Don Q's Nevada and Northern California fishing report for Sept. 3-10

Here is this week's fishing report for rivers, lakes and streams in Nevada and Northern California. This report is for the week of Sept. 3-10, 2014.

ALMANOR LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Brown trout between 5-7 pounds were caught on jigs or suspend crickets and nightcrawlers off the bottom about 5 to 6 feet.
The rainbows have been up to 4.8 pounds off these baits
Nightcrawlers with pro cure garlic produce rainbows to 5 pounds.
Trolling lanes in some of the well known bait spots like Rocky Point, Canyon Dam, Big springs and the A-frame also report decent fish.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

ANGEL LAKE, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Fishing is good at Angel Lake as the surface water temperatures are in the low 60’s.
This reservoir seems to do better with worms over Power Bait and with small black and gold or green and gold spinners and roostertails.
For flies, just about anything olive or with peacock herl should improve your chances. They are starting to hit dries regularly but nymphing is still working best now. Dry flies fished with a dropper are very effective here from now until late September.
A popular rig is a small yellow stimulator with an olive soft hackle fished about three to four feet below it.
Fish this near brush, rock faces and rocky shorelines.

BISHOP CREEK AREA, CALIF:
Rick and Patti Apted - Lake Sabrina Boat Landing (760-873-7425) (www.lakesabrinaboatlanding.com) reports:
Lake Sabrina, Sept. 1: The leaves are a’changing – there’s spots of yellow, orange and reds starting to show in the canyon and every once in a while you’ll get the smell of Fall – yup, believe it or not Fall does have a smell – crisp and clean.
Had the Eagles, a Great Blue Heron and an Osprey out on the Lake fishing this week – sure is awesome to see them soaring around the Lake. No bear sightings recently.
It was another week of one day fishing was good and the next not so good. Saturday was slow and Sunday on fire – you never know and you know the saying “You should have been here yesterday”!
Fishing the Inlets with Nightcrawlers and Power Bait (if you could get a spot at the Inlets due to the number of boats on the Lake this weekend).
Trolling lures or Nightcrawlers worked well along the shoreline and around the rockpiles. Using Nightcrawlers and Power Bait from shore was a great way to bring in some fish.
Thanks again to DFW or the stocking on Thursday. Had some nice fish caught on the Lake this week.
Christina Vo landed a 2-1/4 pounder on a Nightcrawler.
Carl & Nancy Yeats brought in a 3 pounder and limits on Power Bait.
Lance Benson pulled out a nice 3-1/2 pound Rainbow on a Nightcrawler.
Brody Belt (3 years old) got his first fish at Lake Sabrina with dad Travis using a Needlefish.
Maria Riggs helped net her husband Dick’s 2-1/4 pound Rainbow.
Manuel Aguirre used a Red Power Worm to bring in a 2-1/2 pounder.
MiceTails were on the 2 pounder’s menu caught by Josh Medina.
Richard Swanson finally landed a bigger than pan-sized fish bringing in a 2-1/4 pound Rainbow.

BISHOP CREEK AREA, CALIF:
Jared Smith - Parchers Resort (760-873-4177) (sierrasmitty@cebridge.net):
Summary & Trail Report: 
Aside from a bit of wind on Saturday, the weather this week was nothing short of gorgeous with highs in the mid 70's and lows in the 40's.
Hikers and anglers alike, including two of the Parchers Resort staff, made the most of the ideal conditions on the North Lake to South Lake loop along the John Muir Trail. Not surprisingly trail conditions are excellent and creek flows are low making creek crossings much easier than normal.
Despite the return of very summer-like weather, there is a definite air of fall about as the meadow grasses are beginning to yellow, as are the willows and some of the aspen above the 9,000 ft range.
Even some of the lower groves are starting to lighten considerably from a deep dark green to a brilliant lime hue.
Get those cameras ready folks, the fall color season is nearly at hand.
Bishop Creek South Fork: 
Creek flows are lower than in past weeks but still flowing at an excellent level for fishing.
Some of the flat sections of riffles were a little too skinny to fish but the majority of the deeper holes, pockets and pools are fishing great.
Heavy DFW stockings made for an excellent overall bite with some solid Rainbows to 2.84 pounds taken.
Most of the action was on Grasshopper Sierra Slammer jigs, Red Power Bait and Pautske's green label salmon eggs.
Weir Pond
: Light fishing pressure mid week turned to busy, busy, busy over the weekend but with the high number of wild brook and brown trout to go along with hefty stockings from the DFW in recent weeks, the Weir was fishing excellent this week, especially for those with chest waders.
Mini-jigs in cricket or grasshopper were best for those who prefer plastics and fly fishers did best on bead-head nymphs fished under a large stimulator.
Intake II
: Most visitors found plenty of pan sized Rainbows to catch here this week despite heavy fishing pressure.
Anything in the tackle box produced at least a few fish for most folks but Thomas Bouyants in red/gold, Berkley Mice Tails in pink/white, nightcrawlers 5 ft under a bobber, or brightly colored Power Bait fished 3 ft off the bottom were the most productive for those looking to fill a stringer.
North Lake: 
The early bird gets the worm, or in this case gets the fishing spot as North Lake was a very popular destination for anglers this week. The usual suspects worked well with nightcrawlers and Power Bait leading the pack.
South Lake
: No reports this week.

