Sacramento River - Lower - Redding, CA
River Information
| Fish Species: | American Shad, Chinook Salmon, Steelhead, Striped Bass, Rainbow Trout |
The Lower Sacramento River, Redding, CA, is a world-class tailwater fishery, renowned for large rainbow trout, significant steelhead runs, and Chinook salmon during fall. Its consistent cold, clear waters (48-55°F) are fed by Keswick Dam releases. Optimal angling for trout/steelhead includes fly fishing (nymphing/swinging) or side-drifting roe/jigs. Salmon are effectively targeted by back-trolling large plugs or wrapped anchovies. Real-time dam flow data is critical for safety and success. Access is excellent, primarily by drift boat. Anglers must adhere to complex CDFW regulations, including barbless hooks and catch-and-release for steelhead, to preserve this premier fishery.
Sacramento River - Lower Whoppers
| Species | Weight | Date | Report |
| Chinook Salmon | 41 lbs. | 8-21-2020 | View Report |
| Striped Bass | 40 lbs. 8 oz. | 3-09-2023 | View Report |
| Chinook Salmon | 34 lbs. 8 oz. | 8-21-2020 | View Report |
| Chinook Salmon | 34 lbs. | 9-30-2020 | View Report |
| Chinook Salmon | 28 lbs. | 8-31-2020 | View Report |
| Steelhead | 22 lbs. | 9-29-2016 | View Report |
| Chinook Salmon | 17 lbs. | 9-21-2016 | View Report |
| Chinook Salmon | 17 lbs. | 10-02-2016 | View Report |
| Chinook Salmon | 14 lbs. | 9-21-2016 | View Report |
| Steelhead | 5 lbs. | 12-08-2016 | View Report |
Latest Fish Reports
| Date | Report | Author |
| 10-14-2026 | Stable flows and some blustery weather have brought up large pods of salmon to spawn here in Redding Fishing conditions: Great Report: Stable flows and some blustery weather... more » |
The Fly Shop |
| 10-6-2026 | The flow gage remains at 6,000 CFS up top Fishing conditions: Great Report: The flow gage remains at 6,000... more » |
The Fly Shop |
| 9-29-2026 | Flows from Keswick are at 6,000 CFS and the river is in great shape Fishing conditions: Good Report: Flows from Keswick are at 6,000... more » |
The Fly Shop |
| 9-22-2026 | Fishing has remained very good at times, and a little slow during other Fishing conditions: Good Report: With flows dropped this past week... more » |
The Fly Shop |
| 9-8-2026 | Overall the river is in good shape Fishing conditions: Great Report: Overall the river is in good... more » |
The Fly Shop |
Detailed Map
