High Flow Feather River Fishing Report
A powerful, downstream section defined by higher releases, bigger water, and aggressive feeding lanes.
About This Fishery
The High Flow Feather River refers to the section of river downstream of the Thermalito Afterbay Outlet. This stretch receives significantly higher releases and fishes as a large, fast-moving river with deeper runs, stronger seams, and constantly changing structure.
Unlike the Low Flow section that runs through Oroville, the High Flow Feather is shaped by volume and speed. Fish are pushed toward softer edges, inside bends, and transitional water, creating a fishery that rewards anglers willing to fish bigger water with heavier rigs, larger flies, and a more aggressive approach.
This stretch is best suited for intermediate to advanced anglers, though beginners can be successful with guidance and the right setup.
Current Conditions:
Updated:02/13/2026
Flows:7800 CFS
Water Clarity:Clear to lightly colored
Weather Trend: normal seasonal weather patterns in the forecast
Pressure: Less pressure than other stetches of the river
Overall Outlook: Fishing the high flow can be a little difficult this time of year as most of the fish are migrating through but if your lucky you might swing into one of those winter run wild Fish
Current Fly Suggestions
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Juju Baetis size #16-18
Rainbow warrior #16-18
Olive Hot spot #16-18
Psycho prince Purple#14-16
Tangerine Beads/egg flies 8mm/size 8
Walts Worm in olive or Natural # 14-16
Anything Small And Olive or black/brown
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There isnt much of a Dry fly bite at this time
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Swinging Flies
Green Butt Skunk
Hobo Spey
Wooley Booger Green size 8
Sculpzilla white size 6
Taks Mini Rainbow Size 6
Flies listed here reflect what’s been effective recently and may change as conditions shift.
Gear Reccomendations
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Single Hand- 9’-10’ - 6 Weight
Two Hand- 11’6” -6 Weight
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Single Hand: Scientific Angler Anadro Floating line to match the rod size
Two Hand: Rio Switch Chucker or Skagit Head to match your Rod
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4 X Tapered Leader
4x-5x Tippet
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Flows under 4000 CFS are Extremely walk-and-wade friendly; felt or rubber soles with studs recommended
Flows over 4000 CFS make it difficult to wade
How to Fish This Water
The High Flow Feather is a big-water fishery where success comes from identifying soft water within heavy flow.
Fish are commonly found along:
Inside bends
Eddies and backwaters
Structure and drop-offs
Walking-speed edges next to fast current
Cover water efficiently, prioritize safety, and avoid over-fishing unproductive main current.
Want Help Dialing This In?
High flows magnify both opportunity and mistakes. Guided trips and clinics on the High Flow Feather focus on safe wading, reading big water, effective rigging, and streamer tactics that translate to other large rivers.
Fishing conditions change quickly. Updates are posted when I’m on the water or receive reliable reports. If you’re planning a trip and want the most current information, feel free to reach out.