Alex Ross
Fly Fisher, Guide
Alex Ross is the founder and head guide of Trinity Guide Co. and a highly respected fishing professional with more than 20 years of experience guiding and deckhanding along the entire California coast. His deep understanding of Northern California waters comes from a lifetime on the water, ranging from commercial salmon and tuna trolling offshore to fly fishing the lower Sacramento River and surrounding fisheries.
A 100-ton master captain and licensed California guide, Alex brings an exceptional level of professionalism and versatility to every trip. Whether rowing his 18×60 Willie drift boat or running his 26-foot Willie Nemesis, he has the experience, skill, and judgment to safely and effectively guide anglers targeting a wide variety of species and fishing styles.
Listen to Alex Ross's Show...
Nymphing Strategies for Trinity River Steelhead: Flow, Depth, and Control
Steelhead on the Trinity River aren’t accidental fish—and neither are the anglers who consistently find them. In this episode, professional guide Alex Ross breaks down the nuts and bolts of deep nymphing for Trinity River steelhead from a drift boat. We dive into reading flow-driven water, boat positioning, rigging for depth and control, fly selection by conditions, and the subtle adjustments that turn “good water” into hooked fish. If you want a practical, guide-tested approach to putting winter steelhead in the net on one of California’s most iconic rivers, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
Just a few of the questions asked and answered during the interview:
- For anglers who haven’t fished it, how would you describe the Trinity River compared to other West Coast steelhead rivers?
- How do dam releases and changing flows affect where steelhead hold?
- How do fish position differently in low flows versus high flows?
- What types of water on the Trinity consistently produce with deep nymphing?
- Are the techniques you use river specific, or do they work other places?
- How do you determine your starting depth?
- Do you prefer fixed indicators or adjustable systems from a drift boat—and why?
- What’s your philosophy on split shot vs. weighted flies?
- What are your go-to fly patterns for Trinity steelhead nymphing?
- What rod, reel, line, leader and tippet setup do you recommend?
- How can you tell if your weight is riding properly?
- How critical is boat control in deep nymphing success?
- What visual clues tell you a run will hold steelhead?
- what is the etiquette on back rowing and re-drifting a run?
Known for his strong work ethic and client-first mindset, Alex is committed to delivering high-quality fishing experiences in all conditions. He takes pride in going the extra mile to ensure each day on the water is productive, educational, and enjoyable.
With a warm, welcoming approach, Alex works comfortably with anglers of all skill levels—from seasoned veterans to beginners and casual enthusiasts. His vision for Trinity Guide Co. is simple: create fun, memorable fishing adventures tailored to each guest. A day on the water with Alex Ross is more than just a guided trip—it’s an experience built on knowledge, professionalism, and a genuine passion for fishing.
For more informaton on Alex's guided trips visit The Trinity Guide Co.
