FISHABLE
Winter steelhead season underwayKlamath River
FISHABLE
Swung fly (Intruder, String Leech) or indicator nymph rig (Stonefly + Egg pattern)
Quick Reference
1,500-2,500 CFS at Orleans ideal for fishing. Above 4,000 CFS, fish push upriver quickly. Base flows around 950 CFS from dam releases.
45-60°F optimal for steelhead. Fall rain freshets trigger fish movement. Winter temps stay cold and productive.
Long river system flowing through California and Oregon. Dam releases provide baseline flows. Rain events can spike flows significantly. Watch weather forecasts.
Variable with weather. Look for 3+ feet of visibility. Rain can muddy tributary inputs. The river clears from upstream down.
What "Fishable" Means Here
Primarily a steelhead fishery with fish arriving August through February. Most are 'half-pounders' (2-4 lbs) with larger fish mixed in. Best fishing when flows at Orleans are around 2,500 CFS or below with 3+ feet of visibility.
Seasonal Patterns
spring
March through May sees late-run steelhead and resident trout. Flows typically moderate. Stonefly nymphs and streamers produce.
summer
Early steelhead arrive in July-August. Lower river heats up—fish move upriver. Traditional summer steelhead fishing begins mid-August to mid-September.
fall
Prime steelhead season September through November. Fish continue arriving through fall rains. Swung flies and nymphs both effective. This is peak time.
winter
December through February continues steelhead fishing. Fish push all the way to Iron Gate Dam. Cold but productive for dedicated anglers. Check flows carefully after rain events.
Alerts
Alternative Waters
Trinity River
Major tributary with strong steelhead runsSmith River
Northern California alternative when Klamath is blown outResources
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