The McCloud River 

Pacific Northwest

A classic pool and pocket water river in a magnificent wooded canyon, the McCloud is northern California's most famous freestone fishery. McCloud River rainbow trout have been distributed globally and are considered “the world’s rainbow trout”. These are aggressive, hard-fighting trout that are sure to thrill all trout anglers. Special regulations protect this fishery and it produces trout to 24 inches, typically on nymphs and streamers. In the fall, spawning browns add an extra thrill. The three miles of Nature Conservancy water is zero-kill and limited to ten rods a day.

McCloud River Location:
The McCloud River originates south of Mt. Shasta, CA and flows into Lake Shasta.

McCloud River Fishing Program:
The McCloud River canyon is a truly magical place. Pristine forests, clear plunging water, and feisty trout are found around every bend in the river. Be sure to bring a camera on this trip as you’re certain to see something that takes your breath away.

All the fly fishing trips on the McCloud River are walk and wade. The water is moderately difficult to wade and anglers walk to each fishing hole. Due to the nature of the hiking, this is one of the more strenuous trout fly fishing programs we offer. Once you’ve reached the water the actual fly fishing is a joy. Short to moderate length casts with nymphs or streamers are the norm here. The McCloud River is a healthy system with a buffet of aquatic insects so anglers and guides will constantly be on the lookout for dry fly opportunities that may be short-lived or last half the day.

McCloud River rainbow trout average 12 – 16 inches and reach 24 inches. As these are all native, wild fish they are widely regarded as very strong fighters. Although many anglers will tell you that brown trout will only be encountered during the fall October Caddis hatch, the fact is that savvy anglers can hook surprisingly large brown trout at any time during the fishing season.

McCloud River Accommodations and Meals:
We have many option in the Mt. Shasta / McCloud area. We’ll be glad to work with you to make sure you’re staying near the water and have access to amenities. Here are a few of our favorites:

Mt Shasta Inn http://www.shastamountinn.com/ 530-926-1810
Mt Shasta Ranch www.stayinshasta.com 1008 W. A. Barr Rd. Mt. Shasta, CA 96067 email: mbenton1@snowcrest.net (530) 926-3870.
Mt Shasta Resort http://www.mountshastaresort.com/ 800-958-3363
Strawberry Valley Inn 1141 S. Mt. Shasta Blvd., Mount Shasta, Ca 96067. (530) 926-2052
Best Western-Tree House, I-5 & W. Lake Street, Mount Shasta, CA 96067, P.O. Box 236, 1-800-545-7164, (530) 926-3101

McCloud River Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Mt. Shasta, CA.
Days 2-4: Full days of guided fishing
Day 5: Depart Mt. Shasta.

Complete Trip Details