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Hagemann's Ranch Trout Farm - Bodega
Hagemann’s Ranch Trout Farm has a long history, 25 years, of stocking their pond with trout for fishing enthusiasts of all ages to come out and enjoy a fun day of fishing. With equipment for rent, bait and snacks for sale, and a person who cleans the fish for you, very little planning is required on your part. Simply load your preschooler in the car and take a quick drive toward Bodega for some fishing fun.
There is a big sign on Highway 1 between the town of Bodega and Bodega Bay that will guide you up a gravel/dirt road to the pond. There is a building there that over looks the water. This is where you will check in before being able to fish. In this little building, you can rent poles for $4.50 (or pay $2.00 if you bring your own) then head down to the water to catch some fish.
The pricing depends on the length of the fish – Free for under 7 inches, up to $11.60 for 17 inches or more. (You can see a complete price list on there website.) Once you have caught all that you want to, you simply take them back up to the building and the person there will measure them, ring you up, and then clean them for you.
They have a winter and summer schedule so be sure to check their site and make sure they are open before you head out. All in all, it’s a great place for your preschooler’s first fishing experience.
Another issue is there isn’t any shade around the pond so be sure to bring sunscreen and maybe even an umbrella to beat the heat.
Between 18401 & 19000 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, Ca.
(1/2 mile west of Hwy 12 intersection)
Look for the sign along Hwy 1
707-876-3217
There is a big sign on Highway 1 between the town of Bodega and Bodega Bay that will guide you up a gravel/dirt road to the pond. There is a building there that over looks the water. This is where you will check in before being able to fish. In this little building, you can rent poles for $4.50 (or pay $2.00 if you bring your own) then head down to the water to catch some fish.
The pricing depends on the length of the fish – Free for under 7 inches, up to $11.60 for 17 inches or more. (You can see a complete price list on there website.) Once you have caught all that you want to, you simply take them back up to the building and the person there will measure them, ring you up, and then clean them for you.
They have a winter and summer schedule so be sure to check their site and make sure they are open before you head out. All in all, it’s a great place for your preschooler’s first fishing experience.
Benefits to Preschoolers
Plain and simple, they get to catch a fish! It’s nice to have a bucket handy to put the fish in so your preschooler can touch and observe the fish they catch as well. Also, since they clean the fish, your preschooler won’t have to experience the “not so pleasant side” of fishing.Disadvantages to Preschoolers
Depending on your preschooler, the thought of catching a fish may be fun but eating might not be so appealing. Hagemann’s has a rule that you cannot “catch and release.” Ultimately, if you catch it, the fish is going to die. If this may stir up a topic you aren’t ready to discuss, it may be best to go to a different fishing spot.Another issue is there isn’t any shade around the pond so be sure to bring sunscreen and maybe even an umbrella to beat the heat.
Details
Hagemann’s Ranch Trout FarmBetween 18401 & 19000 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, Ca.
(1/2 mile west of Hwy 12 intersection)
Look for the sign along Hwy 1
707-876-3217
