ANTELOPE LAKE, CALIF:
It will be planted this week by the California Department of Fish and Game.
BISHOP AREA, CALIF:
Rick and Patti Apted – Lake Sabrina Boat Landing (760-873-7425) (www.lakesabrinaboatlanding.com) reports:
Sabrina Lake:
Well, I do believe Summer is here! Wooo-Hooo!
The Lake is on the rise and as you can see by the pictures, we’ve come up quite a bit over the last week despite cooler temps toward the weekend and thus the slowing of the run-off. At one point early in the week, we were coming up at about a 1 foot – 1-1/2 over a 24 hour period. With temps once again getting up to near 100 degrees in Bishop next week, the run-off should be going gang-buster by next weekend. Well you know it was going to happen eventually, you now have to start fishing for the fish – they’re just not jumping on your line anymore – it’s the smart ones that remain – that is until DFG makes it’s first stocking at Lake Sabrina – we hoping for next week. Baits are still working the best – that would be – Nightcrawlers, Salmon Eggs and Power Bait. Lures are finally starting to do a bit better and flies – probably give it another week or so until we get our first big hatch of our friends the skeeters. All the campgrounds in the Bishop Creek Canyon are now open. The only campground to take reservations is Four Jeffery (www.reserveamerica.com and enter Four Jeffrey) all others are first come first serve. There is a full hook-up campground also on the South Lake road, Creekside RV Park. Remember to take it easy on all the mountain roads, deer are on the move.
Almost forgot to tell you about the rock slide we had on Friday morning – rocks were on the move just between Camp Sabrina and the first bridge heading toward the Lake – huge boulder just a bouncing down the hill and with no w-i-n-d that day – the dust just hung for quite a while. Our entertainment in the Canyon.
Had a group from Ridgecrest take a hike to DingleBerry Lake on Saturday – pretty treacherous at the first creek crossing which is George Creek – one misstep and you’re in for one good slide down the mountain ending up in Lake Sabrina – once the run-off really gets going, it will be virtually impossible to cross that creek – use some coming sense, please. The switch-backs are still covered in snow and you’re hunting for the trail in other places. With the warmer temps due in – you’ll probably also be post-holing when walking on the snow meaning you’ll be sinking up to who knows how far and it’s not a lot of fun trying to get out of that hole. Most the back country lakes are still iceed-over. Give it a few more weeks!
The temps are definitely on the rise – highs expected to be in the mid 70s with the mid 40s – the Aspen by the front door to the Café are leafed out with that pretty lime green early spring color even though it’s now early summer. Just a month or so off schedule. You can check www.weather.gov and enter ASPENDELL, CA on the site and it will give you a fairly good hint at the weather or check in with Howard at www.MammothWeather.com.
REMEMBER A JACKET – IT TENDS TO BE BETWEEN 25 AND 30 DEGREES COOLER AT THE LAKE.
It’s also time for the 2nd annual “LUAU” in the Mountain at Bishop Creek Lodge (BCL). It’s June 25th @ 4:00pm. The cost is $35 per person and includes all you can eat deep pit pig, Mai Tai’s, fresh fruit with other highlights being a hula contest, limbo contest and best dressed. Call BCL at 760-873-4484 to reserve your tickets now!
BISHOP AREA, CALIF:
Jared Smith – Parcher’s Resort (760-873-4177) (sierrasmitty@cebridge.net):
South Lake:
The runoff is here and the lake is charging up. SCE put creek flows to minimum on Wednesday and the lake came up 5 ft in one day – that was actually a little too much so they slightly increased flows to allow for the final touches to be finished on the dam. Work is now supposed to be finished next Thursday. The water clarity at the lake is improving by the day – we’re hoping to see crystal clear blue water we’re used to seeing in the next few weeks. Fishing is still on the slow side overall but conditions are improving fast.
South Fork Bishop Creek:
Reduced flows have really improved the water conditions on the creek. The fishing has remained excellent along most of stretches of the creek with some solid fish in the 2 to 3 lb range. Most folks are really doing well in the slower moving pools and deep pockets. More solid 2lb+ rainbows along with plenty of pan sized stockers are filling stringers. Thomas Bouyants, worms, mini-jigs, Panther Martins and Thomas Bouyants are producing best. Please help Adopt-A-Creek continue to stock trophy fish in the canyon – visit http://adoptacreek.org/ for details on how you can help.
