The ocean boat access at Albion River is somewhat awkward but the habitat both north and south are above average. The nearby shoreline is mainly rocky reefs with occasional small sand or gravel beaches. Northward are the Stillwell Point, Buckhorn Cove, and Little River areas. Big River and Mendocino are about 3 miles north. Southward are the Salmon Creek and Navarro Beach areas. The beautiful Greenwood Cove and Elk area south of Cuffey Point is about 4 miles south. The mouth of Albion River contains many hazards in the form of submerged rocks and small islets. Navigation is best done at higher tides in good visibility the first few times in and out. Fishing success off the rocks at Albion River is poor and is too dangerous for most people. The preferred access for all type of sportfishing here is by boat.
Albion River campground and fishing village is a private access point and fees are collected. Overnight spaces include hookup for electricity and water and a dump station is available. Boats are launched by ramp and will have to be pulled out at night if slip spaces are not available. There is a small store there and accommodations are nearby. There are other businesses in the nearby town of Albion.
Sport fish sampling, conducted in the 1980s, resumed in 1993. The composition of the catch is more diverse than in adjacent areas and has changed over the years. The catch rate for the 80's averaged 8.5 fish per hour, the highest in Mendocino County. Effort here is relatively low at 1.3% of the total county effort and 7.4 % of the fish landed, with most fish being landed in the late summer. -WV
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