Yuba River & Valley Steelhead Fly Fishing Report
Captain Ben Thompson reports on March 19th, 2026
Lower Yuba River Report:
I got to run some trips on the Yuba after it cleaned up and got into fishable shape after the Colgate pipe bursting upstream. I am happy to report that the river and the fish are in great shape! Other than affecting the clarity and flows for a while, the river is completely fine. It fished very well and the trout were eager. Hatch wise we saw some skwala adults, PMD's, March browns, and a few caddis and yellow sallies. None of the hatches were very prolific yet, but it is good to see a variety, nonetheless. Flows have now dropped to a little under 2000 cfs and I assume they will stay around there for a while until we get some more rain. Fish were eating Rubberlegs, worms, eggs, Bird's Nests, pupas and S&M's.
Valley Steelhead Report:
Fishing has been solid and should continue to be through May. I have attached some photos from yesterday. Fish are eating eggs and worms in the morning and as the day moves along they are keying into caddis and small olive mayflies. Flows are good and I think it will be a productive spring.
My open dates are March 30, April 15,16,27,28. Plenty available in May onwards, easy online booking at www.benthompsonoutdoors.com
Cheers,
Capt. Ben Thompson
Coast Guard MMC #8565216
CA DFW Guide ID #1001102
Northern CA Fly Fishing Guide
(916)743-8290
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