California Fishing Reports

Sacramento River Fishing Report

The Sacramento River is seeing great activity with striped bass and trout catches, especially in the cooler morning hours. Striper fishing has been productive, with solid catches on live bait and lures in deeper waters near shaded banks. Trout fishing is also promising, particularly in the river’s upper stretches, where anglers are having success using drifted bait and small spinners. For the best results, focus on early mornings and late afternoons as the fish are more active during these times.

We get these questions frequently. What’s the best time to fish on the Sacramento River? Early mornings and late afternoons are generally the best times, especially for striped bass and trout. These times are when fish tend to be most active, and the river is cooler, making it ideal for a successful outing. What bait works best for striped bass on the Sacramento River? Live bait, such as anchovies or sardines, is very effective for striped bass. However, artificial lures like jigs and crankbaits also produce good results, especially around deeper, shaded areas. Lastly, Are fishing licenses required, and where can I get one? Yes, a California fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. You can purchase one online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or at local sporting goods stores near the Sacramento River.