McCloud River Fishing Forecast
The McCloud 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, brown trout, and brook 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 McCloud River rewards map work, respectful access, and leaders sized for the clarity you will actually see. USGS gauge 11367800 tracks live flow and temperature for planning wade or float days.
Local Knowledge: McCloud River
Based on local angler reports · California · always verify before traveling
A regional note specific to this water: the unique hatch cycle here is unlike any other river in the basin, and the most productive flies are not the ones you'd find in the magazines — they're the ones the locals tie in their kitchens at night. the unique hatch cycle here is unlike any other river in the basin, and the most productive flies are not the ones you'd find in the magazines — they're the ones the locals tie in their kitchens at night.
Below the dam, the McCloud River is running at steady flows through 65°F water — 5/10 today. Top pick: a Parachute Hopper.
Open Last Sat in Apr — Nov 15
Wild trout water. Some sections may have extended seasons
Forecast and on-page guide updated June 22, 2026 (UTC). Open the app for hourly conditions.
Today's Fishing Conditions
Fair
Updated 9:48 PM
65°F
--
1 PM - 3 PM
Parachute Hopper
Free forever • No signup required • Hourly updates
What Makes the McCloud River Unique?
Signature hatch or window
Golden Stone (Stonefly) is a headline hatch to watch in June. Peak activity often tracks 50–62°F water temps.
Distinctive access
Ah-Di-Na Campground: Access to the lower river wild trout section.
Rules anglers miss
McCloud River Preserve has specific rules. Wild trout regulations apply.
Optimal Fishing Conditions
Optimal Flow
250 - 500 CFS
Best fishing conditions
Optimal Water Temperature
50° - 62°F
Ideal for active trout
Quick Facts
Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, and Brook Trout
freestone
50°F - 60°F
June Hatches
Golden Stone
Stonefly
Golden stonefly through summer. Yellow patterns.
PMD
Mayfly
Summer PMD emergence. Morning.
Caddis
Caddis
Evening caddis through summer.
June Fishing Tactics
Primary Targets
Recommended Tactics
PRIME MONTH. Salmonfly and stonefly hatches.
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(Now) | 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 | 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 |
Recommended Equipment for McCloud River
Rod
8.5 to 9-foot, 4 or 5-weight is ideal.
Line
Floating line for dry flies and nymphing.
Leader & Tippet
9-foot tapered leader, 4X-5X tippet.
Waders
Breathable waders. Slippery volcanic rocks require good traction.
Essential Flies
How to Fish McCloud River: Tips & Tactics
The McCloud River is a legendary California trout stream, birthplace of the rainbow trout that stocked the world. Native McCloud River redband rainbow trout still swim in its waters.
Best Times of Day
Early morning and evening are best in summer. The river fishes well throughout the day in spring and fall. Match the prolific caddis and mayfly hatches.
Recommended Techniques
Classic freestone techniques work well. Short, accurate casts to likely holding water. Dry-dropper rigs are effective. Read the water and focus on structure.
Water Conditions
Spring-fed sections maintain stable temperatures. The river runs clear most of the season. Volcanic substrate creates unique habitat.
Fly Selection
October Caddis are legendary on the McCloud. BWOs and PMDs during hatches. Golden stoneflies for larger fish. Attractor dries work well.
Local Knowledge
The McCloud River Preserve is managed by The Nature Conservancy with limited access. The public sections offer excellent fishing. McCloud town has historic charm.
Local Tips
McCloud is a historic lumber town with charm. The McCloud River was the source of rainbow trout eggs shipped worldwide in the 1800s. This is hallowed water.
When is the Best Time to Fish McCloud River?
Spring
Excellent fishing as the river comes alive. BWO and caddis hatches begin.
Summer
Fish early and late to avoid heat. Evening fishing can be excellent.
Fall
October Caddis hatch is legendary. Prime season with aggressive fish.
Winter
Limited access and cold conditions. Some sections fish during mild weather.
Access Points & Parking for McCloud River
Ah-Di-Na Campground
Access to the lower river wild trout section.
Fowler's Campground
Mid-river access with good fishing.
McCloud River Preserve
The Nature Conservancy managed water.
Upper McCloud
Access near the headwaters.
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.
Brook Trout
Spawn months: September, October
Males develop vibrant red bellies and white-edged fins during spawning. Early fall spawners.
McCloud River Fishing Regulations
Season
Check California DFW for current season dates.
Limits
Catch-and-release in many sections. Check current regulations.
Special Regulations
McCloud River Preserve has specific rules. Wild trout regulations apply.
Bait Restrictions
Artificial only in wild trout waters.
Notes
The McCloud has special significance in trout fishing history.
Always verify current regulations with California fish and wildlife agency before fishing. Regulations can change annually.
Fly Shops & Guides Near McCloud River
Local Fly Shops
- Ted Fay Fly Shop - Dunsmuir
- The Fly Shop - Redding
- Shasta Angler
Guide Services
- Ted Fay Guide Service
- McCloud Fly Fishing
- The Fly Shop Guides
Other Rivers You Might Like
Popular forecasts outside California—great for trip planning and comparing conditions.
Other California Trout Rivers
Sacramento (Upper)
Pit
Truckee
Walker
Owens
McCloud River — frequently asked questions
When is the best time to fish the McCloud River?
PRIME MONTH. Salmonfly and stonefly hatches.
What flies should I bring to the McCloud River?
For the McCloud River (freestone), carry: October Caddis, BWO, PMD, Golden Stone, Elk Hair Caddis.
What water temperature is best for trout on the McCloud River?
On the McCloud River, trout hold between 50° and 62°F. In summer, expect temps to swing with air temperature — fish early.
Do I need a fishing license for the McCloud River?
Yes — you need a valid California fishing license to fish the McCloud River. Local season: Check California DFW for current season dates.. Daily limit: Catch-and-release in many sections. Check current regulations..
What hatches should I watch for on the McCloud River in June?
Golden Stone is the signature hatch on the McCloud River in June. 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.
Ready to Fish the McCloud River?
Get real-time forecasts with AI-powered fly recommendations, live water conditions, and hatch predictions.
Get Your Forecast