Sacramento River - CA

River Information

Fish Species: American Shad, Chinook Salmon, White Sturgeon, Steelhead, Striped Bass, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Green Sturgeon
The Sacramento River, CA, is the state's most vital waterway, offering a vast and diverse fishery. It is renowned for its significant runs of Chinook salmon and steelhead, complemented by robust populations of striped bass and seasonal American Shad. Resident species include various catfish and bass. Angling techniques vary widely by section; conventional methods dominate for salmon and striped bass, while fly fishing is paramount for steelhead and resident trout in cooler upper reaches. Success is critically dependent on monitoring real-time water flows (regulated by dams) and temperature, which dictate migratory patterns and fish activity. Extensive access points exist, but adherence to complex CDFW regulations is mandatory for sustainable practice.



Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
7-15-2025 Lower Sacramento Updates
The river above the Highway 44 bridge will... more »
The Fly Shop
6-17-2025 Fishing has been slow at times on the Lower Sacramento
Flows from Keswick will be rising to 12,000... more »
The Fly Shop
6-13-2025 Sacramento River wild rainbow trout!!
The Sacramento River in Redding ca, is at... more »
Justin Thompson
6-4-2025 Upper Sacramento River Updates
The river is dropping somewhat with flows between... more »
The Fly Shop
6-4-2025 Lower Sacramento Updates
Keswick is now releasing 8,500 CFS with no... more »
The Fly Shop


Detailed Map