Trinity River
The Trinity River is designated as a Wild and Scenic River, and it's no wonder. Flowing nearly 110 miles from the base of Lewiston Dam, the Trinity River is the largest tributary to the Klamath River. The Trinity has been one of California’s most reliable steelhead rivers, where anglers can pursue steelhead nearly twelve months out of the year, with prime time being September through March. The upper river is small water with nymphing being the proven technique. In the spring months, it's not uncommon to target steelhead with dry flies. Aside from the frigid, cold winter months, steelhead can also be targeted with a swung fly. As the river picks up more water from tributaries on its journey to its confluence with the Klamath, nymphing and swung flies are the common techniques. With the promising returns, let our guides float you down the river with the goal of catching the fish of a lifetime on this majestic waterway.
Trinity River Guided Fly Fishing Trip Details
-Full Day Guided Fly Fishing Standard Rate: $650.00 (1-2 Anglers)
Trip Includes- drift boat, rods, reels, flies, terminal tackle, lunches and soft drinks. (Shuttles can be set up for an additional charge.)
Not included- License and steelhead report card
Call Today: 530-918-8909
Trinity River Guided Fly Fishing Seasons
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Fall
The majority of the summer run of steelhead on the Trinity River begins to enter the river in September. Their numbers steadily increase throughout October, reaching a peak in November. The fall season on the Trinity River boasts optimal weather conditions, making October and November the most popular, albeit crowded, months of the year for fishing. Steelhead are typically distributed throughout the entire river system, providing ample fishable water. Additionally, water temperatures remain moderate, allowing for successful fishing using both swinging flies and dead-drifted nymphs and egg patterns. It's worth noting that this early run of steelhead is predominantly composed of hatchery fish headed to the Lewiston National Fish Hatchery, with a few wild steelhead mixed in.
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Winter
The winter run of steelhead starts appearing as early as Thanksgiving, with fresh fish migrating upriver throughout the rest of the winter season. Most of these winter fish are wild, and their average size tends to increase as the winter months progress. With considerably colder water temperatures, the steelhead are less inclined to move for traditional fly patterns, making dead-drifting nymphs the preferred method for hooking Trinity River Steelhead from November through February.
During the winter, the weather on the river fluctuates from mid-60s to below freezing. Engaging in the winter steelhead season requires a robust spirit, as it is not for the faint of heart. This period is ideal for true steelhead enthusiasts who are willing to brave the cold to catch these special creatures. The silver lining to the colder weather is that it helps to deter some of the crowds, providing a more secluded fishing experience.