Sacramento River Salmon Fishing Report For May 4, 2026 “The Return Of The King”

Are you all ready for the good news or the good news? According to the president of the NorCal Guides and Sportsmans Association’s (NCGASA) James Stone, we will be having a full salmon season on Northern California’s Sacramento River this season. James has openly proclamed the intent of California’s Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) to announce a full salmon season returning to the Sacramento River in 2026. This would include a July 16, 2026 opening day on the Sacramento River below Woodson Bridge in Corning, Ca. Followed by an August 1, 2026 opening day above Woodson Bridge. Which includes the famous Barge Hole in Cottonwood, California. The seasons will close on December 16 for the section of river below Woodson Bridge, and a season closure of December 31, 2026 above Woodson Bridge. A six month long salmon season. In addition to the return of a full Salmon season on the Sacramento River, a two salmon per person daily bag limit would also be granted by CDFW. So basically folk we are returning to a normal Fall Chinook Salmon season on the Sacramento River. With the exception of one subtle change.

For those of you who have fished the Sacramento River in the years past, you may have caught the fact that I mentioned the location for the July 16, 2026 opening day will take place from Woodson Bridge south, or down river. So for all your anglers who have historically fished below the Red Bluff diversion dam in Red Bluff, California. You will now have to make new plans to fish below Woodson Bridge on the salmon opener.Some of you are wondering why this location change was made by CDFW. The decision to change the demarcation line for opening day has solid reasoning behind it, and in fact was implemented prior to the closure in 2023. For those unaware between Corning, California and Red bluff, California on the east side of the Sacramento Valley are three cold water tributaries of the Sacramento River. These tributaries have hosted Spring Run Chinook Salmon in their waters for thousands and thousands of years. Due to a rapid decline in Spring Chinook numbers in these three tributaries (Deer, Mill, and Antelope Creeks) the Spring Chinook Salmon have made the endangered species list. Without getting into great detail about run timing and other naturally occurring events. Let me say this is the reason of concern with having a Red Bluff diversion dam opening day on July 16th as we have historically had. The specific concern by the department is that the endangered Spring Run Chinook Salmon that are unable to gain access to their tributaries in the spring, due to low water flows in the Sacramento River and these tributaries. Leaves these Spring Run Chinook Salmon stuck in the Sacramento River where they can be incidentally caught by anglers who are targeting Fall Chinook Salmon after the season opens in mid July. In my opinion, there is good reasoning and logic behind this decision by CDFW. However with that being said this regulation change will do very, very little to nothing to save, preserve, or rebuild the endangered spring run salmon that swim in these unique tributaries. Great idea but two decades too late. What the department has allowed to happen to these specific runs of chinook salmon historically can not be mitigated through incidental “bycatch” regulation. Never the less in the big picture this regulation change is trivial at best. After three years without a opening day of salmon season on the Sacramento River, I’m sure most of you would agree this is something we can look past to be back on the water.

It’s been three years since  Sacramento River salmon fishing was declared a federal disaster. Leading to a three year salmon season shutdown in all of California. Keeping anglers off their waters for what seems to have been forever. Apparently that is all about to change on July 16, 2026. We’re going to be back in action and this season couldn’t start soon enough.  For all you river anglers it’s time to dig out those Kwikfish and dust them off,  and maybe check for freezer burn on your cured roe if you still have any. Spool those rods and tie up those roe leaders, it’s go time folks. Once again jet boats will be heard tearing up and down the Sacramento River. Memories will be made, and traditions will be passed down. King Salmon will again become a boost to local economies along the Sacramento River and in Northern California as a whole.

If history repeats itself like it generally tends to, we as anglers should be in for one heck of a season. As some of you OG NorCal salmon anglers may remember,  the first ever salmon season closure in 2008, 2009, and 2010 was followed by a wide open 2011 season. So the past has proven that a three year closure will result in an over abundance when the season has reopened on the fourth year. So expectations should remain high for this upcoming season. It is very likely going to be outstanding fishing.

