River Water Levels

When it comes to fishing, knowing river water levels can be really important. Sometimes flows surge and fishing is interrupted for a few days, or flows are reduced and fish are skittish. Every river has a perfect point.

On this page you’ll find dynamic water levels and flow information for California’s Feather River, Sacramento River, and Smith River.

Feather River Water Levels

Water levels in the Feather River can make a big difference in fishing success. When the flows are low, the water is “thin” and the fish can be skittish. When the water levels are increasing or high, that brings new salmon up the river quickly.

Sacramento River Water Levels

Water levels in the Sacramento River can make a difference in fishing success. While the Sacramento River is not as sensitive as the Feather River to flow fluctuations owing to its size, when the flows are low or dropping, the fish can “hole up” and not travel. When the water levels are increasing or high, the fish move freely and new salmon come up the river quickly.

Smith River Water Levels

Water levels in the Smith River can change rapidly when storms come through, and can make a difference in fishing success. When the flows are low or dropping, the fish can “hole up” and not travel. When the water levels are increasing or high, the fish move freely and new salmon and steelhead travel up the river quickly.