BOCA RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Lake level very low here at only 16% capacity. 
Small car top boats, small aluminum boats or float tubes here, 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 more towards the evening. 
Lots of Personal Water Craft or Jet skis ripping around the lake during the day so look for morning and evening fishing to be more productive.

CAPLES LAKE, CALIF:
John Voss of the Caples Lake Resort (209-258-8888) (www.capleslakeresort,com) reports:
On Thursday August 28th, E.I.D and KMPUD planted 1,650 pounds of Rainbow Trout into Caples Lake,  and 1,350 pounds into Silver Lake.
There were 66% catchable,  and 34% Trophy Trout in each plant.
Come on up and enjoy  the great fishing.
We will continue to have Lodging,  fishing boat, and kayak rentals thru October 20th,  when we will be closing for the summer season.

CAVE LAKE, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Again, no change here as water levels have remained steady all summer and fishing for 10 to 12 inch fish has been good.
The surface water temps are now in the mid 60’s and fishing will only get better with the advent of fall.
The old standby of worms or Power Bait should both work.
Fly rodders should be using damsel nymphs, small olive buggers, Cave Lake specials, hares ears, small leeches and chironomids. Dries with a dropper, especially along the weed edges is very effective here.
The usual arrangement of dry flies such as Adams, elk hair caddis, royal coachmen, stimulators and renegades are all effective here.

CHETCO RIVER, ORE:
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (800-720-ODWF) (www.dfw.state.or.us.com) reports:
Temporary regulations have been adopted for the Chetco River starting September 1, 2014. Anglers should check these regulation changes prior to fishing the river.

CONVICT LAKE AND CONVICT CREEK, CALIF:
Convict Lake Resort (800-992-2260) (www.convictlake.com) reports:
BIG FISH ALERT: The Convict Lake Resort stocked the lake with 400 pounds of trophy trout on August 26th. It was a quiet week and I didn't see too many of these lunkers get pulled from the lake. That means there are still quite a few toads to be hooked.
We will be planting these trophy trout on two more dates this September. One stocking will be mid-September and the second at the end of the month.
Our Fall Derby at Convict Lake began Monday. A fall classic and angler's favorite at the resort is the Ambush at the Lake Derby. The derby runs from September 1st  to the end of the 2014 fishing season, November 15. We will be giving away $6,000 in Resort Prizes. Enter the derby and catch a fish 14 inches or longer to be eligible to win one of sixty resort prizes.
Catch of the Week:  
Congratulations to Tim Buzbee from Lakewood, Calif., with a nice rainbow pulled from Convict Lake along the South Shore. He was using garlic Power Bait when he scored a 2 pound 13 ounce rainbow. Great job Tim! 
Other notable catches this week:
Carl Redding from Apple Valley with one of the largest fish caught on a fly this year. His catch was 2 pound 9 ounces.
He were fishing near Hangman's Tree with a Royal Coachman.
Chuck France from Cerritos, Calif., hooked a 1 pound 8 ounce rainbow. Chuck was using a nightcrawler with Hatchery Dust when he landed a 1 pound 8 ounce rainbow while fishing at the South Shore. 
Jim George from Long Beach caught his limit and had an outstanding stringer to prove his day was productive. The two largest fish were over 2 pounds. He were fishing at the Jetty with yellow Power Bait.
Tactics/Bait:  I received a report that an angler did well with a Royal Coachman Fly along the North Shore. I also suggest giving a Stimulator a try.
Gold/red or silver were the best colors for lures.
For trolling use a Needlefish,Tasmanian Devils or Marvel Fly Lures.
The most successful Power Bait color was yellow. Any Power Bait with garlic is always a deathly choice. Using a garlic dip can also increase the number and size on the fish you catch.  
The South Shore was the hottest spot this week. Other locations fishing well were the Inlet, Jetty, North Shore and Hangman Tree location.
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 or Lip Ripperz Hatchery Dust 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: 
Our fall derby series Ambush at the Lake will be stating on September 1st and will run until November 15th.
Come join us for a chance to win $6,000 in Resort Prizes!
Also mark your calendars for the Morrison's Bonus Cash Weekend on Oct. 31 - Nov. 2. $2000 in cash prizes. 
Weather: 
The forecast for the beginning of next week will be sunny with mostly clear skies. Highs are going to be in the mid-70's and the lows in the high-40's. The weather is away changing day to day in the high country.
Make sure to visit the National Weather Service link which is usually accurate: 7-Day Forecast Convict Lake.
Sunrise - Sunset:
Sunrise this week 6:24 am - 6:29 am and Sunset 7:29 pm - 7:19 pm. 

CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
The lake is fishing great in McGee Bay and the Green Banks area in 8-12 feet of water with copper zebra midges and Stevie's Wonder gray/black.
Also the perch fry are abundant so a matuka or an olive woolly bugger on  a sink tip or a full sink line has been productive as well.

CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Crowley Lake continues to be excellent.  I would rate this summer as one of the best I have ever seen in the nearly 20 years I have been guiding it.  
The average size of the fish and diversity of species is fantastic.
The lake level is dropping; however it is in fine shape compared to other low water years, and I do not foresee launching or access issues for the remainder of the 2014 season.
The water clarity is astonishing. I have never seen it so clean this late in the year.  Run-off emanating via the cattle pastures has kept nutrients vital to algae growth out of the water for several years now.
Crowley was filled primarily with water from Grant Lake this year.  This water is much cleaner and different in composition from the mineral rich spring fed waters of Hot Creek and Big Springs. I suspect this has much to do with water clarity and PH levels.
Still water nymphing and streamer fishing have both been very good.  
The perch fry & Tui Chub hatches were great this spring. The larger predatory fish are fattening up on the small baitfish seeking sanctuary along the weed lines.
The midge (chironomid) emergences are also consistent during high pressure periods. Indicator nymphing has been great, and we are not fishing deeper than 12 feet with concentrations of trout in almost all areas of the lake.  This is a rarity on Crowley, as we are almost always trying to locate clean water.

DAVIS LAKE, CALIF:
Rob Anderson of www.renoflyfishingoutfitters.com (775-742-1754) reports:
September 1st
Davis Lake was probably in the best shape to make it through a dry hot summer out of all our local fisheries.
The water was a bit higher going in and there is not quite as much usage as some of the other area reservoirs. It is only at 50% capacity but that is still better than most of the other area Stillwaters.
The water temperatures have come down and are now not much of an issue.
The fish are still more active in the mornings and they are still hanging out in a little deeper water.
Hanging Blood Midges in 6-20 feet of water is a great way to start your day.
As fish start to get more aggressive this fall switching to an intermediate sinking line and retrieving anything from Damsels to Wooly buggers will get you into some fish.
There are some really big fish starting to show at Davis and heavier tippet is a good idea. Especially if you are stripping flies with a sinking line.
Davis is going to be a great option for local fly fisherman this fall and it should fish well.

DONNER LAKE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
This lake was stocked heavily a while ago but still continues to fish well! 
With temps in the low 80's for the week it's a great time to get out in the morning and evenings to fish though this lake will still put fish out during the day. 
Mack fishing has been fair and jigging for these has been good at depths from 70-100 ft and some smaller guys being caught along the shoreline.
Kokanee fishing has still been good with fat little guys ranging from 10-12 inches in 45-80 feet with most of the schools being between Loch Leven Lodge and China Cove and some larger Kokes in the 13-14 inch range on the opposite shore from the boat launch suspended 60-80 feet in 100-120 feet of water. 
Kokes haven't turned yet but will soon so now is the time to get out and fish for them!  Also, for the boaters, there is a section off the shoreline at the State Park where the depth drops off quickly and lots of fish are concentrated there.  
Small Macks have been busy cruising the shorelines in the morning and evening picking of small rainbows.  Throw imitations that will mimic these and smaller baitfish now in these dusk and dawn hours to be successful!

EAGLE VALLEY RESERVOIR, LINCOLN COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Catch rates have improved over the past week with anglers catching trout on Power Bait or night crawlers combined with a bit of mini marshmallow to make a tempting combo-meal.
The bigger fish have been hanging out in deeper water.
Bass action has slowed down with the cooling temperatures associated with monsoonal rains.

ECHO CANYON RESERVOIR, LINCOLN COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Anglers fishing from the dam have found good action for rainbow trout.
The fish are taking the usual Power Bait or nightcrawler offerings, as well as small spinners or flies.
Bass action has been hit-and-miss.
The new full hook-up campground is expected to open shortly after the Labor Day weekend.

FALL RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Right now is one if not the very best time to fish Fall River.
Water conditions are great and the fishing has been good!
Enjoy the caddis hatch early in the morning, between 8:00 ~ 9:00 AM, PMDs after 10:00 AM.
Callibaetis can be found coming off, fish sipping them off the surface in select spots found lower in the river near the confluence.
Olive or black leeches retrieved on a sinking line for the afternoons if you get tired of suspending indicators.
Suspending a #18 black midge patterns under a small indicator on long, really long to your backing drifts will increase your chances of finding more than a few rainbows on the end of your fly rod.
Try #16-18 Pheasant Tail Nymphs too.  
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

FEATHER RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Shad are still being caught around Live Oak, but the big story is the nice move by steelhead heading up the low flow section. Even better, some of those fish are taking flies on the swim, even red copper Johns, and pressure is low. Most fish have been about 3-4 pounds.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

FRENCHMAN RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The lake is about at 38% its capacity. Some local anglers caught limits of 16-17 inch rainbows trolling dodgers/nightcrawlers at the dam.
Courtesy of Wiggins Trading Post.

