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
11-13-2025 Fall is getting spicy and this can make things a little more unpredictable on the Pit
Fall is getting spicy and this can make... more »
The Fly Shop
11-5-2025 Fall is getting spicy and this can make things a little more unpredictable on the Pit
Fall is getting spicy and this can make... more »
The Fly Shop
10-28-2025 Releases at Pit 3 are 350 CFS which is still a good flow
The fall is a great time to fish... more »
The Fly Shop
10-15-2025 The fall is a great time to fish the Pit
The fall is a great time to fish... more »
The Fly Shop
10-8-2025 The fall is a great time to fish the Pit
The fall is a great time to fish... more »
The Fly Shop

Detailed Map