Feather River Pre-Season Salmon Fishing Report 5/27/25

May 27, 2025 by Mike Rasmussen

California finally has a salmon season back. Reason to celebrate for sure. After two full season closures in 2023, and 2024, anglers now have a reason to be excited. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has decided to open three California rivers to the take of Fall Run Chinook Salmon. Leaving the Sacramento River closed to salmon fishing for at least one more year. As well as the Klamath River Basin, which includes the Trinity River. Again closed for another year at least. So we will take what we get.

We Will be focusing our efforts and Fishing for King Salmon on the Feather River near Oroville, California. A river rich with salmon history, and the second largest contributor to our states salmon runs. The Feather River has had a surplus of king salmon the previous two years. Primarily due to the fact that the commercial take of salmon has been prohibited over the past two season. Allowing tens of thousands of salmon that would typically have be taken by commercial and sport fishing fleets in the ocean, to return to the river in great numbers. This year will be absolutely no different. Anglers can expect great fishing opportunities this upcoming season. Which will run from July 16 through October 31. With some closure to certain parts of the feather river at different intervals. It would be best to check state regulations for exact dates.

The Feather River will be teaming with anglers and it would be safe to assume large crowds will gather here for the upcoming season. The Feather River is know for the bank fishing opportunities it presents to the many bank anglers that target salmon here. The famous “Outlet Hole” near Oroville, Ca is the rivers most popular location. Attracting thousands of anglers from around the globe when the salmon are running. Large crowds will gather here at their chance to take a dime bright chinook salmon from shore. This is considered the premier “combat fishing” location on the West Coast. On any given day upwards of 200 bank anglers and 20 plus boats may be in attendance at the Outlet Hole! Professional fishing guides also target this gathering spot for the incoming salmon. It is sure to be a zoo this upcoming season.

We will be offering our fully guided salmon fishing charters in this area of the Feather River starting on July 16, 2025. We will continue offering these charters through September 15, 2025 when this section closes to salmon fishing. At which point we will move our salmon fishing charters down river to a section that stays open through October 31, 2025! Fishing guides will thrive in these conditions and are expected to provide “limit out” style fishing for their customers. Typically backbouncing either cured salmon roe or sardine wrapped Kwikfish are the preferred method of take by fishing guides on the Feather River. We are currently taking reservations for this upcoming season. Reservations are filling up fast as all anglers are excited to be back on the water this season. To book a reservation for your own guided fishing trip you can contact us by calling 530-722-8876. Or by filling out a submission form on this website. Submission forms will be answered in the order that were received and call back times very from 30 mins to one hour! We do require a deposit of $50 dollars per angler to hold your reservation. We are happy to answer any questions you may have prior to booking a reservation by calling the phone number provided.

Sacramento River Striped Bass Fishing Report 3/8/2025 “Striper Fest”

March 08, 2025 by Mike Rasmussen

What are all the northern California sportsmen and women doing today? Duck and goose season is over, turkey season hasn’t begun yet, and the striped bass aren’t due to show up for at least a week. Which begs the question, what’s everybody doing today? If you have no plans and can’t see yourself sitting around the house during a day filled with Northern California sunshine. I have an alternative for you. Join myself and many other anglers in Yuba City, California at Johnsons Bait And Tackle for their annual “Striper Fest”!

Johnsons Bait and Tackle has provided the opportunity for NorCal striper anglers to mingle with like minded folks from around the North State. Strengthening the fishing community at large. Something I feel couldn’t be more important in today’s time. As our youth seem to drift farther and farther away from the outdoors and disturbingly closer to the advancing technologies of present time. Johnson Bait and Tackle has dedicated today March 8, 2025 to the striped bass anglers of California. Hosting this special event for the entire day. Let me say Johnson’s didn’t hold back either. They have quite the lineup in store for guests today.

This festival starts at 9:00am this morning and runs throughout the entire day. What exactly is on the agenda today? Johnson’s will be holding raffle drawings throughout the entire event. Giving away a plethora of tackle supplies, including a wide variety of top producing artificial striper baits. Fully guided fishing trips from local professional striped bass fishing guides will also be raffled off throughout the day. Big savings on discounted lures and tackle will allow attendees a break on the pocket book while stocking up for the upcoming 2025 striper season. Displays, representatives, and seminars will keep you captivated and up to date on the ever changing tackle selections available to striped bass anglers. Professional fishing guide services like RH Guide Service, Fish Kevin Brock, Alan Fong Outdoors, and myself who is representing the artificial bait producing powerhouse G-Ratt Baits. An accumulation of a centuries worth of knowledge will be shared with those who attend these free seminars. Have any questions you’ve always been curious about but are unsure of the answers. These pro fishing guides will be glad to answer these types of questions to the best of their ability. Oh, did I mention a top notch food truck will be on site to quench your thirst and curve that appetite. This will be a day filled with benefits for the NorCal angler.

Come out and show your support for this amazing fishery so many of us look forward to utilizing. Bring the kids, the wife, your fishing partners, your neighbors, or the old silverback down the street. Enjoy the beautiful weather and take advantage of the opportunities Johnson’s Bait and Tackle has provided for the striper fishermen and women of Northern California. Mingle and chew the fat with like minded anglers and professionals that share the same passion for the striped bass as you do. Hope to see you all out there. For more information concerning today’s “Striper Fest 2025” visit Johnson’s Bait and Tackle Facebook page or give them a call. Tight Lines..

Mike's Fishing Guide Service for Sacramento River fishing targeting King Salmon, Striped Bass, White Sturgeon, American Shad and Rainbow Trout. The Best Sacramento River Salmon Fishing Guide and Striped Bass Fishing Guide on the Sacramento River.

Sacramento River Striped Bass Fishing Report February 26, 2025

February 26, 2025 by Mike Rasmussen

If you feel like I feel about the spring striped bass run on the Sacramento River, then you ought to be getting pretty wound up for the upcoming season. For me this month signifies the start of the spring striped bass season in Northern California. The March full moon always brings the first waves of striped bass into the California Delta. From the delta the stripers can make their way up the Sacramento River to Colusa, Ca in a matter of days. Likely to be the scenario this season as all Northern California reservoirs are currently as full as they are allowed to be. Expectations of higher then usual river flows have me personally excited for a third strait striper season spent in the Colusa, Ca area, and catching stripers however you want on what ever you want. As it should be! My best guess for when in-river striper fishing will get underway? I would have to say as early as March 20, 2025. Maybe even a day or two before then depending on river conditions. The Feather River typically starts seeing striped bass a week or so before the Sacramento River, and when the Feather River has more river flow then the Sacramento River. Well we all know what happens then. Either way my expectations remain high for another wide open striper season for Northern California anglers.

Currently the Sacramento River levels have dropped tremendously over the past week and a half, and the winter striped bass started to chew. These chunky linesides are running 8-15 pounds and strong as can be. Fishing guide and avid striper fisherman Danny Hamilton. Also the owner of Hamilton Roofing, known here locally as the go to roofing company for Northern California homeowners. Ended up being the first person to venture out and look around as floodwaters finally receded back to a manageable level. Didn’t take him long fishing out of Red Bluff, Ca to turn in his first two person limit of the winter season. He and his girlfriend Kate reported putting a pretty good beating on a school 50-60 stripers they found stuffed in some backwater. Both anglers throwing different artificial presentations with repeated success. Danny threw a Sneaky Pete and Kate ripped a jerk bait. The pair ended up tangling with nine stripers all in double digits with no giants. A similar lashing ensued father down stream near Los Molinos, Ca this past weekend as Red Bluff tattoo artist and life long NorCal angler Juan Nava took to the Sacramento River like it owed him money. Pillaging his way down river plucking off winter stripers along the way. Juan and crew ended up with a box full of stripers to take home to the dinner table. Winter striper fishing should continue to stay productive for those willing to go fish in less then ideal river conditions. Look for the Hamilton City and Ord Bend, Ca areas to pop off closer to this coming weekend or early next week. Water clarity still needs a little time to clean up down river. All in all it’s certainly worth going out and giving it a shot if you’re having a hard time waiting for the spring run to start.

This is an excellent time to make preparations for the upcoming coming season. Securing your tackle needs prior to the start of the season is never a bad idea. Some productive artificial baits that really took center stage last season for myself include jerk baits by the striped bass powerhouse bait company Gratt Baits. Their GB 100 jerk baits can’t be rivaled in the reaction bait category. A must have for my clients fishing the Sacramento and Feather Rivers. When talking soft plastic baits there is a new sheriff in town. I was introduced to the world of tube baits last season by fishing guide Tanner Carrick. A serious artificial soft bait to add to the arsenal. Red Rum Bait Co. in Southern California is ready to package and send out to customers their striper candy. I recommend the 1/2 and 3/4 oz sizes as the stripers could not leave them alone. These baits must be ordered on line and are a must have as far as I’m concerned. Twitching, jigging, or retrieving all seamed to have the same result. Irresistible to striped bass. With the exception of the tube baits all your tackle needs including the entire Gratt Bait striper collection can be found at Kittles Outdoor & Sport in Colusa, Ca. As well as Johnson Bait & Tackle in Yuba City, Ca who serves anglers on both the Feather and Sacramento River. Side note, if you want to chop it up with bait manufacturers and local fishing guides, as well as sitting in on seminars, and even taking your chances winning tons of fishing prizes available through a raffle. Johnson Bait &Tackle is hosting “Striper Fest” on March 8, 2025 at their store location in Yuba City, Ca. For more information you can contact Johnson’s Bait & Tackle for the particulars of this annual event. Tight lines to all!

