Big Lagoon Wildlife Area

Description

Big Lagoon is the largest and southernmost of four lagoons between Patrick's Point and Redwood Creek. At approximately 1,600 acres in size, it includes a brackish water lagoon and marsh. This is important habitat for waterfowl and Roosevelt elk. Waterfowl using the lagoon include pintail, wigeons, shovellers, scaup, and ruddy ducks. Grebes, herons, snipe and osprey are also found here. Steelhead and coastal cutthroat trout are present in the lagoon.

The property was designated as a wildlife area by the Fish and Game Commission in 1976, and adjacent lands are managed by State Parks and County Parks as part of Humboldt Lagoon State Park. Major land use around Big Lagoon is recreational and residential. Recreational uses are quite varied, and include fishing and sailing. At one time, a yacht club was located on the east side of the lagoon. Extensive road building and logging activities within the drainage has accelerated the rate of siltation, resulting in the reduction of marsh and open water areas. Management activities include creation of additional wetland habitat.

For more information, call the Northern Region Eureka office at (707) 445-6493.

Recreational Opportunities

fishing  Boat Ramp Wildlife Viewing Waterfowl Hunting Hunting with Shotguns

Activities: fishing, sailing, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and hunting

Fishing is one of the most popular recreational activities here. There are several different types of fishing that occur here, including shore, boat, surf, and surf netting.

Hunting: waterfowl and snipe (seasonal)

Type C: Big Lagoon Wildlife Area does not require the purchase of a hunting pass for entry. Entry permits and/or passes or special drawing may be required for hunting on some Type C wildlife areas.

Facilities: Picnic tables, camping, and restrooms are available at the County Park.

Note: There has been confirmation of the presence of the New Zealand Mud Snail within this Wildlife Area.

NOTE: Visitors are responsible for knowing and complying with all regulations pertaining to the use of Department lands.

Refer to the Public Uses on State and Federal Lands section of the Waterfowl, Upland Game, and Public Use Regulations (PDF) booklet for both statewide and property-specific regulations.

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You may not operate a drone on CDFW Lands without a Special Use Permit.


Map of Big Lagoon WA - click to enlarge in new window
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Location

Northern Region (Region 1)

Humboldt County

approximately 34 miles north of Eureka

Access: From Eureka, head north on Highway 101 approximately 34 miles to the Wildlife Area; access is available through nearby Dry Lagoon State Park.

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