North Lake:
The road to North Lake finally opened this weekend – hooray! Mixed reports out of North Lake this week – some good, some bad. Garlic Power Bait, crawlers, Thomas Bouyants and mini-jigs are working best.
Middle Fork Bishop Creek:
Reduced flows coming out of Lake Sabrina have improved conditions on the middle fork. Lots of limits reported with some Alpers to 3 lbs mixed in.
Weir Pond:
The bite at Weir is finally starting to slow down a tad – but it’s still VERY good. The fly guys and the spin fishing guys are both having great success on a mix of Rainbows, Browns and Brookies. Big fish of the week from Weir was a team effort where brothers JC and Ryland Anthony caught a 2 lb 5 oz ‘bow on a gold Thomas Buoyant.
Intake II:
Fishing early and late has been excellent with lots of limits reported. Most stringers are full of the pan sized rainbows but there are some very nice Alpers being caught too. The pipe, pump station and west shore are best.
BRIDGEPORT RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
The reservoir has been a little hit and miss this week. It seems like the fish are moving around a lot so they’re a little difficult to find from day to day. Once you find them its game on! While some anglers are reporting just a few fish per day, others are reporting having 30 and 40 fish days. There are lots of fish in the half pound to 1.5 pound range being caught while the 2 to 4 pounders are a little more scarce, but still coming in. Bait fishing and fly fishing have been the best lately and there’s been a few folks still doing good trolling. Blades/crawlers seem to be the best for trolling, for bait it’s been various colors of power bait and gulp eggs as well as crawlers and for fly fishing patterns include Zebra Midge, soft hackle, green/red Midge, Rojo Midge, Callibaetis Nymph, seal buggers, mini leeches and Hornbergs. Areas to fish include Rainbow Point and right out in front of the marina.
BUCKS LAKE, CALIF:
It will be planted this week by the California Department of Fish and Game.
CAPLES LAKE, CALIF:
Doug Busey of Douglas County reports:
The lake is about 25 percent thawed. A fisherman caught a 2.5 brown trout by Woods Creek.
CARSON RIVERS, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Main Carson River:
Current flow is 1200 cfs. A great deal of snow has fallen in the Carson River region. High flow will make it difficult to wade if not impossible. Fishing has been slow.
CARSON RIVER, CALIF:
East Carson River:
High, fast and muddy.
West Carson River:
High, fast and muddy.
COMINS LAKE, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
A few bass have been showing up, but no trout due to the pike infestation. Pike fishing has also been poor. There are few if any trout left in the lake also due to the pike infestation.
CONVICT LAKE, CALIF:
Jen Heintzelman of Convict Lake Resort (800-992-2260) (www.convictlakeresort.com) reports:
Catch of the Week:
Nick Dellaripa from La Puente brings in a 3 lb. 8 oz. trout caught off of the Jetty on Garlic & Orange Glitter Power Bait twisted together.
Weather:
Temperatures in the 70’s moving to 80’s towards the weekend and sunny. Lows in the 40’s. Feel free to call us for a real-time weather report. Here is a local site that is usually quite accurate www.mammothweather.com.
Tactics/Bait:
Garlic Power Bait and Power Bait Worms have been the most productive baits this week. Fish have been caught all around the lake pretty equally: Jetty, Inlet, North Shore and South Shore.
Here is a list of other baits that are good to try: YUM TroutKrilla, Rapala, Trout Teasers, Midges, Panther Martin, Thomas Bouyants, Green Wooly Booger, White Mini Jig and Garlic Power Bait. Trolling with down riggers 3-6 colors or 20-50 feet is a depth range to try.
Stocking:
DFG stocked this week.
Convict Lake will be stocked another 100 lbs of Alper’s Rainbow this week for the Father’s Day Derby.
Sunrise – Sunset:
Sunrise this week 5:33 am – 5:34 am. Sunset 8:17 pm – 8:18 pm.
Derby News:
Results for Round-up at the Lake will be posted in a few weeks and this weekend we have 40 anglers competing in the Father’s Day Derby for $2,000 in gear and prizes.
CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Some better days on the lake lately.
Sandy Point and Pelican Point have been the best areas.
Gray or black Midge pupa or Stevie’s M-80 in 10-12 feet of water.
