What to expect on Cache Creek

Cache Creek is a 70-mile tributary of the Sacramento River that flows through Colusa and Yolo counties. It holds winter-run steelhead from December through March, fall-run Chinook salmon in September and October, and resident bass and catfish year-round. The creek is accessible at multiple public access points, but water conditions and regulations change seasonally, and some sections require permission to cross private land.

The creek's character shifts from a narrow, brushy stream in its upper reaches to a wider, slower channel as it approaches the Sacramento River. Steelhead fishing is the main draw for most anglers, particularly in the lower sections where the creek pools up and holds fish during winter flows. The creek can be turbid after rain, which actually improves steelhead fishing by making fish less cautious.

Key Takeaways

  • Winter steelhead run from December through March, with peak fishing typically in January and February when flows are stable.
  • Public access exists at Cache Creek Wildlife Area near Capay and at several county parks, but you must check current conditions before driving out.
  • Regulations require a California fishing license and a steelhead report card; check the Department of Fish and Wildlife website for current bag limits and closures.
  • The creek runs high and turbid after rain, which can shut down fishing for a few days, but conditions improve as flows drop.

Steelhead fishing seasons and conditions

Winter steelhead enter Cache Creek from the Sacramento River starting in late November and peak in January and February. The best fishing window is typically two to three weeks after a rain event, when flows have dropped enough for fish to hold in pools but the water still carries color. Steelhead in Cache Creek average 8 to 12 pounds, with occasional fish pushing 15 pounds.

Water temperature matters more than calendar date. Steelhead move upstream most actively when water temps drop to the mid-50s Fahrenheit. If the creek stays warm and low in December, fishing can be slow until a winter storm pushes flows up and cools the water. By late March, most steelhead have moved upstream or spawned, and fishing pressure drops sharply.

Effective techniques include drift fishing with roe or sand shrimp, swinging small spoons, and casting spinners in deeper pools. The creek's brush and overhanging willows mean you need to keep your backcast tight and expect to lose tackle on snags. Many anglers fish the slower, deeper sections near the Wildlife Area rather than the faster runs upstream.

Fall Chinook and summer bass fishing

Fall-run Chinook salmon show up in Cache Creek in September and October, though the run is smaller and less predictable than the steelhead fishery. Fish typically range from 15 to 30 pounds. Fishing for them follows the same pattern as steelhead—drift roe or sand shrimp in deeper pools, or swing small spoons. The creek's lower sections hold most of the salmon, and fishing is best in the first two weeks after a rain event.

Largemouth and smallmouth bass live in Cache Creek year-round and provide a summer alternative when steelhead are gone. Bass fishing peaks from May through September in the slower, deeper sections. Topwater lures work well early and late in the day, while soft plastics and crankbaits produce throughout the day. The creek's warm, murky water in summer holds bass in deeper holes and along the banks where willows provide shade.

Public access and parking

Cache Creek Wildlife Area near Capay is the most reliable public access point. The Wildlife Area has a parking area and a boat launch, and it allows walk-in fishing along the creek. To use the Wildlife Area, you need a California Department of Fish and Wildlife access pass, which is free but must be obtained in advance online or at a Fish and Wildlife office. The parking area can fill up on weekends during peak steelhead season.

Capay Valley Regional Park offers another access point with parking and picnic facilities. The park is open dawn to dusk and does not require a special pass beyond your fishing license. Access to the creek itself is limited compared to the Wildlife Area, but the park is less crowded and works well if you want a shorter walk.

Several county parks and informal pullouts exist along Highway 16 and local roads, but many require crossing private property or have unclear public access. Before driving to a new spot, check with the Colusa County Sheriff's Office or the local ranger station to confirm access is legal. Trespassing is common enough that landowners have posted many sections, and citations are issued.

Regulations, licenses, and report cards

You need a valid California fishing license to fish Cache Creek. Licenses are sold online through the Department of Fish and Wildlife website, at sporting goods stores, and at some bait shops. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you fish only occasionally.

Steelhead fishing requires a steelhead report card in addition to your license. The report card is free and tracks the number of steelhead you keep. You must report your catch within 48 hours of fishing, either online or by phone. Failure to report is a violation even if you caught nothing.

Bag limits and closures change year to year based on population surveys. As of recent seasons, the limit is typically two steelhead per day with a 10-fish annual limit, but check the Department of Fish and Wildlife's current regulations before you go. Some sections of the creek may be closed to protect spawning fish. Chinook salmon have their own bag limit, usually one per day during the open season.

When to fish and what to bring

Winter steelhead fishing is best from mid-December through February. January and early February are peak months because flows are usually stable and water temperatures are ideal. Mornings are typically colder and clearer than afternoons, so plan to fish early. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, especially during peak season.

Bring waders and a warm jacket—Cache Creek in winter is cold, and you will be standing in water for hours. A 7- to 8-foot medium-action rod works for drift fishing and spinning. Polarized sunglasses help you spot fish in the water, though the creek's turbidity often makes sight fishing impossible. Bring more terminal tackle than you think you need; the brush and rocks eat tackle regularly.

Water levels are posted online by the U.S. Geological Survey. Check the Cache Creek near Capay gauge before you drive out. Flows above 2,000 cubic feet per second make fishing difficult and dangerous; flows between 800 and 1,500 cfs are ideal for steelhead. After a rain, flows spike quickly and then drop over several days—the sweet spot is usually three to five days after the rain ends.

Nearby alternatives and logistics

If Cache Creek is blown out or too crowded, the Sacramento River near Colusa is 20 minutes away and often fishes well when tributaries are high. The Sacramento holds steelhead and Chinook in the same seasons as Cache Creek and has more public access points. The Yolo Bypass, a managed flood channel, also holds steelhead and is less crowded than either river.

Lodging in the area is limited. Capay is a small town with a few motels and restaurants. Williams, about 15 miles north, has more options. Many anglers drive from Sacramento or the Bay Area for day trips, which is feasible if you leave early enough to fish the morning bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a report card if I don't keep any steelhead?

Yes. You must report your catch even if you caught zero fish. The report card tracks effort and catch rates, and the Department of Fish and Wildlife uses that data to set future seasons. Report online or by phone within 48 hours of fishing.

Can I fish Cache Creek with bait, or only with artificial lures?

Bait is legal. Roe, sand shrimp, and live minnows all work for steelhead and salmon. Some sections may have special restrictions, so check the current regulations for the specific area you plan to fish.

What's the best time of day to fish Cache Creek?

Early morning, from first light through mid-morning, is usually most productive. Steelhead are more active in cooler water, and the creek is often clearer in the morning before other anglers have stirred up sediment. Overcast days are better than bright, sunny days.

Is Cache Creek safe to wade in winter?

Wading is generally safe in normal winter flows, but the creek can be cold and slippery. Wear a wading belt and felt-soled boots for traction. After heavy rain, flows rise quickly and can be dangerous; do not wade if you cannot see the bottom or if the current is pushing you downstream.

Can I fish Cache Creek in summer, or is it too warm?

Summer fishing is possible for bass and catfish, but steelhead and salmon are gone. Water temperatures often exceed 70 degrees Fahrenheit by July, which stresses trout. Bass fishing is productive in early morning and late evening when the water is cooler.