Don Q's Nevada and Northern California fishing report for week of May 7-13

Here is this week's fishing report for rivers, lakes and streams in Nevada, Northern California and the Sierra. This report is for the week of May 7-13, 2014.

ALMANOR LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fishermen are catching a mix of browns, rainbows and even some salmon this week.  
Courtesy of Almanor Fishing Adventures.

ANGEL LAKE, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
This lake is frozen and the road is snow covered. Travel isn’t recommended and there will not be a report on this lake until next spring.

BISHOP CREEK AREA, CALIF:
Rick and Patti Apted - Lake Sabrina Boat Landing (760-873-7425) (www.lakesabrinaboatlanding.com) reports:
Lake Sabrina:
Watch for deer and don't forget a jacket. Our local Department of Fish & Wildlife Hatchery Stocking Crew rock – they were up fishing last Sunday – saw the water had come up enough to get the small stock truck down to the water and come Monday morning we had the first stocking of the season – very much appreciated by both us and those that came up to the Lake during the week and weekend.
Got some 2 and 3 pounders in with that stocking!
Even with the stocking, catching was hit and miss.
Lures, Nightcrawlers, Power Bait and Salmon Eggs did well near the dam area (well, that’s where they stocked), while just the baits (Nightcrawlers, Power Bait and Salmon Eggs) were working on the back natural Lake.
Had a fly fisherman out by the DingleBerry Inlet – he saw some big ones, but apparently flies aren’t on the Lake Sabrina menu yet!
Trolling (Yes, we have boats on the back natural lake for rent) has been slow – think the fish have gone a bit deep.
Everything is connected so the fish can get from the front to the back – just not yet deep enough for boats.
We’ve spotted 2 Bald Eagle flying over the Lake – I’m sure they were also very happy with the first stocking.
As for Yogi, not sure if it’s him, but there are bears in the canyon, luckily, they haven’t made it up this far – but keep your eyes open and your food and trash picked up. Speaking of trash – we are not your mothers – please pick-up after yourselves when you’re out and about – really don’t want it looking like SoCal.
Thought we were being invaded by the army last week, as we had a Deuce-and-1/2 come up to the Lake – now that had the clearance and it was 6-wheel drive – it had no problem getting to the back natural Lake. It’s owned by a private individual, gets 9 mpg and is totally an awesome machine.
Like I previously mentioned, we do have a few boats for rent on the back Natural Lake – you’ll either need to drive (with a high clearance 4-wheel drive short base vehicle) or walk. If you walk, we can take your tackle back to the boats for you. (Liability issues prevent us from taking you!).
We did have a private boat go in and try to make it to the back, but alas, he needed a bit more water.
If you’re coming to the Lake, don’t forget sunscreen and dark glasses – the glare off the snow (not sure how long it will last) is tough on the eyes.
And if you have allergies – PACK YOU MEDS – it’s tough breathing out there for some - what with runny noses, stuffed noses & watery eyes – believe me I know!
Mother Nature’s having some fun again – snow in the forecast for early this week – just a few flurries, but the pesky wind will be in front, during and behind this ‘storm’ – should come in Monday evening and be out of here by Wednesday night – temps during that time are expected to be in the mid-40s to low 20s. Have no fear, temps are likely to warm to the mid-50s and upper 20’s by the weekend.
You can also check out www.weather.gov – enter Aspendell, CA (which is the little community right below Lake Sabrina) in the search field and you’ll get the forecast for at the higher elevation or take a look at Howard Sheckter, our local weather ‘guesser’ report at www.MammothWeather.com.
Lake Sabrina Boat Landing will serve Breakfast from 7:00 am to 11:00 am and Lunch until 4:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday for Opener after that it will be Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
And, yes, there will be homemade pie and ice cream on the weekends.
Our store hours are as follows:
           Sunday          7:00 to 5:00 pm
           Monday         8:00 to 5:00 pm
           Tuesday         8:00 to 5:00 pm     
           Wednesday    8:00 to 5:00 pm
           Thursday       8:00 to 5:00 pm
           Friday           8:00 to 5:00 pm
           Saturday       7:00 to 5:00 pm

BOCA RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Lake level has leveled off now and may dip slightly as they are releasing more water out than in at the moment. 
Small car top boats only here or float tubes, water level is too low to launch anything else.  
Fishing by the dam in the morning has been good along with the inlet portion of the lake.

BRIDGEPORT RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707)
www.kenssport.com) reports:
Bridgeport has been fishing pretty well this past week, some good reports from the shore but mainly from boats.
The shore anglers that have been doing well have been using power bait and crawlers and we've had a few good reports with lures like Rapalas and kastmasters. The boat anglers are either trolling or still fishing with power bait and crawlers.
The Rainbow Point area seems to be productive for bait fishing even though it's pretty shallow, there are a lot of fish cruising in water that is less than 8 or 10 feet deep.
The trollers are doing the best down near the dam and in the narrows just off the public marina. 