The official word is going to be made public on May 6, 2026 from my understanding. To book a reservation for your own private salmon fishing charter please contact us by phone at 530-722-8876. Or reach out on this website by filling out a submission form and we will contact you shortly. Tight Lines.

Feather River Salmon Fishing Report 9/3/2025. “Arrival of the Silver Bullets”

Like clockwork, the first wave of brand new King Salmon pushed into the Lower Feather River, this past week. It has been roughly two weeks, since the August full moon. Anglers’ fishing the Feather River, out of Boyd’s Pump, and Star Bend, started seeing the dime bright Chinook Salmon showing up in the middle of last week’s heat wave. Just like a switch getting flipped, these Fall King Salmon showed up covered from head to tail in shiny tiny scales. They still bare the marks from where sea lice recently died and fell off. These are magnificent specimens, as far as, river salmon fishing is concerned. To be completely truthful; it would be hard to tell an ocean salmon, from these river salmon, if they were lying side by side. The bottom line here is Fall Chinook Salmon, just don’t come any better, than the salmon currently swimming up the Lower Feather River.

These dime bright, newly arriving King Salmon aren’t shy about biting either. They chew! Watching these King Salmon on: Live Scope’s Perspective Mode, allows the angler to catch a first hand glimpse at how migrating salmon interact with your spinner or plug; as they approach your spread, while migrating up river.This is something never before seen, in California’s salmon fishing industry, or by California anglers in general. Here is what I’ve learned in my short time fishing the Lower Feather River for migrating Chinook Salmon….

Let me first point out, the importance and power, of Garmin’s Live Scope technology. Which if time allowed, I could write a book about. In short, what I’m about to bequeath upon you readers is not my opinion, these are not my assumptions, and they are not up for discussion nor scrutiny. These are facts! Proven by technology that lets you watch these King Salmon live. As they naturally live in their environment, and interact with your lures. Something never before possible. This is what I’ve learned, and here are some of the more important take aways, from the Lower Feather River. These tips may help anglers that are salmon fishing in this area.

1)- The Feather River King Salmon are on the move on a consistent basis now. Meaning everyday, and to be more specific, all day everyday. These King Salmon slip up the edges of the Feather River, at the pace of a fast walk. They typically migrate in pairs or trios, however, groups of five to eight fish will come through several times a day. My best estimate is, 100-150 salmon per day, move through the lower river during daylight hours.

2)- Spinner fishing seems to be the most productive method of take, in the Lower Feather River. That is not to say, these King Salmon won’t bite a sardine wrapped plug, a 360 flasher with a 3.5 spinner or cut plug, or spoons, because they do. I have witnessed and also, personally caught, lower river King Salmon, using all these other methods. However, nothing gets these Chinook Salmon more fired up than a flashy, shiny, silver blade. Particularly, the single and double bladed “Silvertron” spinner. If you make your own spinners a big size 7 cascade blade, works just as well. If you do not make your own spinners, then Silvertron spinners are your best option by far. Either trolled or plunked behind an anchored vessel, spinners will find you, your best success in the Lower Feather River.

3)- Remember this: The farther you go down the Feather River, and the closer you get to the HWY 99 bridge at Nicholas, Ca.; the more salmon you will catch. With 40-80 boats per day on the Lower Feather River, these King Salmon see it all, on their migration up river. They are being educated along the way, as they pass each boaters’ spinners. The closer to the closing point at Hwy 99 you can get, the less the salmon have seen spinners, and a higher percentage of salmon will bite.

Hopefully, a few of these observations will help newer anglers to the area; understand the dynamics of the Lower Feather River. Please, remember to remain respectful to the local community, who aren’t used to the heavy, out of town fishing pressure. As this area is typically a quiet, and light pressure fishery. It has only come alive, as this local spot, is the only option for NorCal anglers. So common courtesy can go along way with the locals here.

Stay tuned for a breakdown of the Upper Feather River report next week; as we wind down the remaining days on the Upper Feather River. Tight lines….

