Sacramento (Upper) Fishing Forecast
The Sacramento (Upper) 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 tailwater-influenced, the Sacramento (Upper) rewards anglers who read release schedules and carry both indicators and tight-line rigs. USGS gauge 11373000 tracks live flow and temperature for planning wade or float days.
Below the dam, the Sacramento (Upper) is running at steady flows through 52°F water — 6/10 today. Top pick: a Serendipity.
Open Last Sat in Apr — Nov 15
General season. Wild trout sections may differ
Forecast and on-page guide updated September 8, 2026 (UTC). Open the app for hourly conditions.
Today's Fishing Conditions
Good
Updated 9:09 PM
52°F
--
5 AM - 7 AM
Serendipity
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September Hatches
Caddis
Caddis
Evening caddis throughout season
Hopper
Terrestrial
Effective on warm windy days
October Caddis
Caddis
Large fall caddis, signature PNW hatch
Scud
Crustacean
Year-round tailwater food source
September Fishing Tactics
Primary Targets
Recommended Tactics
Fall fishing improves. BWOs return, browns become aggressive.
Year-Round Fishing Guide
| Month | Water Temp | Tactics |
|---|---|---|
| January | 38-44°F | Nymphing, Streamers, Egg Patterns |
| February | 40-48°F | Nymphing, Streamers, Egg Patterns |
| March | 44-52°F | Dry Flies, Caddis, Salmonflies |
| April | 48-56°F | Dry Flies, Caddis, Salmonflies |
| May | 52-60°F | Dry Flies, Caddis, Salmonflies |
| June | 54-62°F | Terrestrials, Hoppers, Caddis |
| July | 58-66°F | Terrestrials, Hoppers, Caddis |
| August | 60-68°F | Terrestrials, Hoppers, Caddis |
| September(Now) | 56-64°F | Streamers, BWOs, October Caddis |
| October | 50-58°F | Streamers, BWOs, October Caddis |
| November | 44-52°F | Streamers, BWOs, October Caddis |
| December | 40-48°F | Nymphing, Streamers, Egg Patterns |
Quick Facts
Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout
tailwater
56°F - 64°F
What Makes the Sacramento (Upper) Unique?
Signature hatch or window
Caddis (Caddis) is a headline hatch to watch in September. Peak activity often tracks 50–68°F water temps.
Distinctive access
Dunsmuir: Town access to the most famous section.
Rules anglers miss
Wild trout regulations apply. Artificial only, barbless hooks.
When is the Best Time to Fish Sacramento (Upper)?
Spring
Runoff can affect lower sections. Stoneflies begin emerging.
Summer
Prime season with stable flows. Golden stoneflies and caddis.
Fall
October Caddis hatch is the highlight. Excellent fishing with fewer crowds.
Winter
Challenging with cold weather. Focus on sunny afternoons.
Recommended Equipment for Sacramento (Upper)
Rod
9-foot, 5-weight is ideal for the Upper Sac.
Line
Floating line for dry flies and nymphing.
Leader & Tippet
9-foot tapered leader, 4X-5X tippet.
Waders
Breathable waders. Felt or studded for slippery rocks.
Essential Flies
How to Fish Sacramento (Upper): Tips & Tactics
The Upper Sacramento River is California's best freestone trout stream. Wild rainbow trout thrive in this beautiful canyon setting, with the river recovering magnificently from a 1991 toxic spill.
Best Times of Day
Morning and evening are most productive. Caddis and stonefly hatches bring fish to the surface. The river fishes well throughout the day during spring and fall.
Recommended Techniques
Classic freestone techniques work well. Target pocket water, runs, and pools. Short, accurate casts are essential in the canyon setting. Dry-dropper rigs are effective.
Water Conditions
Snowmelt-fed flows create spring runoff. Summer offers ideal conditions. The canyon setting creates unique microclimates. Clear water most of the season.
Fly Selection
October Caddis are legendary on the Upper Sac. Bird's Nest and PT nymphs are essential. Stimulators and attractors work in pocket water.
Access Points & Parking for Sacramento (Upper)
Dunsmuir
Town access to the most famous section.
Soda Creek
Access near Cantara Loop.
Castle Crags State Park
Park access to productive water.
Shasta Retreat
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.
Optimal Fishing Conditions
Optimal Flow
800 - 1500 CFS
Best fishing conditions
Optimal Water Temperature
50° - 62°F
Ideal for active trout
Sacramento (Upper) Fishing Regulations
Season
Open year-round with special regulations. Check California DFW.
Limits
Catch-and-release in wild trout areas. Zero kill on wild fish.
Special Regulations
Wild trout regulations apply. Artificial only, barbless hooks.
Bait Restrictions
Prohibited in wild trout sections.
Notes
The river has recovered magnificently - practice careful catch-and-release.
Always verify current regulations with California fish and wildlife agency before fishing. Regulations can change annually.
Fly Shops & Guides Near Sacramento (Upper)
Local Fly Shops
- Ted Fay Fly Shop - Dunsmuir
- Shasta Angler - Dunsmuir
- The Fly Shop - Redding
Guide Services
- Ted Fay Guide Service
- Shasta Angler Guides
- Upper Sac Fly Fishing
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Other California Trout Rivers
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Truckee
Walker
Owens
Fall River
Sacramento (Upper) — frequently asked questions
When is the best time to fish the Sacramento (Upper)?
Fall fishing improves. BWOs return, browns become aggressive.
What flies should I bring to the Sacramento (Upper)?
For the Sacramento (Upper) (tailwater), carry: October Caddis, Bird's Nest, Stimulator, PT, Golden Stone.
What water temperature is best for trout on the Sacramento (Upper)?
On the Sacramento (Upper), trout hold between 50° and 62°F. Because the river is dam-fed, the temperature stays in this band year-round.
Do I need a fishing license for the Sacramento (Upper)?
Yes — you need a valid California fishing license to fish the Sacramento (Upper). Local season: Open year-round with special regulations. Check California DFW.. Daily limit: Catch-and-release in wild trout areas. Zero kill on wild fish..
What hatches should I watch for on the Sacramento (Upper) in September?
Caddis is the signature hatch on the Sacramento (Upper) 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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