Oroville Afterbayon Feather River (Low Flow Section below Oroville Dam)
Conditions right now
No USGS gauge is linked to this water yet, so we can't chart flows.
Salmon are actively spawning
- 01Salmon are actively spawning, providing a critical food source (eggs) for Steelhead and Rainbow Trout.
- 02Look for active Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) hatches, especially on overcast afternoons.
- 03Midges remain a consistent, year-round food source in the tailwater section.
- 04Striped Bass are likely chasing baitfish throughout the river system.
- 05Expect challenging but rewarding Steelhead opportunities by targeting pockets away from salmon pods.
What to tie on at Oroville Afterbay
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Glo Bug (Orange)
Fall is prime spawning season for salmon, and trout along with steelhead will key into dislodged eggs, a crucial calorie source.
Blue-Winged Olive Comparadun (BWO)
Blue-Winged Olive hatches are a staple of fall fishing, and this low-profile dry fly is effective for selective trout and steelhead feeding on emergers and adults.
Egg Sucking Leech
Leeches and egg patterns are highly effective during the fall salmon run, appealing to predatory Steelhead and larger trout.
Buy at AmazonWoolly Bugger (Black)
A versatile streamer mimicking leeches and baitfish, effective year-round and particularly in the fall for aggressive trout, steelhead, and striped bass.
Prince Nymph
This general attractor nymph is a reliable subsurface pattern, especially noted for Steelhead, and effective for a variety of aquatic insects active in the fall.
Buy at AmazonZebra Midge (Black)
Midges are a consistent food source in tailwaters year-round, and this pattern is excellent for finicky trout and steelhead, especially in cooler fall water.
Flashback Pheasant Tail Nymph
A superb general searching nymph, mimicking various mayfly nymphs that are active in fall, making it a staple for trout and steelhead.
Clouser Minnow (Chartreuse/White)
An excellent baitfish imitation, ideal for targeting aggressive Striped Bass that are actively feeding in the Feather River during the fall.
California season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.