HAT CREEK, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Open for business again after the fires shut down access.
DFW has also resumed planting trout.
Fishing here is at its best before the sun gets high in the sky and then again right before sunset.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

HOT CREEK, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Water flow  down to 2 CFS.
Try an attractor dry  like a stimulator  with a nymph as a dropper 
WD-40, green rock worms or scuds. 
Heavy weed growth makes accurate casting a must. With cooler weather and shorter days the weeds should begin to break down soon.

ILLIPAH RESERVOIR, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Water levels have stabilized and anglers report good success for fish between 12 and 17 inches. Most anglers are having success with Power Bait.
Float tube anglers continue to report good fishing for trout primarily early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Best area seems to be in the area where the creek enters the lake.
Minnow imitations, natural baits and wooly buggers on a sinking line are all worth a try here.
Shore anglers report good luck on the west side of the lake and at the inlet where the creek enters the reservoir.
Other flies this time of year should include prince nymphs, zug bugs, hares ears and damsel fly nymphs.

JACKSON MEADOWS RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
With this lake being stocked a while ago with a healthy planting of DFW trout this lake will fish great for months now! 
If you're looking for bigger fish, fish the face of the dam more as there is always some big fish hanging on the ledges of the dam. 
Fishing small apex's about 25-35 feet down has been the ticket here fo boaters as some anglers can't keep trout off their hooks! 
Small trout in the 12-14 inch range but numbers are high. 
Look for larger trout on the bottom in 45-55 feet of water or off the face of the dam with small minnow or crayfish imitations. 
A 7 lb Brown was caught and released two weeks ago! 
As water levels drop slightly the only launch feasible for boats is the one at Pass Creek not Woodcamp!  
Lake is at 71% capacity and it's a great escape from the masses that descend on Tahoe.

JAKES/BOIES RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Like other irrigation impoundments, the water has stabilized here a bit with the advent of the recent rains.
This reservoir is very weedy and fishing from shore is difficult.
Anglers should plan on bringing a small boat, canoe or float tube for best chance at success.
Anglers report fair fishing for 13 to 16 inch trout and a few bass.
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:
This once popular fishery has been dry for a number of years.
But lovers of Jiggs do not despair.
Starting in mid to late July work will begin restoring the dam, deepening the area closest to the dam and adding bentonite clay to the bottom to help it hold water. Work is to be completed in October and if we have a good winter, anglers should be able to fish it in the spring or summer of 2015!

JUNE LAKE LOOP, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Grant - Gull - June - Silver Lakes and Rush Creek:
Rush Creek flow is now25 CFS and fishing is fair. Try a humpie or stimulator with a hares ear or pheasant tail dropper.

KLAMATH RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Cold water releases out of the Trinity will bring more fish into the lower Klamath, producing good fishing.
Above the confluence, the fishing is going to be demanding. Warm water and low flows just don't add up to good fishing.
We will see better reports by October as cooler, shorter days prevail. Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

LAUGHTON, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Colorado River:
Striped bass and catfish action continues to improve.
Anglers fishing in the evenings and nighttime hours are catching catfish with anchovies. One fisherman brought in a catfish nearing the ten-pound mark.
Anglers also are catching their limits of striped bass with a few lucky folks reeling in a trophy.
A striper weighing just less than 30 pounds was caught in the upper Big Bend area along with several others in the double-digit range.

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:
Upper Twin best for fly rodders with Doc's Twin Lake Special black or olive or try hanging a callibaetis nymph under an indicator.

MARTIS LAKE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
CLOSED FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR BECAUSE OF WEEDS AND SPORADIC FISH LOSS!

LAKE MEAD, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports: Fishing has been tough for the past week or so.
While anglers have been catching fish, no one area is producing on a consistent basis. Those who are starting before sunrise are having the most success with stripers and black bass.
Lures have worked well for the stripers and imitation baits are enticing the black bass. Catfish are biting for anglers staying out later in the morning. The fish are taking anchovies and even lures.

LAKE MOHAVE, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports: Most reports are noting an abundance of smallmouth bass. Many of the coves surrounding Cottonwood Cove have proven worthwhile for anglers venturing out.
Smallmouth and largemouth bass are hitting plastics and night crawlers.
Panfish are taking night crawler pieces as well. Those who are fishing Willow Beach have not been disappointed.
Anglers have recently caught striped bass ranging from 10 to 31 pounds using various baits, including swimbaits, anchovies and even chicken livers.
Anglers are catching from the pier and on the water.