Feather River Salmon Fishing Report 8/23/2025 “Fish On”…

“Fish On” can be heard echoing accross the high banks of the Feather River coliseum. Otherwise know as the Thermalito Outlet Hole. This place has come alive in its true fashion over the past week or so. Following last weeks drastic water drop and then water rise, a load of chinook salmon arrived at the famous salmon fishing spot. Stacking up against the concrete apron along the face of the spillway is an understatement. The mass of king salmon sitting directly in front of the bank anglers on the Vance Ave and the Larkin Rd sides of the outlet waisted no time bagging their fair share of clean Feather River king salmon. The mass of salmon anglers grew rapidly over the past week as word got out the “flossing party” had begun. And just like that the Outlet Hole was finally alive. Like it is known to be. Hearing the words “fish on” being repeated yelled out from all sides of the hole. Vehicles blazing in and out of the Oroville Wildlife Area at dangerous speeds. Dust trails left billowing behind for miles along the Pacific Heights by side of the Outlet Hole. Everyone rushing in making a mad dash for their particular “line-up”. I would say conservatively no less then 100 anglers a day make their way to the outlet hole at current time. Many of which are catching and leaving with their catch as they come in. The outlet hole finally feels like the outlet hole. Bank anglers, don’t wait any longer, it’s time! With roughly a month remaining in the season you can be assured the catching will be outstanding for the duration of the shortened season.

Private boaters and professional fishing guides relying on the Outlet Hole to produce king salmon for their time spent fishing these turbulent waters, have not shared the same salmon fishing success the bank anglers are reaping. Anglers fishing from vessels, who are sticking to the standard methods of take, have been lucky to grab a single king salmon or two for their days efforts. A sardine wrapped Kwikfish presented prior to the sun coming up has been about the only bite to speak of using traditional fishing techniques in the upper Feather River. Northern California salmon fishing charters who are willing to leave moral and ethical fishing practices shelved for the moment have enjoyed the same success as the bank anglers. Picking up limits of king salmon for their clients and guest by dragging the edge of the white water rapids with beads or yarn. Salmon fishing guide Adrian Murrir, owner of AM Guide Service and SalmonSacRiver’s Mike Rasmussen have both pulled limits of king salmon for their clients on afternoon guided fishing trips this past week. Afternoon fishing trips can be more successful time to time as fishing pressure tends to lighten up through the hotter afternoon hours. This is certainly true of the outlet hole.

Further down the Feather River at Yuba City, Ca fishing has remained about the same. A steady flow of fresh chinook salmon continue to push up river at a steady pace. Making for consistent but not red hot fishing. If you are into quality over quantity when it comes to your salmon, this is the place for you. The king salmon being caught here are top quality when it comes to river salmon. Shiny and bright, thick and oily meat. You may have to spend two or three times the effort here to catch your salmon as you would at the outlet hole, but the quality is worth noting. Silvertron spinners seam to be the people’s choice in the lower river. For good reason, they work. On anchor or trolled down hill. Both methods are proven effective every day in this section of river. Single and double silver blades are working about the same. Both very effective. The current heat wave may have the lower river bite off this coming week as water temperatures will pass the 68 degree threshold, becoming lethal to king salmon. Causing the salmon to cease up river migration, become lethargic, and in turn become far less aggressive. These are all negative attributes for anglers targeting cranky migrating salmon. As we are targeting in the lower part of the Feather River when fishing out of Boyd’s Pump and Star Bend boat launches. This instinctual phenomenon will only last as long as river water temperature hover around or above the 68 degree mark. Once temperatures drop below 68 degrees the bite should resume as previously experienced. Anglers can find cooler water by moving up the river system to Gridley, Ca or the Outlet Hole. Where water temperatures are lingering around 65 degrees currently.

Be sure to get out there and get your hands on some of the healthiest ocean grown fish known to man kind! There is less then a month of the season remaining for the upper Feather River. Shutting down on September 15, 2025. Good luck and much respect to all anglers. Tight Lines!