Sacramento River Striped Bass Fishing Report 2/13/25- “High water =

February 13, 2025 by Mike Rasmussen

…lights out striper fishing for Northern California anglers. With the spring striped bass run bearing down on us, you can be rest assured that this striper season will be a productive and plentiful one. Very similar to the last two striper seasons. California reservoirs, Lake Shasta, and Lake Oroville, are nearly full, and releasing a much higher volume of water than on normal years. For those unknowing the higher river flows bring the large mass of migrating striped bass much farther up the Sacramento and Feather Rivers. A general rule of thumb is “the higher the river water, the farther up the rivers the stripers will migrate”. During a very high water year (similar to this year) stripers may migrate up the Sacramento River as far as Chico, Ca. On the Feather River as far up river as Gridley, Ca. It is likely this may end up being the scenario this season if river conditions stay as they are.

The past two seasons on the Sacramento and Feather Rivers have had outstanding striper fishing. Due to the excessive water runoff from the past two wet winners. This season is shaping up to be no different. Anglers can expect much of the same action this season. The high river levels allow anglers to choose from a variety of methods when targeting striped bass. Using live minnows when targeting striped bass is a fail proof and time tested technique that is hard to beat. However, when river flows remain high into the season, anglers can also expect great success, using other techniques such as trolling, casting swim baits, casting the black worm and using the highly productive new technique of jigging tube baits. A technique I personally tested last season with astounding results. Needless to say expectations remain high as we approach the 2025 spring striper season in Northern California.

The spring striped bass returning to spawn on the Sacramento and Feather River are very predictable as to their run timing. Showing up like clockwork following the full moon in March. Colusa California is ground zero for the spring striped bass run on the Sacramento river. While Yuba City is the ground zero location for the spring striped bass on the feather river. The widely popular striper season will typically last through May. Peaking out toward the end of April and the beginning of May. As I previously mentioned a wide variety of artificial and live bait can be used. Kittles Outdoor and Sport in Colusa, Ca has all your tackle needs when targeting striped bass on the Sacramento River. Kittles supplies anglers with all the top performing artificial baits as well as an endless supply of live and cut baits. The staff at Kittles is beaming with knowledge and always willing to answer questions and give solid suggestion to arriving anglers. Much of the same quality treatment can be expected by anglers who are fishing the Feather River. Here you will want to stop in at Johnson’s Bait and Tackle in Yuba City, California. Also located very close to the most popular boat launches on the Feather River. Johnsons Bait And Tackle is open early and has everything you need. Again, a friendly staff with a plethora of knowledge, who are willing and ready to help you with any questions or needs you may have. This tackle store also supplies anglers with live and cut bait as well as an entire store stuffed with artificial lures. Make sure to stop in and support your local tackle stores when striper season rolls around.

It is never too early to book a striper fishing trip with a professional guide to ensure some high pace, highly productive, striped bass fishing action. Local fishing guides who target the spring striped bass run are constantly on the water and in tune with the whereabouts and feeding patterns of the schools of striped bass. Ensuring a highly productive fishing trip for you and your guest. There are plenty of local fishing guides to choose from. Each having their own strategies and tried techniques in catching striped bass. We here at SalmonSacRiver Are currently taking reservations for this 2025 season. Options for anglers include day time fishing trips, nighttime fishing trips, artificial lure fishing trips, fly fishing trips, and more. We can accommodate any size group and provide all tackle needed for these fishing trips. We are a full service fishing charter business who has fished the spring striped bass run in Northern California for over twenty years. To book a reservation with us for the upcoming season simply give us a call at 530-722-8876. Or visit our website SalmonSacRiver.com and fill out a submission form, we will contact you as soon as we can. We are looking forward to another, very productive and prosperous season. I hope to see you all out there. Tight Lines!

Northern California Fishing Report 2/2/25 “Winters Back”

February 02, 2025 by Mike Rasmussen

After not seeing a drop of rain in Northern California for the entire month of January, we now face a drenching atmospheric river system. With several atmospheric rivers currently hitting and forecasted to continue to impact Northern California in the next few days. Expect most Northern California waterways to be put out of commission for at least a week or two once the wet weather has passed. Sidelining anglers throughout the north state, and putting a halt to the Winter Striped Bass fishing on the Sacramento River. As well as the steelhead fishing on the majority of the North Coast river systems. With the exception of the mighty Smith River which is known to be fishable for steelhead in almost any condition.

Just as the Sacramento River had cleared throughout the typical winter striped bass fishing grounds, and river anglers were having moderate to good success with the oversized stripers. This series of storms brought it all to a screeching halt. The Sacramento River forecast for the river water levels looks bleak to say the least. NOAA (Northern Oceanic Atmospheric Administration) is forecasting the Sacramento River at Woodson Bridge to surpass flood stage at 181 stage feet. Peaking out at 184 stage feet on February 4, 2025 around 8:00pm. Bringing the Sacramento River levels up to as high as they have reached this season. Putting the Sacramento River and its anglers out of business for the better part of two weeks.

The Eel River at Scotia, Ca is forecasted to have about the same outcome as the Sacramento River this week. Nearly reaching flood stage itself. Eel River water accumulations running down river past Scotia at over 145,000 cfs (cubic feet per second), or 34 stage feet. Stopping the productive steelhead fishing that had been taking place on the main Eel River from the confluence of the Middle and South Fork Eel River near Redcrest, Ca, downriver to Rio Del, Ca. Putting this steelhead fishery out of commission until much later this month. Providing the rain completely stops this week and does not continue for several weeks to come. Basically if you were lucky enough to partake in the steelhead fishing on the main stem Eel River prior to this series of storms. Consider yourself just that, “lucky”. As this section of the Eel River may not see anymore green water while this steelhead season is relevant. It is completely weather depending and at best a guess weather steelhead fishing will again take place this season on the lower part of this river system.

As usual under these extremely wet circumstances in the North State, river anglers are left with very few fishing options. There is always the Smith River near Crescent City, Ca in Del Norte County if you are into the steelhead fishing scene. Challenging but very rewarding this river will fish at any river level except the very peak of flood stage. Which it is not forecasted to even come close to during these atmospheric river events. Far from actually! NOAA’s river forecast for the Smith River puts it at around 12 stage feet as it peaks out from these storms. This river level is actually very conducive for bank fishermen, and allows for drift boat fishermen to safely “plunk” from their drift boats until river levels drop to 10 stage feet. When drift boaters can start side drifting bait or soft beads for winter steelhead. If it’s steelhead you are looking for this is the place to be in the coming week or two. Contact steelhead fishing guide Ryan Tripp if you are looking for a guided fishing trip on the Smith River. If you are the extreme outdoor adventure seeker, ask fishing guide Ryan Tripp about his white water steelhead fishing charters that take place on both forks of the upper Smith River. Using a self bailing raft. He is the only steelhead fishing charter that offer these high adrenaline, and highly productive steelhead fishing trips (ryantrippsguideservice.com)(530-635-3719). Photo below compliments of Ryan Tripp’s Guide Service. A upper Smith River raft trip from January 2025.

Anglers in the Sacramento Valley who want to get out after the big winter striped bass have the California Delta as about the only option for the DIY fishermen. You also have the option to take part in the catch and release sturgeon fishing in the delta waters. Which I understand is pretty good fishing currently. If you are looking for a fishing guide to book for these big North State striped bass. RH Guide Service is your best bet for the next two weeks. As Ray may have good water to fish in his home waters. You can find RH Guide Service on Facebook or give him a call at 530-870-2697. Photo Compliments RH Guide Service on Facebook. January 2025!

The Sacramento River from the Hwy 162 bridge in Butte City down river to the city of Sacramento, Ca is now closed to the fishing for white sturgeon. This includes the very popular Colusa, Ca and Knights Landing, Ca region of the Sacramento River. Sadly this is another fishery we will likely never see come back to the Sacramento River. For any of the readers who would like to book a sturgeon fishing trip Golden State Sport Fishing and Captain Joe Gamez are still doing fully guided sturgeon trips in the California Delta. Joe can be reached at 209-855-1487. Tight Lines Everyone

Northern California Steelhead Fishing Report 1/23/25 “Green Waters”

January 23, 2025 by Mike Rasmussen

The North Coastal region of California has always been the epicenter of winter steelhead fishing. And will remain so for as long as steelhead exist, orrrrr….CDFW disallows us to fish for them any longer. For anyone who has partaken in this fine winter sport we call steelhead fishing, they will attest to its lasting addiction. This addiction takes deep roots the second you hook your first true coastal steelhead trout. Many anglers are mislead by the separate runs of trout. Brought to believe that when they catch steelhead in the Sacramento Valley and its tributaries, that they are steelhead fishing. Yes kind of! Those are a kind of steelhead. “Summer Steelhead” typically. A much smaller and all together different specimen than their winter relatives. The summer steelhead travel much farther inland, are considerably smaller in contrast, must eat to sustain a spawning season, take up residency during staging cycles prior to spawning, and take on a heavy rainbow trout appearance with rosy cheeks and lateral line. Nevertheless folks, these so called steelhead are NOT what’s being caught on the North Coast. Wild and river specific, these dime bright rockets inhabit almost every coastal tributary on the west coast that drains straight into the Pacific Ocean. As far as California is concerned we are talking about the coastal tributaries of Del Norte, Humbolt, and Mendocino Counties. These counties are the home to the real steelhead of California.

This past week I toured the Northern Coastal communities of California’s steelhead country. Trying to get an idea of how the season was shaping up thus far (As January kicks off the unofficial start to winter steelheading). Also to feed my own addiction to the sport. As well as take customers to experience these fisheries first hand. Here is what I found….Let’s start by reporting for the three counties individually.

Del Norte - This county is the Northern most county on California’s Pacific Coast. Also home to the mighty Smith River. Residing only minutes from the Oregon state boarder, this is our states most popular steelhead fishing destination. I myself did not travel this far North on my recent fishing trip. However I did receive daily steelhead fishing reports from fishing guide Ryan Tripp (ryantrippsguideservice). Whom is working the gin clear waters of the Smith River every day for his clients. “The fish aren’t stopping”. Reports fishing guide Ryan Tripp when I spoke with him this past weekend. A steady trickle of fish are moving through the Smith River system every day right now. So the targets are there Getting in front of them may present its challenges. If you know the Smith River the risk is well worth the reward. But be prepared to put in your time. Or call fishing guide Ryan Tripp to book a trip with a professional fishing guide. A experience you will never forget on the Smith River. After all it is in my opinion the most picture perfect steelhead fishery on the West Coast.