ORVILLE LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Bidwell Ramp closes Wednesday. The only open launch ramp is at the spillway on a gravel ramp.
Best bite is for catfish at Bidwell Marina, Lime Saddle and the north and middle forks where water enters the lake. Average is two to four pounds. Bass are scattered from the surface to 40 feet deep.
Plastics are the best way to go.  Courtesy of Nor Cal fishing News.

OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Upper Owens River:
Flow is up a bit to 49 CFS. The water is low and clear. Try caddis pupa, San Juan worms and egg patterns. The fish are scattered so cover lots of water.
Lower Owens River:
Water flow is back up to 279 CFS. Fishing is good but a bit tougher with the higher flows. Not much surface action  but nymph fishing is great.
WD40's, rainbow warriors, baetis emergers.

OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Middle Owens River:
The Middle Owens River near Bishop is historically high & not in prime shape for wading or drifting early in the fall.
This year we will have near perfect conditions, and I anticipate another great season for drift boat & wading trips.
Water temps will begin to fall with respect to air temps, & we will see excellent caddis and mayfly activity for sure.
Because the MO is a tailwater regulated by the huge reserves of water that Crowley Lake holds, it will not be as negatively impacted by the drought as other freestone creeks and smaller tailwater fisheries.
Upper Owens River:
The Upper Owens River has weed issues in the sections downstream from the confluences of Hot Creek & common irrigation canals.
Flows are low for this time of year, and I fear they will only continue to fall as there is little water to bypass from the Rush Creek diversion.  
The upper sections around Long Years are in good condition.
The deeper pools will have concentrations of planted, and smaller migratory rainbows and resident browns.
Grass hoppers are now present along with caddis and smaller mayflies.
Dry/dropper rigs are fun to fish, and can very be a very effective method of fly fishing this time of year.
Look for the larger trout to begin migrating up out of Crowley by mid-September.  We are keeping our fingers crossed the water flows do not drop enough to hamper the fall spawning runs of browns & Crowley Steelhead.

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:
It continues to fish well all day long.
Try # 3, but don't forget to check out pit 4 and 5.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

PROSSER RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Lake is at 21% capacity and has been fishing great for the Smallmouth. 
Crayfish and minnow patterns have been good for the flyflingers and Crayfish crankbaits, Senkos, Panther Martin spinners, and live worms have been good for the rest. 
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) reports:
The storms combined with cooler nights and the rain have dropped water temperatures here and bass fishing has slowed down.
Best time is late afternoon.
Those anglers that have been able to get out between the storms have still reported about 7 to 8 fish caught for every keeper.
Water levels are low and launching a boat at Narciss landing is not recommended and very difficult to do.
The main boat ramp is still usable, though care should be taken.
The collection ditch is hit or miss for trout. Small olive buggers, hare’s ears, damsel/dragonfly nymphs and leech patterns should all work.
The ditch is artificial lures and flies only.
Fishing in the main part of the marsh for bass is fair to good with anglers catching one keeper for every five to seven fish caught over the recent gas motor opener.
Dark colored soft plastics with either some sparkle or a contrasting colored tail hooked weedless and thrown right into the tules in the main part of the marsh are your best bet for bass.

RYE PATCH RESERVOIR, PERSHING COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports: The boat launches are closed due to low water levels.
Shore launching is risky and is done at your own risk.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (LOWER), CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Releases out of Keswick Reservoir are up today from 7,222 CFS to 7,450 CFS. Fishing continues to vary from good to fair, sometimes slow.
It's definitely a game of being in the right section of the river at the right time of day.
Bring a good hook set and really pay attention to the indicator. The takes are super subtle. It's really easy to miss your best opportunities.
Best fishing happens mid day which is typical during the summer.
The sweetest time to be on the water is at sunset. Near sunset is also the best time during the summer to find rising fish that are eating Hydropsyche emergers and cripples.
Expect stable conditions and good fishing through August and September.
A few of the hot flies have been #18 Super Flash PTs, TB Peaches & Cream, Bat Wing Emerger, Micro Mayflies in brown and black, #16-18 BH Pheasant Tail Nymphs. Brown Rubber Legs in #6-8 are always good. Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (LOWER), CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
King Salmon fishing:
August 31, 2014
Water flow is currently 7,250 CFS. 
 Salmon fishing the Sacramento River is AWESOME.  Fish are here! Salmon fishing is great, beautiful Chrome salmon ! Catching 5 to 10 fish a day. Salmon averaging in weight, 15 to 25 pounds, several fish caught over the last few days 30 pounds. 
Getting into some larger salmon now. More fish daily.
Using Flatfish lures is the hot ticket.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (LOWER), CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
Fly fishing:
As of August 31, 2014 water flow is currently 7, 250 CFS.
Lower Sacramento River fly fishing report, fly fishing is excellent.
Trout fishing Redding area, trout fishing is excellent.
Rainbow Trout fishing, fly fishing, trout are 18 inches to 26 inches.
Fishing Redding to Balls Ferry ramp. Using PMD's, Black Caddis, 
Prince Nymphs, Pheasant Tails, Brown Micro Mays.  Lower Sacramento River fishing trout. Spin fishing for trout have been outstanding. 70 fish days. 
Amazing wild Rainbow trout fishing on the Sac River. 
Drift  boats or Jet boats available. We cater to all levels of anglers.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (UPPER), CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Expect conditions to improve as summer comes to an end. Think October.
Best fishing is going to be found up near Dunsmuir where the coolest waters can be found.
Overall, the fishing is tough once anglers get below Sims Rd. due to warm water conditions.
Go easy on these fish. It's a tough summer for them as they seek colder waters up in Dunsmuir. You will find a mixture of planters and native fish.
Productive nymph patterns include #18 Gordon's Amber Wing Prince, #16 Brown Micro Mayfly, #8 Brown or Black Rubber Legs.
Not too much dry fly fishing happening, but anglers working the edges of tailouts can bring fish up throwing Fat Alberts, Foam-U-Lators, Golden Stones and Cutter's E/C Caddis.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

