Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Sacramento River - Keswick - 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 Midges Daytime #18-22 Zebra Midge
Blue Winged Olive Afternoon #18-22 Spinner Fall BWO
February Midges Daytime #18-22 Rainbow Warrior
Blue Winged Olive Afternoon #18-22 Pheasant Tail Nymph
March Blue Winged Olive Afternoon #18-22 Sparkle Dun BWO
Caddis Dawn/Dusk #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis
April Pale Morning Duns Early Afternoon #14-18 Parachute Adams
Caddis Dawn/Dusk #14-18 X-Caddis
May Pale Morning Duns Early Afternoon #14-18 Copper John
Salmonfly Midday #2-6 Rogue Foam Stonefly Nymph
June Golden Stonefly Early Afternoon #6-10 Golden Stone Nymph
Green Drakes Evening #8-10 Drake Cripple
July Caddis Dusk #14-18 Pearl Elk Caddis
PMDs Afternoon #14-18 Parachute PMD
August Tiny Blue-Winged Olives Evening #18-22 Trico Spinner
Caddis Dusk #14-18 Griffith's Gnat
September October Caddis Evening #8-12 Stimulator
Midges Daytime #18-22 Brassie
October October Caddis Evening #8-12 Pumpkin Head
Blue Winged Olive Afternoon #18-22 Mercer's Missing Link
November Blue Winged Olive Afternoon #18-22 BWO Klinkhammer
Midges Daytime #18-22 Griffith's Gnat
December Midges Daytime #18-22 Rojo Midge
Winter Stonefly Midday #14-16 Black Stonefly Nymph

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

Fly fishing on the Sacramento River – Keswick offers an unforgettable experience for all, from novices to seasoned anglers. Here are some of the best spots:

  • Upper Sacramento River: This headwaters stretch, located just below Keswick Dam, is famous for its trout population.
  • Keswick Reservoir: This spot has ample large trout, making it an excellent location for all skill levels.
  • Sundial Bridge area: This downtown Redding spot has great fishing for large rainbows.
  • Lower Sacramento: South of Redding, this section of the river is renowned for large rainbow trout.
  • Anderson River Park: Further down the river, this park offers shore fishing access to big rainbows and steelhead.

Remember to check local regulations for fishing seasons – certain times of year are catch-and-release only, particularly during spawning.

Best Access Points

The Sacramento River – Keswick offers some of the best access points for fly fishing:
  • Keswick Dam: Located at the end of Iron Mountain Road, it offers direct access to the river.
  • Posey Way: This spot provides ample parking space and a convenient river entry point.
  • Bonnyview Boat Ramp: Located near the city, it offers an easy way to access middle sections of the river by boat.
  • Sacramento River Trail: Walking along this trail reveals several fly fishing spots along the way.
  • Aqua Golf Miniature Golf Course: An unconventional launch point, this miniature golf course works well for a more isolated experience.
  • Caldwell Park: Provides access to a calm section of the river, ideal for beginners.
All these points offer comfortable and convenient access to fish in the Sacramento River – Keswick.

Local Fish

  • Chinook Salmon: The Sacramento River is well known for its run of large Chinook Salmon.
  • Steelhead Trout: Steelhead trout is a popular sport fish in the Sacramento River due to its aggressive fight and large size.
  • Rainbow Trout: Keswick’s portion of the Sacramento River has numerous fly fishing spots ideal for catching Rainbow Trout.
  • Striped Bass: Striped Bass are a sought-after gamefish for their fighting ability and their great taste.
  • American Shad: American Shad are known for their powerful fights and are a favorite amongst fly fishers in the Sacramento River.
  • White Sturgeon: The large and prehistoric White Sturgeon is a thrilling catch for many fly fishers on the Sacramento River.
  • Large Mouth Bass: Keswick area of Sacramento River is suitable for Large Mouth Bass fly fishing due to availability of suitable habitat.
  • Small Mouth Bass: Known for their strong fights, Small Mouth Bass are a popular fish amongst local fly fishers.

About The River

The Sacramento River is an iconic waterway in Northern California. Its history and the story of Keswick, a small community nestled alongside it, are intertwined down the ages. In the roaring 1880s, Keswick bustled with activity, owing to the rich deposits of copper and iron in the area.

  • The birthplace of the Sacramento River is the Klamath Mountains.
  • It is the largest river in California, stretching a majestic 400 miles from source to sea.
  • Historically, it was a crucial navigation route for the indigenous peoples and later, during the gold rush era.
  • Keswick acquired its name from an English town, borrowed by the directors of a mining company located there.

Today, Keswick remains a close-knit community and the Sacramento River continues to sustain its inhabitants, nurturing both the people and the wildlife. From gold mining to salmon spawning, they share a rich and unique history.

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