Humbolt-Where do I even start? It’s not just every season you get to take full advantage of every steelhead tributary in the county. In fact I can remember on several occasions in the past twenty five years, the whole month of January passed by, and never even had an opportunity to wet a line. On the SF Eel, Mattole River, Van Duzen, or Redwood Creek. These rivers can stay at elevated flows and silty the entire month of January. This year it was December that left coastal rivers unfishable from saturating rainfall. So this January dry out was right on time. Following the twenty plus inches of rainfall that hit the redwood forests in December. Stopping just in time for the New Year. Now not even a drop has fallen since. Everything weather related has actually played out perfectly in my opinion. Giving the over saturated soil much needed time to soak in. Giving the rivers a chance to finally recede. As it happens one trib after another, eventually all the counties tributaries have dropped into shape and the fishing begins. The steelhead seemingly show up and start biting when their natal waters turn from silty and brown, to emerald green. This is where the North Coast rivers currently reside. Emerald green on all Humboldt’s steelhead fishing rivers.

Humbolt-Where do I even start? It’s not just every season you get to take full advantage of every steelhead tributary in the county. In fact I can remember on several occasions in the past twenty five years, the whole month of January passed by, and never even had a opportunity to wet a line. On the SF Eel, Mattole River, Van Duzen, or Redwood Creek. These rivers stayed elevated and silty the entire month. So this January dry out was right on time. Following the twenty plus inches of rainfall that hit the redwood forest in December. Now not even a drop has fallen this January. Everything has played out perfectly in my opinion. Giving the over saturated soil much needed time to soak in and give the rivers a chance to finally recede. As it happens one by one, eventually all the counties tributaries have dropped into shape. The steelhead seemingly show up and start biting when their natal waters turn from silty and brown, to emerald green. This is where the North Coast rivers currently reside. Emerald green on all Humboldt’s steelhead fishing rivers.

This past week has been filled with good and consistent steelhead fishing. With that said, and considering the amount of fresh fish coming through these rivers daily right now. Is leading me to believe when this winter steelhead fishery reaches its peak in mid to late February. The steelhead fishing may just turn into an all out slugfest. As for right now 1-3 fish a day has been the general consensus for drift boaters I spoke with over the long three day weekend. Fishing pressure certainly increased dramatically over the lengthy weekend. The South Fork Eel seeing the most fishing pressure. Dozens and dozens of drift boaters were scattered along the middle grounds of the SFE. Near the town of Garberville. Where most drift boats I spoke with had caught or fought at least one fish for the days effort. Some SFE locals from Legget , Ca I spoke with reported catching 3-7 steelhead a day. Having perfect attendance all last week. Moving forward look for the main stem Eel River to drop into shape and start fishing this week. Spreading out the steelhead fishermen and easing up on the heavy fishing pressure the South Fork Eel has had the past ten days.

The Mad River in Arcata, Ca has always been a steelhead attraction come winter time. This year is no different. This past weekend anglers saw some great action fishing from the hatchery down river. One highlight from the holiday weekend was angler Juan Nava, a tattoo artist from Red Bluff, Ca and a life long fisherman. Who caught a steelhead of a lifetime while pulling plugs from his drift boat. Down river from the Mad River hatchery. He landed a 20 pound male steelhead that caught the attention of steelhead fisherman state wide. A true trophy and something very few California steelhead anglers will ever accomplish this milestone. Hats off to Juan for his amazing catch. Congratulations!

The anglers that prefer to tackle these wild coastal steelhead on the fly also saw great success this weekend as they flocked to the remote Mattole River. A Humbolt County tributary that they have found a niche for. Casting soft beads and covering lots of water is the primary method of catching steelhead for fly fisherman on this river system. This method proves to be very successful for guys wanting to catch ocean going rainbow trout on the swing. They also faired well over the holiday weekend. Every boat polled had got into at least a single steelhead. A steelhead guide from the Fly Shop in Redding, Ca that I chopped it up with on Sunday reported landing five adult steelhead on his trip that day. Soft beads being his pattern of choice.

Mendocino- With the exception of the top stretches of the South Fork Eel River, the rest of the county will need more rain before it becomes productive for steelhead anglers. Much of this county’s steelhead tributaries are small in comparison to those in neighboring Humbolt County. Relying heavily on replenishing rainfall to keep the river and creeks at levels conducive to steelhead fishing. So anglers looking to target the county’s smaller tributaries will have to wait for our next Pacific Ocean low pressure system to roll into town before heading out to chase that coastal chrome in Mendo.

All and all it has been a great start to the 2025 steelhead season, and there is undoubtedly much more to come. Don’t hesitate to get in on the action as this is a better start to a NorCal steelhead season then we have seen in a handful of years. The last few wet winters have helped with successful spawning. Expectations run high for the steelhead fishing to get better and better as each year passes. Leaving the damages done by Californias extreme drought farther and farther behind.

If you wish to book a steelhead fishing trip with a professional guide service, we will continue to book fully guided steelhead fishing trips through the month of February and into early March. The peak of this years run will be during the month of February. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to chase these hard fighting and unique fish. Give us a call (530)-722-8876 or complete a submission form on this website and we will return it with a phone call. Good luck out there and tight lines to all steelhead anglers who head out in hopes of tying into a mean,chrome, steelhead trout.

Northern California Salmon Fishing Report: Salmon Fishing Charters Ready Their Drift Boats For The “Last Dance”

November 12, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen

Do you enjoy salmon fishing? Like eating salmon maybe? Then you might not want to miss this last call for the 2024 California salmon season on the Smith River. This is kind of like “the fat lady singing” if you will. The end is near. And what a great season and experience it has been here on the North Coast. This weeks rainfall will bring the majority of remaining colossal king salmon in from the ocean. For Salmon anglers on the North Coast, drift boat season on the Smith River is like the World Series, or the Super Bowl, or the Stanley Cup, you get my point. It’s the big salmon fishing event before the season will close and the run will end around thanksgiving. During the final weeks, some of the best salmon fishing in the country will be had by fishing charter drift boats. If you know, you know. If you don’t know, you going to want to know. Some of the most epic and memorable days of salmon fishing plays out on the Smith River during this short period. The accumulation of all the coastal fall chinook will enter the river, continuing to migrate far up all three forks of the Smith River. In search of their ancestral spawning grounds. This much needed rain will give life back to the river system as it has gone stagnant this past week with no rainfall since around Halloween. These storms will bring the second large push of salmon into the river system as rain runoff swells the river and signals the remaining awaiting king salmon. Angler can expect above average salmon fishing for the remainder of this week and the next. If you’ve been on the fence about heading over to the Smith River, now’s your chance!

The Smith River is currently open to salmon fishing and under no kind of low river flow restrictions. For those unfamiliar, no fishing can take place while the river levels are under six stage feet on the Jedediah Smith hydrography. The river was closed on Sunday November 10th as river levels dipped below the six foot threshold . As mother nature will have it, and as it appears to the meteorologist, the rain storm schedule to make landfall on Monday November 11th will saturate the North Coast and open the Smith River by Tuesday morning November 12, 2024. Allowing the salmon fishing charters, and their fishing guides to access the Smith River. Putting their clients on some high pace, salmon fishing action. Some days are better than other days of course, but all days are good days. There are days we get up to twenty Fall Chinook Salmon to our drift boats. Other days we may only get a half dozen kings to the boat. Kwikfish and flatfish are generally the preferred method of take for us once the salmon are in river. In my opinion there is no better way to experience king salmon fishing then with a “plug”. I would highly recommend hiring a professional guide to show you the ropes on the Smith River before exploring it on your own. It will be money better spent then going through the learning curve while salmon are passing you by. There are a handful of salmon fishing guides to choose from if this is your plan. How do you go about choosing one???

A few things to consider when looking for a salmon fishing guide on the Smith River. There may be somewhere from a dozen to a dozen and a half (fishing guides) that will operate on the Smith River out of their drift boats. Some of these fishing guides are local to the north coast. Others are not, and have traveled to do guide work here far from their homes. Which brings us back to the question of “who is the best guide out there to hire? Personally I feel like this question can hinge on several different things. Personality, availability, size of the group, pricing, and other things that may very from guide to guide, or client to client. Personal preferences tend to primarily lean towards the bottom line…. “Which fishing guide catches the most salmon”? After all, this is what you came fishing for…. to catch fish. Most client/guide relationships and founded by personality, or personality conflicts on occasion. Finding the fishing guide that your personality clicks with, and who sends you home with fish from your trip. Is the task at hand, and can be easier said then done. Sometimes you may have to try several fishing guides out before you find who is right for you. The relationship will build itself when you do find what you are looking for. Catching fifty salmon with someone you can’t relate to or have a personality conflict with, will be less enjoyable than time spent with a guide that catches ten fish but you can find common ground with and carry on a competent conversation. Maybe even with a good sense of humor. It’s really just up to the individual preferences of the person booking the trip. Building a lasting relationship of mutual respect, and knowing each others expectations will make the guides job easier each time ours Which is a big consideration if you intend to repeat the guided fishing experience year after year.

As for which fishing guide, or fishing charter service catches the most salmon on the Smith River? I’ll be adding links at the end of this fishing report. First it’s important to know a couple things. This is a much more complicated question then one may think. When considering who may be the best on the Smith River, consider the fishing technique taking place. I mentioned previously in this fishing report, most of the salmon fishing on the Smith River is done with FlatFish, Kwikfish, or MagLip’s. With that said, let it be know that it would be hard to find a salmon fishing guide anywhere on the West Coast that has spent more time with a Kwikfish or FlatFish tied onto their rod than a Sacramento River salmon fishing guide. It would always be a safe bet to hire a salmon fishing guide from the Sacramento Valley for this reason alone. Plug fishing, is plug fishing, doesn’t matter what river it’s on. The Sacramento River fishing guides spend six months out of the year with a plug rod in their hand when salmon season is open on the Sacramento River. These salmon fishing guides kick ass with Kwikfish and Flatfish. Again these types of things are serious considerations when looking to book a trip with a Smith River salmon fishing guide. I’m not saying the guides on the North Coast don’t know how to use FlatFish and Kwikfish, because most do. I’m just saying the Sac River guides extensive knowledge in plug fishing likely counts for something.

