American River Fly Fishing Guides
From $475
Join us for a guided fly fishing adventure on the scenic American River near Sacramento, California. This iconic river is known for its healthy runs of steelhead and striped bass, offering exciting year-round fishing opportunities in a beautiful, accessible setting. Whether you’re wading along riffles or drifting deeper pools, our experienced guides will help you dial in your casting, presentation, and fly selection to match the river’s seasonal hatches and fish behavior.
Perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike, this trip combines hands-on instruction with the thrill of chasing powerful wild fish in a dynamic urban-wilderness setting. All equipment can be provided, and trips are tailored to your experience level and goals. With stunning views, local wildlife, and productive waters, the American River offers one of Northern California’s best close-to-home fly fishing experiences.
Target Seasons & Species
When fly fishing below Nimbus Dam on the American River, anglers can target a variety of exciting species throughout the year. The most sought-after fish is the steelhead—hard-fighting, acrobatic, and present during the winter and early spring months.
During late spring and summer, striped bass enter the river, offering aggressive takes and powerful runs on the fly.
In late spring, the river also sees a run of American shad, known for their fast, energetic fights and willingness to hit small flies.
Whether you’re after the challenge of a winter steelhead or the summertime thrill of a striper on the swing, this stretch of the American offers diverse and rewarding fly fishing opportunities.
Where We Fish
Our guided trips take place on the Lower American River, just below Nimbus Dam—a prime stretch of water known for its seasonal runs of steelhead, striped bass, and shad.
This section of the river offers a mix of riffles, runs, and deep pools, making it ideal for a variety of fly fishing techniques, from nymphing and swinging flies to dry-dropper setups.
With easy access points and scenic surroundings, it’s one of the most productive and convenient fisheries in Northern California. Whether we’re wading the gravel bars or fishing from the bank, this stretch of river consistently delivers rewarding opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.
What's Included
Our trips include expert instruction and all necessary fishing gear—rods, reels, lines, flies, leaders, tippet, split shot, indicators, and other essential tackle. Also provided are water, Gatorade, snacks, and lunch for two anglers on full-day trips.
- Instruction and Guidance
- Rods, reels, lines and all terminal tackle, this includes flies, leaders, tippet, split shot, indicators and any other expendable amenities needed for the day.
- Lunch for 2 anglers, water / gatorade, snacks
What To Bring
Please remember to bring your valid California fishing license, including a Steelhead Report Card, as well as appropriate clothing for the day. This includes waders, boots, and any personal gear you may need—such as rain gear, sunscreen, gloves, or layered clothing for changing weather conditions.
You’ll need to arrange your own transportation – most anglers drive to the take-out point the morning of the trip. If you prefer not to shuttle your own vehicle, we can arrange a shuttle service in advance for an additional fee.
We’ll provide water, Gatorade, and food, but you’re welcome to bring your own snacks or drinks, including beer, wine, or cider.
Lastly, gratuities are not included in the trip price but are greatly appreciated. A customary tip is 20% of the trip cost.
- Valid California fishing license, including a Steelhead Report Card
- Waders
- Boots
- Weather gear (rain gear, sunscreen, gloves etc.)
- Transportation. 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.
- Please no studded boots for our drift boats
American River Fly Fishing Guides FAQs
Have a question? We've got answers. If you do not see your question answered below, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Where should we stay near the American River?
Where should we eat near the American River?
Do we need a fishing license?
Do we have to bring fishing gear?
Where do we meet?
Can we keep the fish?
Do you require a deposit?
What if we need to reschedule?
What if we need to cancel?
What if there is bad weather?
Other Trips
Lower Sacramento Fly Fishing
Fishing the Upper Sacramento River
Trinity River Fishing
Fishing the Klamath River
McCloud River Fly Fishing
Sundial Drift Package
Spey Fishing
