Float Trip on the Lower Sacramento River with Nor Cal Fly Guides

$
465
-
$
600
/ Boat
Capacity:
1 - 2 anglers
Days:
Daily
Duration:
4 hours - 8 hours
Nor Cal Fly Guides B
Response rate: 
53%
Response time:
1 hour
If you have ever driven over the Lower Sacramento River or even fished it, you know that due to its shear size and abundance of water, this makes it extremely intimidating. That's why having a knowledgable Lower Sacramento River Fly Fishing Guide is so important.  A great guide will not only put you on the fish, but will also show you the fishy spots accessable by land, the put ins and pull outs for boats, as well as the bug life, the flies to use and when you go on your own, how to put all that t ogether to be successful. The Lower Sacramento River is a big tailwater fishery and California's biggest trout river, and its rainbows are just as big and powerful as the river they live in. If you want big fish and year-round fishing, this is the river for you. With more food than your local all you can eat buffets (2,500 insects per square foot of river), the average fish grows to a healthy and hard-fighting 16-18", and pigs pushing two feet are not out of the question, so bring some big guns. The fishing season is year-round, and water temperatures remain fairly constant too, as the river comes out of the bottom of Shasta Lake.

This river consists of long, indescribable, spring creek like stretches that are broken up by islands, deep pools, long riffles, gravel bars and undulating shelf’s, many of which are more pronounced during lower flows.

If having one of the best trout fisheries in the state isn’t enough, the Lower  Sac also hosts some great runs of Steelhead and Chinook salmon too. It also hosts a variety of other fish, such as, shad, squawfish, stripers, largemouth and smallmouth bass, these populations of fish become higher the farther you get away from Shasta Lake. The highest flows are during the summer months, when snow melt is at its greatest, so a drift boat is highly recommended.

You can walk and wade during the higher flows if you so desire, but staying near the bank will be your safest bet. The best time to walk and wade the Lower Sac is going to be during fall, winter and early spring, there is very little snow melt, and the rain that falls goes to filling up the lake, so the river is low and great for walk and wading. This is the time to get out there and really learn the river's bottom and fish those slots that only come out in lower flows, either way “PLEASE WADE WITH CAUTION”. But due to the river’s size and the amount of private property along its banks, those that prefer to wade have two options. One is to fish from public parks and access points along the 16 miles or river between Redding and Anderson, or, from your boat, getting out at the riffles and fishy slots to make some casts.

Public access is fairly easy though on the Lower Sac, there are 6 boat launches, and many public parks and access points along the river that flows almost parallel with interstate 5.

-Brian
 
Highlights
  • Expert guide
  • Streamside lunch for full day trips
  • Snacks and beverages
  • All essential equipment needed for the day
What is Included:
Drinks & Snacks
Flies
Tackle
Rod & Reel
Transportation
Rates
Per
Capacity
Dates
Duration
Price
Boat
1 - 2
 anglers
Daily8 hours
$
600
Boat
1 - 2
 anglers
Daily4 hours
$
465
Availability
Fishing Waters
The Sacramento River is the principal river of Northern California in the United States, and is the largest river in California. Rising in the Klamath Mountains, near Mount Shasta ... more(in Siskiyou county), the river flows south for 445 miles, through the northern section (Sacramento Valley) of the Central Valley, before reaching the Sacramento–San Joaquin River Delta and San Francisco Bay. It forms a common delta with the San Joaquin River before entering Suisun Bay, the northern arm of San Francisco Bay. The river drains about 27,500 square miles, with an average annual runoff of 22 million acre-feet, in 19 California counties, mostly within a region bounded by the Coast Ranges and Sierra Nevada known as the Sacramento Valley, but also extending as far as the volcanic plateaus of Northeastern California.
Destination
Red Bluff is a city in and the county seat of Tehama County, California, United States. The population was 14,076 at the 2010 census, up from 13,147 at the 2000 census. Red Bluff is ... moreon the northern edge of the Sacramento Valley, and is the third largest city in the Shasta Cascade region. It is about 30 mi south of Redding, 40 mi northwest of Chico, and 125 mi north of Sacramento.
 (1)
Nestled in the north end of the Sacramento Valley, Shasta County and its three Cities - Redding, Anderson, and Shasta Lake - are 545 miles north of Los Angeles; 162 miles north of ... moreSacramento; 433 miles south of Portland, Oregon; and 592 miles south of Seattle, Washington.

In 2004, as an effort to increase tourism in the area, the Sundial Bridge, designed by world-renowned architectural designer Santiago Calatrava, was completed. The Sundial Bridge casts its gnomon shadow upon a dial to the north of the bridge accurately once a year during the Summer Solstice. With the objective of providing pedestrian access to the north and south of Turtle Bay Exploration Park, the Sundial Bridge has not only lived up to its purpose but has also become an icon for the City of Redding in the present day.

Redding is one of the best places to launch for Trophy Rainbow Trout & Trophy Steelhead Fishing in Northern California. A number of great rivers are within an easy drive and local guides can on any given day help you figure out where the fishing is great.