Another consideration worth mentioning would be local knowledge and experience. I guess you could say the local guides have the home field advantage. Spending more time on the Smith River then guides from the Sacramento River, or Southern Oregon. For instance, John Klar of John Klar’s Salmon and Steelhead Adventures has been doing guided salmon fishing since the mid 1980’s. 1986 to be exact. It’s safe to say John knows a thing or two about salmon fishing on the Smith River, and the entire continent of North America for that matter. One would be hard pressed to find that kind of knowledge and experience. Even after 30+ years of experience, John still grinds on his full calendar as if he was 25 years old still. John has also made a habit of catching fish and keeping happy customers coming back for more, year after year. John Klar may be hard to book due to the fact that his calendar is typically full and the season booked out before it even starts. Off the top of my head, I can’t think of any other fishing guide living on the north coast that has the years of guiding under their belt as John does. As the saying goes “there is no replacement for experience”.

Besides the three pre-mentioned considerations when looking to hire a salmon fishing guide on the Smith River. Let me tell you there is one more thing to consider concerning this topic. That being a guides reputation, other anglers recommendations, and customer reviews. Do a little homework (trolling). As the consumer/customer in these current times you have so much access to internet activity by fishing guides. Guides who post sometimes daily. Showing off photos and describing their daily experiences on their social media platforms: Sometimes for clout and other times to drum up business on short notice. Trolling through the salmon fishing guides social media accounts or by doing a Google search of them will let you see other customer reviews, and experiences. However be careful not to make any hasty decisions based on a single review. People occasionally leave questionable reviews or for one reason or another. It may be they simply didn’t get along with the guide. Or a jealous competitor may leave a bogus review to drag your business down. Never the less reading through the reviews, and taking an overall consensus of how the previous customers liked their experience. Is a very promising way to ensure you will have a good trip, with a professional fishing guide.

Here is a list of five Smith River Salmon fishing guides who’s considerations put them at the top of the list. In no particular order….

Dillyn Parazinski - A North Coast resident with strong Sacramento River ties. Young enough to get after it as hard as anyone, and just old enough to have a plethora of local knowledge.

John Klar - Veteran Northern California fishing guide who knows more about guiding than the rest of us combined. A true legend of a fishing guide.

Ryan Tripp - Probably the most versatile and accomplished fishing guide in Northern California and Southern Oregon. With fishing skills that would rival anyone on the West Coast. Ryan’s the guy you don’t really want to fish around if you are another fishing guide.

Dave Jacobs- Dave has more time fishing plugs then all prior mentioned fishing guides. He has also been doing guided fishing trips on the Smith River for over two decades now. Dave knows how to make a salmon bite a plug, that’s a fact.

Mike Rasmussen - Hey that’s me! The author! Yes I too am from the Sacramento River and cut my teeth on plug fishing for salmon over twenty years ago. I also have extensive knowledge of the Smith River salmon fishery. And have nearly perfect attendance for the Smith River salmon run over the past fifteen years.

You honestly couldn’t go wrong with any of the listed fishing guides mentioned above. There are others that are not mentioned that also would provide the proper guided fishing experience for you. Most importantly making the commitment to just come to the Smith River and try something new, and experience a new and extremely scenic fishing location, which happens to have big, beautiful, chinook salmon. Will reward you with fond memories for the rest of your life. This place is not easily forgotten and will likely draw you back year after year. As it did to myself and every other listed guide in this blog. The Smith River is a place to remember!

California Salmon Fishing 10/17/24 Smith River Fishing Report

October 17, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen

The salmon fishing on California’s Smith River has continued to be solid again this past week. A consistent supply of king salmon are coming in and out of the estuary. Putting chinook salmon in the boat hasn’t been a problem for the handful of boats who have been going out daily. “We’ve seen everything from Jacks and Jills, to thirty plus pound king salmon. We’ve even brought a few coho to the boat over the past week.” Reports salmon fishing guide Mike Rasmussen. who goes on to say the silver salmon are always a welcome surprise, but must be quickly released. Causing as little harm as possible to the endangered salmon species. On a positive note, there have been plenty of king salmon willing to bite. The 11” Pro-Troll 360 flasher in chrome prism has seemed to work the best in this estuary fishery. A 24”, 100 pound mono bumper to the flasher from the main bead chain. A 28” leader from the flasher to your bait has seemed to keep the salmon interested in striking. These Smith River estuary king salmon are willing to chew most all bait presentations. Artificial baits like the “cut plug” and “super baits” are effective when stuffed with tuna. However the Yakima Bait Co. “Spin Fish” has quickly become my personal favorite for artificial presentations. When it comes down to it the best bait would still have to be a properly rigged anchovy. The flash from the roll of a properly rigged anchovy is irresistible to king salmon. Proving itself true in the Smith River estuary. As it has on many of the west coast salmon fisheries.

In the weeks to come, with no particular reference to time. The Smith River estuary fishing will give way to the “up river” fishery. Restricted to the use of a drift boat, kayak, or bank fishing. Basically anything that doesn’t use a motor for propulsion. Motors are 100% restricted on the Smith River above the Highway 101 bridge. This is when the Smith River shines for the drift boat fishermen using a sardine wrapped kwikfish or flatfish, maglips and cured salmon roe. The more traditional “in river” approach to tackle and methods of take. When exactly does this take place? All I can tell you is when it rains….Period. As soon as we get a significant Pacific rain storm to pump a couple inches of rainfall in the surrounding mountains, the estuary will empty out, and the river itself will fill up with salmon. Being one of the very last rivers to not have a dam. This wild river relies heavily on rainfall to raise its river water levels giving the chinook salmon access to their ancestral spawning grounds. As was intended in all rivers prior to colonization of the west coast. Basically when the rain comes we put away our jet sleds and take out our drift boats. Drift boat season has arrived.

As for now the Smith River has continued to pump out legit salmon fishing, and the quality of salmon doesn’t get any better. I expect a large push of newly arriving salmon to show up in the next week with the onset of this months full moon cycle. The largest tides of October will accompany this full moon phase. Bringing great tidal salmon fishing conditions to the Smith River, and Chetco River estuaries. If you are looking to book a guided fishing trip for the remainder of this month, or for drift boat king salmon fishing in November. Please give us a call at 530-722-8876. Or you can fill out a submission via our website salmonsacriver@gmail.com. We urge everyone who has not taken part in the North Coast chinook salmon fishery to consider experiencing everything it has to offer. I hope to see you all out there. Tight lines….

Northern California Salmon Fishing Report -Smith River 9/29/24

September 29, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen

California’s only salmon season is well underway. With only a short 30 - 45 day window of opportunity for anglers to catch a California King Salmon. So we didn’t waist anytime getting right into the action. Arriving on site in conjunction with September’s full moon cycle. The first week and a half kicked off with mixed results. The first couple days we struggled to find consistent salmon fishing in the estuary. As the numbers of arriving king salmon just hadn’t shown up yet. Basically it was a slower start but relatively strong finish scenerio. All signs would eventually indicate a healthy run of Fall Chinook Salmon will be returning to California’s Smith River this season.

Like most coastal river systems the Smith River saw an influx of salmon arriving at the mouth of the river during this months full moon phase. Instinctually arriving to coincide with the months largest Pacific Ocean tides, brought on by the full moon. Which gain coastal king salmon access to their river system prior to any significant rainfall. Salmon congregate around the mouth of the river to start acclimating to the rivers fresh water, in preparation to spawn in the coming months. As the salmon arrive they will enter the fresh water of the river’s estuary, then return to the ocean for some time, then back in again. This exchange takes place sometime throughout a tide cycle. Repeating itself until the chinooks are ready to live the rest of their days in fresh water. This is part of the acclimation period, and typically carries on until rainfall arrives and the acclimated king salmon charge up the river system to their spawning grounds. Let it be noted this is a generalization and some salmon will start slowly heading up the river prior to the rainfall which signals the majority of arriving salmon. Smaller groups of ambitious kings will creep up the lower river at night under the cover of darkness. Making them feel less vulnerable to predators.

The first week of fishing did see some great fishing after getting off to a somewhat slow start. Only landing one nine pound Silver (Coho) Salmon on the first day out. Things quickly changed as the full moon tides brought scores of fresh king salmon to the estuary. With every tide change came new opportunities. Big Chinook Salmon started hitting the deck mid last week. The highlight of the season so far came from Carson Tharp form Roseville, Ca. Who landed a true Smith River Tyee (40 pound king salmon). Also Carson’s PB king salmon. Showing the real potential the Smith River has for giant king salmon. The afternoon prior to Carson’s behemoth king salmon two opportunities at the same class of giant kings salmon were lost. The first lost opportunity came during the strong outgoing tide. A salmon that appeared to be nearly four foot long buried the 10’ 6” Buzz Ramsey Douglas 360 trolling rod. After several big head shakes it headed back to the Pacific Ocean. It never looked back. Taking all but ten feet of the Berkeley Power-Pro from the reel. Leaving us feeling sick and frustrated. We never even had a chance at that lifetime fishing achievement. To make matters worse less ten minutes later one of our rods was again buried in the rod holder. A short battle ensued. This king was never seen. It broke free from the 40lb Maxima leader that held the bait behind the 360 Pro-Troll flasher. Again disappointed reared its ugly head. Needless to say some very large chinook salmon are showing their presence early in the 2024 salmon season.

