Nor Cal Fly Guides

Type
Fishing
Overview
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 and 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.
 
Fishing Trips
$
425
-
$
550
/ Boat
Capacity:
1 - 2 anglers
Days:
Annually
Duration:
4 hours - 8 hours
This fishing trip would be done on the Feather, Yuba, American Rivers and lakes within 1.5hrs of Sacramento Ca. These trips would be fished out of a 18'x54" Super Drifter Power Drifter ... morejet boat chasing salmon, stripers, shad, steelhead and more. This boat allows us to put in and take out at the same location as well as travel in some water that no other boat can, meaning when this boat is on plan, it will travel in as much as 3" of water. This boat also allows use to fish lower in a river while other boats are fishing higher up on the same stretch of river, and after they start floating down, we then motor up and fish the water they recently left. Some days you may not even see a boat at all, depending on where we are fishing.

For more information about the Rivers listed please click on the approprate rivers listed in my Fishing Trips.

This boat is only used on the Feather, Yuba, American Rivers and within 1.5hrs of Sacramento Ca. This boat will never be used on the Trinity, and currently not used on the Lower Sac.

Additional anglers are available with this boat. Adding an additional angler will be dependent on the river, we are fishing, fishing techinique as well as experience of all the anglers. 3 anglers max in the boat. There is an additional charge for a 3rd angler. For more details please ask.
$
425
-
$
550
/ Boat
Capacity:
1 - 2 anglers
Days:
Daily
Duration:
4 hours - 8 hours
The Yuba River is one of the most popular known fly fishing rivers in Northern California, and that is why it’s one of the most sought after rivers for fly fishing enthusiasts. This ... moreriver is one that can yield 20 fish one day and leave you scratching your head the next, that's why having a knowledgeable Yuba River Fly Fishing Guide is so important. The abundance of aquatic insects on this river is why it is so sought after, it's one of the few rivers in California that you can effectively fish dries year round. While the river plays host to a number of species, including steelhead and king salmon at times, the resident wild rainbows are the most sought after species throughout the year. They can be picky at times, but once you get in tune with their feeding habits you're bound to have a blast. The fishing on the Yuba is top-notch and I haven't found a river yet that is this much fun to fish. This river produces year-round spunky wild rainbow trout that can reach over 20".

Pound for pound the Yuba River trout is a species of its own. They are the toughest, hardest fighting trout you will ever hook into. If you've never had an 16" fish take you into your backing within seconds, then it’s time that you fish the Yuba River. In the fall, it is also home to a native/wild King Salmon run with some pushing 50lbs and big enough to devour any Yuba trout in its path. Nonetheless, it's the Yuba's steelhead that really puts the icing on the cake. Though not huge like the American river winter run steelhead (Yuba River steelhead range from 2-6 lbs), these half-pint steelhead are among the hardest fighting and the most beautiful fish you will ever have the pleasure of encountering. The Yuba gets a shot of them midsummer, then again from November to April. Not only is there year round fishing, but there is also an abundance of bug life as well ranging from BWO's, PMD's, Midges, Caddis, Skwalas, Golden Stones, March Browns, Hoppers and every so often a Salmon Fly, that will have these fish feeding no matter the time of year. There is even an egg bite on t he Yuba too, this happens during the salmon spawn in October, also during this time of year there is something special that happens on the river that I will show you too. Something you never thought possible and it will be our little secret. Even after all that the Yuba does, however, have something else to offer. As an added bonus from the fishing, there are a lot of wild critters roaming its banks as well, big bucks, strutting toms, beavers, otters, ducks, geese and even black bears. All that and great fishing, what more could you ask for.

-Brian
$
425
-
$
550
/ Boat
Capacity:
1 - 2 anglers
Days:
Daily
Duration:
4 hours - 8 hours
Fly Fishing the American River in Northern Califronia will leave even the most advanced fly fisherman wanting more. That is why a knowledgable American River Fly Fishing Guide will ... morenot only educate you on the river sytem and its species, but show you the ins and outs, when, where, why, how and with what. Whether you are swinging for steelhead on the Lower American River or dry fly fishing the South Fork American River, you will be pleasantly pleased with the results.

