Lower Sacramento River Fishing Report
A classic tailwater known for consistency, strong hatches, and year-round trout opportunity.
About This Fishery
The Lower Sacramento River is one of Northern California’s most reliable trout fisheries. As a large, regulated tailwater, it offers stable flows, predictable seasonal patterns, and consistent insect activity, making it an excellent choice for anglers looking to improve skills or enjoy dependable fishing.
This river supports healthy populations of wild rainbow trout and provides opportunities throughout the year. While it can feel technical at times, the Lower Sac rewards anglers who focus on good drifts, efficient water coverage, and adapting to seasonal hatches rather than chasing constantly changing tactics.
This fishery is well suited for all skill levels, from first-timers to experienced anglers.
Current Conditions:
Updated:02/13/2026
Flows:10000 CFS out of Keswick with Flows Scheduled to drop over the next week
Water Clarity: Seasonal Tint
Weather Trend: normal winter conditions
Pressure: Moderate in popular stretches
Overall Outlook: Consistent nymphing with seasonal dry fly windows
Current Fly Suggestions
-
Hellastoned #10
Rubber-leg #6
Olive Hotspot#16
Weiss Nymph #16-18
Pheasant Tail #18
Birds Nest Natural, Olive #14-16
Jiggy Midge #18-20
-
-
Description text goes here
Flies listed here reflect what’s been effective recently and may change as conditions shift.
Gear Reccomendations
-
Single Hand
9’-10’ - 6 Weight For indicator nymphing
9’ 5 Weight for Dry Fly Fishing
11’ 3-4 weight for Euro-nymphing
Two Hand
11’6” -4 Weight
-
Scientific Anglers Anadro For indicator Nymphing
Scientific Anglers Infinity for Dry Fly Fishing
-
9-12 Ft Tapered Leader Size 3-5x
-
Indicator and Euro Nymphing work well on this river but it can bedifficult to find wading access at Flows Above 7000 CFS
How to Fish This Water
Success on the Lower Sacramento comes from efficiency and awareness.
Fish are often found in:
Walking-speed runs
Soft seams adjacent to faster water
Drop-offs and transitions
Rather than camping in one spot, cover water until you locate active fish. Adjust depth often and pay close attention to drift quality.
Want Help Dialing This In?
The Lower Sacramento is an ideal classroom for anglers looking to improve fundamentals or refine advanced techniques. Guided trips focus on reading big water, hatch recognition, and adapting tactics throughout the day.
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.