About this pier
Noyo River Jetty is the CDFW-listed public fishing structure at Noyo Harbor in Fort Bragg, Mendocino County — where the Noyo River meets the Pacific. It is the license-exempt shore-fishing option in this harbor. Private commercial docks and the harbor's pier structures are separate and are not treated as CDFW public piers. Fort Bragg sits in the Mendocino groundfish management area (roughly Cape Mendocino to Point Arena).
What you can catch
Jetty rocks hold perch, greenling, and rockfish; sandier stretches can produce flatfish. Salmon may pass near the harbor mouth in season, and crabbing is popular when open seasons and legal methods allow. Match keepers to current Mendocino groundfish and salmon rules.
License and regulations
Recreational fishing from Noyo River Jetty does not require a California sport fishing license when you stay on the jetty itself, per CDFW's public pier/jetty list for Mendocino County. Size limits, bag limits, seasons, and gear rules still apply. On a public pier or qualifying jetty you may use no more than two rods and lines (or two hand lines, or two crab appliances) per person (CCR Title 14, Section 28.65(b)).
Caveat: CDFW notes that on the adjacent rock wall touching land, a fishing license is still required — only the jetty structure itself is exempt. Do not step onto that adjoining rock wall without a license. Harbor pier/dock structures are not license-free; see Fort Bragg Noyo Harbor Pier for that distinction.
Tips for fishing here
A shrimp- or anchovy-baited high-low rig works well for perch and greenling on the rocks; heavier bottom rigs with squid suit larger rockfish near deeper water. Watch swell and footing on wet rock, and stay alert to boat traffic in the entrance channel. Morning outgoing tides often push bait toward the mouth.
Before you go
Confirm the jetty remains on CDFW's current public pier list and check harbor safety notices. Bring a license if you plan to fish beaches, the rock wall next to the jetty, or any private dock. Fort Bragg has nearby bait and tackle for a full day around the harbor.