The American River system is where you can start out fishing the Lower American River for shad, striper or steelhead while wet wading on a summer morning, then go eat lunch, get back on the road shoot up hwy 50 and within 45 minutes, have 30 fish on the South Fork American River fishing drys. Fishing the American River is one that can satisfy any fly fishing crave. The Lower American River is known for its shad, striper, steelhead and salmon runs. Shad start to enter the river in late spring, with some entering as early as April, the fishing starts to pick up in late May and early June, with July being the best. Even though the migration has ended the fishing can be great on those late July summer nights. If you have never fought a shad on a fly rod, I highly suggest it, they don’t call it the poor man’s tarpon for nothing. There are two methods used when shad fishing, one is swinging flys specifically tied for shad, the other is drifting flies under an indicator. Either technique is productive when used properly.

As far as stripers go, there are some resident fish in the river system year round, but can be extremely hard to catch due to the lack of numbers. When the weather warms so does the water as well as the Striper migration. The stripers start entering the river in early April and they are in the river system through September. Your best numbers in the lower part of the river is between April and May. June is a little slower due to the amount of shad that are in the river system and the stripers actively feeding on them, but once the shad are gone the fishing really heats up from late July through August, September and sometimes even October depending on the weather and water conditions. The best technique used for stripers is by stripping or swinging clousers with sink tips, full sinks and shoot head lines.

Now for the Steelhead, half pounders can be year round, but are mostly caught from late summer to spring. They can be caught using many techniques, from swinging to nymphing and even throwing drys. The best months to be on the water for half pounders are August through October along with March April and May. Don’t be discouraged by the word half pounder, this was the original run before the Eel and Mad river strain (winter run steelhead) was introduced in the 70's. These guys can put up a real fight for their size and most half pounders are wild fish ranging from 16-22" some even pushing 5 pounds and they are always full of spunk. The winter run doesn’t start showing up until the beginning of October, this is also peak time for the salmon run. The winter run steelhead that are on the American came from the Eel and Mad River systems, that was introduce by DFG to protect the steelhead population after the dams where e rected. These fish can be caught throughout the length of river from mid October all the way through March, sometimes even April. These fish range anywhere from 5 to 15 pounds. As far as fishing techniques goes, these big boys can be caught with the same techniques used on their half brothers, just scaled up a bit. If you want to get into steelhead and don't want to travel severals hours and possibly get a big goose egg, the American River is where its at. Not only is it our back yard, but we have 30+ years fishing this river system and we know where these fish hold throughout the year. Come enjoy some backyard fishing on a great river like the American river.

-Brian-
$
600
/ Boat
Capacity:
1 - 2 anglers
Days:
Daily
Duration:
8 hours
Destination:
Fly Fishing the Trinity River can be tough and extremely challenging, however, having a professional and knowledgeable Trinity River Fly Fishing Guide, will not only make for an enjoyable ... moreday on the river, but also an unforgettable journey down one of the best steelhead rivers in the state.

The Trinity River is the longest tributary of the Klamath River system at 120+ miles, stretching from Lewiston Dam down to the confluence with the Klamath at Weitchpec. It’s also one of the of the most pristine and scenic river systems in California, and is world famous for its large steelhead runs. Our Trinity River Fly Fishing Guides guide on the upper stretches of the Trinity River, starting at the dam in the Fly Only water down to Burnt Ranch. Our Trinity River Fly Fishing Guides have many access points along the river and have many float options depending on where the fish are and what techniques we may be using.

If you are looking to fly fish for Steelhead, Salmon or huge Brown Trout, the Trinity River is the place. Our Trinity River Fly Fishing Guides not only know where the fish are, but they know how to get that tight line using all facets of fly fishing. Whether chasing them with traditional methods like swinging with two handed rods or indicator fishing with single handed rods, our guides have the knowledge and experience to teach on the water and put you on the fish, or just row you down and let you do your thing.

