Welcome to fly fishing paradise! Nothing beats the fly fishing out of Redding, California! So many rivers! One of the best is The Lower Sacramento River. It is happening now! The "Sac" is where you'll experience some of the best fly fishing in the middle of picturesque Redding and all the down river beyond Anderson. I would love to assist you in your next fly fishing adventure! I'm ready spring, summer or winter!
Hello there! My name is Travis Ortiz and I am a passionate fly fishing guide with over twenty years of experience. Nothing brings me more joy than taking anglers out onto the beautiful rivers in and around Redding, California. I am proud to be a part of The Fly Shop, which is known as the #1 fly fishing resource in the USA! With its abundance of knowledge and resources, I am able to give my clients the best experience possible. Come join me and let's reel in some amazing memories together!
This river offers the best all around fishing is you are into a productive day, and seeing a lot of river. Great choice for all anglers!
Season: Year round.
My most popular destination. The best, most consistent and productive steelhead fly fishing in California!
Season: Fall through winter.
A great fishery offering a diverse experience. We wade this stream. Rainbow trout, dry flies, nymphs.
Season: Year round.
One of the most beautiful rivers in the world. The rainbows here are the originals. And there are some epic brown trout to be earned here. Dry flies, streamers and nymphs. Cold water!
Season: Late spring through mid November.
My most productive wade fishery. But, the wading couldn't be any harder. Big boulders, swift currents. Great for agile and able bodied anglers.
Season: Spring, Summer & Fall
During June, dry fly fishing for rainbows and browns can be a challenge that truly tests your skills. The salmon fly hatch adds to the excitement, making it a great month for fishing.
Season: May through June, September.
09 / 26
TRINITY RIVER
Near Lewiston
RATING
DATE
09/03/26
The Trinity River is fishing exceptionally well right now, with fresh steelhead pushing into the system and aggressive fish throughout the run.
Here's what's happening:
Current Conditions:
- Flow: 1,200 CFS through September 21st
- Water Temps: Below 67°F at Hoopa (dropping with clouds and rain)
- Fish Movement: Fresh summer-run steelhead actively migrating upstream
What This Flow Bump Means for Anglers:
The increased flows are pulling fish up from below Cedar Flat, and we're expecting a strong push of fresh summer steelhead into the Junction City area over the next week. These are aggressive, chrome-bright fish that haven't seen pressure yet.
Where to Fish:
Below Pigeon Point: This is prime swinging water right now. Fresh fish are moving through, and conditions are perfect for classic wet-fly techniques.
Lewiston to Downstream: Plenty of fish in the 18-22" range with some larger adults mixed in. The salmon run has pushed steelhead into less-pressured holding water—your guide will know where to find them.
Upper River (Above Junction City): Salmon are stacking up in the traditional holes, which has dispersed steelhead into secondary lies. This is creating opportunity in spots that don't typically hold fish this time of year.
Techniques That Are Working:
Fish are grabby right now—this is ideal water for:
- Swinging flies (classic wet-fly swing)
- Skating (aggressive surface takes)
- Two-handed rods (covering water efficiently)
With cooler temps and cloud cover, steelhead are active throughout the day. Expect aggressive takes.
Why Book Now:
- Fresh fish are entering the system daily
- Water temps are dropping (fish are more active)
- Guides have availability this week
- Flows are stable through September 21st
Ready to fish? I have availability now. Book your trip here Quick, same day response, with confirmation of your requested dates. or call (530)722-8331 to get on the water while conditions are prime.
09 / 03
LOWER SAC
Late Summer
RATING
DATE
09/03/26
Sacramento River Fishing Report – Prime Conditions for Drift Boat Anglers
The Sacramento River is fishing exceptionally well right now, with conditions lining up perfectly for a productive day on the water. Here's what you need to know:
Current Conditions:
- Flow: 8,000 CFS at the top end – ideal for drift boats
- Clarity: Excellent visibility throughout
- Weather: Clouds and light sprinkles over the next 3 days (classic mayfly weather!)
Why Drift Boat Fishing Is Best Right Now:
With these flows and excellent clarity, drift boats give you access to the most productive water. You'll be able to cover prime runs, work seams efficiently, and position yourself perfectly for the afternoon BWO hatches that are firing off consistently.
What's Hatching:
- Morning: Solid midge activity – start early
- Late Afternoon: Big BWO (Blue-Winged Olive) hatches – plan to be on the water through the evening
- Caddis: Unpredictable, but be ready. Stormy weather usually favors mayflies, but off-brand caddis like Glossosomas and Brachycentrus can
surprise you
Fly Recommendations:
Upper River (Top End):
- BP Weiss Nymph
- Jig Nation (BWO)
- Olive Hotspot
- Rubberlegs
- Jigged Bird's Nest
Lower River:
- Rubberlegs
- Peaches 'n Cream
- Ginger Snap
- Eng Thing
- Olive Hotspot
- Cinnamon Fox Poopah
- Bird's Nest
Evening Strategy:
In the last half hour of light, swing soft hackles or a dark Missing Link through the tailouts. This is prime time for aggressive takes.
Bottom Line: Conditions are dialed in. Book a drift boat trip now to make the most of this window—flows are perfect, bugs are active, and the fish are looking up.
Albert Flores
HAPPY CLIENT
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Robert Williamson
HAPPY CUSTOMER
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Albert Cooper
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Marvin McKinney
HAPPY CLIENT
A positive testimonial that you think will tell people how good you are. Some positive words from an existing or a past client makes a lot of difference and boosts conversions on your website!
Professionally guided fly fishing.
Lower Sac - Trinity River - Pit River - Hat Creek - McCloud River and Upper Sacramento River.