Bank anglers have been finding daily success casting “Cleo’s” (spoon). This is the preferred method here on the Smith River for “bankies” and it works! The bank fisherman who are made up of mostly locals, line the North bank at the mouth of the Smith River every morning and evening. Casting their Little Cleo’s. Every day is different here, actually every tide is different here. Some days everyone is hooking up. Other days only a few salmon get hooked from the bank. However on most days at least a handful of chinook salmon get caught and drug up on the shores of the Smith River estuary.

If you are considering visiting the Smith River estuary for an early start to the 2024 salmon season. You may consider checking out a few places that make this experience easier on the wallet and more convenient and practical for the salmon angler.

LODGING AND BOAT LAUNCH FACILITIES- The XAA-WAN’-K’WVT Village and Resort is the place to stay if you are intending to spend a few days fishing the Smith River Estuary this salmon season. This resort is very reasonably priced and puts you at ground zero for salmon fishing. The majority of productive salmon fishing in the estuary takes place literally right out of their back door. This resort has Trailer and RV hook-ups for the DIY camper. As well as a series of river view cottages that overlook the bay but wont break your bank account. They also have the only boat launch available for putting a fishing boat in the bay (this is clutch). The office staff is super friendly and willing to answer any questions, make reservations, sell your group fishing licenses and North Coast salmon report cards (required in possession while fishing for salmon on the Smith River), and offer up any other information you may need while staying in the area. The management runs a tight ship and see’s to it all your belonging are safe and your experience while staying here are pleasant and without any hiccups. I recommend giving this place a look before searching for all these accommodations separately.

Overall the Smith River has been shaping up to have an outstanding salmon season. This past week had shown us there are plenty of king salmon already entering the mouth of the Smith River. This should only increase in the days and weeks to come. Reaching its peak just prior to the October full moon. These California kings are simply waiting for rainfall to raise the Smith River and gain them access to their ancestral spawning grounds. At this point the estuary will empty out as the king salmon quickly vacate the tide water and head directly into the fresh water of the Smith River. This 2024 salmon season has already shown the potential to catch the salmon of a lifetime. Like Carson’s 40 pound king, and the two others that ate up the tackle. The near by Chetco River has already produced a Goliath King weighing 52 pounds. There are trophy king salmon that swim up these rivers every season. Getting in front of one is the challenge. Landing it is a whole other story.

California’s Smith River Is Open To Salmon Fishing In 2024… And We Are Booking Reservations Now!

Mikes Guide Service

July 13, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen in Fishing Report, fishing charter, Salmon Fishing Report , california salmon, salmon fishing, salmon fishing report, Salmon Fishing Guides, fishing charter service , NorCal fishing report, smith river salmon fishing, smith river fishing, smith River, spring run chinook salmon , Feather River Fishing, fishing report, Sac River guide, Salmon, Butte Creek Salmon, Trinity River, mill creek, Ca , Northern California salmon, Charter, Sacramento River Fishing Charter, NorCal fish report, fishing report photograph, salmon kill off, chinook salmon, Feather River Salmon, Salmon Fishing Charter, salmon restoration , Rogue River Fishing, chinook salmon restoration , California water, Rogue River Salmon Fishing , Fishing Guide, save our salmon, Dead Chinook Salmon, Feather River, Trinity River Fishing, Trinity River , Rogue River Fishing Report, Sacramento River, Sacramento River Fishing

Angler can expect to experience first class salmon fishing on this California river system. Lots of action, big salmon, and plenty of them. Join us by booking today

Sacramento River Striped Bass Fishing Report 5/27/24 “Couldn’t have asked for a better…”

May 27, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen

..striped bass season on the Sacramento River. In fact I don’t believe you could find a striper fishermen in Northern California to argue the fact. In my twenty years spent as a fishing guide here in Northern California. I can safely say this 2024 striped bass season was as good as any other season that I can recall. Sadly the action has finally tapered off this past two weeks. A river wide spawn has been underway over the last 10-14 days. So the massive numbers of striped bass that were stacked from Butte City, Ca all the way to Verona, Ca have dwindle lower and lower in numbers each day. As spawning occurs the striped bass when finished start to migrate back down the Sacramento River. Heading back through the California Delta and on to the Pacific Ocean. Where they will again live before returning to spawn again in a couple years time. This is not to say the spring striper spawn is completely over. It is not. However the fast pace, slam dunk, all you want type striper fishing is.

Some striped bass post spawn will head up the Sacramento River and feed on American Shad. Which are also in the Sacramento River to spawn. These stripers will spread out throughout the upper Sacramento River. Locations like Woodson Bridge, in Corning, Ca, the greater Red Bluff, Ca area, and of course Hamilton City, Ca will all have post spawn striped bass taking up residency for the summer. Fishing trips taken on the Sacramento River in the coming month can include both striped bass and American Shad. Making for some fun fishing, and a great opportunity to get the kids out on some action. As the American Shad are plentiful currently. Spend your early mornings and late evenings throwing glides like Sneaky Pete. Or take advantage of the pre-dawn top water bite that goes on throughout the summer months.

If you still desire to chase the striped bass, consider heading over to the other side of the Sacramento Valley. The Feather River at current time is your best bet for striper fishing. (Fishing guide) Raith Herryford of Rh Guide Service is still finding good action on the Feather River. The stretch of river between Verona, California and East Nicolas California has been the best bet. All standard methods of take apply.

Here at SalmonSacRiver we have moved up the Sacramento River near Red Bluff, California. We will continue doing striped bass and American Shad combo fishing trips. As well as trophy rainbow trout fishing trips in the upper Sacramento River for our customers. We will continue engaging these fisheries until mid July, 2024. This is a great opportunity to catch stripers on top water as well as loads of American Shad. This is also a great time for families to come out and go fishing on the Sacramento River in Northern California. Children out for summer break enjoy the fast action the American Shad and rainbow trout provide. Take advantage of this opportunity to get your children involved in the outdoors, as they are the future of this sport. Tight Lines….

Sacramento River Striped Bass Fishing Report - May 9, 2024

May 09, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen

What a heck of a month April was for striped bass fishing on the Sacramento River. From start to finish, the month of April did not disappoint. Nearly every fisherman polled will tell you the same thing. “Best we’ve seen in years”. A vibe that was long over due for Northern California fishing guides and recreational anglers suffering through the loss of two separate fisheries this past year in the Sacramento River. As Fall Chinook Salmon and White Sturgeon hit the chopping block by CDFW ( California Department of Fish and Wildlife). Their failure to manage these public resources before it reached a crisis level caused a state wide fishery shutdown for both species in the Sacramento River. Nevertheless this striped bass season came as a huge relief for those looking to get back on the Sacramento River.

The month of April flew by for anglers who were caught up catching large quantities of striped bass. Which continue to show up in the Sacramento river until current time. Fishing Guides and recreational anglers have enjoyed the success of limit out style fishing for the entire month. Some adaptions had to be made for this continued success. Anglers who typically rely on live minnows or casting swimbaits decided to make some changes and dig their trolling lures out of their tacklebox’s and started trolling. For whatever the reason, the success was overwhelming. Swimbaits and plastics in general, never really showed the same consistent success as they have in years past. While live minnows will always work the troll by certainly was king. Not to mention the grade of striped bass caught while trolling was far superior to the striped bass caught while dragging live minnows. As well as a heck of a lot easier on the wallet. And who doesn’t like a big ol plug bite?

Northern California weather couldn’t have worked out better for striper fisherman. The weekly onslaught of winter storms throughout the month of April, kept the striped bass from spawning. Water conditions ( flow and temperature) remained favorable for anglers on the Sacramento River until early last week. Just before this last cold storm Sacramento River water temperatures jumped above 62 degrees. Prompting the striped bass to start a heavy spawn. Primarily due to the USBR choking off river flows to a dismal 6,000cfs. With less flow the river water slows down, and exposure to the sun is greater. This causing the Sacramento River to warm up as it runs through the Sacramento Valley. Nevertheless a pretty significant spawn occurred last week river wide when river temperatures climbed above 62 degrees. Making the stripers harder to catch for about two days. Before the weekend storm dropped river temperatures dramatically and put the bass back on the bite.

The striped bass action has slowed from its peak a little over a week ago. Not to say the season is over by any means. Just that the stripers arnt jumping in your boat like they had been. Fishing Guides Robert Petty, and Ryan Tripp are still pulling limits of mixed fresh and half spent striped bass for their customers. Tanner Carrick, owner of TC ‘s Guide Service put a great box of bass together for his clients on Tuesday this past week. While fishing an afternoon trip out of the Colusa State Park. Raith Herryford of RH Guide Service has also shown no signs of slowing down either. Making daily live feed videos on his Facebook page. Catching striped bass real time for his followers to see. While some striped bass have spawned and are backing out of the Sacramento River system. There are new schools of stripers making their way up the river to spawn. The Sacramento River at current time is on the rise. Which in turn will keep the river water cooler, and the stripers from starting another spawn. Good news for everyone who isn’t ready for the season to wind down.

Expect the month of May to be consistent striper fish as it traditionally is. In fact some anglers prefer the month of May as apposed to April for the simple fact boat traffic and the non stop relentless fishing pressure subside to some degree. As I mention earlier new batches of stripers are arriving on the striper grounds surrounding Colusa, Ca as you read this report. Also look for night fishing to kick in big time as daytime air temperatures reach the 90’s in the coming weeks. The troll bite has still remained outstanding and is the go to method of take for most anglers fishing the “ditch” south of Colusa. While fishing North of Colusa live minnows and chucking plastics have been clutch.

If you’re looking to book a reservation for a striped bass fishing charter, or fishing guide service in the Colusa, Ca area. You shouldn’t have a problem locating one. There are several mentioned in this fishing report as well as others that are still operating locally in the Colusa area. Kittles Outdoor and Sports in Colusa is still stocked with live minnows and any other bait or tackle you may need. Plenty of opportunities still exist to experience great striped bass fishing here in Northern California on the Sacramento River. This fishery is a excellent choice for taking family groups out fishing. Kids typically love striper fishing as it provides fast action and keeps the youngsters from getting bored while waiting for a fish to get on the line. More importantly it gets families in the outdoors as a whole and exposes children to all the Northern California outdoors has to offer. As the school year comes to a end fishing is a great opportunity for a quick summer get away. Tight Lines!

