Steelhead In The Trinity River

NEW Douglas City, CA 1 - 4 People 8 Hours From $650 Trip #6925
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

About Your Trip

Water Type

River

Skill Levels

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Weather

You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather.

The Trinity River, the principal tributary of the Klamath River, stretches 165 miles through the Klamath Mountains and coastal ranges, creating an ideal habitat for Fly Fishing. This river, covering a watershed of nearly 3,000 square miles in Trinity and Humboldt Counties, is renowned for its prolific runs of Chinook Salmon and Steelhead, offering a rewarding Fly Fishing experience that has been integral to the livelihood of native people for millennia.

The Trinity River is...

About Your Trip

The Trinity River, the principal tributary of the Klamath River, stretches 165 miles through the Klamath Mountains and coastal ranges, creating an ideal habitat for Fly Fishing. This river, covering a watershed of nearly 3,000 square miles in Trinity and Humboldt Counties, is renowned for its prolific runs of Chinook Salmon and Steelhead, offering a rewarding Fly Fishing experience that has been integral to the livelihood of native people for millennia.

The Trinity River is also home to the Trinity River Hatchery, known for providing a healthy annual hatchery Steelhead return. Anglers fortunate enough to land a hatchery fish during their Fly Fishing adventure will savor the fine table fare, a reward that complements what many regard as “the fly fishing experience of a lifetime”.

Offering fall, winter, spring, and summer runs, this river is a perfect spot for Fly Fishing almost all year round. So, gear up for the most memorable Fly Fishing experience on the Trinity River, where every cast brings you closer to nature’s bounty. The Trinity River’s cold, clear waters and varied conditions create a perfect environment for winter steelhead to thrive. Anglers can expect to find fish ranging from 5 to 15 pounds, with some individuals reaching even larger sizes.

Successful steelhead fishing on the Trinity River requires a combination of technique, timing, and adaptability. Here are some effective approaches:

- Fly Fishing: Fly fishing is a popular and effective method for targeting winter steelhead. Techniques such as swinging flies with spey rods or using indicator nymphing can be particularly productive. Common patterns include egg imitations, nymphs, and streamers. A well-presented fly can entice even the most cautious steelhead to bite.
- Drift Fishing: Drift fishing, or bottom bouncing, involves casting bait or lures and allowing them to drift naturally with the current. This method is often used with a float or bobber to help detect subtle bites. Popular bait choices include roe (fish eggs), beads, and various artificial lures. Drift fishing can be highly effective in the Trinity’s diverse water types.
- Plunking: This technique involves casting a weight and bait combination to hold it in place on the riverbed. Plunking is particularly useful in slower water or deep pools where steelhead are likely to be resting. Bait choices often include roe, shrimp, or sand shrimp.
- Tackle and Gear: Winter steelhead fishing requires specific tackle to handle the robust nature of these fish. For fly fishing, a 7 to 9 weight rod with a matching reel and sinking lines are commonly used. When using conventional gear, a medium to heavy action rod paired with a spinning or baitcasting reel, and 8 to 12-pound test line, will suffice. Leaders should be strong enough to handle the fight, typically ranging from 8 to 12 pounds. Conventional tackle will be fishing with plugs

Fishing for steelhead on the Trinity River is a rewarding pursuit that offers both challenge and exhilaration. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse fishing techniques, and abundant steelhead, the Trinity River stands out as a top destination for steelhead enthusiasts. By understanding the river’s conditions, employing effective fishing techniques, and respecting conservation practices, anglers can enjoy a memorable and successful steelhead fishing adventure in Northern California.
Amenities

Water Type

River

Skill Levels

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Weather

You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather.

Flexible Cancelation

This trip can be canceled up to 14 days before the trip.

Tackle

You will need your own tackle.

Fish Cleaning

No cleaning service provided.

Beer

No beer allowed.

Boat Restroom

No, this boat does not have a bathroom on board.

Live Bait

Live bait is not used on this trip.

Kid Friendly

This trip is not suited for small children.

Disability Friendly

This trip is not suited for those with disabilities.

Lunch

Please provide your own food / snacks.

Scroll for more

Pricing Matrix

8 hours
1 Person
$650.00
2 People
$650.00
3 People (two boats)
$1,300.00
4 People (two boats)
$1,300.00
Pay $200 as a deposit today, with the balance due on the day of the trip.
Loading...

Reserve Your Trip

Select a date to view pricing. The date you selected is no longer available. Please select another date.
Date
Select a group size to view pricing.
Select an animal to view pricing.
Select a duration to view pricing.
Select a start time to check out.
You won't be charged yet

Total

Browse Similar Trips
Contact Us

About Your Guide

Alex R.

Independent Guide
Led by Adam, this Northern California guide team offers premium fishing experiences on the Trinity River, Shasta Lake, Whiskeytown Lake, and the Lower Sacramento River. With a crew of highly experienced and passionate guides, each trip is designed to connect you with world-class fisheries and create unforgettable memories—whether you’re chasing wild trout, trophy bass, or seasonal salmon and steelhead.

Adam’s team is made up of top-tier professionals, including:

Alex – With over 20 years of...

About Your Guide

Alex R.

Independent Guide
Led by Adam, this Northern California guide team offers premium fishing experiences on the Trinity River, Shasta Lake, Whiskeytown Lake, and the Lower Sacramento River. With a crew of highly experienced and passionate guides, each trip is designed to connect you with world-class fisheries and create unforgettable memories—whether you’re chasing wild trout, trophy bass, or seasonal salmon and steelhead.

