4.9(22 Reviews)Kings River Guided Fly Fishing Trip - Half Day
4.9(22 reviews)
Private Trip
River Fishing
Top RatedMost Reviewed
Halfday guided fly fishing on Upper and Lower Kings RiverExpert instruction in Euro Nymphing and dry fly techniquesAll gear provided, targets Brook, Brown, and Rainbow Trout
Picture yourself casting into pristine Sierra Nevada waters where the Kings River cuts through Sequoia National Forest, your fly line dancing above pools that hold some of California's most beautiful trout. Scott MacDonald has been guiding these waters for years, and his half-day fly fishing trips are the real deal – no tourist traps, no crowded holes, just quality fishing instruction and access to remote canyon stretches that most anglers never see. Whether you're brand new to fly fishing or looking to dial in your Euro nymphing technique, Scott's got the local knowledge and teaching skills to make your time on the water count. All gear's provided, you just need your California fishing license and maybe a snack for the trail.
This isn't your typical stand-in-one-spot guided trip. Scott leads walk-and-wade sessions that cover the Upper and Lower Kings River, plus productive tributary waters like 10 Mile Creek and Boulder Creek. You'll be moving through varied terrain within the canyon, hitting different types of water throughout your half-day session. The beauty of this approach is that you're not just fishing – you're learning to read water, understand how trout behave in different conditions, and pick up techniques that'll serve you well long after your trip ends. Scott accommodates up to two anglers per trip, so you get plenty of one-on-one attention whether you're struggling with your casting stroke or trying to perfect your drift. The pace is relaxed but purposeful, with Scott constantly adjusting based on conditions and what's working on any given day.
Scott specializes in three core techniques that are absolutely deadly on Kings River trout: tight line nymphing, Euro nymphing, and dry fly fishing. The tight line and Euro nymphing methods are game-changers for these technical Sierra waters – you'll maintain direct contact with your flies, feel every tick and tap, and dramatically increase your hook-up ratio. Scott provides all the specialized leaders, tippet, and weighted flies you need for these techniques. When conditions are right, he'll switch you over to dry flies, and there's nothing quite like watching a rainbow or brown trout rise to your perfectly presented mayfly or caddis pattern. All rods, reels, waders, and tackle are included, so you don't need to worry about having the right gear. Scott knows exactly what works in these waters and keeps his equipment dialed in for success.
"Scott was great! He is very knowledgeable about the water and how to fish it. I've been fishing the Kings River for years and he showed us holes we have never fished. It was a fun day on the water." - Brandon. "I've been on several guide trips over the years, and this one was the best. Scott is a great guy, helpful, and definitely knows his stuff. We look forward to fishing with him again. Highly recommended!" - Steve. "Scott was very friendly, professional and knowledgeable. We all had a great time. Highly recommended." - Carlos.
Brook Trout are the jewels of these high Sierra waters, with their olive-green backs marked by distinctive worm-like markings and brilliant orange fins edged in white. These native char thrive in the cold, oxygen-rich waters of the Kings River system and are typically found in the deeper pools and undercut banks. They're aggressive feeders, especially during morning and evening hours, and will readily take both nymphs and dry flies. What makes brook trout special here is their pristine condition – these fish live in some of the cleanest water in California, and their colors are absolutely stunning when you bring them to hand.
Brown Trout are the craftiest fish in the Kings River, often holding in the most challenging spots and requiring perfect presentations to fool. These European transplants have been thriving in California waters for over a century, and the Kings River browns are known for their golden flanks spotted with black and red dots circled in pale halos. They can grow quite large in this system, with fish over 16 inches not uncommon in the deeper canyon pools. Browns are most active during low-light periods and can be incredibly selective about fly patterns, making them the perfect target for anglers looking to test their technical skills.
Rainbow Trout are the most abundant and willing fighters you'll encounter on the Kings River. These native California trout display the classic pink stripe along their silver sides, with colors that intensify dramatically during spawning season. Rainbows are active throughout the day and will chase everything from tiny midge patterns to larger attractor dry flies. They're fantastic for beginners because they're forgiving of imperfect presentations, but they also provide plenty of challenge for experienced anglers with their explosive runs and acrobatic jumps. The Kings River rainbows are healthy, wild fish that fight way above their weight class.
Scott's half-day trips fill up fast, especially during peak season when the hatches are going strong and the fishing is at its best. This is hands-down one of the top-rated fly fishing experiences in the Sierra Nevada, combining world-class instruction with access to waters that most visiting anglers never find on their own. Whether you're looking to get your kids started in fly fishing, improve your own technique, or just want to fish with someone who truly knows these waters inside and out, this trip delivers. Plus, there's a 10% discount available for trips booked by April 30, 2026, so now's the perfect time to lock in your dates. Don't sleep on this one – guides like Scott who combine technical expertise with genuine teaching ability are rare finds, and the Kings River fishery is something every serious angler should experience.
Salvelinus FontinalisBrook trout are the jewels of these high mountain streams - small but feisty fish that rarely exceed 12 inches in the Kings River system. You'll find them in the coldest, clearest water, usually tucked under fallen logs or in pocket water behind boulders. They're incredibly wary and spook easily, which makes them a real challenge even for experienced anglers. Spring through early summer offers the best action when water temps stay below 65°F. What makes brookies special is their stunning colors - olive backs with those signature red spots circled in blue, plus they're native char that indicate pristine water quality. My local trick: approach from downstream and keep your shadow off the water. These fish have incredible eyesight and will bolt at the first sign of movement above.
