2026 Fishing Outlook & Opportunities
Hello Everyone,
As we look ahead to 2026, I wanted to share a clear outlook on the upcoming season when conditions are at their best, what each time of year offers, and what to start planning for your next fly fishing trip.
Thank you to everyone who joined me on the water in 2025. It was another strong year across Northern California, and I’m looking forward to fishing with returning and new anglers alike in the season ahead.
Mid-Winter | January–February
January and February wrap up the peak of winter steelhead season. This is prime time to target fresh, powerful fish in classic winter conditions. While weather always plays a role, these months consistently provide some of the best opportunities of the year for anglers willing to commit to winter fishing.
Late Winter & Early Spring | February–March
As winter transitions toward spring, February and March bring the Skwalla stonefly hatch on the Yuba River, offering some of the best dry-fly fishing of the year. When conditions align, these are technical but incredibly rewarding days, focused on presentation, timing, and reading the water.
The Lower Sacramento also continues to fish well during this period.
Spring | April–June
Spring is one of the most consistent and productive times to chase wild trout in Northern California. Reliable flows, strong hatches, and actively feeding fish make this an ideal window for anglers looking to fish hard and improve skills
The Lower Sacramento River, McCloud River, Hat Creek, and Fall River all fish extremely well during this stretch, including the well-known Hex hatch on Fall River as summer approaches.
Summer | July–August — Sierra Walk-and-Wade
July and August are all about walk-and-wade trout fishing in the Sierra. This is a favorite time of year for anglers who enjoy walking, reading the water, and fishing classic freestone rivers.
We’ll focus heavily on the McCloud River, Upper Sacramento River, and Hat Creek. These rivers offer technical fishing, beautiful settings, and consistent summer opportunities when approached with the right strategy.
This is an ideal window for anglers who value solitude, precision, and time on their feet.
Fall | September–December
Fall is when everything comes together. Cooler mornings, lighter crowds, and the return of steelhead make this the most sought-after window of the year.
Whether we’re swinging flies or nymphing, the Trinity River, Feather River, and Lower Sacramento consistently produce memorable days on the water. These months fill first every season — and for good reason.
2026 Focus by Month
January–February: Peak Winter Steelhead Season on the Trinity River, Lower Sacramento
February–March: Yuba River (Skwalla Hatch), Lower Sacramento
March-May: Feather River (Spring Run Steelhead)
April–June: Lower Sacramento, Upper Sacramento, McCloud, Hat Creek (Salmon Fly Hatch), Fall River (Hex Hatch)
July–August: McCloud, Upper Sacramento, Hat Creek (Sierra Walk-and-Wade)
September–December: Trinity River, Yuba River, Feather River, Lower Sacramento
UPDATE: As of 2026, all anglers will be required to sign a release of liability. This will be an electronic form that I’ll send your way; you do not need to sign it every trip. It will be good for the calendar year. This is a change that my insurance is requiring, and I hope everyone understands.
Policy Update: When booking a trip, conditions can occasionally alter our primary river destination. Plan A, B, C, Options sometimes need to be utilized. Changes in fisheries are NOT terms to cancel. This is especially important to note in winter steelhead dates from December through March. We will fish the best suitable location for the dates booked.
Please follow the link here to review all Coogan Fly Fishing Policies. When you agree to book a trip, you agree to the following terms.
Coogan Fly Fishing Policy And Rates
2026 Trip Pricing: No Changes*
Float/Boat Trips
Full Day Trips ($650.00)
Half Day Trips ($500.00)
All Float Trips include shuttle,/Use of Gear and Lunch on full-day trips. This is priced for 1-2 anglers additional guide requured for 2 or more.
Wade Trips
Full Day Trips ($600.00)
Half Day Trips ($450.00)
All Wade Trips include the use of Gear and Lunch on Full Day Trips
$100.00 For Each Additional Angler. 3 Max. 4 anaglers require a second guide.
Now Booking for 2026
Spring and fall dates are already filling, and summer walk-and-wade trips are limited. If you’re considering a trip for 2026, the best approach is to plan early and secure the dates that work best for you.
Tight lines,
Colin Coogan
Orvis-Endorsed Guide | Coogan Fly Fishing