Feather River Salmon Tours
What’s a Salmon Tour?
Every fall the Chinook, or King, salmon make their way from the Pacific Ocean into the Sacramento River. They continue swimming upstream for over 60 miles in the Feather River, making it all the way to Oroville to spawn. Our Salmon Tours put you right in the action, gently paddling as hundreds of beautiful fish swim below you.
On the tour, You will learn about the lifecycle of the salmon, the Feather River, and get to see Oroville in a whole new way!
We offer two tours during the Salmon Festival as well as every Saturday in October and November. We recommend getting your tickets early as tours do fill up quickly! Follow us on Facebook to be among the first to know when tickets become available.
2026 Salmon Tour Schedule
There will be two Salmon Festival Tours scheduled on the Saturday of the festival, one departing at 9:30a and 12:30p.
Saturdays during October and November will feature two Salmon Tours, departing at 9:30a and 12:30p.
Have a large group? Interested in booking a private, or custom tour? Email programs@featherrivercenter.org or Call (530) 774-7934 for more information.
Our Salmon Tours depart from the Historic Green Bridge in Oroville, located at Feather River Fish Hatchery, located at: 5 Table Mountain Blvd. Oroville, CA 95965
Tours end at the Riverbend Park boat ramp, located at: 50 Montgomery St. Oroville, CA 95965
A shuttle will return participants to the launch site immediately after the tour ends.
What to Bring & Reminders
Wear clothing made of synthetic material (polyester or nylon)that will not retain water and dry quickly - You will get wet!
Warm clothing and shoes to change into after your tour
Water shoes or Sandals-No bare feet or flip-flops!
A water bottle and snacks - Hydration is important!
Sun Protection (hat, sunglasses, lip balm and sunscreen, long sleeve shirts and pants)
Some optional items you may want to bring include binoculars, camera, and cell phone. (However, the Forebay Aquatic Center is not responsible for any items brought on the tours)
Check the weather forecast in advance- dress and prepare accordingly- Layers are always a great way to go
What To Expect
Upon arrival, you will sign a waiver, be fitted with a life vest, and receive safety and basic kayaking instructions prior to launching.
There are both single and double kayaks available.
Lifejackets, Kayaks, and Paddles are all included. Guides certified in CPR/ First Aid will be present on all trips.
You can expect the tour (including transportation back to the starting point) to take about two and a half hours.
Please arrive on time!
Cancellations
Rain, severe weather, or smoke may cause cancellation of your tour. We will do our best to notify you at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour and you will be provided a full refund.
If you need to cancel your tour, you must submit your request at least 48 hours prior to the trip to be eligible for a refund. Tickets may be transferred to other dates/times (subject to availability).
Footage and images provided by Explore Butte County.