At one time, Southern California was home to miles of steelhead spawning grounds along a number of coastal rivers including the Santa Clara, Santa Ynez and Malibu Creek.
Sadly, dams, diversions, development and poor water quality have drastically reduced – in some cases nearly wiping out – the area’s steelhead populations. And coastal Southern California has all but disappeared from many fly anglers’ radar screens.
The silted-in Matilija Dam blocks steelhead migration
Recognizing this dire situation, a number of diverse groups, including CalTrout, formed a coalition in 2000 – The Southern California Steelhead Recovery Coalition.
The group is charged with arresting and reversing the decline of Southern California’s anadromous fish populations.
Specifically, CalTrout is working to:
- Remove impediments to Southern California steelhead in the region’s coastal rivers
- Ensure adequate flows for growing populations
Map of Southern California Region
(click for detailed map of region in .pdf format)
Current Southern California Region projects (click project to learn more)
Southern California Steelhead Coalition
Santa Ynez River
Fish Passage Forum & CA Hydropower Reform Coalition (CHRC)
Santa Clara River Restoration
Regional Manager 
