%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F816%2Fimages%2Ftemplogossheet1.png&w=1200&q=100)
Top-Rated NorCal Fishing: Tahoe to Sacramento
- Published Date: October 16, 2025
- Fishing
- Carnelian Bay, CA
- $900 price range
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2F067b1016-02aa-4502-b0c1-86d42ad97f9f%2Fratecard%2F481187333_659085799977951_8254811907796275282_n-mgr63c9c.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Freshwater Catches
null
null
null
null
Monster Lake Trout Action at Pyramid Lake
null
null
null
null
null
null
null
null
null
Monster Lake Trout Action at Pyramid Lake
null
null
null
null
null
null
null
null
null
Reel in Adventure: NorCal's Triple Threat Fishing
Hey there, fellow anglers! Captain Brad here, ready to take you on the fishing trip of a lifetime across Northern California's most fish-packed waters. We're talking Lake Tahoe, Pyramid Lake, and the mighty Sacramento River – a trifecta of primo fishing spots that'll have your rod bending and your reel singing. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this guided charter is your ticket to some of the best freshwater action around. So grab your lucky hat and let's dive into what makes this trip a can't-miss for any serious fisherman.
Trip Overview
Picture this: You're out on crystal-clear Lake Tahoe, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, when suddenly your line goes tight. That's the thrill waiting for you on our Freshwater Fishing Charter. We'll hit up three of NorCal's fishing hotspots, each with its own unique charm and challenges. From the deep-water monsters of Tahoe to the hard-fighting cutthroats of Pyramid Lake and the salmon runs of the Sac, we've got all the bases covered. Captain Brad's been navigating these waters for years, so you're in for some top-notch local knowledge and hands-on instruction. We keep our groups small – max six people – to make sure everyone gets plenty of attention and a fair shot at the hotspots. And don't sweat the gear; we've got you covered with all the rods, reels, and tackle you'll need to land the big one.
What to Expect on the Water
Alright, let's break down how we'll be fishing these world-class waters. On Lake Tahoe, we're talking serious deep-water action. We'll be using downriggers to get our lines way down – sometimes 200 feet or more – where those chunky Mackinaw are lurking. It's a game of patience and precision, but when that rod doubles over, you'll know it was worth the wait. Over at Pyramid Lake, we switch gears. Here, it's all about sight fishing for those monster Lahontan cutthroat. We might be casting from shore or trolling from the boat, depending on where the fish are biting. And when we hit the Sacramento River, get ready for some fast-paced action. We'll be drifting or anchored up, using a mix of bait and lures to target whatever's running – could be king salmon, could be steelhead. Every day's different, and that's what makes it exciting.
Top Catches This Season
Let me tell you, folks have been hauling in some beauties lately. Just last week, Jim from Reno nailed a 20-pound Mackinaw on Tahoe that had us all whooping and hollering. Over at Pyramid, Sarah – first-time fly fisher, if you can believe it – managed to land a 15-pound cutthroat that put up one heck of a fight. And don't even get me started on the Sac. Tommy boy here hooked into a chrome-bright king salmon that tipped the scales at 30 pounds. That's the kind of fish that makes memories, folks. Every trip's different, but one thing's for sure – there's always a chance at that fish of a lifetime.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Let's talk targets, starting with the Chinook Salmon. These bad boys are the kings of the river, and for good reason. They're big, they're strong, and they're not afraid to put up a fight. We typically see them in the Sac from July through December, with the peak runs in the fall. A 20-pounder is a good catch, but 30 to 40-pound fish aren't unheard of. When a king hits your line, hold on tight – you're in for a battle.
Next up, we've got Lake Trout, or Mackinaw as we call 'em around here. These are the deep-water denizens of Lake Tahoe, and they grow big in that cold, clear water. We're talking fish that can push 30 pounds or more. They're most active in the cooler months, but we can target them year-round. The fight might not be as explosive as a salmon, but when you're reeling one up from 200 feet down, trust me, you'll feel it in your arms.
