.
3. California Department of Fish and Wildlife
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife manages fisheries, enforces fishing regulations, and leads conservation efforts. Its work protects native fish species and supports sustainable recreational fishing in the Chico area.
4. Golden State Salmon Association
The Golden State Salmon Association advocates for the restoration and protection of California's salmon populations. It works with fishermen, businesses, and policymakers to improve habitat and water management.
5. Nigiri Project
The Nigiri Project is a collaborative research effort involving rice farmers, scientists, and conservation groups. It studies how flooded rice fields can provide food-rich habitat for juvenile salmon, creating a unique connection between agriculture and fisheries in the Sacramento Valley.
6. Sterling Caviar
Sterling Caviar, located near Sacramento, is a sustainable sturgeon farm producing high-quality caviar. Its aquaculture operations help meet demand for caviar without harming wild sturgeon populations.
7. Passmore Ranch
Passmore Ranch is a sustainable aquaculture farm in the Sacramento area that raises fish such as sturgeon, bass, and catfish. It supplies restaurants with fresh, locally raised fish.
8. Pacific Seafood
Pacific Seafood is a vertically integrated seafood company supplying fresh and frozen seafood across the West. Restaurants and retailers in Chico rely on it for sustainably sourced seafood.
9. Chico Natural Foods Cooperative
Chico Natural Foods Cooperative offers sustainably sourced seafood and natural foods. Its commitment to quality and ethical sourcing makes it a trusted source for local shoppers.
10. Sportsman's Warehouse
Sportsman's Warehouse supplies fishing gear, licenses, and outdoor equipment. Anglers in the Chico area rely on its knowledgeable staff for advice on local fishing conditions and equipment.
Trends in Fisheries
Salmon restoration is a major focus in the Sacramento Valley. Efforts include habitat restoration, fish passage improvements, and water management strategies that support salmon migration. Innovative partnerships between farmers and conservationists, such as rice field habitat projects, are gaining recognition.
Sustainable aquaculture is growing as demand for seafood increases and wild fish populations face pressure. Consumers are increasingly interested in traceability and sustainability certifications. Recreational fishing remains popular, and conservation organizations work to balance fishing opportunities with species protection.
Tips for Supporting Sustainable Fisheries
Choose sustainably sourced seafood and look for certifications or trusted retailers. Follow fishing regulations and practice catch-and-release when appropriate. Support conservation organizations working to protect local rivers and fish species. Visit hatcheries to learn about salmon life cycles and restoration efforts.
Timing a visit can make the experience more memorable. Fall is the best season to see adult Chinook salmon returning to the Feather River and nearby hatcheries, while spring brings opportunities to learn about juvenile salmon releases. Families in Chico often combine these trips with time along Big Chico Creek in Bidwell Park, where interpretive programs highlight the creek's role as salmon habitat.
Restaurants and retailers can contribute by highlighting locally raised and responsibly harvested fish on menus and shelves. Clear labeling about origin and farming method helps customers make informed choices and rewards producers who invest in sustainable practices.
Recreational Fishing Around Chico
Recreational fishing is a cherished pastime in the Chico area. Anglers pursue salmon and steelhead on the Feather and Sacramento rivers, striped bass in the lower reaches, and trout in foothill streams and reservoirs such as Lake Oroville. Local guides, tackle shops, and outdoor retailers support this activity and contribute to the regional economy. Responsible anglers who follow seasonal closures and size limits help ensure these fisheries remain healthy for future generations.
Final Thoughts
Fisheries in the Chico region connect ecology, agriculture, and the economy. These ten fishery companies and organizations play vital roles in protecting fish populations, supplying sustainable seafood, and supporting recreational fishing for the Chico community.