If you’re ready to experience Northern California fly fishing at its finest, look no further than a guided float with Matthew Dover on the Lower Sacramento River. With a lifelong passion for fishing and a deep knowledge of these waters, Matthew delivers fly fishing trips that balance technique, patience, and the kind of day that keeps people coming back season after season. This section of the Sacramento River is known for its healthy wild rainbow trout population, and thanks to year-round hatches and steady flows from the Keswick Dam, conditions remain reliable throughout the year. Whether you're visiting during the famed spring hatches or chasing late-summer targets, this stretch consistently produces action for dry flies, nymphs, and streamers alike. Matthew runs his trips from a 2018 18-foot Willy drift boat, designed for both maneuverability and comfort. With a 2-angler capacity, this setup ensures personalized instruction and an easygoing pace on the river. Beginners are welcome, and experienced fly anglers will appreciate Matthew’s insights into reading water, adjusting techniques by season, and presenting flies in even the trickiest seams. Your meeting point is 2605 Lupine St in Anderson, CA, just minutes from the river’s best access points. All necessary gear is included—rods, reels, flies, and terminal tackle—so you can focus on casting, mending, and connecting with wild trout. Just make sure to obtain your California fishing license ahead of time, as it's required for all guests. Trips are catch-and-release only and designed for those who appreciate the rhythm of fly fishing and the natural beauty of Northern California's river systems. With Matthew Dover at the oars, you’ll learn something new, gain confidence in your cast, and walk away with fresh memories of time well spent on the water. If you’ve been looking for a guided fly fishing experience near Redding, California, that’s equal parts rewarding and relaxed, this is the one to book. Whether you’re planning a solo trip or sharing the day with a fishing partner, these float trips are tailored to offer high-quality fly fishing in a beautiful setting.

Great couple  days with  Jason  and Elliot 🙂  it's always  such a great feeling  when  your  long time clients bring  there friends  ! And trust n you to teach  them how 2 fly fish 😊 mattdoverflyfishing.com


Teaching Friends the Art of Fly Fishing on the Lower Sacramento River

EPSG:4269

A person fishing for a rainbow trout in Anderson.

A rainbow trout being caught while fishing in Anderson

Angler catching a rainbow trout in Anderson

Angler catching a rainbow trout in California

Rainbow trout caught while fishing in Anderson

Angler fishing for a rainbow trout in Anderson

A single sea trout caught while fishing in Anderson

Experience the best of Northern California fly fishing with Matt Dover Fly Fishing on the legendary Lower Sacramento River! Book your guided trout trip today and create memories that drift with you forever!

Matt Dover Fly Fishing is built on a lifelong passion for Northern California’s waters. With years of guiding experience on the Lower Sacramento River and surrounding lakes, Matthew Dover offers professional, highly personalized fly fishing trips focused on targeting wild rainbow trout. Operating from Anderson, CA, he specializes in drift boat fly fishing for individuals or pairs looking for expert guidance on casting, reading water, and finding productive runs throughout the year. Matt’s trips are tailored to match the needs of each angler—whether you’re a first-timer learning the basics or a seasoned fly fisher looking to fine-tune your approach. All gear is provided, and every trip is designed to take full advantage of the seasonal conditions and local fish behavior. From full-day floats to half-day outings, clients can expect a hands-on, informative experience on some of California’s most productive trout waters.

Captain Matthew Dover is a lifelong Northern California angler with a deep connection to the Lower Sacramento River. He grew up fishing these waters and developed a strong passion for fly fishing that naturally led to a career in guiding. Known for his patience and professionalism, Matt works closely with each guest to ensure a productive and educational day on the river. His calm approach and thorough instruction make him an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned fly fishers looking to improve their technique. Matt Dover Fly Fishing is a locally run guide service based out of Anderson, CA, just minutes from the Lower Sacramento’s top access points. The business has grown steadily through repeat clients and referrals, with a focus on quality over quantity. Matt limits his trips to two anglers per outing to ensure personalized attention and a peaceful experience. Over the years, his name has become trusted among anglers seeking a laid-back, well-informed guide who truly knows the local waters. Specializing in fly fishing for wild rainbow trout, Matt tailors each trip to match seasonal patterns, current flows, and client goals. Whether you’re fishing spring hatches or winter seams, Matt provides expert advice on fly selection, presentation, and reading water. He focuses on catch-and-release practices and uses his knowledge to support sustainable fishing in the region. Keywords like Lower Sacramento River fly fishing, guided trout trips, and fly fishing Northern California align perfectly with his offerings and expertise. Guests will fish from Matt’s 18-foot 2018 Willy drift boat, designed for river performance and comfort. It seats two anglers and allows for smooth, controlled drifts through productive trout water. While the boat is compact, it features gear storage, cushioned seating, and a quiet ride ideal for fly presentation. It’s the perfect setup for guests looking to enjoy fly fishing with quality gear, hands-on instruction, and access to some of the best wild trout water in California.

Meet the Matt, Your Guide

Common Questions: What fish can you catch on the Lower Sacramento River?The Lower Sacramento River is known for its strong population of wild rainbow trout. With Matt Dover Fly Fishing, you'll be targeting these beautiful fish year-round using fly fishing techniques. When is the best time to fly fish the Lower Sacramento River?This river fishes well year-round thanks to regulated flows, but prime months are typically March–May and September–November. Matthew Dover adjusts each trip to match seasonal trout activity. Do I need a fishing license to fish with Matt Dover Fly Fishing?Yes, all guests are required to obtain a valid California fishing license before the trip. You can purchase one online at wildlife.ca.gov. Is fly fishing experience required?Not at all. Captain Matthew Dover welcomes beginners and provides expert instruction. Whether it’s your first cast or your hundredth, your trip will be tailored to your skill level. What’s included in a guided fly fishing trip?All fly fishing gear and tackle are included. Drinking water is provided on all trips, and full-day trips also include lunch. Just bring your license and appropriate clothing for the weather. How many people can go on the trip?Matt Dover Fly Fishing specializes in intimate two-angler trips. This ensures personalized instruction and an enjoyable, relaxed experience for each guest. Where do trips start and meet?Trips meet at 2605 Lupine St, Anderson, CA 96007, just minutes from prime access points to the Lower Sacramento River. What kind of boat is used for the trip?You'll fish from an 18-foot 2018 Willy drift boat—ideal for navigating the river quietly and smoothly while offering great casting space and stability. Are the trips catch and release?Yes. All fly fishing trips with Matt Dover Fly Fishing are catch-and-release to help preserve the wild trout fishery and ensure sustainable angling. What should I wear or bring on the trip?Dress in layers and bring sun protection, polarized sunglasses, and your fishing license. Waders are optional, as you’ll fish from a drift boat, but comfortable footwear is a plus.

Sacramento River - Contra Costa, CA Fishing Report on 28th Aug, 2025 - 3

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Matthew Dover

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Teaching Friends the Art of Fly Fishing on the Lower Sacramento River

Sacramento River - Contra Costa, CA

Matt Dover Fly Fishing Available Trips

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