Redding Fly Fishing Guide FAQ

How do I book a day of fly fishing?

Call or text Matt at (530) 338-8526, or use the contact page, to schedule a date first. Matt works with you on the best dates, river and time of year, then confirms the meeting place. Listed rates: full days from $550 and half days $350 for up to two anglers. There is no online checkout.

How much does a guided fly fishing trip cost?

A full day on the Lower Sacramento is $550, and a full day on the Trinity or Klamath is $600, each for up to two anglers with rods, reels, flies, streamside lunch and water. A half day of up to four hours is $350 on any river; Trinity and Klamath half days require an associated full-day booking.

How do I pay for a guided trip?

Schedule your date with Matt first by phone, text or email, and he will arrange payment with you. Matt accepts Zelle, Venmo, check or cash. There is no online checkout.

What is included in a guided trip?

Rods, reels and flies are included, plus bottled water. Full days run up to 8 hours and include a streamside lunch for up to two anglers per boat. Half days run up to 4 hours. Matt can quote additional boats with extra guides for larger groups.

Do I need my own gear?

No. Matt provides fly rods, reels, lines and flies, or helps you select the right equipment if you prefer to bring your own. Bring waders and wading boots for the Trinity, and a California fishing license if you are over 15 years old.

When is the best time for steelhead on the Trinity River?

December through February is hands-down the best time to target steelhead on the Trinity, per Matt's reports. Fresh runs, cooler water and prime conditions line up then. Autumn through late spring is the main steelhead season, and the first big rain, typically late December, improves conditions.

When can you fly fish the Lower Sac?

All year. Matt guides the Lower Sacramento from spring through autumn, and winter offers quiet ramps, clear water and lower flows. Hatches are seasonal, with mayfly activity concentrated mid-day to early evening in early to mid-spring and as autumn approaches.

Who is Matt Dover?

Matt Dover is a Redding, California fly fishing guide with more than 25 years of experience. He started his independent guide business on the Lower Sacramento River in 2000, has also guided with The Fly Shop in Redding, and is a Federation of Fly Fishers certified casting instructor certified under Mel Krieger.

Can I book Matt through The Fly Shop?

Not at this time. As of February 2024, Matt asks anglers to book directly by calling or texting him or using his contact page. Matt has guided with The Fly Shop in Redding, and the shop's outfitters department has managed his calendar in the past.

Do I need a fishing license?

Yes. Anglers over 15 years old need a California fishing license, and steelhead anglers on the Trinity River also need a steelhead report card. Matt can help with other logistics such as meeting places, transportation and lunch, so you can focus on fishing.