Fall River Fishing Forecast
The Fall River anchors California trout culture for anglers who want a forecast that respects real hydrology—not a generic “fish today” badge. Species mix centers on rainbow trout and brown trout, with tactics shifting from weighted nymphs in cold water to dries and terrestrials as afternoons warm during April through October. Because it is not a manicured park stretch, the Fall River rewards map work, respectful access, and leaders sized for the clarity you will actually see. USGS gauge 11376550 tracks live flow and temperature for planning wade or float days.
Below the dam, the Fall River is running at 217 CFS through 58°F water — 6/10 today. Top pick: a LaFontaine's Deep Pupa.
Open Last Sat in Apr — Nov 15
General season. Wild trout water designation on some sections
Forecast and on-page guide updated September 9, 2026 (UTC). Open the app for hourly conditions.
Today's Fishing Conditions
Good
Updated 6:28 AM
58°F
217 CFS
5 AM - 7 AM
LaFontaine's Deep Pupa
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September Hatches
Trico
Mayfly
Early morning Trico spinner falls. Late summer. Size 24.
Speckled Dun
Mayfly
Slower water sections. Comparaduns.
Caddis
Caddis
Evening caddis emergence.
Scud
Crustacean
Year-round spring creek scuds. Pink, gray, olive.
September Fishing Tactics
Primary Targets
Recommended Tactics
Excellent fall fishing. Browns aggressive.
Year-Round Fishing Guide
| Month | Water Temp | Tactics |
|---|---|---|
| January | 32-38°F | Deep nymphing, Midges, Streamers |
| February | 33-40°F | Midges, Small nymphs, Deep pools |
| March | 36-45°F | BWO dries, Streamers, Early stonefly nymphs |
| April | 40-50°F | Skwala dries, BWO patterns, Streamers |
| May | 45-55°F | Mother's Day Caddis, Nymphing, Streamers |
| June | 50-60°F | Salmonfly dries, Golden Stones, PMDs |
| July | 55-68°F | PMDs, Hoppers, Caddis, Attractor dries |
| August | 55-70°F | Hoppers, Tricos, PMDs, Terrestrials |
| September(Now) | 48-58°F | BWOs, Streamers, Hoppers |
| October | 40-50°F | Streamers, BWOs, Egg patterns |
| November | 35-42°F | Streamers, Deep nymphs, Egg patterns |
| December | 32-38°F | Deep nymphs, Midges, Slow presentations |
Quick Facts
Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout
spring creek
48°F - 58°F
What Makes the Fall River Unique?
Signature hatch or window
Trico (Mayfly) is a headline hatch to watch in September. Peak activity often tracks 58–68°F water temps.
Distinctive access
Cal Trout Access: Primary public access managed by California Trout.
Rules anglers miss
Limited wading areas to protect the ecosystem. Barbless hooks required.
When is the Best Time to Fish Fall River?
Spring
PMD hatches begin. Fish become more active as water warms slightly.
Summer
Prime season with Trico and Hexagenia hatches. Early morning is best.
Fall
Excellent fishing with fewer crowds. Callibaetis continue. Cooler weather.
Winter
Limited but fishable. Midge hatches occur on warmer days.
Recommended Equipment for Fall River
Rod
8.5 to 9-foot, 3 or 4-weight for delicate presentations.
Line
Floating line with long leaders essential.
Leader & Tippet
15-20 foot leaders, 6X-7X tippet.
Waders
Breathable waders. Limited wading - float tubes are traditional.
Essential Flies
How to Fish Fall River: Tips & Tactics
Fall River is California's premier spring creek, offering technical sight fishing for large wild rainbow trout. Crystal-clear water and wary fish demand perfect presentations.
Best Times of Day
Trico hatches in summer mornings are legendary - fish from 7-11 AM. PMD hatches occur midday. Evening hexagenia hatches in June bring big fish to the surface.
Recommended Techniques
Sight fishing is the primary method. Long, fine leaders (15-20 feet) are essential. Wade only where allowed - most fishing is from the bank or float tubes. Approach fish carefully and make accurate first casts.
Water Conditions
Spring-fed waters maintain stable temperatures year-round. Extremely clear water demands stealth. Weed beds provide cover for trout. Limited wading to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Fly Selection
Trico patterns in sizes 20-24 are essential. PMD emergers and duns work during hatches. Hexagenia patterns for evening fishing. Callibaetis for summer afternoons.
Access Points & Parking for Fall River
Cal Trout Access
Primary public access managed by California Trout.
Island Road Bridge
Bridge crossing with access to prime water.
PG&E Powerhouse
Access near the powerhouse section.
Tule River Ranch
Private water with guided access available.
Spawning Seasons
Please respect spawning fish and their redds. Avoid fishing over actively spawning trout.
Brown Trout
Spawn months: October, November
Night spawning common. Males become very dark with pronounced kype during spawn.
Rainbow Trout
Spawn months: March, April
Resident rainbow trout spawn in smaller tributaries and tend to build smaller redds than steelhead.
Optimal Fishing Conditions
Optimal Flow
400 - 600 CFS
Best fishing conditions
Optimal Water Temperature
52° - 62°F
Ideal for active trout
Fall River Fishing Regulations
Season
Check California DFW for current season dates.
Limits
Catch-and-release for wild trout. Artificial flies and lures only.
Special Regulations
Limited wading areas to protect the ecosystem. Barbless hooks required.
Bait Restrictions
Prohibited - artificial flies and lures only.
Notes
Private water requires permission. Cal Trout manages public access.
Always verify current regulations with California fish and wildlife agency before fishing. Regulations can change annually.
Fly Shops & Guides Near Fall River
Local Fly Shops
- Clearwater House - Fall River Mills
- The Fly Shop - Redding
- Shasta Angler - Dunsmuir
Guide Services
- Clearwater House Guides
- Fall River Outfitters
- The Fly Shop Guide Service
Other Rivers You Might Like
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Other California Trout Rivers
Sacramento (Upper)
Pit
Truckee
Walker
Owens
Fall River — frequently asked questions
When is the best time to fish the Fall River?
Excellent fall fishing. Browns aggressive.
What flies should I bring to the Fall River?
For the Fall River (spring creek), carry: Trico, PMD, Hexagenia, Callibaetis, Baetis.
What water temperature is best for trout on the Fall River?
On the Fall River, trout hold between 52° and 62°F. The spring-fed source keeps temperatures remarkably stable.
Do I need a fishing license for the Fall River?
Yes — you need a valid California fishing license to fish the Fall River. Local season: Check California DFW for current season dates.. Daily limit: Catch-and-release for wild trout. Artificial flies and lures only..
What hatches should I watch for on the Fall River in September?
Trico is the signature hatch on the Fall River in September. Match size and adjust leader size to 5X-6X. The fish key in on the emergence during low-light hours, so plan to be on the water at first light.
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