Sacramento River!

Sacramento River - Lower - Redding, CA (Shasta County)

Photo Credit: Justin Thompson

by Justin Thompson
6-5-2025
Website

The Sacramento River in Redding, California is considered one of the best wild rainbow trout fisheries in the western United States, particularly in the section just below Keswick Dam.

Why It’s Excellent for Wild Rainbow Trout:

  • Consistent Cold Water Flow: The dam releases cold water from the bottom of Shasta Lake, which keeps the river cold year-round—ideal for trout.
  • Wild Trout Fishery: The upper Sacramento River (from Keswick Dam downstream through Redding and beyond) is primarily a wild rainbow trout fishery. These are not hatchery fish; they are native, naturally reproducing trout.
  • Large Fish: The rainbows here are known for being strong, healthy, and often large—16 to 20+ inches is common, with some fish reaching over 24 inches

If you’re looking for a top-tier wild trout experience in California, the Sacramento River in Redding is hard to beat.



We are first aid, CPR approved and USCG approved. We hold special use permit for the Six Rivers National Forest/Trinity National Forest also.

We are on the water over 260 days a year its what we do full time.

Contact Justin Thompson Fishing at (530) 917-5619 or online Justin Thompson Fishing.com




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