FISHABLE
Low winter flows, excellent clarityUpper Sacramento River
Current Hatch Activity
Winter midge and BWO activity on sunny afternoons. Focus on slower water and deeper runs. Small flies essential.
FISHABLE
Nymph rig (Pheasant Tail + Midge) or small dry fly during afternoon hatches
Quick Reference
200-500 CFS ideal for wade fishing. Above 2,000 CFS becomes difficult. Spring runoff can push flows to 7,000+ CFS and make river unfishable.
48-60°F optimal. Spring-fed tributaries keep water cold. Wild rainbows thrive in these temperatures.
Mix of tailwater, freestone, and spring-fed characteristics over 35 miles near Dunsmuir. Spring runoff can blow it out, but typically clears faster than pure freestones.
Exceptional clarity in low-flow periods. Excellent visibility at 300 CFS or below. Runoff brings turbidity but clears relatively quickly.
What "Fishable" Means Here
Wild rainbow trout fishery supporting quality fish in cold, clean water. Fishable when flows drop below 2,000 CFS with reasonable visibility. The stretch around Dunsmuir is particularly productive.
Seasonal Patterns
spring
March through May can see high flows from snowmelt. When fishable, stonefly hatches provide excellent action. Check flows carefully before planning trips.
summer
June through September is prime time. Caddis, PMDs, and Golden Stones produce well. The river clears and stabilizes. Fish early and late to avoid afternoon heat.
fall
October through November offers excellent fishing with low, clear water. October caddis and BWOs provide consistent hatches. Less crowded than summer.
winter
December through February features low flows and technical fishing. Midges and small BWOs on sunny afternoons. Wild rainbows remain active in the cold, clean water.
Alerts
Alternative Waters
McCloud River
Nearby spring creek with exceptional wild trout fishingLower Sacramento River
Larger water downstream when upper is blown outResources
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