Fishing the Upper Sacramento River
The Upper Sacramento River is an ideal destination for those seeking a walk-and-wade adventure. Originating below Siskiyou Lake at Box Canyon Dam in Mount Shasta, the river flows south for about 45 miles before entering Shasta Lake. Just 30 miles north of Redding, this renowned freestone stream is celebrated for its stunning scenery and hard-fighting wild rainbow trout.
Our team of local experts knows the maze of back roads and hidden access points like the back of our hand. Let us lead you off the beaten path to experience incredible trout fishing in one of Northern California’s most scenic river corridors.
Target Species
The “Upper Sac” is open year-round for catch-and-release fishing, but we typically guide trips from April through October, when conditions and hatches are at their best. This river is exceptionally healthy, with strong insect activity during the spring and summer.
Wild rainbow trout are the primary species here—healthy, hard-fighting, and native to the system. While we occasionally encounter large brown trout, rainbows are the main target.
Peak fishing months are April, May, and June, with another excellent window in October and November.
Where We Fish
The Upper Sacramento River is one of the most scenic fly fishing destinations in California. Surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, the river features a diverse mix of riffles, runs, pocket water, deep pools, and undercut banks. This variety gives anglers the chance to fish dry flies, nymphs, and even streamers—all in a single day.
Because this freestone river is highly influenced by weather and flow conditions, we rely on decades of experience to choose the best stretches to fish. With over 40 miles of accessible water, we adapt each trip to match current conditions and optimize your time on the water.
A typical day involves wading 1–2 miles, and a vast network of dirt roads gives us access to remote, lesser-known spots throughout the river.
What's Included
Your trip includes expert instruction and guidance, along with all necessary gear such as rods, reels, lines, and terminal tackle—including flies, leaders, tippet, split shot, indicators, and other items needed for the day. Water, Gatorade, and snacks are provided, and on full-day trips, lunch is included for up to two anglers.
- 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.
- Water / gatorade, snacks
- Lunch for 2 anglers in included on full days
What To Bring
Please remember to bring your valid California fishing license, 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. 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
- 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
- Hard liquor
Fishing the Upper Sacramento River FAQs
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From $475
Trip Rate
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