Adam’s team is made up of top-tier professionals, including:

Alex – With over 20 years of experience from commercial tuna trolling to guiding fly anglers, Alex is a seasoned expert. A licensed captain and skilled boatman, he’s known for his deep regional knowledge and unwavering dedication to client success. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned angler, Alex brings a calm, confident presence to every trip.

Nathaniel – A versatile outdoorsman with guiding experience in Alaska and California, Nathaniel brings passion and precision to every trip. Whether he’s on the sticks of his drift boat or guiding you through a wade-in session, he’s focused on helping you grow your skills and enjoy every moment on the water.

Tom (“Big Tom”) – With 30 years of experience and unmatched knowledge of the Sacramento River system, Tom is the go-to guide for those chasing trout, steelhead, and salmon. From drift boat days to walk-and-wade fly fishing, he combines technical skill with a laid-back, welcoming style that makes every trip productive and fun.

This guide team specializes in fly fishing, conventional tackle, and multi-species trips across some of the most beautiful fisheries in California. Whether you’re looking to float a river, explore remote coves, or introduce someone to fishing for the first time, Adam and his crew deliver a personalized, top-tier experience that’s equal parts adventure and education.
Scroll for more

Start Location & Lodging Options

Douglas City, California
Areas Fished

About Your Boat

Boat photo for Steelhead In The Trinity River
Boat Type
Drift Boat
Boat Manufacturer
Willie
Boat Length
18'
Boat Restroom
No

About Your Boat

Boat Type
Drift Boat
Boat Manufacturer
Willie
Boat Length
18'
Boat Restroom
No
Scroll for more

Trip Details & Amenities

Water Type

River

Skill Levels

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Weather

You won't lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather.

Flexible Cancelation

This trip can be canceled up to 14 days before the trip.

Tackle

You will need your own tackle.

Fish Cleaning

No cleaning service provided.

Beer

No beer allowed.

Boat Restroom

No, this boat does not have a bathroom on board.

Live Bait

Live bait is not used on this trip.

Kid Friendly

This trip is not suited for small children.

Disability Friendly

This trip is not suited for those with disabilities.

Lunch

Please provide your own food / snacks.

Target Species

Color-coded seasonality below is based on .
View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

Techniques

  • Artificial Lure Fishing
  • Cut Bait Fishing
  • Drift Fishing
  • Fly Fishing
  • Light Tackle Fishing

Everything Else to Know

You will be responsible for your own gear. Alex will be in touch to discuss details before the trip.
You'll need to buy a fishing license before getting out there. Find out more about licenses here.
We use a cashless autopay system. We'll send you a boarding pass, and on the day of the trip, your guide will scan your boarding pass to automatically transfer the remaining balance. The only cash needed is to tip your guide (we recommend 20%).
Cancel for free up to 14 days before the trip and receive credit back to your account. Cancelling within 14 of the trip will forfeit your deposit to the guide. Day-of cancellations and no-shows will be charged the full balance of the trip to their card.
In the event of inclement weather you'll be covered by out 100% Weather Guarantee and will not lose your deposit.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

David

Verified Review

Great Trip. Would schedule another.

David

Verified Review

Great Trip. Would schedule another.
Scroll for more

Trip: Reef Fishing Little Torch Key

Scott

Verified Review

Very nice trip . I enjoyed it

Scott

Verified Review

Very nice trip . I enjoyed it
Scroll for more

Trip: Flagler Lures Style

John

Verified Review

Everything went great. The weather was great too.

John

Verified Review

Everything went great. The weather was great too.
Scroll for more

Trip: Inshore Venice

George

Verified Review

Excellent! Fun and engaging.
Will be back!

George

Verified Review

Excellent! Fun and engaging. Will be back!
Scroll for more

Trip: Islamorada Angling Excursion

Zachery

Verified Review

Good time!

Zachery

Verified Review

Good time!
Scroll for more

Trip: Offshore Jigging / Trolling

Read more reviews

First Time Booking with Us?

Captain Experiences is home to thousands of quality, vetted fishing, hunting, and other outdoor sports guides across the US and beyond. Our mission is to Unlock the Outdoors by making it quick and easy to book the trip of a lifetime every time with our Damn Good Guides.
We vet our guides and only partner with the best of the best. Our guides do their very best to keep you safe, show you a great time, and send you home with a memorable experience shared with family and friends.
Once you've paid your deposit at checkout, we'll send you a QR Code boarding pass. Just show your guide your boarding pass on the day of the trip, they'll scan it, the remaining balance will transfer automatically, and you'll be all set to get out there. Just make sure you bring a cash tip for the guide!
In the event of inclement weather, our guides will check the conditions and make the final call on whether its safe to go on the trip. If they decide the trip needs to be postponed, we'll work closely with you to reschedule or provide a credit for the full deposit, which can be applied to any of our trips in the US and beyond.
Each trip's price is determined by the guide and reflects all associated costs. A significant factor in pricing is often the type of boat and the corresponding fuel expenses. Additional costs may include leases, marina or slip fees, and the expenses involved in providing and maintaining the necessary gear for your trip.
After booking your trip, we'll connect you directly with your guide to discuss additional details. In the meantime, our team is here to answer any questions via email, text, or phone.
/
/
/