Lower Sacramento River Striper Fishing Report – Summer Striper Season Update
Looking for the latest Sacramento River striper fishing report? You’re in luck—summer striper season is in full swing on the Lower Sacramento River, and while conditions are slightly behind due to a mild summer, fishing remains productive and should only get better.
Current Conditions
Water temperatures across the Lower Sacramento River are currently running about 4–5°F cooler than average for this time of year. These colder water temps have slowed down striped bass activity somewhat, but the bite is still on, especially during the midday window.
Mountain thunderstorms continue to affect certain sections of the river. East-side tributaries can blow out quickly with enough rain, so anglers should stay aware of upstream weather.
Fishing Report & Tactics
Striper fishing has been fair to good and is expected to improve with warmer weather on the horizon. Most action is happening during the heat of the day due to the cooler water temperatures.
For those fly fishing for stripers, heavy sinking shooting heads and fast-stripped Clouser Minnow-style flies are the go-to setup. In off-color or stained water, larger 4/0 flies with rattles are producing solid results. In clearer stretches, downsizing to 2/0 flies around 5–6 inches in length is proving effective.
River Access & Safety Tips
The Lower Sacramento River is best accessed via jet boat, but kayaks and drift boats with motors can also be used for navigating key stretches. Be cautious—this river can be dangerous, especially in low-visibility water where submerged snags can appear without warning.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a Sacramento River striper fishing trip, now is a great time to get out there. As the weather heats up later this week, expect the striped bass bite to improve. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to Northern California striper fishing, the Lower Sac is shaping up to deliver solid summer action.