The steelhead season on most Northern California Rivers, start early September and same goes for the Trinity River. Our Trinity River Fly Fishing Guides are on the river as early as August, and guide/fish it on through till April. The Trinity River is known for 3 runs of heart pounding steelhead action, 1) Late Summer/Early Fall, 2) Late Fall/Early Winter and 3) Late Winter/Spring.

Late Summer/Early Fall- August-October starts out with some early season unbelievable numbers of 12-20” chrome bright half pounders with an occasional adult up to 10lbs. This is a great time of year for those just starting out, or those wanting to really put a bend in those light weight rods, as there is a lot of rod bending action. It’s also a great time to dust off those small 2 handed Switch/Spey rods and try out some surface/sub-surface swinging techniques, and to get ready for the up and coming steelhead season. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

Late Fall/Early Winter- October-December starts out with the change of fall colors and then too many more bent rods. With and extremely large number of steelhead averaging 5-8lbs being well distributed throughout the river system, this is definitely the time to be on the Trinity. These fish are very receptive to a variety of fly fishing methods, however, personally I think this is the best time of year to swing up some sweet fish. So bring your medium sized 2 handed rods and be ready. Dont forget about the Egg Bite, end of October to mid November can be epic on this river when the salmon are spawning. This is our most desired and most popular time before the press of winter, so we strongly advise booking in advance.

Late Winter/Spring- December-April this is a very sensitive time of year due to the weather, fishing it is really all up to Mother Nature. However, when the Trinity is not blown out, it can be outrageous, with some of the largest steelhead of the season, some up 15lbs. It is steelhead fishing at its finest and it’s full on steelhead weather, snow, rain, wind, cold temps, cold water and big fish, nothing better than that. Later in the season (Feb, Mar, April) you can catch Steelhead and Brown Trout on dry flies, yes I said dry flies. Mid-day hatches get these fish in a sipping frenzy and will leave the most experience steelheader in awe.

If the conditions are not favorable, we will reschedule. Advanced booking is a great idea.

It doesn’t get any better than that folks. Whether its summer, fall, winter or spring, our Trinity River Fly Fishing Guides, know what it takes to not only find the fish, what flies to use, where to go, but what techniques can be used to make your rods have a bend in them all day long. Come join us on one of the finest steelhead rivers in the state, and enjoy some of the best steelheading on the west coast.

-Brian-
$
465
-
$
600
/ Boat
Capacity:
1 - 2 anglers
Days:
Daily
Duration:
4 hours - 8 hours
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 ... morewhy 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
$
425
-
$
550
/ Boat
Capacity:
1 - 2 anglers
Days:
Daily
Duration:
4 hours - 8 hours
 (1)
Our guides pride themselves in their vast knowledge of the Feather River, and having a great Feather River Fly Fishing Guide will not only make for a fantastic outting, but it will ... morealso increase your tight lines.

The Feather River is one of California's best kept secrets, and is misunderstood by many anglers. The Feather River is an awesome steelhead fishery, and has one of the largest steelhead runs in the valley. This tailwater fishery begins in the town of Oroville below Oroville Dam and continues flowing south until it meets up with the mighty Sacramento River at Verona.

The Feather River holds plentiful amounts of both hatchery and wild fish year round, and one that produces four runs of steelhead, three big runs being Spring, Fall and Winter, with a small run of half pounders in the summer. For those that has fished for these mighty steelhead, you definitely get a sense of their power and greatly appreciates the fight of these Feather River fish. The Springers, March-May, this run is full of hot wild fish that will give your drag a worthy work out, and to me act more like large trout eating normal nymphs and drys. The Summer run is just that, and are a smaller version of the spring run fish. The Fall run, Sept-Nov follow the salmon up the river, and gorge themselves on eggs, eggs and more eggs, this is the infamous "EGG BITE". These fish are extremely healthy, and will make you sweat for every inch. The winter fish, Dec-Feb, are big, brutes that will have you screaming for more, and with most fishing the other valley rivers, you can usually have the river to yourself. Whats nice about the Feather River is no matter the time of year, you can find steelhead scattered throughout the river.