SAN JOAQUIN RIVER/RED’S MEADOW, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Flow has dropped to 9 CFS. Fishing is much tougher with the low flows. Try an attractor like a stimulator a coachman with a para Adams as a dropper.

SHASTA LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
A nice batch of rainbow trout have been found 60 to 80 ft down in the channel on the west side  of  Toupee Island in at least 120 ft of water.  
Try topwater in the morning and then throw worms and jigs in the afternoon and evening in the shade covers with varying vertical structure.
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:
August 31, 2014  Shasta Lake guided fishing
Northern California fishing Lake Shasta.  
We offer daily guided fishing on Lake Shasta.
Shasta Lake King salmon fishing is excellent. 5 -12 salmon being caught a day, between 3 -5 pound range. Catching BIG salmon 100-120 ft deep, trolling, shad pattern lures.
Areas fishing, Mouth of Sac Arm & McCloud Arm.
LIMITS of salmon and trout.
Rainbow trout fishing on Lake Shasta is great. Fishing 30 to 75 ft deep. Trout are very large now, due to the large bait fish in the area. Fishing best around the Pit Arm and Jones Valley area.
Shasta Lake Spotted Bass & Small Mouth Bass fishing has been excellent. Limits daily. Catching 20 to 50 fish per day, bigger fish are being caught 25 -30 ft deep. Larger numbers of smaller bass being caught on the top water using spinner baits and tube worms.

SILVER LAKE, CALIF:
John Voss of the Caples Lake Resort (209-258-8888) (www.capleslakeresort,com) reports:
On Thursday August 28th, E.I.D and KMPUD planted 1,650 pounds of Rainbow Trout into Caples Lake,  and 1,350 pounds into Silver Lake.
There were 66 percent catchable,  and 34 percent Trophy Trout in each plant.
Come on up and enjoy  the great fishing.
We will continue to have Lodging,  fishing boat, and kayak rentals thru Oct. 20,  when we will be closing for the summer season.

SOUTH FORK RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
South Fork is very green with algae and there are some large weed mats and clumps of algae floating around the lake.
Fishing has been fair for smaller trout, slow for larger trout, fair to good for bass and wipers.
However, with longer cooler nights water temperatures should drop even more and trout fishing should really start to pick up over the next few weeks.
Shore anglers appear to be having some luck around most of the lake for trout, though by mid morning the trout have moved offshore to deeper water.
Shore fishing also seems to be best first thing in the morning. If fishing after 10:00 am, fish shorelines with steeply dropping lake bottom to get your presentation down about 15-18 feet where the thermocline is.
For trout, fluorescent green or orange/yellow seem to be the preferred colors of Power Bait. While trout fishing has been slow, the cooler water temps may stimulate the fish into being a bit more cooperative for anglers for a bit.
Damsel flies are still hatching so damselfly nymphs are most definitely an option along weed beds first thing in the morning, though anglers continue to have some luck with hares ears, PMD’s, seal buggers, and wooly bugger.
A few wipers continue to be caught in the deeper open water.
Fishing for largemouth bass along the dam has been good using soft plastics.

SMITH RIVER, OREGON:
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 is open for Chinook, adipose fin-clipped steelhead and trout.
Trout is catch-and-release only in the mainstem Smith.
Trout season will end Sept. 15 in the Smith River basin.
Check regulations for harvest and gear restrictions.

