Feather River - North Fork - Oroville, CA

Fishing the North Fork of the Feather River near Oroville, because it's a different from the main Feather.

This river actually starts way up in the Sierra Nevada, south of Lassen Peak, and eventually dumps into Lake Oroville. What that means for you is a super diverse fishery, depending on where you drop your line.

Upstream, especially in those higher elevation spots, you're looking for awesome wild rainbow and brown trout. These fish are often smaller but feisty, and it's a classic fly-fishing playground. Think clear, cold water, beautiful scenery, and a bit of a hike to get to those secluded honey holes. Access often involves finding turnouts along Highway 70 and then doing some scrambling down to the water. Some sections, like those between Belden Bridge and Cresta Powerhouse, are even designated "artificial lures with barbless hooks only" with a zero trout limit, making it a true catch-and-release experience.

Closer to Oroville, as the river flows into Lake Oroville, you might still find trout, especially if they've stocked it. But generally, the North Fork is more about the trout game in its upper reaches. Just remember to always check the latest California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations, because they can be pretty specific about what's open and what's allowed in different sections of this incredible river.