Sacramento River

The River
The Sacramento River begins at the foot of Mount Shasta and literally gushes from the ground spilling south into Shasta Lake. When it emerges from the bottom of Shasta Dam, the Lower Sacramento River flows cold and clear on its way to the Pacific Ocean. Constant flows and a plethora of insects make this stream a remarkable fly fishing gem. This river has earned a great reputation of containing large numbers Rainbow Trout. The fish here are hard fighting football shaped wild fish that will take your breath away for many reasons. While some wading is possible, fly fishing from a McKinsey style drift boat is the best way to maximize your experience. We book only the best local guides for this exceptional classic tail-water fishery.

The Seasons
Trout can be taken with a fly rod on Sacramento year round. We have come to expect multiple fish days and even double hookups. Our favorite times to be on this exceptional urban fishery are Fall and Spring.

The Spring is a key time when trout eat Mayfly and Caddis nymphs fished “dead drifted” just a few feet from the boat. During the Spring fish can also be taken on the surface with Caddis or Pale Morning Dun dries at certain times during the day.

In the Fall, when the high water flows ebb and the salmon enter the system for their fall ritual, fat greedy trout move in behind the salmon to gorge on caviar. This is the ideal time to fish a glow bug or egg pattern.

For those who can handle the 100 degree temps - and red hot fishing as well - give summer on the Sac a try. The hydropsyche caddis hatches during the warm months make mid day and afternoon fishing very productive.

Guide Rates

$360 full day for 1-2 people

All trips include flies, food & drinks. Terminal tackle and Gratuity not included

The Tackle
We recommend fishing a 9 -10’ 6 weight fly rods with weighted forward floating fly lines. Longer rods will help with the constant mending that is required to hook good numbers of these foot ball shaped Rainbows. Fishing a stout 6 or 7 weight will help put them in the boat quickly and release them unharmed to fight another day. “Dead drifting” one or two flies under an indicator is the most productive way of catching fish on this river. 10 to 12 ft Leaders tapered to 4x or 5X will suffice in most situations. Your guides will help you set up and will in most cases be able to provide loaner equipment if notified in advance.

Feel free to contact us toll free at (877) catch 77 or locally at (707)287-2939 for further questions on fly patterns or stream conditions. Upon booking your trip you will receive a packet with up to date information to help make your trip with us on the Sac an absolute success.

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