Guided fly fishing
Trinity River fly fishing guide
I guide the Trinity River for steelhead from fall through winter, from Lewiston down past Junction City, about an hour west of Redding. It's my most popular trip. We swing, skate or nymph flies depending on conditions. Barbless hooks only, and you need a Steelhead Report Card. Call or text (530) 722-8331.
Latest Trinity River fishing report → · Redding fly fishing by month →
The Trinity is my most popular destination. In my experience, it offers some of the most consistent and productive steelhead fly fishing in California.
From fall into winter, steelhead spread through the river from Lewiston down past Junction City. Depending on conditions, we swing and skate flies or nymph the water behind spawning salmon.
- Season
- Fall through winter
- Where
- Lewiston to Junction City
- Fish
- Steelhead (fall and winter runs)
- How we fish
- Wading and swinging or nymphing; two-handed rods welcome
- Trips
- Full or half day; lunch and drinks provided; gear on request
- Book
- Call/text (530) 722-8331
When to fish the Trinity River
- Sept to Oct
- Early-run fish spread through the river and the fall weather is at its best.
- Nov to Jan
- Peak numbers of fish in most years, behind spawning salmon. Colder days.
- Feb to Mar
- Winter-run fish and far fewer anglers.
- May to Jun
- High spring releases from Lewiston Dam usually make the river hard to fish.
Season and regulations
Barbless hooks are required on all anadromous Klamath-Trinity water, and only adipose-clipped hatchery steelhead may be kept. Carry your Steelhead Report Card (2026 CDFW regulations, §7.40). Always check current CDFW regulations before you go.
Regulation notes reflect the 2026 California Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations as of . Regulations change; check CDFW before every trip.
Questions about the Trinity River
When is the best time to fish the Trinity River for steelhead?
Travis guides the Trinity River for steelhead from fall through winter. It is his most popular destination and, in his experience, some of the most consistent and productive steelhead fly fishing in California.
How far is the Trinity River from Redding?
Lewiston, at the top of the steelhead water, is roughly an hour's drive west of Redding on Highway 299.
Do I need a two-handed rod for Trinity River steelhead?
No. Single-handed rods work fine for nymphing and swinging. Two-handed rods are welcome if you like to spey cast.
Is the Trinity fishing well right now?
As of October 29, 2026: The Trinity is in good shape for late October, and the news this week is more fish. The latest shop report (10/27) says more adult steelhead are showing up every day. Most are around Junction City, but there are quite a few from Douglas City up to Lewiston too. The salmon are still spawning in big…
Latest report ·
Trinity River Fishing Report – More Steelhead Every Day
The Trinity is in good shape for late October, and the news this week is more fish. The latest shop report (10/27) says more adult steelhead are showing up every day. Most are around Junction City, but there are quite a few from Douglas City up to Lewiston too. The salmon are still spawning in big numbers.
Current conditions
- Flows: Lewiston releases are steady at about 315 CFS, right on the winter base flow of about 300 CFS. Douglas City reads about 330 CFS and Junction City about 360, both settled back after last week's rain bump.
- Water temp: 49–50°F at Lewiston.
- What it means: Low, clear water. Use a longer leader, wade quietly and keep your shadow off the runs you're about to fish.
Earlier Trinity River reports
Book a Trinity River trip
Call or text Travis at (530) 722-8331 for a quick, same-day response, or book through The Fly Shop at 1-800-669-3474.
Other rivers: Lower Sacramento River · Upper Sacramento River · McCloud River · Pit River · Hat Creek · Fall River