Last but not least, there's the Coho Salmon. These are the speed demons of the salmon world. They're typically smaller than Chinooks, averaging 6 to 12 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in acrobatics. When a Coho hits, get ready for some serious aerial action. We usually see them in the river from August through November. They're not as common as the Chinooks, which makes landing one even sweeter.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
You know, I've been running these trips for years now, and I still get a kick out of seeing folks' faces light up when they land their first big fish. There's something special about these waters – maybe it's the scenery, maybe it's the quality of the fish, or maybe it's just the pure joy of being out there. Whatever it is, it keeps people coming back year after year. I've got regulars who started out as complete novices and are now some of the best anglers I know. That's the beauty of this trip – whether you're looking to learn the ropes or hone your skills, there's always something new to discover. And let's be honest, there's nothing quite like the bragging rights that come with landing a monster Mackinaw or a trophy salmon.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, folks, let's wrap this up. If you're itching to get out on the water and tangle with some of Northern California's finest fish, this is the trip for you. We're talking three legendary fishing spots, expert guidance, and the chance to land the catch of a lifetime. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a complete newbie, Captain Brad's got you covered. Remember, we keep our groups small to maximize your fishing time and ensure everyone gets the attention they need. So don't wait – the fish are biting, and your spot on the boat is waiting. Give us a call, and let's get you out on the water. Trust me, once you've experienced fishing NorCal style, you'll be hooked for life. See you on the water!
Learn more about the species
Chinook Salmon
# Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) Chinook salmon is also known as King Salmon and is the largest of the Salmon species. It is a popular game and commercial fish. Oncorhynchus tshawytscha is similar to its brethren Coho salmon and Rainbow trout. King Salmon has silver sides and blue-green back. It has black spots on the head, back, tail, and all the fins. It also has a black mouth and gums. Wild salmon are well known for their hard fighting ability and excellent table fare. ## Chinook Salmon Size and Weight Chinook salmon is a large fish and it can grow from 12 to 39 inches and weighs around 7 to 15 pounds. But depending on the habitat, weight can exceed 20 - 30 pounds. ## Chinook Salmon Interesting Facts • They can live up to 7 years. • This specie is anadromous. They migrate to Seawater and later return to spawn in freshwater. • Oncorhynchus tshawytscha die soon after spawning. • King salmon have reddish-pink or orange meat. • Males are more colored than females and have a distinguished nose and upper jaw. • Chinook salmon leaves a water body if the habitat starts degrading, making it a good indicator of the water conditions. ## Chinook Salmon Habitat Young Chinook salmon can be found in freshwater and estuaries. Adults move into the open Ocean for better nutrition and food. The fish can also be found in cold streams, especially in hiding places such as tree roots. Snow melting into lakes and streams also helps their environment. ## Chinook Salmon Spawning Chinook salmon are ready to spawn from 2 to 7 years of age. Female makes redds or gravely nests and lays the eggs. Depending on spawning time and temperature, hatching takes place in early spring or late winter. ## Chinook Salmon Food Young Chinook salmons feed on plankton, insects, small fish, and invertebrates. Adult Salmon in Ocean also enjoy many organisms such as sand lance, pilchards, squids, herrings, and crustaceans. ## Chinook Salmon Fishing Chinook salmon is sensitive to light so they stay at water bottom mostly. So, anglers should use weighted baits. The best time for fishing them is early morning or in the evening. Ship Creek in Anchorage, Alaska, and Lake Oahe in South Dakota are among the top spots to fish them. • Fly fishing King salmon is very exciting, but keep in mind to not swing too far and keep the fly swimming in water. • When Salmon fishing in lakes, down-rigging and trolling works best. • Anglers can also still fish in deep water using a herring. • Trolling is also an effective method using plugs, spoons, live or dead bait. ## Chinook Salmon Baits and Lures Fly Fishing: when selecting flies for king salmon, most of the time exact fly pattern is not overly important. However, depending on a bunch of variables (light, water levels, location, etc.) fly color can make a big difference. Some examples include rhea tube intruders, bunny leeches, marabou tubes, shanked intruders, minnows. On a bright day lean towards bright color combos like chartreuse/blue or pink/orange, and for cloudy/dark days blue/black and purple/black color combos. Other Fishing: Use of plugs, spoons, trolling flies, live or dead bait, sand shrimps ## Chinook Salmon Distribution Chinook can be found in the colder water of the Pacific Ocean from the coast of Alaska, Western Canada, Oregon, Idaho, Washington State, and Northern California. It has been introduced in Great Lakes of United States and can also be found in Japan and Russia.
