Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Klamath River - Klamath - California

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midge Morning/Evening #18-22 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Sculpin All Day #2-6 Zoo Cougar, Sculpzilla
February Midge Morning/Evening #18-22 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Stonefly Afternoon #6-10 Skwala Stone, Rubber Legs
March Caddis Afternoon #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Stonefly Afternoon #6-10 Salmonfly, Girdle Bug
April Midge Morning/Evening #18-22 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Mayfly Afternoon #14-18 Adams, Parachute Adams
Stonefly Afternoon #6-10 Salmonfly, Girdle Bug
May Caddis Afternoon #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Mayfly Afternoon #14-18 Adams, Parachute Adams
Stonefly All Day #6-10 Salmonfly, Girdle Bug
June Caddis Afternoon/Evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Stonefly All Day #6-10 Salmonfly, Girdle Bug
July Caddis Afternoon/Evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Hopper All Day #10-14 Chubby Chernobyl, Foam Hopper
August Caddis Afternoon/Evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Hopper All Day #10-14 Chubby Chernobyl, Foam Hopper
September Caddis Afternoon/Evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Hopper All Day #10-14 Chubby Chernobyl, Foam Hopper
October BWO Morning/Afternoon #18-22 Blue Winged Olive, RS2
Caddis Afternoon/Evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
November BWO Morning/Afternoon #18-22 Blue Winged Olive, RS2
Midg All Day #18-22 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
December Midge Afternoon/Evening #18-22 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
BWO Morning/Afternoon #18-22 BWO Dun Imitations, BWO Emerger Patterns

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

Famed for its rich biodiversity, Klamath River in Northern California is an incredible spot for fly fishing enthusiasts. Here are the top spots to consider:

  • Iron Gate Hatchery- It’s located just below the Iron Gate Dam and is abundant in steelhead and salmon. It’s an ideal spot for fly fishing because of its predictable insect hatches.
  • Seiad Valley- Situated south of Klamath River, this spot is great for catching steelhead and salmon in late summer and early fall.
  • Klamath Glen- It’s located next to the mouth of the river and proves productive in catching salmon and steelhead especially in June, July, and August.
  • Copco Lake- A reservoir on the Klamath River, which is an excellent location for catching rainbow and brown trout.

Remember to follow local fishing regulations and respect the natural habitats of these beautiful creatures.

Best Access Points

The Klamath River is a fantastic place for fly fishing, due to its diverse population of fish and scenic environment. The best access points are:

  • Copco Reservoir: Located just outside of Hornbrook, this reservoir is teeming with rainbow and brook trout. The dam area provides excellent access.
  • Iron Gate Reservoir: Near the California-Oregon border, this reservoir has fantastic fly fishing. Boating is also allowed, expanding your fishing range.
  • Klamath River Mouth: Known for its excellent salmon and steelhead fishing, it’s convenient to reach from Highway 101, near Requa.
  • Seiad Valley: A popular spot with public access to the river. This area is renowned for its abundance of steelhead.
  • Happy Camp: Offers versatile fishing experiences, from placid pools to accelerating rapids. The area abounds in steelhead and trout.

Do remember to check the current fishing rules and regulations before your visit to ensure a responsible and enjoyable fishing experience.

Local Fish

  • Steelhead Trout: Known for their brawny fights, steelhead trout are the most sought after species for fly fishing on the Klamath River.
  • Chinook Salmon: Running from May to November, these salmon are popular amongst fly fishers as they put up strong fights on light tackle.
  • Coho Salmon: Late summer and fall months bring the chance to catch a Coho. They are known for their acrobatics when hooked.
  • Cutthroat Trout: A native fish of the Klamath River, cutthroat trout are known for their aggresive strikes and are a popular catch.
  • Mountain Whitefish: A common catch in colder months, they are known for their fine eating qualities.
  • Sacramento Perch: The only native perch in California, the Sacramento perch is a valuable fish in the Klamath River fishery.
  • Rainbow Trout: Rainbow trout can be caught year round, but fishing is especially good in spring and fall.
  • Sturgeon: Mainly found in the lower parts of the river, sturgeon can present a unique thrill to Klamath River anglers.

About The River

The Klamath River holds a remarkable place in the history of the United States. Spanning a whopping 263 miles, this river boasts incredibly diverse flora and fauna and has been a lifeline for indigenous tribes for centuries.

Long before European contact, the river provided salmon, lamprey, and trout for native tribes like the Klamath, Modoc, and Yurok. These fishing traditions persist today, ensuring the river continues to maintain its historic role.

The 19th century Gold Rush brought massive changes to the Klamath region. Gold fever struck in 1851, leading to the rapid expansion of mining camps along the river.

The river’s distinctiveness does not stop at its rich history, it also holds immense environmental significance. The Klamath Basin supports a spectacular cascade of wildlife, supporting over 430 species, including the endangered coho salmon.

The Klamath River is not just a river, it’s a vibrant piece of history still flowing today.

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