Draw Applications Available For Rare Chance To Fish Wild Section Of Shasta County’s North Fork Battle Creek

California Department of Fish and Game is offering anglers who are lucky enough to win a draw a chance to fish on a usually closed section of wild trout waters of Battle Creek in Shasta County. From CDFW’s Facebook page:

Draw applications are being accepted for exclusive opportunities to fish from a privately owned property on the North Fork Battle Creek, Shasta County. You’ll have exclusive access to nearly one mile of river not accessible to the public. With scenic canyon views, oak woodlands, and a flowing northern California mountain stream, this is a rare chance to enjoy a one-of-a-kind trout angling experience. Opportunities are limited—apply now for your chance to fish a section of water few others will ever see. Find details at https://wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Inland/SHARE.

Here are some additional details via a PDF info sheet:

SHARE Fishing – North Fork Battle Creek

Expectations

Anglers should expect to encounter wild Rainbow trout with a low potential for some wild Brown trout and possibly Steelhead. Spring-run and winter-run salmon are now able to reach this area of the river, and we ask for anglers to report any sightings.

This is a catch-and-release experience. Only artificial lures with barbless hooks may be used. All SHARE participants will agree to adhere to all other CDFW fishing regulations for the area. No open flames permitted on property.

Recreational users can contribute to the success of the SHARE Program by obeying all CDFW regulations, as well as demonstrating courteous, legal, and ethical behavior. For these opportunities a current fishing license is required for each participation day (a 1-day or 2-day fishing license can be purchased ahead of time). No live bait, floats, or vessels are permitted due to the terrain and river conditions.

Location and terrain

This private property sits on almost 300 acres in Shasta County. The dirt and gravel roads leading to the property are easily passable by sedans. Parking is on flat ground. The property has four established fishing access points to Battle Creek. Participants can expect to walk at least 1.5 miles to fish all access points. Some wooden stairs exist but trails to access points are mostly dirt single track.

There are accommodations on the property that may be reserved directly through the landowners for the days leading up to, during, and following the SHARE draw dates. It is comfortable, private, and internet-enabled housing available for a fee. Camping may be permitted. More information will be provided to the draw winners.