DAVIS LAKE, CALIF:
The Truckee River Outfitters (775-853-7368) (info@renoflyshop.com):
Fishing has been variable here in the last week. Clear, calm days do not seem to favor the angler right now. While there are some Callibaetis and blood Midges still hatching, there is not a lot of surface activity. Fishing has been best with sinking lines and Buggers, leaches, Sheep Creeks and damsels in deeper water. No damsel activity on or near the surface yet but that should begin to change in the next week or two. Boats and floats tubes are definitely a plus at Davis right now.
DONNER LAKE, CALIF:
It will be planted this week by the California Department of Fish and Game.
EAGLE VALLEY RESERVOIR, LINCOLN COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Rainbow trout are keeping anglers busy at this Lincoln County reservoir. Fly-fishermen have found success with small, bead head patterns though Woolly Buggers are generally productive.
Bait fishermen have had luck with mini marshmallows, worms or a combination of the two.
ECHO CANYON RESERVOIR, LINCOLN COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Largemouth bass, rainbow trout and crappie hitting a variety of baits. Small flies with a bead head, like a number 16-20 Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear, have been catching fish along with small spinners, Power Bait and worms. Bass will generally like something larger such as an olive, brown or black Woolly Bugger.
FALL RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
No Hex hatch yet. Water conditions are great. Insect hatches are fabulous! Good evening Caddis hatches when the days are sunny and warm. We are just about to get into warmer weather, so we expect a progressively successive change in the quality of the fishing on Fall River.Good fishing is happening on Fall River, just not every day. We are looking at better weather in the coming days and weeks. Better, warmer, stable weather equals good fishing on this ideal trout stream. The rainbows are here, the insect hatches are here. No river compares when it comes to casting dry flies to rising rainbow trout. If that’s your thing, then book a trip right now. A day on Fall River will go like this: PMD’s put the fish on the surface around 11:00 AM. The dry fly fishing can be fantastic through 2:00 PM or whenever the wind comes up. Wind is good since it produces the best conditions for fishing subsurface with Nymphs, wets and streamers.
As soon as the weather is warmer for a couple days, the Hex hatch will commence and the evenings will find Fall River populated with gulping, thrashing rainbows chasing silver dollar sized Mayflies and anglers intently standing in their boats, rods at the ready, flies in the dark, twilight cast to the multitudes of rising fish.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.
FEATHER RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Shad fishing is the main game in town right now. The flats below the Outlet in the Oroville Wildlife Area are the places to target. Flows are HUGE right now and that’s making the striper fishing tough, though they’re catching some small keepers on sardines down at Verona. The big news is salmon are showing up in the upper reaches of the Feather and, with salmon season less than a month away, things are shaping up nicely. High, cold water could really be a huge help to the fishing when it kicks in on July 16. Stay tuned!
Courtesy of JD Richey.
FEATHER RIVER, MIDDLE FORK, CALIF:
It will be planted this week by the California Department of Fish and Game.
FRENCHMAN RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Wiggin’s Trading Post at Chilcoot (530-993-4683) reports:
A lot of fishing goin’ on. Kayden Buell and Tara Newman caught 2 trout and 3 catfish at Crystal Point using nightcrawlers. Matt Dallimore, Matt Miller, and Marshall Miller caught 12 fish between them at Turkey Point. Shane and Travis Williams caught their limits using Needlefish lures at the North end of the lake. All were shore fishing. Trolling and Fly fishing have been excellent also. One fisherman caught a 3 pound Rainbow trout at Frenchman’s, no location given. Lures used are Needlefish, Roostertail, Dick Nite, and Tasmanian Devils. Flies being used are Woolly Buggers (green and black) and Copper John.
FRENCHMAN RESERVOIR, CALIF:
The Truckee River Outfitters (775-853-7368) (info@renoflyshop.com):
Fishing here continues to be productive. A variety of methods work but fishing a sinking line in deeper water seems to be the best method.
Same flies as listed in the Davis Lake report work well here. One of our guides was finding fish in much deeper water (25 feet plus) this weekend. As the weather warms the water, fish should begin to congregate in depths of 6 – 12 feet. Damsels should begin to hatch soon.
