Lower Sacramento River

Discover the easiest Lower Sacramento River fly fishing experience with our skilled guides. Learn why 80 years of combined experience can help you catch more fish and become a better angler.   The Lower Sacramento River, or “Lower Sac” as known by locals, is one of the most outstanding tail waters in the country.  Due to its regulated flow and moderate climate, the Lower Sac is fishable nearly every day of the year.   Our guiding efforts primarily focus on the stretch from Redding, California, extending south to Bend Bridge near Cottonwood, California.  We offer half-day and full-day guided drift boat trips tailored for 1-2 people near Redding, CA. The day begins at 8 am and ends at 5 pm, complete with all necessary gear and lunch provided.  This is a great place for beginners to learn how to fly fish.

A happy couple enjoys fly fishing near the iconic Sundial Bridge on the Lower Sacramento River in Redding, California.

An experienced fly fishing angler holds up a 20" rainbow trout while enjoying a sunny winter day on the Lower Sacramento River.

With more than 40 miles of productive trout water available year-round, discovering solitude on this river is easily attainable. Few trout fisheries in the lower 48 can rival the abundance and size of the wild trout found here. Our wild trout typically measure between 16-17 inches, and it’s not uncommon to encounter fish exceeding 20 inches on most days.

INCLUSIONS:
  • Instruction and Guidance
  • Rods, reels, lines and all terminal tackle, this includes flies, leaders, tippet, split shot, indicators and any other expendable amenities need for the day.
  • Lunch for 2 anglers, water / gatorade, snacks
NON-INCLUSIONS:
  • Not included in your guided fishing package: fishing license (regular license and steelhead report card), waders, boots, and items of a personal nature (rain gear, sunscreen, gloves etc.).
  • Shuttle: typically anglers provide a shuttle to the take-out in the morning of the trip.  If a  shuttle service is desired it can be arranged in advance of the trip for an additional charge.
  • Alcoholic Beverages: This includes un-distilled fermented beverages such as beer, wine, and cider.
  • Gratuities: if you are inclined to tip your guide, 20% is customary.

A springtime angler proudly holds up a distinctively colored rainbow trout with vibrant dots, showcasing the unique beauty of the fish from the Lower Sacramento River in Redding, CA.

Seasons on the Lower Sacramento River

Spring: March through May brings vibrant midday Brachycentrus Caddis hatches, offering ideal conditions for dry fly enthusiasts to land impressive numbers of fish.  Spring fly fishing on the Lower Sacramento River is one of the best times of year on the river.

Summer: June to August sees scorching temperatures tempered by cool river waters, with Hydropsyche Caddis emergence providing excellent afternoon fishing and occasional dry fly opportunities.

Fall: September through November marks peak fishing for trout and steelhead, coinciding with the fall Chinook Salmon run.  Fall fly fishing on the Lower Sacramento River is prime time.  As salmon lay their eggs, Rainbow Trout gorge themselves, while Steelhead add excitement to lower river floats.

Winter: December to February offers solitude on the river as winter storms deter all but the most dedicated anglers. Despite the chill, Late-Fall Chinook Salmon runs persist, providing ample feeding opportunities for trout, along with massive Rainbow Trout and Baetis hatches.

A happy angler holds a rainbow trout against the backdrop of blue skies and the Trinity Alps in the distance, captured on the Lower Sacramento River.

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