The Klamath river, Sacaramento river, Trinity River and the Feather river are all being frequented by local guides and fly fisher.
Outfitter
 (12)
We are a team of friendly and knowledgeable fly fishing guides, with a combined 40 years of fly fishing experience, dedicated to making your adventure on the water with us as enjoyable ... moreand informative as possible. We want you to succeed in all of your fishy endeavors, and we will take the time with you to make sure that you have all the techniques and skills necessary to catch fish wherever you go. Float or Walk and wade with us on one of Northern California's finest rivers and streams and we will accommodate our guiding style to meet your needs and abilities. With our extensive fly fishing knowledge and experience on waters all over Northern California, we will guide you on a fly fishing trip you will not soon forget.

NCFG practices catch and release on all boats. We respect the sport of fishing and wish to give all anglers the opportunity to experience the gratification we strive to give each of our clients.
Type:
Fishing
Fishing Reports
As always the Lower Sac continues to fish as it always does, and has been extremely consistent. The upper stretch opened back up on August 1st and we are seeing some nice fish in that ... morestretch, but we are also seeing a good number of boat hatches. I was told that on the opener every parking lot from Posse to Anderson was full and over following and at one point a good friend counted 38 boats in the Posse Grounds fishing area, CRAZY!!!! Of course the Lower Sac will continue to fish well as fall approaches, and it doesn't stop there. "Egg Bite" is just around the corner and if you arent thinking about it by now, you should be, its going to come and go before you can blink an eye.
Fishing Water Report:
Date:
Friday, 11 Aug, 2017
Fish Caught:
9-12 fish
The Lower Sac has kept every guide in Nor Cal including myself, in business and busy this year as it has been the only fishable water up to only a few weeks ago. Sometimes guiding ... moreit at 25-30k was needed, but now that its back down to 10k and its fishing extremely well. Big fish and a lot of fish will keep you busy throughout the day and some of the best fishing is just around the corner. The hotter the weather, the better it gets, so if you can bare the 100+ deg temps, you can plan on hooking a ton of fish. As you may know, the river is closed from Hwy 44 to the dam, and opens back up Aug 1st. This is great for the spring run kings, as well as the local trout up there, giving them all a break from the crazy, above normal pressure they have been seeing. Come Aug 1st if you are not on the water those first few weeks you are truly missing out. I highly recommend booking a day, 2 or even 3 during these first few weeks to experience the best fishing that you will ever have. Soon after fall will be here, and you know what that means, "EGG BITE", need I say more? 

Nymphing is the way to go right now.

This is where I have been spending all of my time as of late, and will continue to do so. The fishing is not red hot, but its darn good, and is only getting better on a daily basis. If you are looking to finally wet a line and get bent, no better time than now.