Feather River Salmon Fishing Report 8/15/25 ‘Here they come…’

This week there were signs of major improvements, for salmon fishing on the Feather River, in Northern California. As expected, the August full moon cycle, which is still upon us; provided a positive impact on the Feather River, King Salmon Fishery. The instinctual drive for the salmon to migrate, is kicked into overdrive from the lunar influence of this week’s full moon. The bright summer night’s sky, of the ‘sturgeon moon’, brought daytime highlights to the anglers’, of the lower Feather River. Making for a much improved troll and spinner bite.

At the same time, this lunar influence caused the salmon, to start stacking up at theOutlet Hole, like a Bay Area traffic jam. Thus, providing the anglers at the Outlet, a considerable amount of new targets to cast towards.

The lower Feather River, near Nicholas, Ca., lit up over the past week with almost all boat anglers’ catching, at least, one King Salmon per outing. Private boaters out of; Star Bend Boat Launch, in Olivehurst, Ca., faired the best over the past week. The private boaters coming into the dock, with 3 or 4 salmon, was not an uncommon occurrence during this past week! Fishing guides found similar success for their clients. Boating brought in, 3-6 Chinook Salmon, on several outings throughout the week.

There were a few days that remained a struggle, but for the most part, a significant change is starting to take place. While trolling Silvertron, or Blue Fox, spines have been the preferred method of take. This success, was duplicated by the boaters who decided to drop anchor, and wait for the salmon to come to them.

There is another proven successful technique, to put these dime bright King Salmon in your fish box. Anglers’ trolling the lower Feather River, tend to prefer trolling the size, #6 Blue Fox in blue or plain silver. Whereas, trolling salmon anglers who prefer the Silvertron spinners, prefer the double bladed Silvertron spinners, in the “salmon candy” pattern. Anglers sitting on the spike (anchor) have found greater success, while plunking a single blade Silvertron, once again in the salmon candy pattern.

The Feather River salmon season, in the upper river, above Live Oak, Ca is roughly one-half over. With one month of salmon fishing behind us, and one month remaining. Salmon fishermen should be gearing up, for this final back-half of the season. Undoubtably, this will be the better half, of the short two month season, which closes September 15, 2025. The best is still to come.

In the weeks to come, some excellent salmon fishing is still to be had. Salmon continue to pile up; from the Outlet Hole, down river to Gridley, Ca. I estimate 100-200 King Salmon, are moving through the lower river, everyday during daylight hours. This is not including, the salmon that come through at night, when everyone is off the water.

The increased amount of King Salmon heading up river, is quickly adding to a large accumulation of salmon; already taking up residency at the Outlet Hole. It won’t be long before the focus of most anglers’, switches to the thousands, of staged up salmon, at the Outlet. Tight Lines!

Feather River Salmon Fishing Report 8/3/25 ‘Week Three’ Here comes….

…..the full moon. With the August full moon almost upon us, anglers can expect salmon fishing to improve immensely by the middle of August. Literally, thousands and thousands of Fall Chinook Salmon will make their way up the Feather River, if river conditions continue as they are. Expect salmon fishing to become popular again, when social media platforms light up with happy and proud anglers’, showing off their catch. The excitement and hype of the reopening of salmon season, had everyone heading out with high hopes. Only to find the same common denominator. It’s early in the season and this ‘grind it out’ style fishing, is indicative of this time of year during a normal season. Don’t give up just yet. The fun is sure to come.

A focus on salmon fishing this week:

On the Feather River: between the Hwy 99 bridge, near East Nicholas, Ca; and the famous “Outlet Hole” in Oroville, Ca. There has been some improvement, in the lower part of this section. The improvement is mainly, in the Yuba City area, down river to the closing point, at the Hwy 99 bridge. Private boaters and fishing guides alike, have taken advantage of a steady movement of bright King Salmon making their way up river. The migration was likely triggered by a 1000cfs water drop, coming from up river. The instinct of the King Salmon holding down river, is to kick their migration back into gear, when they sense the water level drop. This sent them swimming up river. The awaiting anglers’ welcomed this migration. Better fishing was had for most of the week, as dime bright Kings pushed their way up river.