HAT CREEK, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Salmon flies are out and so are Caddis, PMDs, Golden Stones, Baetis, Canis and Margaritas. Best fishing has been in the morning hours and near sunset. Power House 2 riffle is going to be busy with anglers. Want some space? Move downstream to find solitude and isolated rising fish. Hat Creek is an excellent stream for easy wading, glorious scenery. It’s the perfect fly fisherman’s stream. Not known for huge numbers of rainbows brought to hand, Hat Creek has produced top quality fishing in recent weeks. Sometimes Hat can be crowded, especially since some of the other streams like the Upper Sac, Pit River are less than ideal for angling with a fly rod. Come to Hat! Bring your dry fly box and go hunting for rising fish! Anglers should expect hatches of pale morning duns, green drakes, mahoganies, blue wing olives, Baetis, Caddis. Bring a fly box including Mercer’s Missing Link # 16, Last Chance Cripple Green Drake # 12, Pseudo Mays # 18, Micro Mays #16-18, Rubberlegs # 6-8.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.
HINKSON SLOUGH, LYON COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Hinkson has picked up in the last couple of days. Bass fishermen are targeting some nice 1 pound class fish with spinner baits. The fly anglers have had their best luck with midges fished under an indicator. The Midges at Hinkson are really big and make it easier to tie them on. Wooly buggers fished with an intermediate line have also been catching fish.
HOBART RESERVOIR, WASHOE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Currently there is no access due to snow.
HOT CREEK, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Water flow at 167 CFS. The flow jumped up last week with the warmer weather. Nymph fish with FB Pheasan Ttails, gray WD-40’s and Caddis larva and olive scuds. Caddis activity is picking up.
INDIAN CREEK RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Doug Busey of Douglas County reports:
It is the highest in water level that I have seen in 20 years.
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 328 CFS. The water is up some and fishing is very tough
KIRMAN LAKE, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
Only talked to a couple anglers who fished Kirman this week and they had ok days. Leech patterns like Seal Buggers and W The weeds are growing so it’s becoming more and more important to have a tube up there.
KINNEY RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Doug Busey of Douglas County reports:
Ebbett’s Pass (S.R. 4) is now open. Kinney has some open water showing around the edges.
KLAMATH RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Flows are 2,350 CFS. Salmon fishing is what’s on the agenda for the Klamath. Below Iron Gate Dam, the fishing is slow for steelhead and half pounders. At this time of year, we are in between seasons for finding Klamath steelhead on a fly rod. Look for the fishing to get more interesting in October. Better reports will come in as flows drop and salmon show up.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.
LAUGHLIN, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Colorado River:
Anglers are finding fair action for both striped bass and rainbow trout. Though it is late in the season, fishermen are catching trout as far south as Big Bend of the River State Park.
LEWISTON LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The fishing can be good one day, and nothing the next. Water conditions are good. Warmer weather should trigger Callibaetis hatches that have been mostly absent for some reason.
Look for rainbow trout gulping down carpenter ants about mid day. Lewiston will have great water conditions all summer long. This is a good lake! Hiring a guide can make a huge difference here. Suspending tiny Midges and Scuds, stripping Woolly Buggers and retrieving leeches on Lewiston Lake has produced rainbows from 12-24″. Sometimes brown trout! Use a full sinking type 7 line for fast, speedy retrieves, like Woolly Buggers. Cast to the shallow bank and stripped back through progressively deeper water. RIO’s Auqua Lux Intermediate Sink Fly Line is a great all around line for slow or fast retrieves on Lewiston. Insect hatches of Callibaetis are frequent during the month of June. Finding fish on the surface happens. Fishing has improved as water clarity has improved. Funny how the fishing improves as the weather gets better.
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: The road in now open and some ice still remains on Lake Mary. The water temps are still very cold and fishing is poor.
LAKE MEAD, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The days of big striped bass are not over. Nickolas Olivas of Kingman, Ariz. pulled a 52-pound behemoth from 20 feet of water during a weekend striper tournament. Striper action is good overall but anglers are working for their catch. Some days are better than others, and there have been limited reports of top-water action. Still fishermen are catching the fish with cut anchovies or sardines while those trolling or casting are finding success with white plastic swimbaits. Some fish are showing up near the tires outside of the marinas.
The catfish bite is picking up. Look for them in the coves and bays. Fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass is fair with fish hitting plastics and crankbaits. Look for bucket mouths in flooded vegetation and smallies near rocky structures and points.
LAKE MOHAVE, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Striped bass fishing remains slow to fair in the main lake, look for them where currents are noticeable. Effective techniques include still fishing with cut anchovies or slow trolling hardware.
