The Mad, like most coastal streams, offers excellent fishing in its tidal section. To access this area of the Mad take the Janes Road/Giuntoli Lane exit rom Hwy 101 to the west. Follow the signs to Mad River "Beach Access"and "Boat Ramp". There are access points along this road. It is seven miles to the beach, there are parking spots, a boat ramp, and bathrooms. This is a perfect area to park and walk to access the river.
For waders, at low tide start wading just down stream of the boat ramp. At high tide take the trail downstream several hundred yards before entering.
The best spot in this area, usually is a slot along the north shore. The best time to fish this section is with the end of an outgoing tide.
The roads in this area are over sand, so care should be used while driving.
REGULATIONS NOTE: 200 yard radius of the mouth is open from Jan 1 through July 31. Daily limit is two.
Check Department of Fish and Game regulations for specifications on daily limits.
Mad River main stem from 200 yards upstream from mouth to County Road bridge at Maple Creek, excluding tributaries is open all year. Daily limit is two(see regulations).
At the intersection of the river and the Hwy 101 bridge there is the North Bank road. Along this road, between Hwy 101 and its junction with Hwy 299 is some of the best pools and runs of the river. Just west of Hwy 299, there is a road that turns off the North Bank road, heading under the 299 bridge, there is a good access point to the river.
On the south bank of the river is the West End road, this road travels between 299 and the town of Blue Lake. The best spot from this road is at the Humboldt County Pumping Stations, look for a sign reading "Recreational Visitor Parking". 
No camping is allowed at this spot and be forewarned that the gates are closed at sunset. Along the north shore are some runs and slots that normally hold fish. With careful observation, gravel bars will be noticed that allow waders access to these spots.
REGULATION NOTE: Mad River main stem from 200 yards upstream from mouth to County Road bridge at Maple Creek, excluding tributaries is open all year. Daily limit is two(see regulations).
Following West End Road upstream to Hatchery Road you hang a right, continue until you see the hatchery on your left. There is parking available, with the best area to fish being just downstream from the hatchery.Be warned this area gets alot of preassure.
Be sure and visit the hatchery if you have the chance and view the quarry of tomorrow.
Along the north bank of the river is a private road leading upstream. Access upstream can be accomplished by wading the river when conditions are safe. Wild fish are found upstream and it is asked that you practice catch and release in this section.
REGULATION NOTE: Mad River main stem from 200 yards upstream from mouth to County Road bridge at Maple Creek, excluding tributaries is open all year. Daily limit is two(see regulations).
Mad River from County Road bridge at Maple Creek upstream to Highway 36 bridge, excluding tributaries, is open from the last Saturday in April through Nov. 15.
Check reulations for specifics on daily limit and size restrictions.
Mad River main stem from Highway 36 bridge to Ruth Lake and all tributaries below Ruth Lake is open from the last Saturday in April through Nov. 15.
Check regulations for daily limit and any size restrictions.
These are some of the main holes and accesses along the Mad, as you drive the area you will probably find more. I have attempted to give information that will help you located fish in the river. If you have a fishing experience on the Mad, please E-mail me your story so I can share it with other visitors to this site.
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