Trolling with a ‘Silvertron’, or a #6 Blue Fox, it seems using spinners down stream, has been the ‘go to’ method for most anglers in this stretch of river. Sitting on the spike (anchor) has also proved productive for anglers in this area. Mostly, they are putting double bladed, Silvertron spinners out behind the boat. All in all, an average of one to two opportunities, per day to get at a King Salmon, seemed to be the standard this past week; for the majority of anglers.

• The upper section of the Feather River remains relatively tough fishing, despite the amount of King Salmon around this stretch of river. Salmon fishermen continue to struggle, to put even a single salmon in their boats, on most outings. The tough fishing is not from lack of salmon, it is the lack of cooperating salmon. The famous ‘Outlet Hole’ is currently stuffed with stale salmon, that are reluctant to bite, at this stage of the game.

• I want to once again, quickly remind everyone, these fishing conditions are very normal, for this time of the season. The conditions will change gradually, and all of the salmon holding at the Outlet Hole, will start to bite. My ‘educated guess’ is, this change will happen, sometime later this month, or during the first part of September. Until the salmon decide to turn on, I would focus down river.

Feather River Salmon Fishing Report 7/30/25 ‘Week Two’

Salmon fishing on the Feather River has remained about the same as it was, last week. Angler’s are having mixed success, as we slog along through the second week of the, Feather River Salmon season.

Not much has changed since opening week. Let’s quickly go over what happened around the famous Outlet Hole, and Shanghai Bend, two of the most popular Salmon fishing spots on the Feather River. Let me catch you up on what’s happening in these two fishing locations.

Let’s first start with the famous Outlet Hole near Oroville, California. For those of you who have never been to the Outlet Hole, nor witnessed this place, let me tell you, it is worth experiencing. Throughout the past twenty-five years, from time to time, I too, have been a witness to this enigma.

On any given visit to the Outlet Hole, there can be well over one, to two hundred anglers fishing from the bank. In addition to all of the bank anglers, there are a dozen, to two dozen boats, that somehow manage to fit into the ‘coliseum’ like Outlet Hole. Without a doubt, this may be one of the best people watching spots, in the sport fishing industry.

As far as the salmon fishing goes, this past week hasn’t shown much change in the action. The bank anglers fishing the Outlet Hole, have seen some improvement over the opening week. The spinner line has started to improve each morning, and are now seeing a half a dozen salmon, being caught this morning. The bank anglers are now hooking salmon throughout the day.

See The crowd is relatively light at the Outlet Hole for now, in comparison to what lays ahead. As for the fishing guides, and recreational anglers fishing from boats, they have continued to struggle through the early season. They have averaged one to two salmon a day.

• Shanghai Bend has gained in popularity, with the salmon fishing community, over the past week. And rightfully so! As the King Salmon being taken from this stretch of the Feather River are spectacular specimens. They are dime bright, and mean as a King Salmon can be. These fish are worth bragging about. However, at this point, they are still fairly hard to come by. Similar to the Outlet Hole, salmon fishing guides struggle to get one to two King Salmon, into the boat on each trip. During this past week, there have been a few highlights, but for the most part, it’s been a grind.

• Trolling with Blue Fox spinners, or the trusted Silvertron, has been producing some great, King Salmon catches, around the general Shanghai Bend area. It is a great technique for covering water. On the flip side, the anglers anchoring around the top of the shoot, at the Shanghai Rapids, have also had productive outings this past week. Once again, there have been a few highlight days, but it is a grind for the most part.

Stay tuned for next week’s Salmon Fishing Report, from the Feather River. Big changes should start happening, as we approach the August full moon. With the full moon, comes a larger push of King Salmon. And their arrival can not come soon enough. Tight Lines….

Feather River Salmon Fishing Report 7/24/25 “Opening Week’s Salmon Fishing Report”….

….for the Upper Feather River.

Featuring the famous “Outlet Hole” in Oroville, Ca, and the “Shanghai Rapids” in Yuba City, Ca.

The first week of Salmon fishing, in the last two years has come and gone. How was it? Well let’s find out….

July 16th was the opening day, of Salmon season on the Feather River in Oroville, California. Fishing at the Thermalito Outlet Hole was a success. It certainly could have been better, but it could’ve been worse to. All things considered, opening day showed promising signs, of the up coming prosperous Salmon season.