Catfish action is picking up as the fish move into coves and bays. Panfish won’t be far behind and can be picked up with small spinners, flies and meal worms. Jigs and plastic baits are catching largemouth bass throughout the lake, but the smallie bite has been sluggish. Things are a little different in the Willow Beach area where double-digit stripers are again making their presence known. Reports from the river include stories of fish tipping the scale at 15 pounds or more taking trout imitating swimbaits between mile markers 45 and 52. Trout anglers are finding success with Power Bait, salmon eggs, Super Dupers and Little Jakes following weekly trout plants.
OREGON PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES, ORE:
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (800-720-ODWF) (www.dfw.state.or.us.com) reports:
Recreational ocean Chinook fishing is open. Single point, barbless hooks must be used in this fishery. The bottom fish bag limit remains at seven fish with a sub-bag limit of one Cabezon per day/angler. Anglers are reporting good catches when weather is favorable.Fishing from beaches has been fair as redtail surfperch have been biting, with occasional “surprise” catches of striped bass and Starry Flounder. Redtails will also be moving into bays to spawn.
OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Upper Owens River:
Water flow 150 CFS. The section above the Benton Crossing is still under special regulations. Weekly stockings by DFG have boosted the fish population and fishing is improving. Some caddis activity. Elk hair Caddis or stimulators on the surface. Caddis pupa, Buckskin Nymphs and WD-40’s under the surface.
Lower Owens River:
Water flow 346 CFS. The water has dropped a bit and is close to realistic fishing levels. Fishing is not impossible but very limited. Try the slower water on the inside of turns with long leaders, lots of lead and gray WD-40’s, FB Pheasant Tails and Caddis pupa.
PAHRANAGAT WILDERNESS 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 night crawlers below a bobber will catch fish.
PINE VALLEY COMPLEX, HUMBOLDT COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Onion
The road from Alta Creek (NDOT maintenance station) is still blocked by snow drifts. The road in from the Knott Creek Rd is open. Roads around the reservoir are very muddy and many vehicles got stuck over the weekend. The fishing for holdover rainbows, tiger trout, and Bowcutts was very good for fish up to 18 inches with most 12-15 inches.
The reservoir is completely full. Anglers using flies, spinners, spoons, and Rapalas did the best.
Blue Lakes
The road is still covered in snow and mud. The lake is still frozen. I’ll let you know when it is accessible and ice free.
Knott Creek
The road into Knott Creek is clear and dry.
Limited to no camping spots are available due to the high water level. The reservoir is currently spilling.
Opening weekend was very crowded. Anglers reported catching fishing on a large variety of flies including different nymph and bugger patterns. Tigers, rainbows, and Bowcutts up to 22 inches were reported.
PIT RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The Pit still high and brown. Lake Britton is receiving a lot of dark, dirty water from the upper Pit #1.
So, waiting for the water to settle down, clear up and get fishing friendly. There are reports from some anglers who do catch fish using San Juan Worms, rubber legs, lightening bugs.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.
PYRAMID LAKE, WASHOE COUNTY, NEV:
The Truckee River Outfitters (775-853-7368) (info@renoflyshop.com):
The “die hards” continue to catch fish here with both the Nymph and indicator technique as well as with sinking lines in deeper water. Water temps this weekend were pushing 65 until a small cold front moved through and lowered the shallow water temperature back down to 59 – 60. Beaches with deeper drop offs are going to be the best bet. Fish early and late as clear calm days are the toughest conditions. Mahalo Nymphs and Midges as well as a variety of Woolly Worms and beetles will do the trick. You might also want to walk the shoreline looking for cruisers in shallow water. This is fun fishing and if you get the first cast in front of the fish, they usually take the fly readily. Be aware that the most popular camping beaches will have swimmers, jet skiers and water skiers this time of year. Pyramid will close to trout fishing on June 30th!!
RED LAKE, CALIF:
Doug Busey of Douglas County reports:
The lake is completely thawed.
SACRAMENTO RIVER (LOWER), CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Steady flows of 11,000 cfs. The Lower Sacramento is fishing great! Most years we see a slight slump in the consistency of good fishing during May and June on the Lower Sacramento, here in Redding California, but this year has certainly been the exception. The Eng Thing in # 16 has been a good fly lately. Almost daily, rousing hatches of Pale Morning Duns (PMDs) occur unabated throughout the afternoon and into early evening. Ironically, the better fishing is where we find the fewest bugs coming off the water. We have been on the lookout for surface feeding activity, but it’s not happening like it should. As the flows fluctuate, the rainbows are forced to move preventing a settled, predictable surface feeding habit. Warmer, summer like weather will trigger hatches of Hydro Psyche Caddis that should encourage better fishing into the early evening hours. Best flies lately have been Zack’s Pseudo May, Hogans# 16 Olive S&M, # 14 GB Birds Nest. Mercer’s GB Poxyback Dark Stone has worked pretty well over the past week.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.
