The Feather River between Oroville and Gridley has one of the best steelhead runs in California.
Prime time is October-December, when steelhead are feeding heavily on salmon eggs.
There is another run in the spring, peaking between March and May. We fish the Feather from drift boats.
Gear Recommendations for the Feather River
Rods, Reels & Lines:
Six and seven-weight rods in 9, 9.5 and 10 foot lengths are perfect for the Feather River.
We primarily use floating lines.
We occasionally use sink-tip lines and clear intermediate sinking lines to fish salmon fry imitations.
Leaders, Tippet & Indicators:
We typically use 1X-3X tippet on the Feather. Come prepared with 9' 2X leaders. Yarn or thingamabobber indicators are best.
We use split shot in sizes BB, B, 3/0.
Waders & Boots:
We use chest-high breathable waders on the Feather. In the winter neoprene waders are good, too.
Spiked wading boots are not recommended.
Season
The Feather River below the Highway 70 bridge is open year-round.
Prime times for steelheading are late September through mid-December and mid-March through mid-May.
Flies:
Nymphs:
• Olive Birds Nest, 10-14
• Mercer's Micro Mayfly, Olive, 14-18
• Copper John, Red, 10-14
• BH Prince, 10-14
Eggs:
• Pettis's Unreal Egg, Steelhead Orange, 12
• Glo Bugs, all colors, size 8-10
Sample Itinerary
Meeting Time & Place:
We typically meet our clients at their hotel or at a designated spot on the river at 7:00am.
Vehicle Considerations:
There is no shuttle service on the Feather River, so be prepared to use your vehicle to assist with our shuttle.
Wading difficulty:
On a typical day we spend half of our time wading and the rest fishing from the boat.
The wading is fairly easy as the bottom consists of large cobbles.
It's possible to do a trip where wading is not required.
Multiple Fisheries in one Day:
We devote the entire day to fishing the Feather River.
Length of the Day:
Most full days conclude around 5:30pm. Half days end around 12:30pm.