Most prevalent among the many types of animals found along the Merced Canyon are squirrel, raccoon, jackrabbit, bats and skunk. Observant boaters and campers may be lucky enough to spot less abundant, but nevertheless commonly seen, beaver, mule deer, coyote and, on rare occasion, bobcat. Squawfish, hardhead, western sucker and sculpin are common. The California Department of Fish and Game stocks catchable size rainbow trout in the river from the South Fork upstream to the Foresta Bridge. Anyone 16 years or older must have a fishing license to take fish.
Licenses are available in most sporting goods stores carrying fishing equipment.
Bass fishing is open all year with a limit of five fish. All bass less than 12 inches must be released. No fish less than 12 inches may be possessed. For all species, only artificial lures with single barbless hooks may be used. This area is open from the last Saturday in April through November 15.