Now Booking 2025 Feather River and American River Salmon Fishing trips July 16 - Oct 31

Feather River, located in Northern California, is famous for its breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. Among its many attractions, the river stands out for its excellent salmon fishing opportunities. Each year, anglers flock to this stunning location to enjoy the thrill of catching salmon, Steelhead and Stripers. We are confident you will enjoy a day on the water fishing with us. Salmon Season is open this Year on the Feather and American Rivers.

Guided Salmon Fishing Trips on The Feather River

The Feather River is a habitat for the mighty Chinook (King) salmon, Steelhead, and Stripers. Each species has distinct characteristics and preferred environments. As well as peak fishing times during the year

• Chinook salmon are the largest of the group. Weighing between 10 to 50 pounds on average, they are known for their impressive size and strong fight. Typically, they migrate upstream to spawn from late summer to early fall, around Late July through October.

• Steelhead are usually smaller, averaging 2 to 10 pounds. They are famous for their leaping ability when hooked and typically spawn in the fall, mainly from November to February.

  
  

• Striped Bass are recognized for their vibrant red color during spawning, and they thrive in most river waters. Their peak fishing period is from Mid-April to early June. Some numbers of resident stripers can be found in the Feather River year-round.

  
  

Knowledge of these species and their spawning schedules is crucial for any angler looking to maximize their chances of a successful catch.

Best Times to Fish for Salmon, Steelhead and Stripers

Timing plays a critical role in successful salmon fishing at the Feather River.

• The prime period for Chinook salmon fishing is from August through October. The river comes alive with anglers eager to catch these dynamic fish.

  
  

• Steelhead fishing peaks from late September to early December, when they start to migrate in hopes of filling their bellies on salmon eggs.

  
  

• For Stripers, Mid-April to May is the best window to target these fish effectively.

  
  

Planning your fishing trips around these peak times can significantly boost your chances of reeling in a trophy salmon, steelhead striped bass.

The Best Gear and Tackle is Provided

Using the right gear increases the chances of a fruitful fishing trip. For salmon fishing in Feather River, we use the high-quality gear tailored specifically for our target species

• Rod and Reel: We use Lamiglas Rods paired with Abu Garcia reels.

  Spooled up with power pro braided line.

  
  

• Lures and Baits: We primarily us flat fish lures produced by Yakima baits and Brads baits as well as cured salmon roe and spinners.

  
  

• Boats: We will be fishing from a custom built 26ft Alumaweld open jet boat powered by Yamaha.

  
  

Techniques for Success

Various effective fishing techniques exist for catching salmon in the Feather River.

• Drift Fishing: This popular method involves casting your line upstream and letting the bait flow naturally with the current. This technique simulates the natural movement of prey, making the bait more enticing to salmon.

  
  

• Back Trolling: This method requires pulling lures or bait behind a boat at a slow speed. It lets anglers cover specific areas of the river and is especially productive during peak salmon migration.

  
  
  
  

Conservation and Regulations

Awareness of local regulations is crucial for any fishing enthusiast. The Feather River hosts the protected spring run salmon population, so it is important to understand specific rules, including catch limits and fishing seasons.

Always check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website for the latest regulations before venturing out on your own.

Local Fishing Guides

For newcomers to salmon fishing or those unfamiliar with the Feather River, hiring a local fishing guide can be a game-changer. Experienced feather river salmon fishing guides have in-depth knowledge of the river and can direct you to the best fishing spots. They also offer valuable tips that can enhance your skills.

Capt. Brandon Beachum originated from Paradise, Ca and has been guiding for salmon, steelhead and stripers on the feather river for over 25 years and fishing the river his entire life. He knows the Feather River salmon fishing hot spots and the techniques to make you more successful.

Feather River Salmon Fishing

Fishing for salmon on the Feather River is not just about catching fish; it’s about enjoying nature and the adventure that comes with it. By understanding the different salmon seasons, the best fishing times, the right gear, and effective techniques, anglers can unlock the secrets of this remarkable fishery.

Whether you are a seasoned angler or just starting out, Feather River offers something for everyone. Always respect the environment and follow local regulations to ensure that this incredible resource remains available for future generations. So give us a call at 916-289-0432, head to Feather River, and dive into the rewarding world of salmon fishing!