Pit River - CA

River Information

Elevation:4700 ft.
Fish Species: Steelhead, Channel Catfish, Rainbow Trout
The Pit River, California, represents a highly technical freestone trout fishery, predominantly holding robust populations of wild rainbow and brown trout. Its character is defined by stable, spring-fed flows and complex subsurface currents, demanding advanced fly-fishing techniques, particularly nymphing with heavy indicator or Euro Nymphing rigs. Success is contingent upon meticulous "reading of the water" and achieving precise, drag-free drifts. Current flow rates are paramount; high volumes (e.g., 3600 CFS on Pit #3) often render sections unfishable due to hazardous wading and reduced clarity. Anglers must rigorously check real-time flow data before attempting to fish. Stealth and careful wading are essential due to slippery riverbeds. This river is a challenge for experienced angler



Latest Photos

Matt with a nice Hat Creek rainbow
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Confluence Outfiters
5-29-2020
Matt with a nice Pit River rainbow
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Confluence Outfiters
5-29-2020
Photo Credit: The Fly Shop Stuff
9-27-2016
Photo Credit: The Fly Shop Stuff
9-16-2016

Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
5-14-2026 The river has dropped in and is fishing well from Pit 3 down through 5
Fishing conditions:  Good Report: The river has dropped in and... more »
The Fly Shop
5-5-2026 The river has dropped in and is fishing well from Pit 3 down through 5
Fishing conditions:  Good Report: The river has dropped in and... more »
The Fly Shop
4-6-2026 This is a great river to fish a Euro rod and we highly recommend it
Fishing conditions:  Poor Report: No news on the clarity of... more »
The Fly Shop
3-18-2026 The river is still off-color and the flows from Britton through Pit 3
Fishing conditions:  Poor Report: The river is still off-color and... more »
The Fly Shop
3-4-2026 Pit River Fishing Report
Fishing conditions:  Poor Report: The river below Lake Britton is still... more »
The Fly Shop

Detailed Map