The Fish Sniffer

(Redding) With salmon season closed, trout are the only game in town for anglers that want to ply the waters of the Sacramento River between Red Bluff and Redding. The fishing ranges from fair to excellent for wild rainbows averaging 14 to 16 inches. 

The water temperature in the river is hovering in the 40 degree range. When the weather is warm and stable the trout are most active and the fishing is the best. When fronts move through or the nighttime temperatures dip the fishing tends to slow down. 

On the worst days anglers are hooking a dozen fish. On the best days 25 or more hookups are attainable. All in all fishing pressure is light with only a few fly anglers and very few conventional tackle anglers working the river. 

Fly anglers are relying on long leaders sporting multiple nymphs and egg imitations. These anglers find the best fishing in riffles that run 3 to 5 feet deep.

Conventional tackle anglers are employing Glow Bugs, Pautzke Yellow Jacket salmon eggs and small plugs. 

According to Mike Bogue of Mike Bogue’s Guide Service, back trolling small plugs has been particularly effective because it allows anglers to cover water quickly as they search for aggressive fish. 

Mike Bogue is currently offering a special pricing on March trout fishing trips exclusively to Fish Sniffer readers. 

For more information give him a call at (530) 246-8457 and ask about The Fish Sniffer Special.