Fishing Reports

California Delta Fly Fishing Report
By Bryce Tedford – Fly Fishing Specialties On-the-Water Report

Conditions & Overview

Date: April 30
The weather on the California Delta has been outstanding this past week, with cooperative winds making for consistently enjoyable days on the water. Water temperatures are holding around 67°F, and clarity is good for this time of year, ranging from 2–5 feet of visibility depending on where you’re fishing.

Fishing Report

Fishing this week has been fair to mediocre overall, but with solid upside. Anglers are averaging 5–10 fish per day, though the highlight has been quality. Over the last six days, there have been 1–3 opportunities per day at trophy striped bass in the 10–20 lb class.

Last week’s bite spiked when smolts were released near the Antioch Bridge, concentrating fish and creating excellent conditions. That window closed quickly as the bait moved, with stripers likely pushing back toward the bay. Since then, the fishery has shifted into more of a grind.

This current pattern feels a lot like swinging for steelhead—long stretches of patience with the chance at a fish that can completely make your day. If you’re willing to stay committed, the reward is there. If not, it may be worth exploring other options until things stabilize.

Gear & Techniques

• Rods: 8–9 wt
• Lines: Heavy sinking shooting heads (Type 6), including Rio I/5/7 lines
• Flies:
  • Clouser Minnows (3/0), especially:
    • Chartreuse/White
    • Brown/White
    • Black/Purple over Chartreuse (Steve Adachi Rattle Clousers)

Approach:
Focus on cast, depth, and strip. Get the fly down in the water column, then work aggressive strips with pauses mixed in. When you feel a grab, keep stripping until the fish is fully hooked—don’t trout set.

Final Thoughts

Fishing isn’t easy right now, but it’s high reward. If you’re willing to grind, you’ve got a legitimate shot at a trophy striper.

Note: Be aware of sea lions—these “sea dogs” are active and will take or damage hooked fish if given the chance.