Coho Salmon
# Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus Kisutch) Coho salmon is a famous sport and commercial fish. It is very acrobatic in nature and is a good fighter. It is also known as silver salmon. The fish is similar to Chinook salmon (but not as large), Rainbow trout and Brook trout. Wild Salmon is well-known for its tremendous taste. Coho Salmon has dark blue-green back, silversides, and white belly. Black spots are present on the back and upper sides of the tail. Mature Coho Salmon has maroon to reddish sides and dark backs. ## Coho Salmon Size and Weight Coho Salmon can be 12 to 30 inches long and weighs about 8 to 12 pounds. Silver Coho caught from the Great Lakes, weighed 33 pounds 4 ounces and so, holds the world record. ## Coho Salmon Interesting Facts • The fish, Oncorhynchus Kisutch, is anadromous in nature. • They die soon after spawning. • Silver Salmon has a bright orange/red meat. • Males have extended upper and lower jaw developing a hook (kype), making it impossible for them to close their mouths. • Coho salmon is said to live up to 5 years. • This fish can jump vertically up to 6 feet. ## Coho Salmon Habitat They tend to live in calm and quiet areas under debris and can be found in large rivers connected to the ocean. During the early stage, the juvenile Coho salmon spends its time in freshwater. After growing a bit, the fish moves to live in estuaries or brackish water (mix of fresh and saltwater) and later migrates into the ocean. ## Coho Salmon Spawning A female Oncorhynchus Kisutch is ready to spawn at age of 3. Gravel nests are made by the female and fertilized eggs are laid. Eggs hatch in 6 to 7 weeks. Depending on the temperature of the water, eggs hatch in late winter or early spring. ## Coho Salmon Food Coho Salmon can eat aquatic insects, smaller fishes, squid, herrings, pilchards, crustaceans, and sand lance. ## Salmonidae Family Coho salmon share the Salmonidae species order with trout. Other popular salmon include the Sockeye salmon (red salmon), Chinook salmon (King salmon), Atlantic salmon, Pink salmon & Chum salmon. ## Coho Salmon Fishing Salmon is a desired game fish well known for their fight. What makes the coho and all salmon unique is their migration from the river to ocean and back to the river. The Pacific Ocean salmon can be found in Alaska, Canada, Washington, Oregon and in Northern California. Katmai National Park, Alaska is famous for Coho salmon fishing. • In fast waters, swinging spinners is a popular decision. • For holding water, twitching jigs are recommended. Buy a jig with long tail for better movement in the water. • You can also use float fish roe for Coho Salmon fishing in both traveling and holding water. For this, fasten a cut roe with hook and swing it into the water. • Coho Salmon is a renowned game fish and anglers enjoy its fly fishing. As the Silver Salmon are fighters, to fly fish for them you can use a single hand rod with a strong handle for better lifting power. ## Coho Salmon Baits and Lures Fly fishing flies include leaches, various minnow patterns, or wooly buggers are good starts. Bright patterns such as chartreuse, pink and Fuchsia. Spin casting lures include plugs, spoons, trolling flies, live bait like minnows and roe. ## Coho Salmon Distribution Coho Salmon can be found in North Pacific Ocean. The fish also ranges from Alaska streams and rivers to Central California and from Southeast Alaska water bodies to Central Oregon. It is also reported in Baja California, Mexico.
