Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Stanislaus River - Ripon - 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 Afternoon #20-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon #18-20 Parachute Adams
February Midges Afternoon #20-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon #18-20 Parachute Adams, Blue Winged Olive
March Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #16-18 Blue Winged Olive, Beatis Nymphs
April Caddis Afternoon #14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Stoneflies Evening #8-10 Stimulator, Golden Stone Nymph
May Caddis Afternoon #14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Stoneflies Evening #8-10 Stimulator, Golden Stone Nymph
June Yellow Sallies All day #12-14 Yellow Sally, Caddis Pupa
Stoneflies Evening #8-10 Stimulator, Golden Stone Nymph
July Terrestrials All day #12-14 Hopper patterns, Ant patterns
August Terrestrials All day #12-14 Hopper patterns, Beetle patterns
September Terrestrials All day #12-14 Hopper patterns, Ant patterns
October Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon #18-20 Parachute Adams, Blue Winged Olive
Midges Afternoon #20-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
November Midges Afternoon #20-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon #18-20 Parachute Adams, Blue Winged Olive
December Midges Afternoon #20-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon #18-20 Parachute Adams, Blue Winged Olive

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

The Stanislaus River – Ripon is replete with unrivaled fly fishing spots, offering excellent fishing experiences. Renowned for its diverse species of fish and pristine environment, here are the top spots for fly fishing:
  • Knights Ferry: Hosting large populations of Rainbow trout, it is one of the most abundant fishing areas on the Stanislaus River.
  • Goodwin Dam: Known for its productive fly hatches, Goodwin Dam offers an excellent fly fishing platform.
  • Oakdale Recreation Area: Perfect for walk-and-wade fly fishing, you can find excellent run of salmon in the season.
  • Caswell Memorial State Park: Known for its peaceful surroundings, it provides great opportunities for solitude seekers, angling for a variety of fish species.
  • River’s Edge Fishing Access: A boat launching facility and high fish populations make it a great spot for fly fishing.
Fun and fruitful fishing await on the mighty Stanislaus, from carefully curated fly selections to vibrant wildlife.

Best Access Points

The Stanislaus River in Ripon, California is renowned among fishing enthusiasts for its ample opportunities for fly fishing. While the entire river holds promise for a memorable catch, there are certain access points that are particularly favored.
  • Caswell Memorial State Park: the park provides access to several spots along the river that are ideal for fly fishing.
  • Jacob Myers Park Access: located in Riverbank, this is a popular spot for anglers where the fish are abundant.
  • River Cove Marina: the marina allows for easy river access and offers a convenient starting point for those planning a day of fishing.
  • Orange Blossom Recreation Area: this area provides expansive access to the river, facilitating a wide variety of water-based activities, including fly fishing.
Please remember to review and respect local fishing regulations and always practice catch and release to preserve the river’s ecosystem for future generations.

Local Fish

  • Rainbow Trout – Rainbow Trout are the most popular game fish on the Stanislaus River due to their size and fighting abilities. They are often targeted using dry flies and nymphs.
  • Brown Trout – These elusive fish are a prized catch for many fly fishermen due to their beautiful coloratoryou’re and reputation as fierce fighters.
  • Steelhead – The winter run of Steelhead in the Stanislaus River offers exciting opportunities for fly fishing, often responding well to wet flies and streamers.
  • Chinook Salmon – During the fall run, fly fishermen often target the large Chinook Salmon that migrate up the Stanislaus River to spawn using egg patterns and large streamers.
  • Striped Bass – Predominantly a warm water species, the Striped Bass offers a robust fight and is often targeted on the fly during the warmer monthsto using surface poppers and streamers.
  • American Shad – Known for their strong fights and acrobatics, American Shad make their way to the Stanislaus River during the late spring and summer months, responding well to small, brightly colored flies.
  • White Sturgeon – This ancient, bottom dwelling species may not be traditionally targeted by fly fishermen, but their size and strength make them a thrilling catch, often hooked using large, deeply sinking flies.
  • Smallmouth Bass – Found in the warmer, slower moving sections of the Stanislaus River, the Smallmouth Bass offers exciting surface takes and strong fights, often targeted using poppers and crayfish imitations.

About The River

The Stanislaus River is one of California’s most cherished natural treasures, having a vibrant history and an enduring presence in the heart of Ripon. Originating in the Sierra Nevada mountains, the river flows through oak-covered hillsides before winding its way into the fertile Central Valley.

The river’s history is as captivating as its path, with Native Americans once thriving on its shores, followed by the impact of the Gold Rush era. Nowadays, it’s a lifeline for agriculture and a hub for recreation.

  • Nature and Wildlife: The Stanislaus River boasts a rich ecosystem with abundant wildlife including eagles, river otters, and a variety of fish species.
  • Recreation: Loved by many for its outdoor adventure opportunities such as rafting, fishing, and camping.
  • Agriculture: Its waters irrigate the fertile farmlands of Ripon, contributing to the region’s agriculture-centric economy.

Today, the Stanislaus River in Ripon continues to etch a significant mark in the heart and soul of California.

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