No wonder why we love this river so much, its a year round steelhead fishery. The New Year opens up the low flow section above the hwy 70 bridge, getting a boat in there is pretty tough, but this is where a knowledgeable guide comes into play, whether a drift trip or walk and wade, he can put you in key locations throughout this area and get you into fish. No matter what you are fishing for, the Feather River has it all, from salmon to steelhead, to stripers and shad, it is an all around, year round fishery. Come join me on one of the largest steelhead runs in the Sac Valley, and be ready for a fish that will make you earn your photo finish.

-Brian
Fishing Reports
Man I love talking about this river, its becoming one that I guide more and more each year, and it keeps producing while others are not, sometimes not so easily, but thats what makes ... morethe Trinity so cool and fun to fish, you have to "Earn It". With that said its even fishing as I type. This is one of my favorite times of year on the Trinity, the lower flows make wading a breeze, and there are not a ton of people on the river. Your typical half pounders can be found throughout the river system and the closer to the dam the more you will find. The halfies will put any 5wt rod to its test and while you can get a ton nymphing, these mini-chrome domes will eagerly take a dry or a swung fly, they are just a hoot. On the bigger note, strewn about in the river system are the early fall run fish that can range from 3-6lbs and some pushing 10lbs are caught this time of year as well. While nymphing once again will get you on a good number of fish, these early fish will talk swung flies likes its going out of style, they love skated flies too. If you are looking to swing from now till about mid Nov this is the river, and that is prime time to swing for chrome. If you are looking for something different, treat yourself to a guided trip down the Trinity River, you wont be disappointed with its beauty, solitude and over all fishing experience. Booking well in advance is highly recommended on the Trinity as my dates fill up fast, especially in the early season prior to December.
Fishing Water Report:
Date:
Friday, 11 Aug, 2017
Fish Caught:
9-12 fish
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 Newba has been fishing fair to good with plenty of fish to go around. We are seeing a good number of fish coming up and eating dries and hoppers, and the indicator rig has been ... moresuper consistent for numbers, but not needed. The usual dries and nymphs have been working as well as the Pink Fat Albert, which is like candy for these trout and hopper droppers/dry droppers are producing as well. The salmon are very slow to show here, and we are hoping that we start seeing some in the next few weeks. If you are looking to get out and not travel, give the Newba a try, but wade carefully, at 2600cfs its extremely pushy, and wading across is not going to happen. If you know the access points and where the fish hold (they havent moved around to much), you will come out with some nice fish to hand. Oh if you like to swing, definitely give that a go, they have been hammering swung flies.
Fishing Water Report:
Date:
Friday, 11 Aug, 2017
Fish Caught:
4-8 fish
Boy has this river been a saving grace for me this year. With most of the Nor Cal rivers blown out from January to May, it was tough to get out on the water to work, but when June ... morecame around that was a different story. The flows and clarity on the Feather became good enough to get out and fish it and boy were we surprised. Lots and lots of fish to be had and not a single angler in site. For almost a month we had this river to ourself, and it was fishing consistently everyday. Lots of half pounders from 14-18" and a handful of fish from 18-22" everyday and the occasional 22-26" fish was hooked as well. The fishing continued will into July as the flows decreased, and now that the flows are at a steady 1500cfs in the low flow, we are still hitting a good number of halfies with an adult mixed in every so often. We are starting to see the salmon in the low flow, finally, and in a few weeks they should be stacked. If you havent been on the feather yet this season, I would recommend checking it out, it has completely changed, a lot like the Yuba, a completely new river. With the showing of the salmon that means only one thing, the "EGG BITE" is soon to follow. Oct Nov is prime time for the egg bite on the Feather and if you are looking to book, booking in advance is highly recommended.
Fishing Water Report:
Date:
Friday, 11 Aug, 2017
Fish Caught:
9-12 fish
The shad are finally gone, YYEEEEESSSSSS!!!!! This means that its time for striper fishing again, and it has been getting better over the past few weeks. We are seeing the typically ... moreshakers, but a few bigger fish from 3-7lbs have been hooked as well, this will continue though Sept and is a great half day trip. We are also getting into a good number of half pounders and if you are in the right place at the right time you will hook a few adults pushing 6lbs. Personally I love this time of year for a few reasons, during the week there are few rafters on the water and you can target both stripers, steelhead and even salmon (if they are in) in the same day with some good success. Great time of year to swing your light weight 2 handed rods and in the evening throwing dries can be epic. All in all, a great time of year to be on the American, crowds are gone and fishing is pretty good. As fall approaches its only going to get better.
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
The Yuba is slowly coming back into shape, and is getting better every time I float it. As I have stated in past reports its the Newba and will take some anglers a bit of time to get ... moreused to how it looks, fishes and feels, but in due time, she will give it up. Not a lot of bug activity right now, but tell that to the fish. We are getting fish all throughout the water column, from on top to dredging deep, seems like the fish know what they want, "A well placed and drifter fly". My last trip on it we floated only a few (2) hours with clients and ended up hooking 6 fish, one being a 20" toad, but came unbottoned at the boat. When the flows get lower, this will be one sweet river. Until then, wade carefully as the river has changed a ton, and its not as shallow as before. With fall looming just around the corner if you are looking to book the "Egg Bite" on the Yuba, look to book sooner than later.

