Think salmon are just dinner? Think again. These fish helped build California’s fertile valley, fought their way through dams and droughts, and still make grown anglers weep with joy (or frustration). PJ dives into the wild history of Central Valley Chinook, why they matter, why they’re delicious near the ocean (and not so much upriver), and what it’s like to guide for them in Alaska — all with a dash of humor, a splash of passion, and maybe a subtle plea to not screw it up forever.

The California Roots of Tight Line Nymphing (And Why It’s Not Cheating)

Let’s clear the air right now—Euro nymphing isn’t new. It’s not mystical. And it’s not cheating, unless catching more fish than your buddy counts as unsportsmanlike conduct (in which case: guilty).

Truth is, folks in California were tight-lining wild trout before Euro nymphing had a passport or a passport stamp. You could say we were into it before it was cool, and without the skinny jeans.

When the cottonwood starts flying, the stripers start prowling, and the pelicans cruise in like they own the place—you know it’s Shad Season on the Sacramento and Feather. These chrome rockets aren’t good table fare (unless you’re a hungry raccoon), but they’re pound-for-pound some of the hardest-pulling fun you can have waist-deep on a Thursday night with a cheap beer in hand. I’m breaking down their wild East Coast origins, how they ended up in NorCal, and why you should stop pretending you’re busy and come swing flies for these glittery troublemakers before the bite blows wide open.

Every river tells a story. And if you listen closely—wading shin-deep, rod in hand, heart full of hope—you’ll start to hear the dialogue between two kinds of trout: one raised by human hands, the other shaped by generations of cold, wild water.

This is the story of two fish. It’s the story of rivers. And if you’re not out there chasing them, let me just say—you’re missing something rare. Like watching a thunderstorm roll in over a canyon. Like holding a piece of living art in your hands… and letting it slip back into the current.

So let me introduce you.

I don’t usually lead with this story. Most days, I’d rather talk about bugs, water levels, or whether steelhead are actually fish or mythical creatures that only show up on Wednesdays. But every so often, it feels right to share where I came from—because someone else might be walking through it now.

When the Poppies Bloom, the River Comes Alive

The Feather River is alive. Beneath its surface, an unseen world hums with energy—trout lurking in pockets of soft current, stoneflies clinging to boulders, and one of the most important insects in the river’s ecosystem quietly working its magic: the Hydropsyche caddis.

If you’ve spent any time on the Feather, you’ve probably fished around them—whether you knew it or not. They’re not as flashy as a salmonfly or as delicate as a mayfly, but to a hungry trout, they’re a floating buffet, present almost year-round in some form.

For fly anglers, understanding the Hydropsyche caddis isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

Discover the untold story of the Feather River—where ancient landscapes, Native heritage, and the wild rush of salmon collide. From gold rush chaos to modern conservation, this river’s journey is as captivating as the fish that call it home. Dive in and explore its rich history, legendary fishery, and the wild beauty that keeps anglers coming back.

If you want to catch more fish, you need to understand what’s on the menu. Trout are selective feeders, and their diet is driven by the insect life in their environment. Knowing how these bugs live, hatch, and behave helps you pick the right fly and fish it the right way.

In this guide, we’ll break down the three major insect groups—Mayflies, Caddisflies, and Stoneflies—and touch on some other key food sources like Midges, Scuds, and Sow Bugs. We’ll also highlight where to find these insects in Northern California and how they impact trout feeding behavior.

The Sacramento River is the lifeblood of Northern California’s fisheries, offering diverse angling opportunities from wild trout in the Upper Sacramento to trophy rainbow trout, steelhead, and striped bass in the Lower Sacramento. This legendary river has something for every angler, whether you prefer casting dry flies in rugged mountain canyons or drifting nymphs through deep, slow-moving tailwaters.

Understanding how to read water is one of the most critical skills in fly fishing. Knowing where fish are likely to hold, feed, and rest can make the difference between a productive day and a frustrating one. By breaking a river down into its key structural components—headwaters, pools, runs, and tailouts—you can pinpoint the best places to present your fly.

When it comes to fly fishing, your leader and tippet are just as important as your rod, reel, and fly selection. These components serve as the vital connection between your fly line and the fly itself, ensuring a natural presentation and improving your chances of fooling wary fish. Understanding how leaders and tippets work will help you make better choices for different fishing situations.

Selecting the right fly rod can feel overwhelming, especially with all the choices available. Understanding rod weight and length is crucial to making the best decision for your fishing style and target species. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting, this guide will help you find the perfect fly rod for your needs.

Choosing the right fly line is just as important as selecting the perfect fly rod. With various types available, understanding their differences will help you improve your casting, presentation, and overall success on the water. Let’s break it down.

Fly fishing in California has a rich and storied past, shaped by its diverse waterways, passionate anglers, and a culture of constant innovation. From high mountain streams to sprawling coastal estuaries, the Golden State has long been a proving ground for new fly fishing techniques and timeless traditions