Lake Trout
## Lake Trout (Salvelinus Namaycush) The lake trout is the largest member of the char family. Lake trout have a grey to green coloring with a lighter belly, the fish also have yellow to cream colored markings on its body and fins as well. Lake trout are known to be slow growing, and mature late in their lives and have low reproductive potential when compared to other species of game fish. ## Lake Trout Habitat Lake trout are a cold-water species, like a cold water species, they rely on high levels of oxygenation to survive. Lake trout are a very popular game fish and are the only major native game fish to inhabit deep and cold water of oligotrophic lakes, like those of northern Canada and the Great Lakes region. Most of the time the Salvelinus Namaycush can be found in these deep and cold water lakes suspended in the middle of the basin, sometimes at deep depths.  Lake trout have a relatively narrow distribution and range when compared to other species. Lake trout are found in the northern reaches of North America including the Great Lakes region and throughout Canada and parts of Alaska and to a lesser extent the Northeastern United States. Lake trout have also been artificially stocked in Europe like the Scandanavian country of Sweden. New Zealand, South America, and even parts of Asia have stocked populations of lake trout as well. ## Lake Trout Size Lake Trout are the largest of the char species, with sizes of 15-40 pounds not uncommon, and averages lengths of 24-36 inches. The world record Lake trout were caught on rod and reel Great Bear Lake in the Northwest Territories of Canada and was 72 pounds and had a length of 52 inches. ## Lake Trout Facts Lake Trout are known to hybridize with Brook Trout, creating a hybrid species known as “Splake” hybrid fish such as splake are usually sterile. And Fisheries around North America raise and stock splake in bodies of water to provide more sport fishing opportunities for fishermen. Due to being a cold water species Lake Trout in the southern reaches of their distribution and range tend to live in very deep water during the summer months, where the water temperatures are more suited to their needs. ## Lake Trout Fishing The best time to fish for Lake Trout really depends on factors like weather, These fish prefer to avoid bright light, so a good time to fish them are typically in overcast or low light conditions. Not only do lake trout prefer these conditions they also generally feed more frequently during these times. Most importantly is finding bodies of water with which lake trout inhabit, as they have such particular habitats and not all lakes can support them. Seeking out the deep water areas of these lakes are a great place to start. In the spring immediately after ice out can be a great time for fishermen to pursue lake trout, with the colder water temperature the fish can be found relatively shallow. ## Lake Trout Fishing Lures Jigging is the preferred method when targeting this species due to fishing in deep water. Lures like the Rapala Jigging Rap and lure that imitate wounded baitfish work great. Other great options are lures like jig heads with soft plastic paddle tail swimbaits used in a jigging fashion, skirted jigs and bladed jigging spoons are also great options. Crankbaits are great if the Fish are higher in the water column or if you're trolling, allowing the crankbaits to reach their maximum depth. Don't count out old fashioned spoons either, they can be a great tool to catch lake trout. ## The Trout Family Trout are members of the family Salmonidae, order Salmoniformes. The native trout family is closely related to salmon. A top fly fishing family of fish that are both tremendous game fish and tasty eating fish. Found in small streams, large rivers, and any trout stream with the right water temperature, aquatic insects, and clean water. The trout species is usually restricted to freshwater, though a few types migrate to the sea between spawnings. Members of the trout species include [Rainbow Trout](https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/rainbow-trout), [Brown Trout](https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/brown-trout), [Brook Trout](https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/brook-trout), [Lake Trout](https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/lake-trout), [Steelhead Trout](https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/steelhead), [Bull Trout](https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/bull-trout), [Cutthroat Trout](https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/cutthroat-trout), [Apache Trout](https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/apache-trout) and several other smaller species.
About the River wild
%2F%2Fusers%2F067b1016-02aa-4502-b0c1-86d42ad97f9f%2Fboat_picture%2F20201114_132226.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 28
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 250