STAMPEDE RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Kokanee fishing here has waned as kokes are turning and with water levels at 24% capacity( that's correct) it's a must to have 4-wheel drive to launch and even that's been risky especially with the recent rain!  Everyone is now utilizing the area east of the ramp to launch their boats now.  
Kokes are spread out all over now and some are even starting to turn! 
Spinners, Hoochies, and Radical Glow Tubes have been go to lures in colors with pink, orange, and Purple. 
Best Dodger colors have been copper with any Orange and Pink in it! 
Look for Macks underneath these schools of Kokes and some larger ones still hanging out in the deeper sections of the lake around the dam. 
Trout fishing has been best in the coves up and down from the campgrounds and boat ramp. 
Smallmouth fishing has been great here too in the Davis Creek arm and some of those that are being caught have been pretty nice!

LAKE TAHOE:
A report of limits of average sized Mackinaw Trout being caught on silver flasher blades and minnows, trolled at depths of 100-300 feet on the west side of the lake near Homewood, California.

TRINITY LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Trout are still being caught at the confluences of the incoming streams using spinners or spoons copper is your best color for some reason right now after the sun is on the water and silver very early in the morning right at daybreak.
Trollers plying the water with Vampire Rapalas or Brads wee wigglers in the copper with red eyes are catching limits of 14 to 16 inch trout.
Trolling with down riggers at a depth of 40 feet are catching Salmon in the 4 to 5 pound range and an occasional 3 pound trout.
Bass fishing is doing well off all the points in about 15 to 20 feet of water using Pro-Worms in a blue/black pattern and deep diving plugs in the shad patterns. What also works well is the soft plastic in the Rainbow Trout patterns; these are 7 inch long and work really well when retrieved slowly along the submerged points of the lake.
Courtesy of Weaverville online.

TRINITY RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The river flows are 424 CFS. Fishing has been fair to good for salmon.
Best water conditions are found up in Lewiston, Douglas City and Junction City. Definitely worth the time.
Bring your 8 wt and swing for King Salmon that are loitering in some of the pools around Lewiston.
For now, the fishing consists of catching King Salmon and Brown Trout.
Water temps are warming up below Junction City.
The salmon can be caught using Boles Bazookas.
The Brown Trout will chase streamers and leeches.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

TRUCKEE RIVER, NEV. & CALIF:
Rob Anderson of www.renoflyfishingoutfitters.com (775-742-1754) reports:
September 1st
The Truckee is still really low and getting lower. This is probably going to go on for quite some time. Most likely until late into the fall or winter until we get some precipitation and some lower elevation snow melt.
Lake Tahoe only has about 5 inches of storage and the flows out of the lake are dropping daily.
These are really bad conditions to even consider fishing on the Truckee right now. If you have to please do it in the mornings and the California side is probably your best bet.
This would be a better time to try somewhere new or to even walk some of the river with a note pad or a camera and look and see what your favorite spot looks like while it is low.
The air temperatures are still really warm on the Nevada side and the fish could really use a break until we get some water.
Flows are listed below with the normal flows in Red.
Town of Truckee 53 CFS (273 CFS), Boca Bridge 142 CFS (489 CFS), Farad 161 CFS (482 CFS), Mogul 57 CFS (393 CFS) Reno 79 CFS (238 CFS) and Vista 104 CFS (335 CFS).

TRUCKEE RIVER, BIG:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
California:
Weather for today is calling for mid 80's.  Fish morning only today on the upper stretch and till midafternoon on the lower stretch of the Big T as water temps will get past 68!
Water Levels have now dropped!  Very little water coming out of Tahoe and very little water coming out of the dam at Boca.   
Even though water levels are now low the fishing has been pretty good with some good dry fly fishing if you know time and place. 
Stones trailed by PMD, Caddis, BWO and Midge patterns have been great. 
Also, Crayfish are molting so don't pass up on throwing a crayfish pattern in those deep holes and stretches that one can find on the Big T. 
Streamer fishing and dry fly fishing has picked up recently. That means not just nymphing! 
Explore different stretches of water and give your old spot a break or try and fish the area lakes.  
Most fish will be taken by high-sticking the pocket water. 
Let's be ethical here and give the fish a break when water temps reach 68 degrees to cut back on the mortality rate of trout when they're stressed by these high water temps. 
Lots of things on the menu now such as Caddis, Stones, Mayflies (PMD's, PED's), Midges, and Terrestrials (Ants, Hoppers).  If you're fishing dries consider using 4x-6x leaders now and when nymphing 4x-5x tippet.
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:
Rob Anderson of www.renoflyfishingoutfitters.com (775-742-1754) reports:
Sept. 1: Flows on the Little Truckee are 41 CFS. Although low we are used to seeing these kind of flows on the L.T. in the fall. The Kokanee have started to move into the river out of Boca Reservoir which is not normal for this early in the fall.
The Brown Trout should not be far behind. The Little Truckee is tough to fish right now.
The moss on the bottom is breaking up and creating lots of drifting obstacles in the water. This makes it very hard to nymph fish. Cleaning your flies often is a must. Dragging the bottom is not an option.
Fish are hanging out in the few deeper runs in the Little Truckee and with the Big Truckee in such bad shape you have to get there early to beat the guides and locals who know the river to the good spots.
Baetis Mayflies have started to show up and Midges are always a good bet.
The Little Truckee is the type of fishery where a few good casts will always catch more fish than blind casting over and over in the same run.
Sit back and observe the fish. You can see them feeding in the water column. Look for rising fish and then make a plan before you jump right in and spook a fish you did not even see. The bottom is dark and fish are very camouflaged. Take a moment to observe and you will be surprised at what you might see.

