McCloud River Fly Fishing
The McCloud River is one of our favorite fisheries in California—and for good reason. This freestone river winds through stunning mountain scenery, making the trip worthwhile even before you wet a line. In the heat of summer, it’s an ideal escape from the Central Valley, offering cool waters and peaceful surroundings.
Flowing from the base of Mount Shasta down to Shasta Lake, the McCloud holds a special place in the hearts of many fly anglers. Open to fishing year-round, it’s one of the top rivers in the state for targeting the McCloud River Red Band Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout.
Target Species
The McCloud river is home to one of the most infamous of all rainbow trout, the McCloud river red band; which has been planted in rivers from New Zealand to Argentina and Chilean Patagonia.
In addition to the world famous red band trout, the McCloud offers brown trout over 20 inches that will attack a streamer or slowly sip a dry fly! This is truly a gem of a river having all of the classic freestone style water. You can nymph all day or throw a dry and have success.
Peak season is May – July, but outstanding fishing can be had throughout the season.
Where We Fish
Most of our fishing on the McCloud River takes place around the Ash Camp Campground. We’ll be traversing through gorgeous mountain terrain filled with classic trout habitat lush with boulders, riffles, rapids, and deep pools with crystal clear mountain runoff water.
On a typical day, we cover 1-3 miles of water but are happy to tailor the day to your request as some sections can be more difficult than others to wade through.
What's Included
Your trip includes professional instruction and guidance to help you make the most of your time on the water. All necessary fishing gear is provided, including rods, reels, lines, and terminal tackle such as flies, leaders, tippet, split shot, indicators, and any other expendable items needed for the day. To keep you comfortable throughout the trip, we also provide water, Gatorade, and snacks. For full-day trips, lunch is included for 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 is 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
McCloud River Fly Fishing FAQs
Have a question? We've got answers. If you do not see your question answered below, please do not hesitate to contact us.
From $600
Trip Rate
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