Nymphing is the main game, but throwing big bugs and swinging has produced a few fish as well.
Fishing Water Report:
Date:
Tuesday, 20 Jun, 2017
Fish Caught:
4-8 fish
Steelhead, striper and shad oh my, we have been having a few trifectas over the past 2 weeks, and its only getting better. Steelhead are thoughout the river system, but the further ... moreup you go the better it gets. Typically we are the only boat/anglers on the water, and the lack of fishing pressure truly shows, hitting a dozen steelhead ranging 14-20" is pretty easy right now, so hooking more is definitely likely. There are some bigger fish in the system as well, some pushing 8lbs, good luck landing these toads. On top of the steelhead fishing, we are even sticking a few stripers when targeted and a good number of shad too, it is the place to be right now. The river has definitely changed with the high water, and with it being 2300cfs in low flow, wade carefully. Fall is going to be sweet on this river and very busy, so as I always say, if you are looking to book a trip on the Feather, I highly recommend booking well in advance. "EGG BITE" will be here sooner than you think.

Nymphing has been the main game for steelhead, but getting them on the swing has been fun as well.
Fishing Water Report:
Date:
Tuesday, 20 Jun, 2017
Fish Caught:
13-19 fish
With our local waters finally at fishable flows (the American River is at 6400), its nice to be fishing close to home and on some good to great fishing. Summer is going to be good ... moreand our Fall should be great. The AR has been a sight for long driving eyes as its been fishing great for both shad and stripers. Most of the shad fishing has been up top from Rosemore up, as well as the crowds. But if you can get out early, you will miss the crowds and be off before it gets too hot. Also there are some huge stripers cruising up top but getting them to eat is another story. My striper trips have been from Sunrise down for full days, and Gristmil down for half days, and boy has it been good! We are seeing a ton of shakers, and in the mix are plenty of 2-5lbers. The big fish unfortunately are stuffed with shad right now, but those smaller fish will keep you busy. We are having some good top water action too if you can get on early enough, and plenty of fish to go around whether a full or half day, 1 or 2 anglers. As the shad start leaving the river, the striper fishing will only get better. Best way to fish for stripers is on early off early, get your fix and beat the heat. No better time than now and the next few months. Time to get your 8wt bent.
Fishing Water Report:
Date:
Tuesday, 20 Jun, 2017
Fish Caught:
9-12 fish
As some of you know, I did spend a bunch of time on the Feather this year, but when it became to crowded, I decided to head up to the Trinity. There were some epic early season egg ... morebite days, but once the egg bite become full swing you would see 6-8 boats, and a bank angler in every fishable spot. This made for tough fishing for everyone. Despite all that, the fishing was pretty good up until early Nov, then came the fishing pressure, and the fishing definitely suffered. Now that the pressure all but disappeared, the fishing as picked up slightly, and will be looking good come the New Year,. This is also when the upper river opens. Currently the river is experiencing a bit of color, which I would call a brownish green, it is fishable at this point,, but give it a week or 2 and it will be that steelhead green that we all seek. Once this happens, this place will fish extremely well, and Ill be guiding it on a regularly daily basis. PLEASE, dont forget the salmon are done spawning now, so please try not to walk through the tailouts where are their eggs are. The winter run started to show their scales prior to storm and will continute to trickle in throughout the next few months. Want to try swinging, the Feather is definitely the place, and in about a month or so, the salmon eggs will hatch, and swinging an alevin pattern will give you that tug that we all search for. Prime time for this is the end of Jan to mid March. If you are looking to get out and learn how to fish the Feather in the winter/early spring book your trip now while prime dates are still available. If spring is your thing, book well in advance as this is my busiest time of year.