BRIDEGPORT RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Bridgeport Reservoir 5/2/14
Jeffery at the Bridgeport Marina is still putting out his rental boats and it is paying off for those fishing the Bridge.
He reports the “catching” has really picked up for numbers and size since they have had warmer weather and less wind. 
He also observes huge midge hatches and rolling fish most days this week.
I suggest trolling streamers around the drop-off from the dam to the launch ramp. He saw fish in 3-4 feet of water cruising the mud flats recently.
Fish here early friends, fall may be tough.

CAVE LAKE, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Cave is fishing like it normally does as fishing has been good for 8 to 10 inch trout with a few 12 to 13 inch fish being reported.
The old standby of worms or Power Bait should both work.
Fly rodders should be using small olive buggers, hares ears, small leeches and chironomids. On some of the warmer, sunny afternoons give small pale morning duns, Adams, elk hair caddis or mosquito patterns a try.
Cave was recently stocked and will be stocked again sometime over the next week or so.

CHETCO RIVER, ORE:
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (800-720-ODWF) (www.dfw.state.or.us.com) reports:
Closed to fishing until May 24.

CONVICT LAKE AND CONVICT CREEK, CALIF:
Convict Lake Resort (800-992-2260) (www.convictlake.com) reports:
After a great opener weekend the quality bite continued throughout the week at Convict. Another 7 pounder was brought into the store (see below) and a few more 14 inch plus qualify fish were registered into the derby raffle.
Catch of the Week: 
Congratulations to Kai Ishisara from Monterey Park, CA with a lunker of the week from Convict Lake. Kai was using a Mini Jig when he landed a stout 7 pound 14 ounce rainbow. Way to go Kai!
Other notable catches this week: 
Hugh Hensley from La Crescenta, CA landed the second largest fish of the week. Hugh's fish was 7 pounds and he was using an Inflated Nightcrawler. He was fishing at the Inlet.
Dave White with an excellent catch while fishing at Hangman's Tree.
Dave landed a 3 pound 15 ounce rainbow using a Nightcrawler. 
Thomas Kilsheimer of Chatsworth, CA hooked a 3 pound and 10 ounce rainbow. Thomas was using yellow Power Bait at the North Shore.
Rory Welsh of Yucaipa, CA caught a beautiful 2 pound and 13 ounce rainbow. Rory was using a Mini Jig while fishing at the Inlet.
Shawn Larson with an nice stringer on the opener. Shawn was fishing at South Shore and he was using a Orange Power Bait. 
Tactics/Bait:
A variety of different baits and lures were hooking fish this week.
Some nice fish (2 pound plus) and full stringers were caught with Gulp Power Worms (Pink or Red), Kastmasters, Mini Jigs (try tossing Swim Baits from Sierra Slammers)  and Marvel Flies.
Inflated Nightcrawler were also very productive.
The most successful Powerbait colors were yellow and orange.  
Any color with garlic worked well.
The South Shore and the Inlet was the hottest spot this week.
Other locations fishing well were the North Shore and Hangman's Tree.
Here is a list of other baits/lures that can be productive:
Sierra Slammers, Tasmanian Devil, Green or brown Marvel Fly Lures, Trout Teasers, Panther Martin, NeedleFish, Rooster Tails, and Bite-on Fury Shad on Power Bait.
Here is a list of recommended flies: 
Dry Flies:
Adams, Female Adams, Cutter's Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulators, Black/Red Ants, Sierra Bright Dot, Royal Coachman and Hoppers. 
Streamers:
Wooly Bugger (black, brown, olive, or green), Mutuka (black, brown, olive, or green), Hornberg, and Muddler Minnows.
Wet Flies(Nymphs):
Prince Nymph, Flashback Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, Zebra Midge (red and black), Copper John (red and copper) and San Juan Worm (brown or red).
Other Resources:
View our Convict Lake Fishing Map and Fishing Rig Suggestion brochures.
Both brochures are available in the General Store.
Derby News: 
The Round-Up at the Lake Fishing Derby started on Sunday, April 27th.
Come join us for a chance to win $6,000 in Resort Prizes!
Also mark your calendars for the Hangman's Bonus Cash Weekend on June 6-8. $2000 in cash prizes. 
Weather: 
After a snow storm the day before the opener the weather has gradually warmed up and by Saturday we were in the mid-60's. Another weather system is forecasted for next week. By Wednesday the high are going to be in the high 40's to low 50's. Then the forecast has the temp back on the rise.  Here is the National Weather Service link that is usually quite accurate: 7-Day Forecast Convict Lake.
Sunrise - Sunset:
Sunrise this week 5:59 am - 5:52 am and Sunset 7:47 pm - 7:52 pm.
Stocking: 
DGF is schedule to plant at the lake and creek the week of May 4th.

CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Great conditions last week. The fish are scattered and  fly fishers are doing well at Sandy Point, Green Banks and Hilton Bay.


CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Kent Rianda of The Trout Fly and Troutfitter (760-934-2517) (www.thetroutfitter.com) reports:
Water conditions:
Holding steady for the last two weeks. 'Now at 6,765 ft versus 6,781 ft elevation at the spillway.
Water temperature is warm for early season at 54°F (on the bottom) uniformly most places on the lake.
Fishing conditions:
Green Banks Not much action - fish are very spread out.
Six Bays - Not bad - keep movng if slow one plave it will be good another.
Sandy Point (north side) - Good numbers all along drop off at about 14ft out to 20ft.
In front of big spring half way between Sandy Point and the "McGee Parking Lot" (look for big clump of brown bushes on shore) 13-16ft of water.   This has been the most steady since Opening day
Hilton Bay inside Pelican Point - good numbers but nothing of real size.

CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Crowley Lake 5/5/14
 Good numbers with browns & bows showing steady.  
Fish are smaller on average this spring, but in good shape.
McGee Bay had a nice push of fish recently in 10-12 feet. Some nice browns in the mix.
The usual early season spots have fish. Hilton, Sandy, Sometimes Bay, Alligator Pt.  Depth to target is 9-13 feet.
Sacramento Perch are already staging on the sand in some areas, so you will get  ”drive- bys” from them.
Gillies #18/20, crystal emergers & pupa #18/20. Broken back tiger & zebra midges) good when you have some texture on the surface. Tiger & zebra midges #14/18 also good choices for the lower or larva imitation. 

DAVIS LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The lake level is about 68% with the water temp in the low to mid 50’s.
Trolling around the big island has been resulting in limits being reached.
Bank fishing has been slow.
Currently the only ramp open with a dock is Old camp 5.
Courtesy of the Grizzly Store

DONNER LAKE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
This lake has been fishing very well and with a stocking of DFW trout a couple of weeks ago fishing has been good!  With temps nearing the upper 60's mark this week it's a great time to get out and fish now. Mack fishing here has been good for those trolling with fish ranging in the teens!  Jigging for these guys too have been good at depths from 100-120 feet. 

FALL RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fishing has been fair to good. Insect hatches are sparse, but that's typical at this time of year.
Good sized fish can be found swinging and stripping.
Look for better dry fly fishing as we close in on June.
Water conditions are low, but that doesn't mean anything other than the fish are in the system and looking for food.
What's great about this time of year is the rainbows on Fall River are not nearly as selective as they will be in June.  
Courtesy of the Fly Shop.

FEATHER RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The flows are abysmally low here and dropping daily.
Hardly a striper made it up this trickle this season but some shad are starting to show at Verona and Shanghai.
Boaters beware the river is not safe at this point…unless you are in a canoe!  Courtesy of FISHWITHJD.

FRENCHMAN RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The stream opener was this past Saturday, April 26th. The weather was not the greatest and kept many fishermen away. Still, fishing at Frenchman Lake continues to be good. 
Chilcoot and Frenchman campgrounds are open now. Big Cove and Spring Creek will be open May 1st and Cottonwood will be opening on May 22nd.
The Lunker Point boat launch will be closed for the year, but you can still fish from shore there.
Frenchman boat launch is open and the dock is in. 
Please call us for current lake conditions and updates on the fishing. Courtesy of Wiggins Trading Post

HAT CREEK, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
This is a great river to cast a fly rod on. It's just so perfectly set up for casting dry’s to pockets, sliding them under branches, perusing the edges of weed growth. River conditions look awesome. Best mayfly hatches are late morning, but they are very slight.  
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

HEENAN LAKE, CALIF:
Closed until the Friday before Labor Day, 2014.

HOBART RESERVOIR, WASHOE COUNTY, NEV:
Opened on May 01.

HOT CREEK, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Water flow is  up to 10 CFS. Dry fly fishing is nonexistent.Nymph fishing is the best bet. Try WD-40's, green rock worms and scuds.



HOT CREEK, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Hot Creek (5/4/14)
Water up a tad, but not a blow out. Very good caddis & mayfly activity occurring daily during this warm spell. 
The small spring caddis are like candy to these wild fish and you will enjoy the best snap during this hatch. #18/20 hi-vis elk hair imitations will suffice, try some crystal olive caddis larva patterns for nymphs.
San Juan Worms and egg patterns are good choices for spring conditions on the crick. Dry dropper rigs using para midge or hi-vis para BWO or blue wing olive adult patterns #14-18 as an upper, while dropping a broken back zebra or tiger midge, assassin bird’s nest, or crystal olive caddis/zebra larva pattern will get you into fish in the slots between the weeds.
Lengthen your leaders to ten feet here, 5X is a good tippet size.
The deeper pools can be fished with weighted attractors like SJ worms and egg patterns hung beneath an Under-cator. A hot rig is an olive or light Punk Perch as your upper fly with an assassin or PT as a dropper.
You may also “swing cast” the Punk across the deeper slots and pools for a shot at one of the bigs that hunker along the weed lines or in the gut of the larger holes. Use the yellow, or clear for short water nymphing.
Midge cluster, or para midge adults in the #20-24 range are hot flies for surface action.  BWO adults fished high in the suds #16/18 also good calls afternoon when the baetis start to emerge.

HOT CREEK, CALIF:
Kent Rianda of The Trout Fly and Troutfitter (760-934-2517) (www.thetroutfitter.com) reports:
Water conditions:
Flows at 27 CFS as of 5/1.
Water is fairly clear but with runoff may become off-color.
(Note flows include water from the springs, not just the gauging station at the highway so this is what is really flowing through the canyon)
Fishing conditions:
Good. Weeds are already getting thock. Midges early with BWO’s sporadic around 11 AM, caddis in the afternoon with midges.

