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McCloud River Half Day Trip: Fly Fishing Adventure in California - Redding

McCloud River Half Day Trip: Fly Fishing Adventure in California

McCloudchallenging

Difficulty

challenging

Duration

4–5 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be in good physical condition with the ability to wade through river currents and stand for extended periods.

Overview

Join AC Fly Fishing for an advanced wade fishing adventure on the McCloud River, home to native rainbow trout and breathtaking views under Mt. Shasta. Gear up for a half day filled with expert tips, pristine waters, and amazing fishing opportunities.

Redding, California

McCloud River Half Day Trip

All Ages • 4-5 hours • Private Guided Trip • Max of 12 Anglers

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About This Adventure

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the McCloud River, renowned for its native rainbow trout. This advanced wade fishing adventure offers expert guidance, stunning scenery, and the thrill of catching fish with a rich history. Enjoy a day of fly fishing in pristine waters beneath Mt. Shasta, complete with provided gear and refreshments.

Famous strains of Rainbow Trout and advance wade fishing!

Duration

  • 4-5 hours
  • Start times vary depending on fishing conditions

About

The McCloud River is perhaps one of the prettiest places in the west to fly fish. This scenic wonderland is also home to one of the most famous strains of rainbow trout in the world. In the late 1800s, McCloud River Redbands were sent overseas to stock the now famous rivers of Patagonia, New Zealand, and Australia. If you catch a rainbow trout in another continent, odds are the origins of that fish start back at the McCloud River. These native trout still exist here and thrive in her cold, clean glacial waters below Mt Shasta.

Although it takes some driving to get down into the river’s canyons, this magical place is certainly one of our favorite rivers to guide fishermen — especially the 10 miles of public water between McCloud reservoir and Lake Shasta. With early hatches of various stoneflies, caddis and mayflies, dry fly fishing in the early season can be fantastic. This is more of an advanced river to wade fish, so be sure to bring your felt boots and wading staff. Our McCloud river fly fishing guides haves decades of combined experience.

What's Included

  • 1-2 anglers per guide
  • Lunch, snacks, beverages, and terminal tackle
  • Rods and reels available upon request

Please note

  • Start times may slightly vary based on fishing conditions.
  • A current California Fishing License is required. It may be purchased online or in-stores. Please refer to your confirmation email for more information.
  • Your guide will contact you prior to your trip to finalize trip details.

Adventure Tips

Wear Wader Boots with Grip

The riverbed can be slippery and uneven, so sturdy boots with excellent traction are essential.

Use Polarized Sunglasses

Polarized lenses help reduce glare and allow you to see fish and underwater structures clearly.

Hydrate and Bring Snacks

Although refreshments are provided, carrying personal water and snacks ensures you stay energized throughout the trip.

Practice Catch and Release

Respect the local ecosystem by handling fish gently and releasing them back promptly to support conservation.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • River otters
  • Bald eagles

History

The McCloud River has been an important fishing and cultural resource for indigenous peoples and has a rich legacy of trout conservation dating back to the early 1900s.

Conservation

Local efforts focus on protecting native trout species and maintaining water quality through catch-and-release programs and responsible angling practices.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Wading Boots with Felt or Rubber Soles

Essential

Provide traction and protect your feet on slippery, rocky riverbeds.

Polarized Sunglasses

Essential

Reduce glare to better spot fish beneath the surface.

summer specific

Waterproof Waders

Essential

Keep you dry and comfortable while wading in the river.

Layered Clothing

Essential

Adjust easily to changing temperatures along the riverbank.

fall specific