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 |
| 11-25-2025 | Target releases remain steady at 4,000 CFS which is great Target releases remain steady at 4,000 CFS which... more » |
The Fly Shop |
| 11-18-2025 | The clarity took a slight hit with the recent rains The clarity took a slight hit with the... more » |
The Fly Shop |
| 11-12-2025 | The river got kinda cloudy last week with the storm, however it has cleared and is fishing great! The river got kinda cloudy last week with... more » |
The Fly Shop |
| 11-5-2025 | The majority of the Fall Run Chinooks have completed spawning The majority of the Fall Run Chinooks have... more » |
The Fly Shop |
| 11-2-2025 | Northern California steelhead Fishing 🎣 Report Northern California fishing 🎣 Report for Trinity River... more » |
Justin Thompson |
Detailed Map