ILLIPAH RESERVOIR, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
As the water temperature climbs past the 50 degree mark, expect fishing to really turn on here.
Minnow imitations, natural baits and wooly buggers are all worth a try here.
Fish the northern shorelines (they get the most sun and warm up first) in the shallows as the trout cruise them looking for bugs to eat.
Also, the inlet where the creek enters the reservoir has been producing some nice fish as well.

INDIAN CREEK RESERVOIR, CALIF:
A report of catching a mix of rainbow and cutthroat trout, up to 15 inches in length, on Sunday with gold-colored Kastmaster lures near the boat ramp.

JACKSON MEADOWS, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
The road here is open only to Weber Lake and no news here when it will be open to Jackson as of yet.

JAKES/BOIES RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Jakes Creek has good water level and no weeds yet, so fishing from shore has been productive with anglers reporting 12 to 17 inch fish.
Even a few bass are being taken.
Anglers should try Power Bait and worms or small spinners fished slowly.
Fly rodders should give hares ears, PT nymphs, zug bugs and prince nymphs along with wooly buggers a chance.
Fish are averaging 10 to 17 inches in size with most anglers using small spinners, minnow imitations or flies.

JIGGS / ZUNINO RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Unfortunately, Jiggs has dried up.

JUNE LAKE LOOP, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Fly fishing has been slow here.
Try Gull Lake with black or purple Doc's Twin Lakes Special.

KIRMAN LAKE, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
May 04, 2014
We've had quite a few good reports from Kirman this week, in spite of the wind we've had the last couple days.
Leech patterns seem to be producing the best and we've also had some good reports on mini jigs for the spin anglers.
Patterns to try are seal buggers, stillwater nymphs, soft hackles, mini leeches, zug bugs, and prince nymphs. Haven't heard much about scud patterns but they should take off any time now.   

KLAMATH RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Conditions are great and it's possible to find a few smaller steelhead here, but it's not the kind of fishing this river is known for in the winter months.
Look for better fishing as we close in on June. 
Courtesy of The Fly Shop

LEWISTON LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fishing has been fair at times, awesome by some reports.
This reservoir is really, really low. Launching a boat might be difficult.
Lewiston is known for its big, bad bows.
The reservoir level is low. Best fishing happens mid day.
Lewiston is a good choice for anglers over in Lewiston/on the Trinity River that want to get a few rainbows in the net on their 5wt fly rod.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

MAMMOTH LAKES BASIN, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
George Lake - Mary Lake – Mamie Lake – Twin Lakes:
Road closed. 


MAMMOTH LAKES BASIN, CALIF:
Kent Rianda of The Trout Fly and Troutfitter (760-934-2517) (www.thetroutfitter.com) reports:
George Lake - Mary Lake – Mamie Lake – Twin Lakes:
Water conditions:
Twin Lake is ice free but water still in low 40's.
Mary, Mamie and George are still partially iced over.
Fishing conditions:
Upper Twin by the Falls is best.

MARLETTE LAKE, CARSON CITY & WASHOE COUNTIES, NEV:
Closed until July 15, 2014.

MARTIS LAKE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
A real sleeper of a lake early on, wide open and no crowds.  Great for those who are learning to fly fish without the critics you'll find on the rivers!

MCGEE CREEK/HILTON CREEK, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
McGee Creek/Hilton Creek 5/4/14
More fish moving into the lower sections, primarily cutty’s.
Drifting attractor patterns like SJ worms & crystal eggs are good calls.
Dry/dropper bead head rigs using a stimulator,  hi-vis para BWO, or caddis as the upper, and an olive crystal  caddis or midge larva pattern as the dropper can be deadly.  
Broken back midges, assassins birds nest, and flashback PT’s should also be in your box if you plan on the 30 minute hike to the promised land.

OREGON PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES, ORE:
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (800-720-ODWF) (www.dfw.state.or.us.com) reports:
Recreational Dungeness crabbing is open in the ocean.
Fishing for bottom fish including rockfish, and lingcod is now closed outside of the 30-fathom curve until the end of September.
Fishing for bottom fish has been good when the ocean has been calm enough to get out. Late winter/early spring is a great time to catch big lingcod in fairly shallow water.
The marine fish daily bag limit is seven fish and a separate daily limit for lingcod (two).
Retention of cabezon is not allowed until July 1.
Salmon season (except for coho) is open in the ocean from March 15 – April 30. The ocean salmon season for the rest of the 2014 will be determined in early April.
Some chinook salmon have been caught between Bandon and Charleston.
Anglers are starting to pick up a few surf perch. Fishing is usually best on the incoming tide. Anglers have good success using sand shrimp or sand worms for catching surf perch.

ORVILLE LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
King salmon in the 12 to 14 inch range are beginning to bite at Oroville.
“Trollers are using the usual hoochies, tipped with anchovy strips, behind dodgers,” fishermen are reporting.. “The fish are showing best near the Green Bridge and the dam.”   
Courtesy of fishsniffer.com.

OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Upper Owens River:
Current flow is up to 201 CFS. The water  has cleared.
The section downstream  of the Benton Crossing Bridge to the monument is closed  until the last Sat. in May.
The section from the monument to the lake is now open.
Upstream of the bridge is open all year.
Fishing is slow. Some larger lake fish showing up here and there. Some hold over stockers and a few wild fish available. Nymph fish with WD-40, buckskin nymphs and midge pupa.
Lower Owens River:
Water flow jumped up to 230 CFS this last week.
Fishing is good in the wild trout section.
Try WD-40's,  pheasant tails and hares ears.  Hatches have been sporadic lately and surface action is minimal.
Some rainbows in the 18"- 20"  showing up of late.


OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Middle Owens River (Bishop area) 5/5/14/14
Flows currently 230 CFS out of PV Reservoir. Be cautious wading and crossing at this release.
Look for continued caddis and pale morning dun mayfly hatches.
I suggest you have some hi-vis elk caddis & para mayflies #14/18. These are adults and good choices for surface action.
Have a good selection of mayfly and caddis nymphs. Olive crystal caddis larva, olive zebras, assassin bird’s nest, flashback PT’s, money!
Streamers like Loebergs & Spruce-A-Bu’s are how we consistently get the huge trout you see posted.
There are also some good numbers of damsel and dragon flies hovering here.
Using the nymph stages is a good call while fishing streamers.  
You will need a heavy sinking tip line like the one Rio makes.  150/200 grain, 24 foot streamer tips are good for current flows & you can use them in lakes as well.
Check out my guide tips link at the top of the page and scroll down to “dip & strip”.
This technique is the key to getting the bigs in the Sierra on streamers.
 Upper Owens River 5/4/14
There are some consistent numbers beginning to show in the lower sections.
Cuttthroats are here in force right now.
Definite improvement the last few days.
Flows have stabilized, but remain high at 200 CFS. You will need plenty of weight to get those SJ worms, egg patterns, flashback PT’s, Assassin bird’s nest, broken back midges, crystal olive caddis & zebra larva patterns near the bottom. Lengthen your standard nymphing leaders 2-3 feet friends, you will get better results!
I prefer to use a clear or yellow Under-cator on moving water as they are less conspicuous. The pink & orange work better on the still waters like Crowley and Bridgeport. Streamers like Loebergs, Punk Perch, Crystal Leeches, & Agent Orange will also get takes when used with a light to medium sinking tip line.
As it warms up this week we may see some off colored water and floating weed due to run-off.  Keep your bugs clean every cast!
Make sure you wear a wading belt if you have waders on. The UO is ripping right now and is very deep and swift in some places.
Bring a staff along to cross.

OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Kent Rianda of The Trout Fly and Troutfitter (760-934-2517) (www.thetroutfitter.com) reports:
Upper Owens River:
Water conditions: Flows at 199 CFS. Water pretty clear above Hot Creek confluence, off color below.
Fishing conditions:
Midges in AM with BWO's and a few Caddis throughout the day.
Not much dry action, better nymphing and streamer fishing.
Owens River Gorge:
Water conditions:
Flows upward of 100 CFS as of 5/1 due to work on power facilities.
Fishing conditions:
No recent reports.
Pleasant Valley Reservoir:
Water conditions:
Clear and cold. Water level is now constant.
Fishing conditions:
Good.
Rock Creek:
Water conditions:
Lake is mostly still frozen. Creek is clear and cold.
Fishing conditions:
No report as yet.
Rush Creek:
Water conditions:
Flows in wild trout section are 28 CFS. Water is clear and cold.
Fishing conditions:
The section from Silver to Grant is fishing well.
Lower Owens River:
Water conditions:
Flows at 208 CFS as of 5/1. Water Slightly off color.
Fishing conditions:
Good. Midges early. BWO's start about 11am with Caddis starting up mid afternoon. Decent hatch of BWO's but nymphing still more productive.

PAHRANAGAT WILDLIFE REFUGE, LINCOLN COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Anglers are finding some success at the upper marsh for panfish and catfish.
Mealworms or nightcrawlers below a bobber will catch fish.

PIT RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fishing great! There are some seriously big and angry rainbows in this river. They will break your bait off and more!
You might like to know insect hatches are best mid day with a few Slate Drakes (#16 Pheasant Tail), some Blue Wing Olives (#16-18 Black Micro Mays) and lots of midges (#18 Zebra Midge).
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

PLEASANT VALLEY RESERVOIR AND THE GORGE, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Pleasant Valley Reservoir/The Gorge 5/5/14
Pleasant Valley Reservoir:
Power generation is now occurring intermittently.It is difficult to time your fishing here due to continued maintenance.  
Find some softer water in the transition section between the lake and inlet stream with fish feeding in the suds, it can be deeper at times depending on the rez level and may require an Under-cator instead of a dry fly to get those nymphs down. 
Tubing is best under current conditions using Loebergs, Punk Perch, Agent Orange, & crystal leeches. Use a full or heavy sinking tip line. 
Still water nymphing Crowley style can also get you into numbers along the drop-offs.  Use Broken back midges like gillies and tigers, crystal emergers, and pupa patterns are good calls as upper flies on a tandem rig.
Stick to tigers and zebras as the lower flies. 
The Gorge:
LADWP is doing extensive work & testing on valves and hydro electric plants, & this is why we are seeing such abnormal & fluctuating flows in this fishery. It may be this way for some time. Flows here will vary between 35 CFS and 200 CFS on a daily basis.