Nymphs: Princes, Caddis, Eggs, Worms, Copper Johns, Mays
Swinging: sculpins, olive streamers, flesh flies, alevins, white or olive wooly buggers

Guides Tip: Dont stay in one spot, the fish are spread throughout the entire system. Fish a spot for a while with the usual bugs, if nothing happens time to move.
Fishing Water Report:
Date:
Monday, 19 Dec, 2016
Guides
 (2)
I was born in Upstate New York, where my father and uncle taught me to conventionally fish for bass, pike, walleye and musky on the lake my grandmother lived on. During the summer, ... morewhen school was out, I was lucky enough to be able to live up on the lake with her until school started up again. Every day I would be on the water in my old 12ft aluminum boat with a 5hp motor that would get me everywhere I needed to go, I loved it. What more could a young boy ask for?

Later, finding my way into the United States Air Force and being stationed at Beale AFB, CA, I somehow picked up the passion that my late uncle once had, fly fishing. In December '04 my uncle passed away and I decided what better way to carry on his tradition than try fly fishing myself, not knowing what was in store for me. I was fishing the East Carson River one late summer evening and saw a guy fly fishing. Fascinated by his silhouette in the water against the sunset and the perfect casting stroke and tight J loops made by his fly line while casting, I realized then that this is why my uncle loved this sport.

August 15, 2005, I bought my first fly rod from a local sports store, and have been hooked ever since. This is the one thing I was missing. There is something about standing in the middle of a river with water rushing by me, the sound that it makes, the sound of nature, it’s like you are part of it.

There's no technology in the world that can recreate this experience, it's priceless. This is the one place that not only can I be myself, but it’s the one place that I can feel closer to my uncle. Funny how things work into our lives without us knowing what the future may hold. Love you Uncle Bruce.

I take great pride in my fishing, especially fly fishing. I am self taught, from single to two handed casting, mending, dead drifting, swinging, knowledge of equipment, aquatic insects and fly tying, to even reading water. My love for this sport has taken me to waters all over the state, as well as Oregon, Nevada and Upstate New York. During this unforgettable journey, I have had the opportunity to meet a great number of outstanding individuals and fellow anglers, but only a select few can I truly thank for helping me develop the knowledge, skills and experience that I have for this sport. And to be honest, I wouldn't be the fly fisherman, the guide or the man that I am today without their personal advice and guidance. So to those few, I Thank You. Fly fishing for me is my number one passion in life and that's putting it lightly, I would have to say it's more than a passion, it's an addiction and "state of mind". You can call me a fishaholic, or even better a trout bum, or just plan crazy, and I'll just laugh, shake my head and say HELL YAAAAA!!!!

