What You'll Find at Antlers Boat Ramp

Antlers Boat Ramp is a public launch facility on the Sacramento River in Tehama County, about 100 miles north of Sacramento. The ramp provides direct water access for anglers targeting striped bass, steelhead, and salmon depending on the season. It's a straightforward concrete ramp with parking nearby—useful for anyone launching a trailer boat or jet ski into this section of the Sacramento.

The ramp itself is single-lane concrete, suitable for most standard fishing boats and recreational watercraft. Water depth at the ramp varies with seasonal flows; spring and early summer typically offer the deepest water, while late summer and fall can be shallower. The facility is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and remains open year-round, though access can be affected by high water or maintenance work.

Key Takeaways

  • Antlers is a single-lane concrete ramp on the Sacramento River in Tehama County, open year-round for trailer boats and smaller watercraft.
  • Striped bass fishing is strongest in spring and early summer; steelhead and salmon runs depend on water conditions and timing.
  • No day-use fee is charged, but parking is limited and can fill quickly on weekends during peak season.
  • Water levels fluctuate with dam releases upstream; call the Red Bluff Diversion Pool office before launching if you're unfamiliar with current conditions.
  • The ramp has no fuel, food, or restroom facilities—bring supplies and plan accordingly.

Seasons and Fish Species

Striped bass are the primary target at Antlers from April through June, when water temperatures and flows favor active feeding in this reach of the river. Anglers use live bait (shad, herring) or swimbaits from boats, drifting or anchoring near structure. Success depends heavily on water clarity and flow rates; high water from dam releases can push fish into slower eddies and side channels.

Steelhead move through the Sacramento in winter and early spring, typically December through March. Fall-run Chinook salmon are present September through November, though numbers and timing vary year to year. Summer conditions (June through August) are generally slower for all species, as water temperatures rise and flows decrease. Check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website for current run forecasts and any special closures before you go.

Access, Parking, and Facilities

Antlers Boat Ramp is located off Highway 99 near the town of Red Bluff. From Red Bluff, take Highway 36 east toward Lassen, then follow local roads to the ramp—signs mark the turnoff. GPS coordinates are approximately 40.18°N, 121.95°W. The drive from Red Bluff is about 15 minutes.

Parking is gravel and limited to roughly 10 to 15 spaces. On weekends during spring striped bass season, the lot fills by mid-morning. There are no restrooms, no fuel dock, and no food service at the ramp itself. The nearest gas and supplies are in Red Bluff, about 15 minutes away. Plan to arrive early or visit on weekdays if you want reliable parking.

Water Conditions and Safety

The Sacramento River at Antlers is controlled by upstream dams, particularly the Red Bluff Diversion Dam about 5 miles upstream. Water levels and flows change based on irrigation demand, power generation, and seasonal runoff. Spring flows can be swift and cold; summer flows are typically lower and warmer. High water in winter and spring can create strong currents and hazardous conditions for smaller boats.

Before launching, check the Red Bluff Diversion Pool office or call the Bureau of Reclamation for current flow rates and water temperature. Wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times on the water. The river bottom is rocky in places and can snag anchors; use caution when anchoring. Hypothermia is a real risk in winter and early spring—water temperatures can be in the 40s even when air temperatures are mild.

Regulations and Licensing

California fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a one-day, two-day, or annual license through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website or at most sporting goods stores in Red Bluff. Separate striped bass, steelhead, and salmon stamps may be required depending on which species you target; check current regulations before you fish.

Bag limits and size restrictions change annually and by species. As of the most recent regulations, striped bass have a daily limit of two fish with a 18-inch minimum, but this varies—verify current rules on the CDFW website before you launch. Steelhead and salmon have their own limits and closures. Some sections of the Sacramento are catch-and-release only; confirm the rules for the specific area where you plan to fish.

Nearby Fishing and Lodging

The Sacramento River between Red Bluff and Redding offers several other public access points and is known for consistent striped bass and steelhead fishing. Balls Ferry, Tehama, and Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area all have boat ramps or bank access within 20 miles of Antlers. Each has different facilities and conditions; Woodson Bridge, for example, has developed campgrounds and restrooms, while smaller ramps like Balls Ferry are more basic.

Red Bluff is the nearest town with hotels, restaurants, and shops. The Hilton Garden Inn Red Bluff and several smaller motels are within 15 minutes of the ramp. If you prefer camping, Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area (about 10 miles south) has campsites along the river. The town of Corning, 20 minutes south, also has lodging and services.

Planning Your Trip

Antlers works best for anglers with trailer boats or jet skis who want straightforward access to the Sacramento without paying day-use fees or dealing with crowded facilities. The ramp is reliable but minimal—no amenities, no attendant, and limited parking. Bring everything you need: water, snacks, sunscreen, and a full tank of gas.

Spring (April through June) is the busiest and most productive season for striped bass. If you go then, arrive early or plan a weekday trip. Winter and early spring offer steelhead and salmon but colder water and higher flows—suitable for experienced boaters with appropriate gear. Summer is quieter but fishing is slower. Call ahead if you're unsure about water conditions or recent maintenance work on the ramp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a launch fee at Antlers?

No day-use or launch fee is charged at Antlers Boat Ramp. Parking is free but limited. The facility is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and remains open to the public year-round.

What's the best time to fish for striped bass here?

April through June is peak striped bass season at Antlers. Water temperatures and flows are favorable, and fish are actively feeding. Success depends on water clarity and recent dam releases; call the Red Bluff Diversion Pool office for current conditions before you go.

Can I launch a small boat or kayak at Antlers?

The ramp is designed for trailer boats and jet skis. Kayaks and small hand-launched boats can use the ramp, but parking and facilities are minimal. Larger public access areas like Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area may be better suited for kayak fishing.

What should I know about water safety on the Sacramento here?

Water is cold year-round and flows are controlled by upstream dams, creating swift currents during high-water periods. Wear a life jacket at all times. Check current flow rates and water temperature before launching. Hypothermia is a real risk in winter and spring even on mild days.

Do I need a special permit or stamp to fish here?

A California fishing license is required. Depending on which species you target, you may also need a striped bass, steelhead, or salmon stamp. Check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website for current regulations and bag limits before you fish.