PROSSER RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Lake is at 38% capacity and has been fishing well! 
Fishing outside the inlets and around the dam has produced the best results.

RUBY LAKE NAT. WILD. REFUGE, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) report:
Fishing is good one day and fair the next in the collection ditch.
Small olive buggers, hare’s ears, leech and egg patterns should all work. Give damsel and dragon fly nymphs a try as well and of course don’t forget about chironomids.
The ditch and a number of the ponds have been stocked over the past couple of weeks and fishing for 10 to 12 inch fish has been good, though getting to the larger fish through the stockers can be a challenge.
The ditch is artificial lures and flies only.
No boats may be put on the water until the June 15th electric motor opener.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (LOWER), CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fishing has been really good this week. Had an amazing dry fly session this week were hundreds of rainbows were rising along the edge of the river.
Best fly was Mercer's #16 Missing Link. These epic dry fly sessions don't happen every day, but on cloudy variable days... they do.
Fishing has been best below Redding, south of Anderson. 
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (UPPER), CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fishing has been great!
A few Salmon Flies coming off along the lower river. Bring a few Salmon Fly Dries and search the edges of the river, near shade.
Fish on the upper Sacramento are not all that selective at this time of year, so go forth and confidently fish nymphs for optimal results and reliability. 
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

SACRAMENTO RIVER, CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
Fly fishing:
As of May 6, 2014 water flow is currently 4.450 CFS.
Lower Sacramento River fly fishing report, fly fishing is excellent.
Weather is warming, great bug hatch mid day. 
Trout fishing Redding area, fishing is great. Mild weather....Rainbow Trout fishing, 18 in to 26 inches, from 20 plus hook ups.
Trout fishing through the town of Redding has been excellent. 
Fishing Keswick Dam to Balls Ferry ramp. Using PMD's, Black Caddis, Prince Nymphs, Iron Sallies, Pheasant Tails,  Brown Micro Mays,  & Yellow Sucker Spawn.
Call or email us today. We offer daily guided fishing trips, 7 days a week. Drift  boats or Jet boats available. 
For those of you who are not fly fisherman, we offer spin fishing trips on the Sacramento River are available.
We cater to all levels of anglers. Daily drifting Redding, California and Anderson, California. 
Groups and Clubs welcome, we can accommodate ANY size group.

SACRAMENTO RIVER, CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
Striped Bass fishing:
May 6, 2014
Striped Bass fishing is still fair to good. Tisdale area. 
Fishing for stripers should be great in the next few weeks.
There is a short window to catch these fun, fighting fish, so let's go.

SAN JOAQUIN RIVER/RED’S MEADOW, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Road closed.

SHASTA LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Now that the bass are spawning, the bite as toughened up. Most are small males but you can use anything you want and still catch a lot of fish.
For a few larger fish, try the early top water bite.
Trout and salmon fishing has slowed with few fish marked.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.
 
SHASTA LAKE, CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
May 6, 2014  Shasta Lake guided fishing -
Northern California fishing Lake Shasta. 
We offer daily guided fishing on Lake Shasta. Lake Shasta fishing is good. Catching a few Rainbows and salmon now on Lake Shasta.
The bass fishing is RED HOT ! 60 bass days.
LET'S GO FISHING !

SMITH RIVER, ORE:
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (800-720-ODWF) (www.dfw.state.or.us.com) reports:
The mainstem Smith from the mouth to Spencer Creek and the North Fork to Johnson Creek closes for chinook and finclipped steelhead from April 1 until May 24. It remains open for fin-clipped steelhead from Spencer Creek upstream to Sisters and from Johnson Creek to Bridge 10 through the end of April. Anglers will start fishing for strippers as spring progresses.

SOUTH FORK RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The boat dock is in the water at the main boat ramp and the water is clearing.
Still some stained water at the inlet end of the lake to the south, but the north and east sides of the lake are fairly clear.
The south end of the lake has produced both nice trout and some sporadic wipers in three to four feet of water.
Float tubers have been catching the wipers in very shallow water in the south end. They say that if your fins aren’t touching the bottom, you are too deep.
Jet Ski Beach, as always, seems to be the popular place to fish, but anglers shouldn’t ignore the eastern shore.
Tomera Cove is producing a few nice fish with one angler reporting a good morning during Sunday’s snow storm catching his fish with a Kastmaster.
With water climbing into the mid 40’s, fish are looking for water that is even just a degree or two warmer and the eastern and northern shorelines get the most afternoon sun causing these areas bit warmer water later in the day.
Fishing for trout is fair to good, depending upon the day, and fly fishermen have had success with black and red chironomids as well as olive seal buggers and olive crystal buggers.
Bait anglers are having success with rainbow Power Bait or worms.
A few bass are starting to show up in the creel.
Remember, you may not keep any black bass between March 1st and June 30th, they must be released immediately back into the water.

