Situated just outside of Marysville, Ca., this tail-water fishery is really a tale of two rivers – above Daguerra Dam and below Daguerra Dam. The lower Yuba features long runs, great riffles, deep holes and fish filled flats.
Downstream of the dam, you may encounter Rainbows, Smallmouth Bass and Stripped Bass. However, it’s the spirited Shad that draws our attention in this section of the river.
Above the dam, where we put in most of our time, the river receives an annual run of Chinook Salmon and Steelhead. But it’s the wild, resident Rainbows that will put a bend in your rod and a smile on your face. These acrobatic aerialists are readily available every month of the year.
Spring
This time of year is ushered in by the sounds of birds chirping and reels screaming. There’s a prolific hatch of March Browns, which allow us to target these rising rainbows with dries. When the feeding frenzy takes place, the action just doesn’t get any better. Below the dam, the American shad begin to make their presence known.
Summer
Both the temperature and the fishing can be hot, hot, hot. This is prime time for the shad. Swinging shad darts can be a very effective method of enticing these silver slabs of aggression to grab. Above the dam, the best trout fishing usually occurs during the afternoons and evenings, although nymphing during the mornings can be terrific as well.
Fall
As the leaves depart the trees, the salmon and steelhead arrive in the upper section. These broad shouldered kings are very aggressive, so be sure to have a firm hold of your rod. And the stocky steelhead are in full feeding mode. But let’s not forget about the rainbows, as they’ve tied on their bibs, lurking behind the salmon in the redds.
Winter
As the weather cools down, the fishing heats up. This is our favorite time of year on the lower Yuba. The river serves up a veritable smorgasbord to the trout. From the eggs left by the salmon to a myriad of hatching insects, the feasting ‘bows never have it so good. And when the skwalas start to climb out onto the banks, oh my! Throwing big dries in the dead of winter – how cool is that?
North Yuba Wilderness trip - Adventure fishing where you will see no other humans. We have access to remote section of river. You will need to be physically ready to do this trip. Walk n wade only. Fish dries all day long to seriously wild trout.
Recommended Lodging:
Bonanza Inn
1001 Clark Ave,Yuba City, CA 95991
Phone:530-674-8824
Lower Yuba River Gear & Equipment List
We offer a variety of fishing packages on the Yuba River:
Full Day Premium for $425
Full Day Basic for $395
Half Day Premium for $325
Half Day Basic for $295
All rates based on 2 anglers
Additional anglers where possible $75Specify requested guide date below.