The predawn hours showed signs of anxious anglers, lining up to partake in the opening day event, at the famous Outlet Hole. Both red and green lights could be seen maneuvering around the hole. Long before daylight cracked, around a half a dozen boats, stayed on the Feather River, the night before opening day. Thus, securing their favorite anchor spot, and be in position to cast, the very second opening day started. That moment happened at 4:53 a.m. There were nearly 15 to 20 boats jockeying for position. All along the banks of the river, a multitude of ‘bank anglers’, perched on all sides of the Outlet Hole, started wading into the river water, anticipating their first cast in two years. The time had finally arrived.

At 4:54 a.m.; as the lures hit the water, it was instantly, ‘fish on’. The guide boats and recreational boaters, didn’t waste anytime hooking into the, holding King Salmon. Most of the boaters ended up with at least, an opportunity to catch at least one King Salmon. Penguins, fishing the west side of the Outlet Hole off of Vance Avenue, did the best. Ryan Tripp, a fishing guide, positioned himself deep in the Vance Avenue back eddy, along the white water discharge from the Afterbay. Ryan ended up limiting out with five king salmon, to the boat, by just after sunrise. Most other fishing guides, ended up with 3 to 4 salmon In their fish box, by mid morning. For the most part, the best fishing occurred, prior to Sunrise. Fishing fell apart quickly, after the sun rose into the sky. Fishing essentially died out as the day progressed. An estimated 25 to 40 KING Salmon, were pulled out of the Outlet Hole, on opening day.

The day following opening day, played out in typical, post opening day fashion. It was very tough fishing, throughout the remainder of the week. Only a handful of fish were caught daily, despite the 1000+ King Salmon swimming in the Outlet Hole. Whether, reported lower catch numbers, were due to angling pressure, or the warmer than usual river water temps, is not clear. Either way, the Fall Chinook Salmon at the Outlet Hole, are playing hard to get. It has been one of the worst cases, of ‘lock jaw’ I’ve ever seen.

Further downriver, to the south, on the Feather River, is Shanghai Rapids. This is the other fishing hole being highlighted, in today’s report. Unlike the more artificial, Outlet Hole; Shanghai Rapids is a naturally occurring, holding spot for the Salmon.

Shanghai Rapids, has plenty of deep water and a fast current, some of the Salmon will seek refuge here, ripening before they spawn. While other Salmon will head upriver, to finish their migration, at the Outlet Hole.

Shanghai Rapids is a popular spot for angler fishing, for both Striped Bass and Chinook Salmon. This season is no exception. Shanghai Rapids is located in Yuba City, California. Shanghai Rapids can be a very popular spot, gathering many anglers from all around the area. The mouth of the Yuba River, dumps into the Feather River just, upstream from Shanghai Rapids. This confluence of the rivers, mixes cool water into the Feather River system, making Shanghai Rapids an ideal place for migrating Salmon.

Reports from recreational anglers, targeting the Shanghai Rapids this past week, trickled in throughout the week. The highlight of the week, was from a group of recreational anglers, who posted up a photo, of a four man limit of shiny King Salmon. The King Salmon were caught trolling spinners, down hill around the Shanghai area. Other than that report, local anglers seemed to report, that one salmon per outing was the norm.

There is also, great trolling water below the rapids, down by the power lines, where the, the Jimmy Zanoko Memorial is located. Despite the vast Salmon trolling waters in this region, you will still find the majority of anglers using the spike (anchor). Waiting on the migrating King Salmon, to come to them.

With the first week of Salmon season already behind us, many anglers have set their sights, on the next full moon (August 9). This is when, the largest push of Fall Chinook Salmon, will start to arrive in the, Upper Feather River. This will improve the fishing tremendously, from its current status of ‘rough’.

Tight lines to everybody. I hope to see you out there, enjoying the return of California’s inland salmon fishing. Stay tuned for upcoming fishing reports.

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

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”

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

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!

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 2/13/25- “High water =

…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!

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.