STAMPEDE RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Fishing here may improve for the shore fisherman around the boat launch and cove leading up and down the shoreline with the recent stocking of fish. 
With the weather forecast this may be delayed if they wait to stock around Wednesday though. 
Rick Kennedy has reported some Kokanee action with fish in the 8-10 inch range in the top 10-15 feet of water and 10-12 inch range in 30-50 of water. 
Mack fishing has been consistent here.

STAMPEDE RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Rick and Tresa Kennedy of Tight Lines Guide Service (888-975-0990) (www.FishTightLines.com) report:
We fished Stampede today for the first time in over a month.
We started at 6:00 AM and decided to make a pass or two for some Mackinaw before targeting Kokanee.
It wasn’t long before the wind started and the forecast called for some pretty strong wind later in the day. We figured we better go load up on some Kokanee before the wind got too bad. 
As soon as we dropped our gear in we started hooking up. We spent most of our time right in front of the island in about 60’ of water. 
We ran two lines on downriggers behind Shark Cannonballs and one top line straight off the back of the boat. We hooked fish from the surface to 45’ deep. We ran three different set ups and they all did well. Our set ups were a Sep’s Strike Master (watermelon color) with a Uncle Larry’s Pink Tiger, a Sep’s 4/0 Watermelon Dodger with a Uncle Larry’s Pink Tiger and the third was a Dick Night Pink Dodger and a RMT Assassin spinner on the top line.
We used Abu Garcia 4600 reels loaded with 6# Trilene.
Everything was tipped with Shoepeg Corn that I cured with pink Pautzke Fire Cure. 
The bite was as good as it gets. We landed 18 Kokanee between 6:30 AM and 8:37 AM and lost more than we landed. It was a fast and crazy bite.
 I even caught 3 for myself to take home for dinner. These Kokanee went big; the average fish size today was 12” but fat and clean fish.
Launching is not a problem, however, I recommend four wheel drive if your boat is very heavy. The water is down far enough that all four of your tires will likely be in the mud. I had no issues launching today.

LAKE TAHOE:
A report of average sized Mackinaw Trout being caught on silver flasher blades and minnows on the east side of the lake.

TRINITY LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The best place to fish for trout is at the Stuart's fork arm.  The water coming into the lake is the coldest there and mixed with the warm water of the lake is ideal for shore fishing with almost any bait combination or use silver/blue spinners in trout sizes.
Bass can be caught by using deep diving crankbait’s off the points in 35 feet of water.
Catfish can be caught in the north end of the lake off the flats at night using night crawlers or store bought stink bait.
Courtesy of MyOutdoorBuddy.com.      
 
TRINITY RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fishing has not been all that great for most anglers.
Anglers fishing out of boats have access to the best water.
Flows increased on April 23 from 300 CFS to 900 CFS. Peak flows on April 24 will be 1,500 CFS. Flows are scheduled to start coming down May 29th slowly dropping to 450 CFS by June 26th.
Expect better fishing reports in early July. That said, anglers who can float this stream in a drift boat/raft can find rising fish if you know where to look. The dry fly fishing can be really good through June! 
 Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

TRINITY RIVER, CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
May 3 , 2014 Fishing report
Currently, Trinity River flows are as follows; 
Trinity River will reach 1,500 CFS and  slowly decrease, starting May 31 to 400 CFS by June 26th, 2014.
Fishing for trout now. Fishing up and down with water flows high at the moment. We are fly fishing and spin fishing the river, fishing from Lewiston to Junction City. 
Fly fisherman are using eggs patterns and doing very well. 
Please give us a call to reserve your day on the water. 
Trinity River fishing is conveniently located 40 minutes West of Redding, CA  fishing from the town of Weaverville, California.

TRUCKEE RIVER, BIG, CALIF AND NEV:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
California:
Great weather this week so get out and fish the Truckee. The rest of this week looks very nice with high temps getting into the upper 60's to the low 70's.  Look for days before or after storm fronts to fish as these are key days that fish will feed for longer periods of time. 
March Browns and Skwala Stones have been the primary patterns that have been working, dries and nymphs in these patterns, but don't discount throwing some caddis pupa nymphs. 
With the high flows being seen below Boca it's time to think about using your high water techniques! 
More activity of fish feeding just under the surface above the Glenshire stretch. Try a Skwala dry or Stimi and trail a small bead nymph or soft hackle a couple of feet behind and see what happens.  
Lots going on right now as fish are found everywhere in the river system, so get out if you have a chance and fish. 
Hatches this time of year will consist of Midges, BWO's, Baetis, PMD'S, Caddis, Skwala & Golden Stones, and March Browns. 
Nevada:
Caution!  If you do fish the Truckee in Nevada please be aware that New Zealand Mudsnails have been found in sections of water there so please clean your shoes and gear accordingly to avoid aquatic hitch hikers!  
Study the water and turn rocks and see what is going on, also seine for what is in the drift.  Little things like this and slowing your approach to the river’s edge will greatly increase your chances of being successful. 
Again, make sure your box is stocked with every conceivable stage of bugs that are present now!  (x) = drawer number.