If you are thinking that you want to wait till Fall, please dont wait till the last minute to book your fall trip, this year is going to be a busy one, probably the busiest yet, so book now while prime dates are available.
Fishing Water Report:
Date:
Tuesday, 20 Jun, 2017
Fish Caught:
20 fish or more
Even though its a bit of a drive, it is well worth it. I have been spending a good amount of time on this river because the fishing is almost to good to believe. Hooking 25 to 35 fish ... morea day is the norm, with fish ranging from 16 to 26". Nymphing with rubberlegs, caddis, pmds and other mayfly patters has been the main game, but if you know the right spots you can get some fish swinging as well. Water flows are great, fishing is absolutely "EPIC" and will continue to be great for the next month or even two. If you are looking to hook a lot of fish, this is the place for you. My next few weeks looking pretty full with only a few available dates, so if you are looking to get out asap, book now. Also dont forget about fall fishing, I am already starting to book for fall trips, don't wait last minute to book your fall egg bite trip.
Fishing Water Report:
Date:
Thursday, 5 May, 2016
Fish Caught:
20 fish or more
Payment
Cancellation Policy
Custom policy
  • Cancellations made 30 days before will be fully refunded.
  • Cancellations made at a later date will not be refunded.
Payment directly with Float Trip on the Lower Sacramento River with Nor Cal Fly Guides.
12 reviews   0 comments
Communication
(5.0 of 5)
Scheduling
(5.0 of 5)
Advice
(5.0 of 5)
Boat Comfort
(5.0 of 5)
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Outfitter Review
Great local resource & guide service
Nor Cal Fly Guides have become my go-to resource for many of the rivers within 3-4 hours of SF Bay Area. This is an excellent team of guides that will put you on fish, educate you on the waters and help beginners learn the sport while others seek ways to improve their skills. I thoroughly benefit from and enjoy the fishing report Brian often prepares for his clients and I always catch fish and learn ... more more about the rivers when we are out on our guided trips together.
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Outfitter Review
Numerous trips with Brian
My friends and I have fished with Brian on numerous two day trips on the Trinity and Feather Rivers for Steelhead. Brian has worked hard to get us onto fish and we always did. He searched for river sections that didn't have "boat hatches" and typically we didn't encounter other boats. He has an excellent conservation ethic and is a joy to spend the day on the river. Even on slow days, Brian worked ... more his butt off trying to find fish.
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Simply The Best!
I recently booked a full-day trip on the Feather River in Oroville CA with Brian Clemens of NorCal Fly Guides. The experience was astounding. He put my daughter on fish by her third cast and she just continued to hook 'em all day! She brought 7 steelhead to the boat! Hooked twice as many but they were LDR's. No worries though as she was so very excited about it. The trip was her birthday present from ... more Dad and Mom. Brian truly knows where the steelhead live and puts you on them quickly. He provided a delicious river-side lunch, made by his wife with love. Those sandwiches were so delicious! My daughter actually wanted to know exactly what was used to make them. LOL If you're dreaming of hiring a guide so you can finally land a steelhead do not hesitate to contact NorCal Fly Guides. You will NOT regret it. p.s. Don't forget your sunscreen. Ouch!
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Look no further for a Nor Cal guide!
These guys go above and beyond to make your outing the best it can be. If you're out to hook some fish, they seem to know the best places to be to locate them no matter the session. Their professionalism and respect as their client makes you feel high class and makes for an outing that you just won't forget. Thanks guys! Looking forward to the next trip.
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Outfitter Review
Exceptional guide
Gone out twice with Brian. Both days we landed 20 fish. Both times were on different rivers. This guy can flat out put you on the fish. Great personality and always a good time. Highly recommend.
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Outfitter Review
Brian is the BEST
I have been fishing with Brian for about 5 years. I met him while learning to fly fish, he was my first and last on the water instructor. As is usually the case, "you learn more doing than you do practicing". I booked a trip with Brian and that started a great relationship as both good friends and good fishing partners. As others have said, Brian is a lot fun to fish with, and can definitely put you ... more on the fish. We have fished all but one of the waters Brian guides on, and have never come up with an empty net! I have never been out with a more qualified and patient guide. Sometimes my casting leaves a lot to be desired, but Brian is ever the mentor, if you need it, like I do. Landing the fish is just part of the fun! I would highly recommend novice and expert alike to book a trip with Nor Cal Fly Guides. You won't be disappointed. Dave S.
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Great people, great experience
Brian is a blast to fish with and he knows how to find the fish! I would highly reccomend booking him for a trip if you are in the area. You won't be dissapointed! He knows his rivers and most importantly is a thoughtful and patient teacher. Fishing with him is like fishing with a good buddy.
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Extremely impressed with Brian and NorCal...
I can be frank and simple with this review, Brian and NorCal were extremely knowledgeable, professional, and fun to fish with. I am usually a DIY fisherman when I travel, but I am glad that I didn't do that this time. It felt like fishing with a long time friend rather than a guide. As a long time fly fisherman Brian was able to quickly educate me on a fist time steelhead trip. Brian was also able ... more to break some bad, self taught habits and teach me a few new things. The full day float down the Feather River was simply awesome, as we got into several wild steelhead, something this Georgia guy doesn't get to see. I am friends/family with several guides in the Southeast and I can honestly say that Brian would rank among the best in all standards associated within the industry. Do yourself a favor and book a trip with Brian and NorCal.
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Don't scroll past this
As a retired guide I could just go fish in my own boat but I keep coming back to NorCal Fly Guides because of the friendliness and knowledge. They are the guys I would fish with on any of my journeys. The boats are clean, the company great. The lunches are thoughtfully prepared and the best part is they are great people. Gear can often be a pain with many guides. It can be beat up, not cleaned, sticky ... more and just plain worn out. Not here. They know what flies are working regardless of flows and weather and we always have a great time.
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Fish On!!
I have never had a bad trip out with Brian. We have always caught fish, always had a ton of laughs, and have always came back home with great memories. Brian is a very patient and knowlegable guide (requirement for my skills) who will make sure you have fun and learn something new. Most importantly, the man will put you on the fish. I cannot recommend him enough.
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Committed to a Great Experience
Brian worked hard to get us on the water, at the right time to avoid the crowds. We found that sometimes, on some rivers this is necessary. These are all things that you want from a guide. Someone who knows the water intimately so you don't have to put in the time. Some of us have to work... Above all things he is good with all levels of anglers, even young kids and knows the techniques that make ... more it the easiest and least stressful on them and the whole group. If you're looking for a guide that will adapt to your wants and needs this is the guy for the job. 5+ Stars for boat comfort... Our fault. We put 2 adults and one 6yr old in a drift boat but we where greeted by two seats in the bow. Something you don't see often and after asking Brian this is something he only puts in when he knows the group is larger than the usual two anglers.
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WE WERE ON FISH ALL DAY!
I actually got my fill of fishing for once. Brian is an excellent boat captain and has great people skills – he was very respectful, helpful and attentive during the entire trip. The food was great and the fish were gorgeous, Brian emailed me many beautiful photos to memorialize out trip. This was an unbelievable value! Thanks Brian, I am recommending you to all my friends.
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