Sacramento River Striped Bass Report - April 28, 2024 - “Bank Fishing Spots”

April 28, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen

I thought it to be appropriate to do this striped bass fishing report for the bank fisherman. Running a full time fishing charter here in Northern California, keeps me in a boat ninety percent of the time these days. However I have never forgotten my roots. Which started from the banks, not the boat launches. As I travel up and down the rivers I always keep in mind the public access spots I see nearby. Spots that would be good fishing from the bank if they were known about by determined bank anglers. So this fishing report is for the bank fisherman. Timing, location, and access are the main factors for succes here. If you read this fishing report reel time (within a day or two of publication), the locations I’m about to give you will be producing you keeper striped bass for the next week or more.

The “Chico Straits”! This location is considered a famous striped bass fishing location, and has been used by anglers for decades when striper fishing the Sacramento River out of Colusa, Ca. This location is roughly seven miles North of Colusa on the Sacramento River. It has limited bank access from the roadside. Parking on the roadside turnout near the levee gate ( location marker above) will allow you to walk up or down the Sacramento River and find a location to fish from. Don’t block the gate! You will find bank fishing spots that are used by others when the fishing gets good. Fishing is good here right now and will remain so for two weeks to come. The striped bass infest this long, lazy stretch of river in preparation to spawn. They gather here in this mile long stretch of river in great numbers. Anywhere along the roadside would be productive. Personally I would stick to the bottom end of this location. The river flow is slower here and not as much lead will be needed to stay on the bottom. Remember to be courteous and pack out your trash.

The “Tractor Hole”‘ is always a good bet. Located on Butte Slough Rd a couple miles south of Colusa, Ca. The Tractor Hole sits on the east bank of the Sacramento River at the top of a long straightaway. It too is a preferred location for female stripers to spawn. As the big female stripers hold waiting to spawn, groups of males will gather in the surrounding area to wait as well. Making the Tractor Hole a prime bank spot during this time in the season.

The “Princeton Ferry” hole has many options for bank anglers. Like the Chico Straits, and the Tractor Hole, this long straightaway offers outstanding bank fishing from both sides of the Sacramento River. This hole is also a favorite area of the female striped bass. Access on the West side of the river is obtained through turnouts on the side of Hwy 45. Access on the East side of the river is obtained through the town of Afton. Some effort may be needed to access the gravel bar on the East side of the river at the top of the hole. However this would be my first choice of spots in the Princton Ferry Hole.

These three locations are currently fishing great. It’s hard to say what will happen in a week or two’s time. I will say all of these locations are going to hold striped bass every season. So saving this information may come in handy, even if it’s not for this season. I’ll leave bait recommendations up to the individual angler, but all cut baits like, liver, minnows, ect will work. Kittles Outdoor & Sports in Colusa, Ca has all these baits and much more. Also you may want to Google search the “public’s right to waterways in California”. You will find California gives the general public a lot of legal access to waterways across the state. Bridges, dead end roads and other access points are legally accessible to the public. There are many other bank fishing options surrounding the Colusa, Ca area. Especially on the levee roads between Colusa, Ca and Knights Landing, Ca. Make sure to check and see if you are crossing any private property when checking out new bank fishing locations. Good Luck! Tight Lines!

Sacramento River Striped Bass Fishing Report - April 22, 2024 - “NCGASA Striper Derby Weekend…..

April 22, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen

…..was a complete madhouse. Colusa, Ca was overrun by striped bass anglers this past weekend. Out of town anglers coming from all over the west coast headed for Colusa to get in on the peak run, striper fishing action. Many anglers visiting the area were participants of NorCal Guides and Sportsman Association (NCGASA) annual striper derby. Which took place over the weekend at the Colusa State Park and City Boat Ramp. Presumably putting a ton of fishing and boating pressure on the striped bass. Shockingly it didn’t seam to matter so much to the striped bass. By all indications on day one, the striped bass had no problems with the heavy boat traffic and non stop fishing pressure brought on by the derby. All reports from the weigh ins were very positive. Nearly one hundred percent of the 185 participants said there were plenty of striped bass to be caught. Many anglers reporting great striper fishing existed just about anywhere you went on the river.

Day one of the striper derby was a very successful day for all the anglers who partook. The target length for this random draw, target length, males only derby. Was drawn by president James Stone just before 5:00am Saturday morning. The target length drawn was 22 7/8”. Estimations for the total day one catch of striped bass ranged anywhere from a thousand to two thousand fish. Some of the professional Sacramento River striped bass fishing guides put up big numbers of stripers for their clients. In hopes of hitting the exact target length of 22 7/8”. Striped bass fishing guide Dakota Townley reported his crew doing 116 stripers to the boat on day one. As he and his crew weeded through the schoolie striped bass looking for the target length fish of 22 7/8”. At the weigh in the day one target length hit the hash mark at 22 7/8 exactly. The name of the winner is unknown to me at this time. However it was known to be a female angler who had reportedly caught the money fish on a live minnow. Big fish of the day went to a client of striped bass fishing guide Adam Andrieni.

Day two of the NCGASA striped bass derby went much like the first day. There was a plethora of striped bass to catch. The only difference was the lack of boat traffic on the second day. The target length was drawn at 27 1/2 inch. Again it was nailed dead on by a angler fishing with striped bass fishing guide Aaron Zanoko out of Yuba City, Ca. All and all there was a tremendous amount of support from local anglers and sponsors alike. Making for a successful annual striper derby put on by the guide’s association.

By Monday morning (April 22, 2024) the dreaded boat traffic was gone and the Sacramento River seamed to be much more quiet then usual. Making for easy limits for fishing guides like Mike Rasmussen of SalmonSacRiver.com, and Ryan Tripp of ryantrippsguideservice.com. Pulling (trolling) plugs seams to continue to be as consistent as any other method used in catching striped bass. Live minnows of course always being the fasted method to catch your boats limit of striped bass. The biggest benefit in trolling plugs is the grade of stripers you catch. They are typically much larger on average then the stripers caught using live minnows. Making plug fishing the best bang for your buck if you aren’t in a hurry to get off the water.

Striped bass anglers can find the most action in the stretch of the Sacramento River spanning from Colusa, Ca north to the reservation hole. About 9 miles north of the town of Colusa, Ca. You will also find the majority of other striped bass anglers in this stretch of river. If you are crowd shy or would rather be fishing away from the masses of striper anglers. Consider taking a look down river from Colusa. The stretch of rip rap rock wall from Lovey’s Boat Landing south to the Meridian Bridge also has had a large group of striped bass that have taken up residency in this stretch of river. Also this area is a excellent spot for trolling. Following and trolling the eastward rock wall should produce some quality striper action for those willing try it. Farther to the south is a section of the Sacramento River that has remained wild for the most part. Holes and sandbars with names like Pearson’s Dock, the Burning Bush, the Glory Hole, and Lupi’s Bend. All of which have a great deal of 22-24 inch keeper sized striped bass holding in the area. You will recognize this stretch of river by its natural layout. After traveling a half dozen miles down the man made ditch, you would recognize this region as the area that the rock wall and man made banks are absent.

The Sacramento River water temperatures are lingering around 60-61 degrees. Just below the spawning requirements of the striped bass. It is still up in the air if the spawn will happen prior to the cooler daytime air temperatures that will bring the Sacramento River water temperature back down into the mid to high 50 degree range. Either way there is still ample time to get out and enjoy some of the amazing striper fishing we have been experiencing here on the Sacramento River out of Colusa, Ca. Don’t miss out on what is continuing to be a excellent striper season. Get out on the water and enjoy all that Northern California has to offer the outdoorsman. Tight Lines!

Sacramento River Striped Bass Fishing Report - April 18, 2024

April 18, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen

What a week of striper fishing it has been. The Sacramento River did not disappoint this past week. The “all you want” striper fishing action that everyone waits for, is being had. The right combination of a few key ingredients lead to a banner week of striped bass fishing in Colusa, Ca. A sprinkle of rain, a dash of a water rise, a squeeze of sunshine, a dusting of chinook salmon smolts. With last weeks wild weather river conditions became perfect for striped bass fishing. Not to mention the arrival of Fall Chinook Salmon smolt, released from Coleman National Fish Hatchery early in the week. 2.2 million juvenile chinook salmon started making their way into the Colusa area on Monday April 15th. Can I say a “wide open” striper immediately ensued.

The poorly timed release of juvenile chinook salmon by Coleman Fish Hatchery was bad for the baby salmon, but great for the striper fishing. There’s nothing that gets the striper bite going like the arrival of salmon smolts. The entire river came alive this past Monday when the smolt arrived. Fishing guides like Ryan Tripp (ryantrippsguideservice) reported seeing striped bass boiling on salmon smolt in several locations North of Colusa on Monday. The entire striped bass fishing guide fleet took part in the easy pickings. It didn’t matter what your style or technique for striper fishing was, because it all worked. The guides fishing live minnows creamed them. The guides trolling plugs smashed them. The guides casting swimbaits crushed them. I’m not certain how the cut bait guys did but we’ll go ahead and just say they killed it too. Action was wide spread, covering over thirty miles of the Sacramento River. Spanning from Butte City, Ca to Tisdale, Ca ( on a side note Tisdale Boat Launch is supposed to open to the public this coming Friday April 19th). Tens of thousands of striped bass went on a full feeding frenzy this week. Gobbling up tens or maybe even hundreds of thousands of critically important juvenile fall chinook salmon that were headed out to the Pacific Ocean to grow. All the striped bass in this thirty mile stretch of river have been blinded by the free meal thrown their way this week. Making the catching of these striped bass somewhat of a breeze.

