Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct is a Canal located in San Joaquin County, CA. Starting in the Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct flows 136.3 miles. The Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct has an elevation of 279 feet. Find maps, fishing guides and recreation info at Guidesly.

About Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct, CA

Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct is a 167-mile channel across the Central Valley in California. It conveys water from the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir to the Bay Area to deliver water for more than two million residents in San Francisco and other nearby areas. From Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, the water flows through the Mountain Tunnels and Mocassin Powerhouses down to Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct. Before arriving at the Bay Area, the water then flows through the Irvington tunnel and splits into four pipelines.

The name “Hetch Hetchy” is a Native American term for grass with edible seeds. For several centuries, they inhabited Hetch Hetchy Valley and lived by hunting-gathering. In the late 1800s, the valley was seen as a potential water supply system, which was constructed in 1914. This is called the Hetch Hetchy Project, which consists of the O'Shaughnessy Dam, Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, and the Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct. Since 1934, this project has been providing one of the cleanest waters in the U.S.

Since the aqueduct source is situated near Yosemite National Park, fishing is a satisfying experience because of the stunning landscape. You will be in awe to see large waterfalls cascading down the steep granite walls. Aside from fishing, visitors can also explore the trails by hiking and view the whole valley from the lookout point. 

All About Fishing in Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct, NY

With the continuous flow of water in Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct, fishing here is worth a try. The most popular catch here is striped bass, a structure-oriented species that love to swim in strong currents. To catch them, try baitcasting early morning or late in the day from places with structures. Just make sure you are using the right bait as they can be picky with what they eat.

A healthy population of other species like channel catfish and black bullhead can also be found in this waterbody. These two are bottom feeders, and they feast on both plants and little fish. Catfish bite more when the water is calmer so target locations with less current. This could also be near cavities where they love to hide to protect their eggs from strong currents. Catfish are also aggressive eaters so it is not that hard to hook them. Catching black bullhead, on the other hand, is a rare opportunity. You need the patience to hook one using light tackle fishing to easily notice once they bite.

Another species that can be rarely caught at Hetch Hetchy is the largemouth bass. This species prefers shallow waters. You may use a wide range of tackles like crankbaits, hoppers, plugs, jigs, and live bait. They can also be caught by fly fishing but it’s important to get the right rig. Pack heavy gear because largemouth bass will surely put up a fight.

If you go to the eastern end of Hetch Hetchy, where the reservoir and the Tuolumne River are, the chances for more successful fishing are high. It is a favorite spot of fly fishermen in the area. Species often found here are rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook, where fishing is allowed year-round but be mindful of the fishing regulations before you plan your trip.

Fishing Seasonality

Striped bass fishing can be done almost any month of the year. However, they are best caught as spring approaches when the water temperature is relatively warmer. This is usually their spawning period that extends until June.

Any time of the year, channel catfish can also be caught but the best season is during summer. During winter, there is also a possibility of catching them but near slow-flowing water. As for the case of black bullhead, fishing opportunities heighten up at the end of spring between May and June during their spawning period. As the water becomes cooler, the chance of catching this bullhead is lower because their feeding activity decreases. They burrow themselves in the sand until the spring hits again.

Fishing Seasonality

Striped bass fishing can be done almost any month of the year. However, they are best caught as spring approaches when the water temperature is relatively warmer. This is usually their spawning period that extends until June.

Any time of the year, channel catfish can also be caught but the best season is during summer. During winter, there is also a possibility of catching them but near slow-flowing water. As for the case of black bullhead, fishing opportunities heighten up at the end of spring between May and June during their spawning period. As the water becomes cooler, the chance of catching this bullhead is lower because their feeding activity decreases. They burrow themselves in the sand until the spring hits again.

All About Fishing in Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct, NY

With the continuous flow of water in Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct, fishing here is worth a try. The most popular catch here is striped bass, a structure-oriented species that love to swim in strong currents. To catch them, try baitcasting early morning or late in the day from places with structures. Just make sure you are using the right bait as they can be picky with what they eat.

A healthy population of other species like channel catfish and black bullhead can also be found in this waterbody. These two are bottom feeders, and they feast on both plants and little fish. Catfish bite more when the water is calmer so target locations with less current. This could also be near cavities where they love to hide to protect their eggs from strong currents. Catfish are also aggressive eaters so it is not that hard to hook them. Catching black bullhead, on the other hand, is a rare opportunity. You need the patience to hook one using light tackle fishing to easily notice once they bite.

Another species that can be rarely caught at Hetch Hetchy is the largemouth bass. This species prefers shallow waters. You may use a wide range of tackles like crankbaits, hoppers, plugs, jigs, and live bait. They can also be caught by fly fishing but it’s important to get the right rig. Pack heavy gear because largemouth bass will surely put up a fight.

If you go to the eastern end of Hetch Hetchy, where the reservoir and the Tuolumne River are, the chances for more successful fishing are high. It is a favorite spot of fly fishermen in the area. Species often found here are rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook, where fishing is allowed year-round but be mindful of the fishing regulations before you plan your trip.