May 18, 2026 Fishing Reports
Fall River Fishing Report
The Fall River continues to fish well this spring, especially in the upper sections of the river where consistent hatches and healthy trout activity are keeping anglers busy. Lower sections of the river have been a bit more challenging recently, but patient anglers are still finding productive pods of fish throughout the system.
One of the biggest positives this season has been the surprisingly light weed growth. Unlike many spring seasons on the Fall River, aquatic weeds have not created major fishing challenges so far, allowing for cleaner drifts and more effective presentations.
Current Fall River Fishing Conditions
Fishing conditions remain stable overall, with the best action currently taking place in the upper river. Trout are feeding consistently during active hatch windows, while lower river fish have been more selective due to reduced bug activity.
River Conditions
Water clarity: excellent
Weed growth: minimal for this time of year
Best fishing areas: upper river sections
Productive techniques: indicator nymphing and dry fly presentations during hatch activity
Fall River Hatches and Fly Fishing Outlook
Hatch activity has been strongest in the upper stretches, where trout are actively feeding during warmer parts of the day. While lower sections have seen fewer bugs overall, anglers who stay mobile and patient are still finding quality fish grouped in feeding pods.
The lighter weed conditions have made technical presentations much easier than normal, which has been a welcome surprise for both guides and anglers this season.
Best Fly Patterns for Fall River
Current productive patterns include:
PMD nymphs and emergers
Baetis patterns
Small midge imitations
Balanced leeches
Callibaetis nymphs during calmer conditions
The Fall River remains one of Northern California’s premier spring creek fisheries, and current conditions are shaping up for an excellent late spring and early summer season.
Lower Sacramento River Fishing Report
The Lower Sacramento River has been fishing pretty well this week despite some fluctuating pulse flows. Baseline flows are currently holding around 9,000 CFS, and anglers willing to work around the recent north wind have been rewarded with some excellent trout fishing throughout the system.
Current River Conditions
Water conditions remain stable overall, with productive fishing reported throughout the upper, middle, and lower canyon stretches of the river. The recent north wind created challenging conditions at times, but sheltered sections of the river continued to fish very well.
Lower Sacramento River Flows
Current baseline flows: approximately 9,000 CFS
Water clarity: good
Best fishing windows: mid-morning through evening
Weather conditions: mild spring temperatures with occasional north wind
Best Hatches on the Lower Sacramento River
Spring hatches continue to be strong and consistent.
Active Insect Hatches
PMDs (Pale Morning Duns): active from mid-morning into the evening
Caddis: strong midday through evening
Little Yellow Sallies: showing consistently during warmer periods
Golden Stones: scattered but present
Baetis: increasing activity during evening hours
Upper River Fishing Report
The upper stretches of the river have been producing some exceptionally healthy trout recently. Larger fish are showing consistently, and there are also trout moving into shallow spawning areas. As always, anglers are encouraged to avoid targeting actively spawning fish in order to help protect the fishery.
Middle River Fishing
The middle section of the Lower Sacramento River continues to be one of the most consistent stretches this season. Steady bug activity, healthy trout populations, and productive riffle water have made this area a reliable option and a good way to get away from crowds.
Lower River Canyon Fishing Report
Further downstream, the canyon stretches continue to provide excellent fishing with even fewer crowds. Combined with great spring weather and solid trout action, these lower sections are offering some of the best overall fishing experiences on the river right now.
Lower Sacramento River Fly Recommendations
Successful flies this week have included:
PMD nymphs (#14–16)
Caddis pupae and adults
Yellow Sally patterns
Golden Stone nymphs
Small Baetis imitations
The Lower Sacramento River continues to offer some of the best spring trout fishing in Northern California, and conditions should remain productive heading further into May.
McCloud River Fly Fishing Report
The nearby McCloud River has also been fishing exceptionally well recently. Guides reported excellent bug activity and strong trout action throughout the river. With healthy flows and increasing hatch activity, expectations are high for a strong summer season on the McCloud.
Upper Sacramento River Update
The Upper Sacramento River is finally starting to drop into shape after elevated spring flows. As water levels continue to improve, conditions are lining up for excellent early-season fishing opportunities. Guides are looking forward to spending more time on the Upper Sac as accessibility and fishable water continue to improve.
Lower Sacramento River Striper Report
Striper fishing has continued to be good. Hogan is almost healed up and getting ready to jump back on the water, while Adam is wrapping up his conventional minnow season and getting ready for fly season as the boat traffic starts to thin out. The Sacramento River striper fishing with a fly rod in hand tends to get really good this time of year.