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 November 5, 2026: The Trinity is in classic low-water steelhead shape. Lewiston has barely moved all week, and the latest shop report (11/4) says the salmon spawn is thinning out while adult steelhead keep building. With the river low and cold, the steelhead are stacking into the traditional runs, which helps if you…
Latest report ·
Trinity River Fishing Report – Low, Clear, More Steelhead
The Trinity is in classic low-water steelhead shape. Lewiston has barely moved all week, and the latest shop report (11/4) says the salmon spawn is thinning out while adult steelhead keep building. With the river low and cold, the steelhead are stacking into the traditional runs, which helps if you know where they are and fish them carefully.
Current conditions
- Flows: Lewiston steady at about 310–315 CFS, right at the winter base flow. Douglas City reads about 340 CFS and Junction City about 375.
- Water temp: About 49°F at Lewiston.
- What it means: Low, clear water and spooky fish. Lengthen your leader, approach from below, and make your first drift through a run count.
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