TRUCKEE RIVER, LITTLE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Getting a stocking of trout this week and should fish well for those who want to keep fish and get away from the crowds coming off I-80 and the local Tahoe area.

TWIN LAKES, CALIF:
Judy Allen at Annett's Mono Village (760- 932-7071) (www.monovillage.com) reports:
Upper Twin Lake:
Our Opening Weekend Derby winner was John Duquette from Concord.  
He landed a 5 pound, 12 ounce Alper while trolling with a Rapala lure.  
His prize was a $150.00.
Chris Fenton from Roseville brought in a 7 pound Brown using a Rebel 30 lure this past week.
Overall, fishing was just ok, trolling continues to work the best and several full stringers were the result.
We enjoyed beautiful weather prior to the strong winds which arrived later this week. Upper Twin Lake's level remains very good and the water temperature is 44 degrees. 

TWIN LAKES, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
May 04, 2014
The Twins have been fishing pretty well also though the wind has been tough the last couple days.
Trolling has been productive with Rapalas and spoons like Kastmasters and Bouyants. Also bait fishing with power bait, mouse tails and crawlers has been pretty good. 

VIRGINIA LAKES, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
May 04, 2014
There have been a few brave anglers still fishing through the ice on the Virginias but I would recommend being very careful, the ice is melting fast and I'd expect there to be a bunch of open water any day now. We'll let you know as soon as the lakes clear enough to kayak, tube or cast from the shore

WALKER LAKE, MINERAL COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
No new updates. No Lahontan cutthroat have been reported or seen at Walker Lakes since 2009.
Launching is not possible right now.

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
East Walker River:
May 04, 2014 
The East is running at 33 CFS right now and since the flow bumped has been fishing pretty well.
The "Miracle Mile" section seems to be a bit tough but down below the bridge and on the Nevada side of the border the fishing is pretty good.
We haven't had many reports on streamers or dries, nymphing seems to be the way to go. Those fish are liking shiny patterns lately so bring some flashy bugs with you.
The water is of course pretty low still so you'll need to focus on the deeper pools and runs to have some good action. Patterns to try include: rainbow warrior, silver streak, flashback emerger, san juan worm, top secret midge, mirrored midge, poxyback baetis and copper john.             
Sceirine Ranch:
May 04, 2014
The Sceirine has also been fishing excellent this past week, not too much pressure and the fish are plenty happy. The same patterns that are working on the Cali side are also working well on the ranch. 
Hunewill Pond:
May 04, 2014
With the exception of one day this week the pond has fished excellent!
The water is low but the fish are healthy and happy.
Small midge patterns, soft hackles, san juan worms and dry/dropper rigs have been doing the best.
Give us a call to reserve a spot on the pond when you want to get away and stick some nice fat rainbows!

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Water flow is back down to 22 CFS. Very tough conditions.

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
East Walker River (5/4/14)
Flows up to 33 CFS. Fishing has been so-so at best.
The EW is facing some tough times this season, go easy on them friends.

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Kent Rianda of The Trout Fly and Troutfitter (760-934-2517) (www.thetroutfitter.com) reports:
Water conditions:
Poor. Flows at 33 CFS as of 5-1. Water is off color
Fishing conditions:
Fishing is slow.

WALKER RIVER, WEST, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
May 04, 2014
The West has been getting a little muddy from the snow melt off and on but in the clear times in between has been fishing well.
Salmon eggs and crawlers have been doing well for the bait anglers, for spinners go with Mepps and Panther Martins. Fly anglers can have success with small wooly buggers, prince nymphs, pheasant tails and hare's ears.      
WILDHORSE RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The lake is now ice free and yet winter has just hit the lake dumping some much needed snow in the area. Water levels are rising, but ever so slowly and not enough.
The shorelines are very soft and driving a vehicle near the lake is not recommended. It is also almost impossible to launch a boat here as the boat ramp is still quite a ways out of the water.
Fishing has been fair with most anglers using Power Bait or worms from shore near the state park boat ramp.
Fly anglers should be using buggers, chironomids, leeches and hares ears.
As the water temperature starts to climb into the upper 40’s over the next couple of weeks expect the fishing to pick up.

WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The lake is down to around 5% of capacity and turbid.
It is not worth the trip.
This fishery is probably gone until we get enough moisture to recharge both it and the surrounding lands.

WILSON RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Wilson must have gotten a good dose of precipitation during the last front that moved through as the water level has risen dramatically with the boat ramp now only about three feet out of the water.
You can launch small boats here now.
Water temperatures have exceeded 50 degrees and fishing has been good for trout and fair for bass, as the water warms, bass fishing should pick up.
The county road was graded a couple of weeks ago and the ranch road was in fair shape, so as long as it is dry, you should be able to get here okay. Anglers should use the same presentations and techniques as at South Fork.

— Don Quilici is the Outdoor editor for Carson Now. He can be reached at donquilici@hotmail.com.