Learn Trout Fishing in Redding's Best Rivers

Catch Your First Trout in Redding's Rivers

Hey there, future angler! Ready to dip your toes into the world of trout fishing? We've got just the trip for you right here in Redding, California. This full-day adventure is perfect if you're new to fly fishing or looking to brush up on your skills. We'll spend 8 hours on either the Lower Sacramento or Trinity River, two of the best spots in the area for hooking brown trout, rainbows, and even the elusive steelhead. The best part? We take care of everything - from the drift boat to the gear, even snacks and drinks. All you need is your fishing license and a good attitude. Let's get you out on the water!

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: you're drifting down a pristine river, surrounded by California's stunning landscape. Your guide is right there with you, showing you the ropes and helping you perfect that cast. We keep our groups small - just you and one other person - so you'll get plenty of one-on-one attention. Don't worry if you've never held a fly rod before; we'll start with the basics and work our way up. By the end of the day, you'll be reading the water like a pro and maybe even landing your first trout. It's a laid-back day, but trust me, once you feel that first tug on your line, you'll be hooked for life.

Casting 101 & River Know-How

Alright, let's talk shop for a second. We'll be using fly fishing techniques on this trip, which means you'll learn the art of presenting a lightweight lure (we call it a "fly") to the fish. Don't sweat it if you've never done this before - that's what I'm here for. We'll cover everything from how to hold the rod to reading the currents. We'll be fishing from a drift boat, which is perfect for beginners. It gives us access to the best spots and lets us cover more water. Plus, it's a lot more stable than wading, so you can focus on your casting without worrying about your footing. We provide all the gear, including top-notch rods, reels, and flies that are proven to work in these waters.

Top Catches This Season

While I can't guarantee you'll land a monster on your first trip out, I can tell you that our guests have been having some great luck lately. Just last week, a first-timer managed to hook a 20-inch rainbow after only a couple hours of practice. Another group spotted a huge brown trout lurking under a fallen tree - talk about excitement! Even if you don't catch the big one, the thrill of feeling a fish on your line and the beauty of these rivers make for an unforgettable day.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Let's talk about the stars of the show - the trout you'll be targeting on this trip. First up, we've got the brown trout. These guys are the crafty ones, often hiding out under cut banks or in deep pools. They can grow pretty big around here, with some monsters reaching over 10 pounds. Browns are known for their beautiful spotted patterns and put up a great fight when hooked.

Next, we've got rainbow trout, probably the most common catch in these parts. Don't let that fool you though - they're still a blast to catch. Rainbows are known for their acrobatics, often leaping clear out of the water when hooked. They're also gorgeous fish, with that distinctive pink stripe along their sides. In the Lower Sac, it's not uncommon to hook rainbows in the 16-20 inch range.

Last but definitely not least, there's the steelhead trout. Now, these are the rockstars of the river. Steelhead are actually rainbow trout that have gone out to sea and come back up the river to spawn. They're bigger, stronger, and way more challenging to catch than their resident cousins. If you're lucky enough to hook one, get ready for the fight of your life. Steelhead season typically runs from fall through early spring, so if you're visiting during that time, you might just get a shot at one of these silver bullets.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

You know, I've been guiding these rivers for years, and I still get excited every time I take someone out for their first trip. There's something special about watching a beginner's face light up when they feel that first bite or successfully land their first fish. But it's not just about the catches. The Lower Sacramento and Trinity Rivers are some of the most beautiful stretches of water you'll ever see. The way the light hits the water in the early morning, the eagles soaring overhead, the occasional deer coming down for a drink - it's like being in a living postcard. And let's not forget the peace and quiet. Out here, away from the hustle and bustle, you can really clear your head and connect with nature. That's why people come back year after year, even if they don't catch a single fish (but trust me, we'll do our best to make sure that doesn't happen).

Time to Book Your Spot

So, what do you say? Ready to give fly fishing a shot? This full-day trip is the perfect way to get your feet wet (figuratively speaking, of course - we'll keep you nice and dry in the boat). You'll learn skills that'll last a lifetime, potentially catch your first trout, and have a great day out on some of California's best rivers. And hey, even if you don't land the big one, I guarantee you'll have stories to tell. Just remember to bring your fishing license, and we'll take care of the rest. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait too long to book. Give us a call or shoot us an email, and let's get you out on the water. Who knows, this might be the start of your new favorite hobby. Tight lines, and hope to see you soon!