When I'm not guiding, you can usually find me on the water with a rod in my hand and a tight line, hanging out at the local fly shop, Fly Fishing Specialties, where I like to hang out and talk fishin. I also enjoy tying flies old patterns and new, helping others out in the sport, no matter what their experience level may be, camping, hunting and the outdoors, of course fishing and lastly I enjoy meeting new people and learning new tips, techniques as well as the trade to hone my skills as a guide, fly fisherman and as a person. That's why in 2010 I started Nor Cal Fly Guides, a fly fishing guide service, where I guide clients all over Northern California. I absolutely love passing on my knowledge that I have learned and sharing my joy for fly fishing with someone, and the joy they get when they hook their first fish on the fly. It's something that cannot be explained only felt and or witnessed. There's something said about fly fishing, that once you hook your first fish, you are hooked for life. Fly Fish Once, Fly Fish Forever.

-I look forward to our many trips together-
Outfitter Blogs
Some say that the quality of knot you use is a matter of life and death. I disagree, I can tell you that it’s much more serious than that!
Category:
Fly Fishing, Fly Fishing for Beginners
Added Date:
Saturday, 20 May, 2017
Featured:
No
OK, I'm stretching it a little. The headline suggests the "Soft Shell Revolution" has already happened - and it has in highly aerobic sports like skiing and mountaineering ... more- but it's less clear we'll see the same in fly fishing.
Author:
Category:
Fly Fishing, fishing, fly fishing gear, fly fishing jacket, fly fishing soft shell, fly fishing stuff, gear review, Review, soft shell
Added Date:
Friday, 19 Dec, 2008
Featured:
No
In my last installment, I covered the independent fly rod builders who are probably providing the lion's share of modern fiberglass rods to this small-but-interesting market.
Author:
Category:
Fly Fishing, diamondglass fly thomas and thomas fly rod, fiberglass fishing rod, fiberglass fly rod, fly fishing gear, fly fishing stuff, fly rod, heirloom fly rod, lamiglas fly rod
Added Date:
Friday, 8 Feb, 2008
Featured:
No
While I remain a little skeptical of the practical advantages of large arbor reels, I bought one a few years ago -- after Chris Raine and I started catching big, fast-moving fish on ... moretiny dries and tippets.
Author:
Category:
Fly Fishing, fly fishing stuff, Review
Added Date:
Sunday, 30 Sep, 2007
Featured:
No
Some fly rods exert a powerful hold on those who use them, and when a rod marries itself to your casting stroke, only a fool would put it down in the pursuit of new technology or glossier ... morefinish.
Author:
Category:
Fly Fishing, Underground Entertainment
Added Date:
Thursday, 29 Mar, 2007
Featured:
No
Recently, Yobi Adventures, a new, online, community-based, fly fishing expedition and booking outfit, contacted me about buying the Trout Underground. Because M1 and M2 always need ... morea new pair of shoes (and skis, and soccer balls, and baseball gloves, and fishing gear, and chess sets, and books, and bicycles, and... you get the picture)
Author:
Category:
Underground Entertainment
Added Date:
Thursday, 7 Jul, 2016
Featured:
No
Sorry for the extended radio silence. The plan was to laze about (from a blogging perspective) for a couple months while the L&&T and I discussed what we wanted to do when ... morewe grew up.
Author:
Category:
so long, trout underground, Underground Entertainment
Added Date:
Friday, 14 Nov, 2014
Featured:
No
Regular readers know I get all tingly when I think of Grand Lake Stream (it's one of the few destinations that will make me board a commercial aircraft).
Author:
Category:
bamboo fly rods, downeast lakes land trust, grand lake
Added Date:
Friday, 13 Dec, 2013
Featured:
No
We knew this day would come. One of the Underground's tax deductions is just old enough to make an attempt at fly fishing (though let's be real, we'll be lucky to fish ... moreten minutes before the rock skipping begins).
Author:
Category:
fiberglass fly rods, fishing with kids, kid fly fishing, Underground Entertainment
Added Date:
Sunday, 8 Sep, 2013
Featured:
No
The snowpack up here is so bad, Older Bro and I took the direct route into our normally-unreachable-until-June alpine stream.
Author:
Category:
Backcountry, fly fishing small streams, Review
Added Date:
Friday, 3 May, 2013
Featured:
No
12 reviews   0 comments
Communication
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Scheduling
(5.0 of 5)
Advice
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Boat Comfort
(5.0 of 5)
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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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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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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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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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