Northern California was pounded by a unusually cold winter storm this past week. Making the striped bass scatter and scramble as the big females shuffled their positions in the upper river. Fishing was solid in the Colusa, Ca area prior to last weeks storm. Fishing over the weekend proved to be a struggle as fishing guides and recreational anglers had a hard time pinning down the striped bass. Bait fishermen, minnow fisherman, guides who were trolling, and everyone casting swimbaits all suffered the same results following the storm. Not to worry this won’t last long.

Northern California weather forcast for this upcoming coming week are calling for daytime temperatures to skyrocket. Reaching the mid 80’s by the end of the week. Much more suitable weather conditions for the stripers. It is likely the linesides headed up river following last weeks storm. Even the slightest rise in river levels can make the striped bass start a upward migration. With that said, as fast as they bailed out and headed North, they can turn right around and head back down river as river levels drop. I suggest keeping a eye on river level forecasts if you are planning a trip to the upper river striper grounds.

Don’t expect the bite to be off long. In fact it is highly likely by the time this fishing report is read the fleet will be back on a solid bite. Robert Petty of North State Salmon guide service reported seeing a pair of Sea Lions several miles North of Colusa, Ca on Saturday April 6, 2024. These fur bags didn’t make the extensive trek this far up the Sacramento River for no reason. They are on the heals of large push of striped bass they followed from the Verona, Ca area. They are about as good of a fish indicator as you can find. Good luck 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.