The Lake Sonoma Steelhead Festival is one of California's biggest and best celebrations of the endangered Steelhead Trout, which return annually to the Congressman Don Clausen Fish Hatchery at Lake Sonoma to spawn the next generation of fish.

This free event attracts 8,000-12,000 people each year to the grounds of the Milt Brandt Visitor Center at Lake Sonoma. Adults and children can view the nature exhibits and learn about environmental stewardship, preservation of natural resources and protection of threatened and endangered species.

Activities and exhibits each year have included the Bird Rescue Center, Sonoma Water, CAL FIRE, the Coast Guard and Sonoma County Bowmen. Live music, an ever-popular bubble show, arts and crafts, and fishing-themed games keep everyone entertained.