Tanner Carrick of TC Guide Service jumped in on the action this week. He and his crew posted up and wrecked shop on the feeding stripers. Finding very solid action every evening this past week. Mike, his brother Matt, and Sam accompanied Carrick in his pursuit of catching big number of striped bass. They found their home grounds down river near the town of Grimes, Ca. Casting swimbaits before dark each evening as stripers worked the smolt over on the surface of the river on the long gravel flats on this section of river. The Sneaky Pete gliders from G-Ratt Baits were clipped on after dark. Carrick’s favorite way to target the linesides. Tanner reported 30-50 striped bass to the boat during each outing over the past week. With a thirty pound hen he released while trolling a P-Line Predator on a rock wall in the area. While Carrick chose to venture down river for this annual event. Most of the fast action stayed north of Colusa and most of the heavy boat traffic stayed with it.

As of Thursday April 18, 2024 this salmon smolt driven fishing action is still taking place. Although quickly loosing momentum. It may possibly last into the weekend. Giving more opportunity to all the weekend anglers. For those of you anglers who are only able to fish the weekend. It is essential to have the proper tackle, and baits that are catching the striper any given time. Kittles Outdoor & Sports in Colusa, Ca has all of these things. With a knowledgeable staff that stays up on the real time happenings of the striped bass. A half of a block away from Kittles is the City Of Colusa boat launching facility. Where much of the striper action is taking place. The Colusa State Park is connected to the city boat launching facility and is where the majority of boaters park their trucks and trailers while out on the river. The annual guides association striper derby will also be held at the State Park this coming weekend.

Is this peak striper season on the Sacramento River? Absolutely yes, it has nearly reached its peak. So don’t put off going striper fishing any longer if you haven’t already gone. The time is now. If you have been out previously this season, come back. Now’s the time! The NCGASA is hosting a striper derby this weekend. April 20, 21. Make sure to stop by the Colusa State Park and show your support by joining the organization that helps fight countless battles on behalf of the local sportsman. Hire a guide, or fuel up your boat, or maybe go cut out a bank spot. Just don’t wait for the season to get any better. It’s time.

Sacramento River Striped Bass Fishing Report - April 14, 2024

April 14, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen

We dodged a big bullet concerning the Sacramento River spring striped bass spawn this week. Warm daytime air temperatures in conjunction with dropping river levels. Almost caused a very early spawn for the striped bass. Whom are currently taking up a residency around the Colusa, Ca region of the Sacramento River. Two consecutive days of 85+ degree daytime air temperatures caused the river water temperatures to skyrocket. By Thursday April 11, 2024 river water temperatures in the evening hours before dark reached just over 60 degrees. For those who may not know 62 degrees is the magical temperature that striped bass need to induce their spawning. As river water temperatures on the Sacramento River in Colusa, Ca went from a chilly 51 degrees on Monday April 8, to nearly 60 degrees on Thursday April 11. The striped bass instinctively gathered, preparing for a spawn. On Thursday evening as river water temps reached their peak. The striped bass left all their bank side hiding spots. Moving out mid river, laying around the main current line of the rivers strongest currents. Indicative traits of spawning stripers. “Moch Spawing” was witness by a handful of anglers who had reported seeing this practice run type spawning ritual. Which the stripers do days prior to having a real time spawn. The striped bass at this point become focused on one thing, and one thing only. If you catch my drift. Making the evening fishing very difficult on Thursday April 8 and the following Friday morning of April 9.

As it would turned out the cold low pressure system that rolled in on Friday April 12, 2024 couldn’t have come at a better time for striper anglers. The drop in daytime air temperatures caused river water temperatures to plummet back into the mid 50 degree range. Putting a kabash to any spawning activities that were about ready to take place. In turn saving anglers from a early end to the striped bass main event (the spawning season). By the weekend things as far as fishing was concerned we’re right back to normal. Buying at the least another week to ten days of “limit out” style fishing here in the Colusa, Ca area. Fishing charter services operating in the area made quick work of easy limits for their clients on Saturday April 13, 2024. With most fishing guides being all wrapped up and back at the fillet stations well before noon. Fishing guides working double trips, or working the late shift reported much of the same fast pace striper action on Saturday April 8.

With the striped bass reaching a near full blown spawning episode late last week. The troll bite immediately kicked into gear. Sacramento River striped bass fishing guides like Ryan Tripp, Raith Herryford, Robert Petty, and Mike Rasmussen all put the live bait away. Except Raith Herryford of course, who has refused for as long as I can remember, to pay the outrageous, and inflated cost of a live minnow. Figuring out many successful methods for catching stripers on artificial baits only. And has been very successful doing so….The other fishing guides turned their live minnow rods in for their plug trolling rods and got after it. Plug trolling did not disappoint. Putting easy limits in their fish boxes. For the clients who were lucky enough to feel the fury of a striper attack on a properly trolled plug. Trolling plugs may still be a widely used fishing technique for striped bass in the California Delta. However in the upper regions of the Sacramento River the once mainstay of striper fishing in the area. Is now a mostly forgotten technique. Very deadly forgotten technique. Troll speed, lure selection and application, line scope and distance, water clarity, and water depth are all factors that play into trolling successfully. I would recommend joining a forum of anglers fishing the California Delta, watch related YouTube videos, or hire a professional guide service like the ones mentioned previously. Learn from a professional before venturing out on your own dime. This will save you much frustration while working through the learning curves. As far as rod selection for trolling plugs. I would personally recommend checking out the Douglas Rod Company’s LRS series of casting rods. Preference differences tend to occur frequently between fishing guides. So finding the LRS series rod that suits you best is best left up to you. It is mutually agreed upon that a trolling rod of eight foot in length or greater is desired while trolling.

Except excellent striped bass fishing on the Sacramento River striper grounds surrounding Colusa, Ca in the weeks to come. Another large push of newly arriving striped bass has made it’s way into the Verona, Ca again for the second time this season. If river forecasters are correct and the Sacramento River rises by two foot early this week. All the striped bass from Colusa, Ca to Verona, Ca would instinctively migrate up the Sacramento River in search of the big females. Stayed tuned for our next report due out on Wednesday April 17, 2024.

Sacramento River Striped Bass Fishing Report- April 9, 2024

April 09, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen

The pair of California Sea Lions along with the cold unstable weather have moved on over the past few days. Allowing the striped bass to settle down and gather up on the Sacramento River. Making the fishing action more consistent for fishing guides and recreational anglers alike. The pair of sea lions that had shown up over the weekend had moved North of Colusa, Ca. Taking up a two day residency near the “reservation”. About nine river miles North of Colusa. Or about half way between Colusa and Butte City, Ca. The pair was witnessed hanging out around the Verona, Ca area last week as they likely followed the big school of migrating stripers from the California Delta. When the school of stripers left Verona, Ca on Wednesday of last week, the two sea lions left with them. Following the large school of stripers up the Sacramento River. By Friday evening the large school of stripers had started to arrive around the Colusa area. With the two fur bags right on their heals. Here some of the striped bass started to break off the pack and hold in all their favorite spots. Where awaiting female striped bass had already established their spawning locations and were awaiting the arrival of the smaller (schoolies) males. After scattering the striped bass in the Sacramento River above Colusa, the two fir bags headed back down river for easier fishing. Presumably heading back to the California Delta. Allowing the striped bass to settle down and come out of hiding.

Fishing charters and fishing guides have had much better and consistent success in the early part of this week. Accompanied by great weather conditions the stripers became very active over the past 48 hours. The river water temperatures on this section of the Sacramento River warmed up several degrees. Ranging from a surface temperature of 51 degrees over the weekend, to 54/55 degrees by Tuesday April 9, 2024. Causing the striped bass to get much more active. The live minnow bite really came around following the weekend boat traffic and cooler water temps. Even more so did the trolling bite. The more active stripers didn’t hesitate to jump all over the trolled plugs presented to them by some fishing charter operators like Robert Petty of North State Salmon. Who boxed eight keepers in a short time on Monday April 8, 2024. While fishing guide Ryan Tripp managed to box twelve keeper stripers for his boat load of clients. Who casted swimbaits for the hour prior to sunrise, before switching to live minnows to finish up their daily bag limit of two stripers over 18 inches in length for each of his clients. Long time striped bass fishing guide Arron Zanoko, son of the legendary Jimmy Zanoko from the Yuba City area also fished the Sacramento River the over the weekend. Putting his clients on limits of keeper striped bass North of Colusa, Ca on Sunday as weather conditions improved in the North State. On the recreational angling side of things, reports were mixed. I talked to a group of anglers who reported catching their ten keepers without traveling a mile from the Colusa City Boat Launch located near Kittles Outdoor & Sports. While other recreational anglers reported struggling to find even a fish per rod. Private angler Jason Hofinkee had no trouble snatching up a limit for himself and his father Rodney Hofinkee. Getting it done soaking sardines just above the Colusa State Park on Sunday April 7, 2024.

Expect night time fishing to pick up tremendously over the coming days/weeks. As warmer daytime temps make for more suitable conditions while staying out and fishing after dark. This is a great way to dodge the extremely heavy daytime boat traffic that has overtaken the Colusa, Ca area this past week. On a separate note be sure to support the NCGASA by entering in the annual striper derby put on by this organization. The derby takes place on the weekend of April 20/21, 2024. You can register on line or at the derby which will be hosted at the Colusa State Park. This event is a great time and supports local fisheries in Northern California. It is set up so anyone can win this event, as a target length is drawn randomly each morning. There is also a cash prize for the big fish category. For more information stop in Kittles Outdoor & Sports when you get into town. Tight Lines!

Sacramento River Striped Bass Fishing Report April 7, 2024

Mike’s Guide Service

April 07, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen in Sacramento River Fishing, striped bass fishing, fishing charter, Fishing Report, striper fishing, sacramento river fishing, Sacramento River, striped bass fish report, Northern California striped bass fishing, fishing report , Fishing Report , Feather River, Fishing Guide, Sacramento River Fishing , Sacramento River striped bass , striped bass fishing report, fishing report photograph, Sac River Fishing Report, Striped Bass, Trophy Striped Bass, NorCal fish report, Sacramento River Fishing Charter, Charter, striped bass fishing charter, fishing report, Sac River guide, Feather River Fishing, fishing charter service , NorCal fishing report, Striped Bass Fishing, Striped Bass Fishing Report

Big things from this young lady. Sage Eller from Corning, Ca landed this 9 pound striped bass all on her own.

