Trinity Steelhead

In the fall/winter months of November - January I split my time between guiding locally in the Eastern Sierra, squeezing in some waterfowl or upland hunts, and guiding in northern California for steelhead on the Trinity River. 

I am among a limited number of independent fishing guides issued a Bureau of Land Management permit for the public lands along the Trinity River.

The Trinity River is consistently one of the best rivers along the west coast to hook anadromous steelhead. The river experiences healthy runs of wild steelhead along with thousands of returning hatchery reared steelhead. These fish average between 4-10 pounds.

In addition to steelhead, the Trinity boasts runs of Chinook "king" salmon, Coho "silver" salmon and an added bonus of special sea-run brown trout, which are very rare anywhere on the west coast.

We primarily fish from a drift boat, but we can get out of the boat and wade fish when desirable. Depending on the situation, I focus on several techniques of steelheading with a fly rod - from nymphing with or without indicators to traditional swinging techniques with single or double handed Spey or switch rods.

We base our operations in Weaverville CA, minutes away from the banks of the Trinity River. Weaverville is about an hour west of Redding CA on Hwy 299. The town has several excellent restaurants and many options for accommodations.

The Trinity River Restoration Project has completed some major habitat work and improvements through-out the upper river. These projects include: increasing & improving spawning habitat, side channeling, structure placement and guaranteed water flow schedules to protect the river’s native population of anadromous fish. With the River Restoration Project underway, the future is bright for the Trinity River and its native fishery!

Fees for the Trinity River Steelhead trips are slightly different than my standard guide rates.  These are Full-Days fishing from dark-to-dark often extending 10+ hours. Hearty lunches and beverages are provided along with specialized steelhead tackle (10 foot 7wt. rods) at no extra charge. At least 2-3 days of guided fishing is recommended to maximize your experience and provide ample opportunities to tangle with these amazing sea-run rainbow trout!

Rates for 1-2 anglers Full Day $400.00

Multiple guides/boats can be arranged for large groups/clubs.