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2009 Trout Opener slideshow |
The Fall River - is the most visible part of one of the world’s largest underground spring systems. The river is entirely spring fed rather than runoff generated as most river systems are, and as a result it runs year round with virtually no fluctuation in level or volume and the water is very clear and cold.
The Fall River is 38 miles in length and is located in an intermountain valley of the Cascade Mountain Range in the northeastern portion of California. It enjoys a worldwide reputation as a trophy wild trout stream drawing anglers from throughout North America and Europe.
As far as trout streams go, the Fall River is rather uniform throughout its course. Like all spring creeks, the water is quite clear and contains thick vegetation crawling with stream insects. Combined with nearly steady water temperatures, these conditions lend themselves to fat, football shaped trout. In the absence of real structure, trout in spring creeks such as the Fall River congregate around weeds. For skilled fly fishermen, 20-inchers are not uncommon. Because the current is slow, these fish can afford a close and careful inspection of your fly. You will need to be skilled and/or patient to catch these lunkers. Most fishermen practice catch and release, although regulations permit keeping two fish measuring 14 inches or more
Accessibility & Directions
Fall River is about 290 miles north of San Francisco. It is best accessed by taking route 5 north for 125 miles from San Francisco to the 299 East (Lake Blvd.) exit in Redding. Take 299 East toward Alturas for about 74 miles until you hit Fall River Mills, where the Fall River enters the Pit River.
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The Annual Trout Opener is graciously held at Bobby K Park at President Gary's place on the banks of the beautiful Fall River. |
When & How to Fish
The Fall River's fishing season stretches from the last Saturday in April through November 15. Fishing is with artificial lures and barbless hooks ONLY and two fish over 14 inches may be kept.
Water temperature in the spring creek area is fairly constant throughout the year. Summer is hot with afternoon breezes. Spring and fall, though generally fishable, bring unpredictable weather ranging from cold to warm, and dry to heavy rain. In the fall, rainbows spawn in the upper stretches (accessible by boating upstream from the Cal Trout ramp).
Pale Morning Duns are the predominant hatch throughout the season on the upper and middle Fall, with peaks in late May and June and late August and September. These insects come off from late morning until mid-afternoon. Blue-winged Olives are also common in the early and late season on the upper and middle stretches, but they trail off in summer. In June, an impressive Little Sister Sedge hatch occurs. In late summer, Tricos are common along the entire river in the early morning. The Fall's most famous hatch, however, is the Hexagenia Mayfly hatch in late June and July which brings the big boys up to the top. This hatch is most common in the middle and lower stretches of the river. The "Hex" is the largest mayfly (size 2 or 4), and hatches in the late evening and early night. Nymph fishing can be extremely productive before the hatch. Imitate the swimming motion of the naturals by twitching your rod tip as the fly swings down and across.