Northern California Striped Bass Fishing Report 4/4/24

April 04, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen

And it has begun! Right on time, and without further ado… the striped bass have arrived. In some what of a grand fashion. As they moved into the upper Sacramento River. Reports from private anglers and fishing guides like Ryan Tripp who made the drive to Verona, Ca last weekend. Couldn’t have been more accurate. Reporting the striper action was “all you want” style fishing at the confluence of the Feather River in Verona. When I asked Tripp which river the massive school of stripers was headed up. He replied “the Sac”! Tedeso Chavez from Sacramento, Ca reported very similar information from the recreational angling community. Ted fished the Verona, Ca area on Monday April 1, 2024. Releasing a dozen keeper sized stripers and securing his limit, Chavez also implied the stripers were marching up the Sacramento River side of the confluence with the Feather River. Both of these reports seemed to be right on time as the Sacramento River surrounding Colusa, Ca loaded up with quality keeper size striped bass by Wednesday April 3, 2024. These stripers didn’t waist anytime while moving up the Sacramento River.

Widespread action was underway by the fleet of fishing charter services and fishing guides who fished both North and South of the Colusa area on Wednesday. Water conditions being less then ideal didn’t stop the schoolie linesides from gobbling up every live minnows they could find swimming on the river bottom. A short swimbait bite also took place in the early morning hours prior to sunrise, and again in the evening. Small “boils” (stripers feeding on the rivers surface) erupted North of Colusa in some of the stripers favorite spots. Quickly being shut down by jet boats racing back to the boat ramp before darkness fell on the river bottom. This reported by Ryan Tripp of ryantrippsguideservice.com. Who spends a tremendous amount of time on the water. Expect more of the same action to take place moving forward in the coming days. As more and more striped bass move up river into the spawning grounds preparing for the annual spring spawn.

Striped bass fishing certainly hasn’t reached its peak by any means. There will be much more to come. For now at least there are some targets to fish for. Nice ones too! With about half of the catch being between six and ten pounds. Very respectable grade of striped bass.

Northern California Striped Bass Fishing Report - March 29, 2024- “Graveyard Shift On The Striper Grounds”…

March 29, 2024 by Mike Rasmussen

Many of you striper enthusiast have heard about it, you may know someone who has done it, but I guess until you’ve experienced it yourself you really dont know what you are missing. Fishing for striped bass at night that is. That’s right, the night bite! You may have heard it said before…”niight time is the right time.” And that cliche couldn’t be more accurate. In fact, any fishing you’ve done in the daytime here on the Sacramento River. Simply will not compare to the success you will find after the sun goes down. Striped bass fishing on the Sacramento River is plain, and simply better at night. And here is why.

There are several reasons that striped bass fishing is consistently better at night. Let me first say that, for those of you who know striped bass. Know that they have an insatiable appetite for almost anything that swims, crawls, slithers, slaps, or splashes in the water. These fish are extremely intelligent. Not to mention highly adaptive to new environments. They can feed and sustain in almost any river condition. They will feed in muddy water, clear water, night, day, salt water, freshwater, East Coast to the West Coast, and all rivers and lakes in between. Striped bass are always ready to eat. Let’s cover two of the primary reasons the night fishing for Striped Bass in the Sacramento River is so productive.

Once the striped bass move into the Sacramento river during the spring migration and spawn. Their favorite food source becomes baby Chinook Salmon. This is their food of choice. This is the most prevalent food source around at this time of year, and the stripers exploit it. The juvenile chinook salmon released by Coleman National Fish Hatchery have no idea what lays in wait for them. The timing of these hatchery releases couldn’t be worse for the juvenile chinook. In the same breath the timing couldn’t be better for the striped bass. The spring migration of stripers heading up the Sacramento River, coincides directly with the baby salmon which are out migrating or heading down river to the Pacific Ocean. It’s like a nature made head on collision. The naturally given instinct that mother nature gives the juvenile chinook salmon is key to the night bite. Their instinct is to migrate under the cover of darkness to aid in their safety from predation. So as the sun sets the juvenile salmon come out of their daytime hiding spots amongst the rocks, bushes, trees, gravel bars, and other structure they hide in during daylight hours. If taking notice around sunset or early evening on the edges of the river. You will see juvenile salmon start hopping around. This is a sign that they are ready to migrate with the darkness when it arrives. Just before complete darkness, the juvenile salmon swim out to the rivers primary current lines (called the “bubble line”), and uses its strong currents to help aid them in a long travel to the Pacific Ocean. The juvenile Salmon will stay out in the middle of the river in the main current and travel south with the river all night long. Before returning to the banks of the river, and all her hiding spots, come first daylight. The stripers key in on this migration pattern immediately. Quickly adapting to their food source, the stripers turn nocturnal. Laying down themselves all day. Then gathering in large schools and feeding at night. It’s during this night time migration when the striped bass feed heaviest on the juvie salmonoids. The striped bass know when they are around baby salmon, the entire river vibrates with their presence. At this point they will congregate together and find a near by chokepoint in the rivers main current. Typically where the river narrows dramatically creating a funnel. Here they will sit, gathered up, being fed by the continuous migration of baby salmon throughout the night. Scattering before daylight returning to their own hiding spots for the daylight hours. Please know when striper are gathered up and actively feeding. They are 100 times easier to catch them where they are off the bite (daytime). Not to say a striped bass won’t seize the opportunity to eat something during the daylight hours, because they do! However where you may catch one in the daytime, you may catch dozens at night.

The potential for catching a monster striped bass is more likely at night during the spring run. The seldomly used technique of “trolling” is by far the most likely way to get your hands on a giant female striper. Speed trolling (3 - 5mph) is almost a forgotten art in the Sacramento River these days. With all the boat traffic in a small area, trolling is mostly ineffective during the daylight hours. Due to the boat traffic putting the stripers down. Nighttime is a completely different story. The reaction bite caused from speed trolling is revitalized when the darkness falls. Usually this is best done in the stretch of river south of Colusa, ca extending to Knights Landing, Ca. It is almost always is best trolling on the rip rap river banks that create a levee on both sides of the river. The best tip I ever received for trolling up big stripers. Was given to me by a true Sacramento River striper legend by the name of Kenny Ball! He told me this…”Mike if you want to catch the big stripers you have to fish for them”. Meaning find these colossal female stripers on your fish finder at night and troll over, and over, and over her until she reacts you your plug and smashed it. This advise worked like magic and it put my first forty on the deck. I’ve caught them on the first pass running through them and I’ve had it take as long as the second consecutive night trying to target a particular big fish that I had been graphing.

The second reason the nighttime dominates, the daytime for striped bass fishing is this. The daytime boat traffic caused by the ever growing number of anglers who run up and down the Sacramento River, from sunrise to sunset, every day of the season. Tends to put the stripers down. Sending them in to hiding. Or as the fishing guides call it, “pouting”. When explaining to my clients the relationship between striped bass and boat traffic. My explanation is this. Imagine you are standing on the street and a 747 jetliner comes roaring twenty foot over you. Would would you just stand there as if nothing was happening? No, you would run as fast and far as you could. So as you can imagine the first big jet sleds that come rumbling down the river at daylight, the stripers typically run for cover. The nonstop boat traffic and fishing pressure that lasts the duration of the spring striper run. Quickly puts the large congregations of striped bass off the daytime bite. Whereas during the night the boat traffic dissipates dramatically, and the river becomes quiet. Even without baby salmon around the striped bass will gather up and lay in the shallow waters of the submerged gravel bars and sand bars that line the Sacramento River. It is here that you can anchor up, or hit spot lock on your trolling motor. Now you can cast swim baits and black rubber worms at the shoreline. In a area the stripers have moved into. A seriously productive night time technique for putting big numbers of striped bass on your boat. The stripers living in the “wild” (not Army Core Engineered rip, rap) sections of the upper Sacramento River typically will be laying in 3 to 6 feet of water. Gathered up far off the main current. Here they will rest and take the opportunity to feed when it exist. Striped Bass have the unique ability to hunt down the beat of a paddle tail from a swimbait, or the vibration caused by the long, slender tail of a black plastic worm. These stripers are able to key in on even the slightest vibration or movement under the waters surface. Even on the darkest night, stripers will find a black plastic worm and choke it down as if it were broad daylight. This is why we say nighttime is the right time.

If you have ever entertained the idea of heading out at night and giving this night fishing thing a try, but still may be on the fence about it. I encourage you to give it a try. Don’t wait, just do it! Being out at night in the dark fishing and driving a boat is outside of most people’s comfort zone. Keep in mind this is the same exact river as during the daytime. Know your trouble areas and pay close attention to detail during the daytime. Then going out at night is more comfortable. Just use caution as you typically do, and fish the way you normally would. Just do it at night. As a aid to navigation adding a few thousand lumens to the boat will let you see from bank to bank making night like day in front of you. Another way to make yourself confident and comfortable fishing in the dark, is to hire a professional fishing guide. This would probably a smart decision for a few obvious reasons, and it will prove to be money well spent. There are only a small handful of local fishing guides and fishing charter services that offer these trips. We here at SalmonSacRiver do offer fully guided night time striper fishing trips from April 1, 2024 lasting through May 15, 2024. Also weather dependent. Big rain, or big wind and these night trips quickly become not so enjoyable. If you would like to book a reservation for one of these night trips feel free to contact us at 530-722-8876. Or through the email submission form process on this website SalmonSacRiver.com. A short list of separate individual fishing guide and fishing charter services would include: Ryan Tripp’s Guide Service, North State Salmon with Robert Petty, and RH Guide Service’s Raith Herryford. Don’t let this season pass you by without checking out the night bite. Tight Lines!