TRUCKEE RIVER, LITTLE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Done.

TWIN LAKES, CALIF:
Judy Allen at Annett's Mono Village (760- 932-7071) (www.monovillage.com) reports:
Upper Twin Lake:
Largest fish caught this week belongs to Janet Parrent from Brea, CA.  
She landed a 4-pound, 8-ounce Rainbow using a Roostertail.
Ricky Resendez from Ontario brought in a 3-pound, 12-ounce Rainbow using Mice Tails.
Rhonda Carter from Sonora landed a 3-pound, 8-ounce rainbow using a trout looking lure.
Our Labor Day Derby starts Sat., August 30th and runs through Sept. 7th. Largest fish gets the winner a cash prize of $100.00.
Our stocking this week included 425 pounds of 3-7 pound trout from the Desert  Spring Trout Farm in Oregon.
California Fish and Game planted 900 pounds plus 20 trophy fish, some at a 5-6 pound weight.
Regards,
Judy Allen

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, NEVADA AND CALIF:
Rob Anderson of www.renoflyfishingoutfitters.com (775-742-1754) reports:
Sept. 1: The East Walker River is flowing at 43 CFS. Although the normal flows for this time of year are much higher, we are used to seeing the East Walker at this flow. It is really early in the fall for it to be low and it has been in tough shape for most of the summer.
There are a few things that have helped the East Walker.
The projections of the water levels in Bridgeport reservoir have been higher, there has been some summer rain and the overnight lows in the Bridgeport area help the water temperatures some.
The East Walker is also a much smaller stream than the Truckee and the water moves much faster at lower flows creating more oxygen.
There is still a need to fish the East Walker early in the day and keep an eye on the water temperatures. They have come down quite a bit but can get warm in the afternoons. There is some warmer weather expected over the next week or so.
The Hoppers are still out in force and Hopper Dropper set-ups are a great way to start.
Lower flows usually make this system worth a try, especially before a hard freeze that will kill most of the summer’s hoppers.
Short line Nymphing without an indicator is also a good way to go now.
There should be some fall hatches starting soon and having Baetis nymphs and dries as well as an assortment of midges is a must.
Smaller bugs in size 16-20 and light tippets like 5X-6X will also help.
The Nevada side seems to be in a little better shape right now but the whole river is fishable.

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Water flow at 45 CFS. Fishing is slow.
Try midge patterns, baetis emergers and WD40's.

WILDHORSE RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The recent moisture combined with cooler temperatures has been a blessing for Wild Horse and it looks like the reservoir dodged a bullet as far as any major fish die-off.
That being said the lake is around 16 or 17 percent of capacity and will probably go into the winter at around 10 percent of capacity.
It has been a year since it has been stocked so the minimum size for trout being caught is in the 16 to 17 inch class with many fish over 20 inches.
Fishing has picked up a bit, but due to the lack of stocking, fishing should be considered slow to fair for quantity and good for size.
Wipers are also being reported with most of those greater than 15 inches in size and many of them are 20 inches or larger.
Launching large boats is not recommended at all especially with a soggy muddy shoreline from the recent rains. Only car toppers or boats that can be hand carried to the water are recommended now.
Shore anglers are having a little luck for trout with Power Bait or worms. However, find shoreline where the bottom drops off quickly as the trout have moved deeper to find cooler water.
Fly rodders continue to have some success with buggers, hare’s ears, leech patterns and chironomids fished from float tubes or kick boats. Just make sure you are using a full sink line and give it time to get the flies down deep.
The fish are avoiding the shallow south end of the lake due to warm water temperatures there.
Many of the fish are being caught at between 15 and 20 feet of depth in the canyon by the dam.

WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Water levels are extremely low and warm.
Limits have been lifted, but due to water conditions, the trip isn’t worth it.

WILSON RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Water levels have stabilized due to the recent precipitation and the boat ramp is still usable for smaller boats.
Fishing has been fair for trout and slow to fair for bass.
Anglers have had fair luck for trout in the 12-16” size between the boat ramp and the canyon by the dam as well as along the rock by the cabin.
A few fish in the 18 to 20 inch fish were also being reported.
The road should be okay to drive on now.

WHISKEYTOWN LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The lakes and ramps are in good shape.
Kokanee fishing has also been great with fish averaging 14 inches and still growing. Troll at 40 to 60 feet with a pink Apex behind a sling blade in the channel at the bridge or try an Uncle Larry's spinner with pink and white beads tipped with toupee corn.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

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