Lower Sacramento River Striper Fishing
Capt. Hogan Brown
Flows at Ord Bend: 5,096 CFS
Flows are low, and the fish are concentrated in specific areas. With cooler weather arriving this week, the bite should turn on and really get going for the fall. Cooling temperatures typically trigger a fall feeding binge, and I’m optimistic that we’ll see things pick up as conditions change.
With lower flows, lighter lines are key to keeping flies in the feeding zones as we target shallower water. It’s also important to keep flies above the fish’s sight lines. Unweighted flies that track in a straight line are becoming increasingly important as we adjust to these conditions.
The best fishing has come from areas that see the least salmon boat traffic. Fortunately, these areas aren’t too difficult to find, as most salmon anglers are concentrating their efforts on the upper river or the Feather River. That said, weekend and evening boat traffic can be present near most boat ramps, and the added pressure can affect the bite.
The Lower Sac should remain a good option throughout October and into early November. We’ll have to wait and see how long it stays that way, especially with the El Niño forecast and the potential for some big water coming our way.
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