Trinity River: The Foundation of Northern California Steelhead Fishing
The Trinity River is widely regarded as one of the most consistent and approachable steelhead rivers in Northern California. Originating in the Trinity Alps and flowing into the Klamath River, the Trinity offers a blend of accessibility, scenic beauty, and excellent fish-holding structure.
This river is perfectly suited for Spey fishing with juicy runs , defined tailouts, and classic swing water that allow anglers to cover water efficiently. It’s also one of the best rivers in California for indicator fly fishing, especially during colder water temperatures or fluctuating flows.
Because of its controlled flows below Lewiston Dam, the Trinity provides reliable winter fishing when many coastal rivers are blown out. It’s an ideal river for anglers looking to learn or refine Spey casting, understand swing mechanics, and experience consistent steelhead water without extreme wading or technical hazards.
• Primary Species: Steelhead
• Best Season: November through March
• Ideal For: Spey anglers of all skill levels, first-time steelhead anglers, technical indicator fishing
• Why We Fish It: Predictable flows, excellent holding water, consistent fish presence
Klamath River: Versatile Water with Steelhead and Trout Opportunities
The Klamath River is one of the most versatile fisheries in Northern California, offering opportunities for both steelhead and resident trout depending on the season and river section fished. Its size and diversity make it a valuable option when other systems are unfishable due to weather or flows.
The Klamath features a mix of broad runs, pocket water, and deeper slots that lend themselves to Spey fishing, indicator nymphing, and even light conventional tackle when conditions dictate. It’s a river that rewards adaptability and a willingness to adjust techniques throughout the day.
Because of its scale, the Klamath can handle weather events better than smaller rivers, often staying fishable when coastal systems blow out. This makes it an important part of our winter and early spring rotation.
• Primary Species: Steelhead, Trout
• Best Season: Fall through spring
• Ideal For: Anglers who enjoy variety and adapting techniques
• Why We Fish It: Size, resilience, and multiple seasonal options
Lower Sacramento River: Premier Tailwater Trout Fishing with Seasonal Steelhead Opportunities
The Lower Sacramento River is a world-class tailwater fishery and one of the most productive trout rivers in California. Flowing through the Sacramento Valley, this river supports a dense population of large, hard-fighting rainbow trout, with seasonal steelhead present during certain times of the year.
This is big water that demands precision, boat positioning, and a solid understanding of drift and presentation. Most trips are conducted from a drift boat, allowing access to long runs and diverse water types that are not easily waded.
Fishing the Lower Sac is primarily about indicator nymphing and streamer fishing, with a focus on reading subtle seams, depth changes, and current breaks. While Spey fishing opportunities are limited compared to other rivers, this fishery excels for anglers looking to sharpen technical fly fishing skills and consistently hook quality trout.
• Primary Species: Rainbow Trout, Seasonal Steelhead
• Best Season: Year-round for trout
• Ideal For: Anglers seeking high numbers, technical fly fishing, trophy trout potential
• Why We Fish It: Consistency, fish density, and year-round opportunity
Coastal Rivers (Smith River, Eel River, Van Duzen & Select Systems): Weather-Driven Winter Steelhead at Their Best
Northern California’s coastal rivers—including the Smith River, Eel River, Van Duzen River, and select smaller systems—offer some of the most exciting and visually striking steelhead fishing in the state. These rivers are entirely rain-driven, and success depends on timing storms, dropping flows, and water clarity.
The Smith River is the most famous of these systems, known for its emerald-green water, strong wild steelhead population, and pristine setting. When flows are right, the Smith provides classic coastal Spey fishing, with aggressive fish that respond well to swung flies.
The Eel and Van Duzen rivers offer similar opportunities during shorter windows, often fishing best as water levels drop into shape after winter storms. These rivers can produce some of the most aggressive steelhead takes of the season but require flexibility and patience.
Because coastal rivers are highly unpredictable, trips typically require a two-day minimum, allowing us to adjust locations and timing based on real-time conditions. These trips are ideal for anglers who understand that coastal steelhead fishing is about being in the right place at the right time.
• Primary Species: Wild Winter Steelhead
• Best Season: December through February (conditions dependent)
• Techniques: Swinging flies, indicator fly fishing, light tackle
• Why We Fish Them: Fresh fish, aggressive takes, and classic winter steelheading