We have a chance to really make things work. Endangered Steelhead found in Topanga Anthony Spina, biologist for the National Marine Fisheries Service is an expert on our local endangered steelhead trout. His agency is the regulatory arm that oversees protection of the species. Starting a bit below the bridge by Willows Restaurant, the creek waders searched for spawning and rearing habitat, barriers, impediments and fish. We found incredible areas with perfect gravel beds for spawning.
Deep pools shaded by overhanging oaks, willows and bays provide perfect summer refuge for baby fish.
Huge boulders strewn about created dynamic waterfalls that at this low water stage were definite impediments to fish movement up or downstream, but might be passable when the rains are falling. Down we hiked, scrambling over boulders, soaked up to our waists, searching each stretch of likely water for the elusive steelhead. We found lots of Arroyo chubs, minnow like fishes of all sizes and ages. Tadpoles, waterstriders, whirlgig beetles and toe biters abounded. We almost stepped on a large garter snake and watched two smaller ones swimming in pools.