This is trolling country. The preferred offerings are rigged anchovies, plug-cut herring and Hoochies, often run behind a dodger or flasher.

Fort Bragg boasts charter boats, a marina, boat ramp, food, lodging and one of the state's best campgrounds. For information contact Telstar Charters, 707-964-8770 or the Noyo Marina, 707-964-4719.

EUREKA
The north coast's biggest city, Eureka began life as a 19th century seaport, and a number of buildings from the Victorian era remain. Situated on Humboldt Bay, Eureka provides a unique angling experience.

Inside the bay small boaters catch crabs, California halibut, rockfish and the occasional salmon. Outside Humboldt Bay the focus for private craft and charter boats is the area's abundant salmon. The king salmon bite begins in mid-May and runs through mid-August. Early in the season limits are the rule, says Captain Larry Williams of King Salmon Sportfishing, but the fish average only 6 to 15 pounds. The kings get larger as the season progresses.

The period from mid-July through mid-August is the time for trophies. "In late July we see fish in the high '40s," Williams said. One of his clients landed a 51-pounder in 2003.

Trolling is the order of the day here. Top producers include rigged anchovies, plug-cut herring and Hoochies. Good concentrations of fish can usually be found between the mouths of the Mad and Eel rivers and near the mouth of Humboldt Bay.

The Eureka area provides charter boats, marina, three launch ramps, food, lodging and an RV park. For information, contact King Salmon Sportfishing, 707-441-9075, or the Eureka Chamber of Commerce, 800-356-6381.

TRINIDAD
On June 11, 1775, Brunu de Hezeta claimed the area for the King of Spain by erecting a cross on Trinidad Head that still stands today. With its rock-studded bay and rugged bluffs, Trinidad today is one of California's most picturesque towns. Trinidad's historic lighthouses and small population only adds to its charm.

"Schools of salmon begin arriving offshore of Trinidad in early June," says guide Trent Turner. These early salmon are typically school fish running 6 to 20 pounds. "If you want the really big fish wait until late July or early August." Early in the season limits are common. As the fish increase in size later in the season, they seem to decrease in numbers. It's a good trade.

As with other north coast destinations, trolling is the preferred method off Trinidad. Natural baits and Hoochies teamed with dodgers are effective. If you take your own boat to Trinidad the rocks around Trinidad Bay offer good rockfish and lingcod fishing minutes from port.

Trinidad provides charter boats, a boat hoist, food, lodging and a nearby campground. For information, contact the Trinidad Chamber of Commerce, 707-441-9827.

CRESCENT CITY
Crescent City, named for the crescent-shaped cove that forms its harbor, is in the heart of California's Redwood Empire. Deep-sea anglers that make the pilgrimage to this north coast outpost don't come for the big trees, but rather for the big fish that swim offshore. Trophy kings, lingcod and pacific halibut can be caught outside the harbor.

Salmon fishing gets hot around June 15 and stays hot through September. The biggest fish show up in July and August. If Crescent City has a drawback it's the distance you have to run to the salmon grounds. Typically you'll need to travel at least 8 miles to find the best action. Combined with the possibility of heavy fog and volatile north coast weather, private boaters have several factors to consider before venturing out. Stick with a charter boat if you question your boat's seaworthiness or your navigating skills.

Trolling pays off at Crescent City. Early in the season salmon will be found to the west near St. George Reef. As fall approaches they move inshore toward the mouth of the Smith River.

Crescent City provides charter operations, a marina, boat ramp, food, lodging, and campgrounds. For information, contact the Crescent City Marina, 707-464-6174, or the Chamber of Commerce, 707-464-3174.