Tylosurus AcusBrowns are the smart ones - they can live 12+ years and get incredibly selective about what they'll eat. In the Kings system, most run 10-16 inches, but the occasional 20-incher keeps things interesting. They love deep pools and undercut banks during the day, moving to shallow riffles at dusk to feed. Fall brings the best fishing as they get aggressive before spawning, though they'll hit flies year-round if you're patient. Guests love targeting browns because they fight hard and taste great on the dinner table. These European imports have adapted perfectly to our cold Sierra water. Here's what works: fish the deeper runs during bright conditions, then switch to surface flies as shadows hit the water. Browns often refuse the first few casts, so persistence pays off big time.
Oncorhynchus MykissRainbows are the acrobats of the river - expect jumps and runs that'll test your drag system. Most fish here run 8-14 inches, with their signature pink stripe making them easy to identify. They cruise the main current seams and gravelly runs, especially where fast water meets deeper pools. Spring and early summer are prime time when they're actively feeding on emerging insects. What guests love most is their willingness to hit dry flies and their aerial shows once hooked. They're also excellent eating with firm, pink meat. These native California fish know every inch of this water. Pro tip: watch for rises in the foam lines below rapids - rainbows often hold there picking off stunned insects. Use a slightly longer leader than you think you need; the clear water here makes them leader-shy.
4.9 out of 5.0Scott was great! He is very knowledgeable about the water and how to fish it. I’ve been fishing the Kings River for years and he s...
Brandon Glonchak, Thank you! You guys were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.
Two and a half weeks travelling around the USA and we unanimously agree our day with Scott was the highlight, among a lot of highl...
We had an amazing day fishing with Scott. 10 out of 10 great guide.
Jordan Ankenman, Thank you! You guyswere awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.
Scott was an exceptional guide! I was not easy to work with. I have PTSD and not very good balance. He had amazing understanding ...
Kathleen Neuman, Thank you! You were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.Tight Lines!!
I've fished with many guides over the years and Scott is my favorite by far. Very patient and helpful, offering plenty of tips. Al...
Well my son and I had the best time with Scott. I highly recommend his services. Scott really took the time to helps us improve on...
I've been on several guide trips over the years, and this one was the best. Scott is a great guy, helpful, and definitely knows h...
Steve Funderburk, Thank you! You guys were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip. Tight lines! S...
Excellent trip! Caught some very nice fish, had a few stories, some good laughs, everything was awesome!
Scott was very friendly, professional and knowledgeable. We all had a great time. Highly recommended.
Carlos Rangel, Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.
Scott guided us on our first fly fishing experience as a family of 4. He did a great job spreading us out and moving in between an...
Stacy Fantauzzi, Thank you! You guys were awesome. I had a great time with you all and it's s...
Always a great time bringing friends and family to come experience fly fishing for their first time. His patience, kindness, and p...
Always a great time bringing friends and family to come experience fly fishing for their first time. His patience, kindness, and p...
Always a great time bringing friends and family to come experience fly fishing for their first time. His patience, kindness, and p...
Always a great time bringing friends and family to come experience fly fishing for their first time. His patience, kindness, and p...
Always a great time bringing friends and family to come experience fly fishing for their first time. His patience, kindness, and p...
His patience, kindness, and positive attitude are infectious and I always leave with gratitude and lasting memories.
His patience, kindness, and positive attitude are infectious and I always leave with gratitude and lasting memories.
His patience, kindness, and positive attitude are infectious and I always leave with gratitude and lasting memories.
His patience, kindness, and positive attitude are infectious and I always leave with gratitude and lasting memories.
His patience, kindness, and positive attitude are infectious and I always leave with gratitude and lasting memories.
His patience, kindness, and positive attitude are infectious and I always leave with gratitude and lasting memories.
His patience, kindness, and positive attitude are infectious and I always leave with gratitude and lasting memories.
His patience, kindness, and positive attitude are infectious and I always leave with gratitude and lasting memories.
Jordan, Thank you! You folks were awesome. You guys did great! Looking forward to our next trip.
His patience, kindness, and positive attitude are infectious and I always leave with gratitude and lasting memories.
His patience, kindness, and positive attitude are infectious and I always leave with gratitude and lasting memories.
Scott was such a fantastic guide. He made an already special experience SO enjoyable. I couldn't get over how patient he was--he t...
Scott s a an amazing guide. He truly cares about wildlife and bringing an unforgettable experience. My son and I had never fly f...
My wife booked a trip for me and four other family members as a birthday present. All of us were at varying skill levels. Scott ha...
Amazing day of fishing with Scott! He knew the river like the back of his hand and moved the 3 of us smoothly from one spot to ano...
Had a great day of fishing on the Kings River today (Aug. 2, 2024) and guide Scott MacDonald can take full credit. He knows where ...
Scott was a great, knowledgeable teacher who clearly is an expert in Kings Canyon. Would highly recommend him for any trip from be...
Scott is a very patient and thoughtful guide. He devoted much time and attention to my son who hadn’t fished in a long time. ...
Joe Balzer, Thank you! You guys were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.Thank you for the ki...
We could not be happier with the experience we had with Guide Scott. He was attentive, knowledgeable, friendly, and extremely help...
Robert Denise Simpson, Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.
Scott was a great teacher that our group had such a great time with. He was patient, fun and passionate about what he does. I woul...
Hume, California