SACRAMENTO RIVER (UPPER), CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Expect higher than normal flows on the Upper Sac, 2800 CFS to be exact. Fishing can be good. The anglers who fish the edges of the river, near the bank, those seams between really fast water and slower water can find a few really nice rainbows. Snow runoff will keep the Upper Sac high for the next week at least. Look for better wade fishing in July or when snow runoff is past its peak. Fish Pat’s Rubber Legs, # 12 GB Bird’s Nests, # 16 Brown Micro Mayflies. Look at the water up near Dunsmuir for best wading conditions, and they are not exactly the best. Jeepers, this is a crazy spring.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.
SAN JOAQUIN AND RED’S MEADOWS, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Road closed.
SCOTTS FLAT RESERVOIR, CALIF:
It will be planted this week by the California Department of Fish and Game.
SHASTA LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Lots of water, lake is full and beautiful and is great for fishing conditions! Fishermen are boasting they are catching limits daily. Rainbow trout fishing is excellent. Reports say fishermen are catching Rainbows 30 to 60 feet deep, using Wiggle Hoochies, Pink Apex, & Wee- Tads. King Salmon are being caught now. Outdoor Sport Fishing Adventure Guides are catching quite a few throughout the lake. They are being caught from 15 to 20 inches, trolling 60 to 100 feet deep.
Courtesy of Outdoor Sport Fishing Adventures.
SILVER CREEK, CALIF:
High, fast and muddy.
SILVER LAKE, CALIF:
Doug Busey of Douglas County reports:
Silver Lake is completely thawed.
LAKE TAHOE:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Weather is still the challenge. When the weather does break, fishing has been good. Make sure to check the forecast before launching. Many of the fish have been running in the 2 to 6 pound but an occasional bruiser over 10 has been caught. Mack’s are holding in 120 to 180 feet of water. Areas to target have been Cave Rock shelf, Sand Harbor and Tahoe Keys. Try trolling 170 to 280 ft deep with minnows and dodgers. This method seems to be producing the best results. Bounce this rigging two to three feet off the bottom.
LAKE TAHOE:
Gene St. Denis of Blue Ribbons Charters (530-544-6552) (www.blueribbonfishing.com) reports:
North Shore:
We’ve been getting easy limits of Mackinaw (Lake) Trout (2-18 pounds). We have been trolling at The Tavern Hole, Cal Neva Point, Dollar Point and Sugar Pine Point, 110-220 feet deep, with either Dodgers and minnows or Dodgers and large Trophy Stick lures.
TOPAZ LAKE:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Weather still is a challenge but fishing has been really good for quality and quantity. Plenty of fish have been in the 2 lb range and many anglers reported limits of fish. Boat Anglers used Rapalas in black and gold. In addition trolling worms in 5 to 12 feet of water has been successful. Shore anglers had success using Power Bait and worms
TRINITY LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The Lake is now at 94% capacity.
TRINITY RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The Trinity River is flowing at 2,000 CFS. Releases are scheduled to drop to a very fishable flow of 450 CFS by June 25th. Looks like we will have excellent fly fishing conditions on the “fly only” section of the Trinity. The Fly Fishing Only Section, above the Old Bridge located in Lewiston, CA. on the Trinity River is open, but fishing is still tough due to high flows. Limited wading options exist at 2,000 CFS, not to mention the dangers of wading in these conditions. Once the river drops to 450 CFS on June 25th, we will see some good reports coming out of this river. Remember, swift water sustains the real possibility of being swept downstream and drowning. For now, the Trinity River is offering a great river rafting experience! Courtesy of The Fly Shop.
TRUCKEE RIVER:
The Truckee River Outfitters (775-853-7368) (info@renoflyshop.com):
Flows are huge from Truckee down stream and the river is off color. Warm days are melting the snowpack rapidly. If you have to fish the river, the edges in slower water are the best bets. Fish around Truckee because the farther downstream you go, the bigger it gets. Carpenter ants are out and a few green drakes are starting to hatch. Dry fly fishing will be tough, at best, with the current water clarity. River should begin to drop later this week as the low elevation snow disappears. When it starts to drop, it generally clears up very fast.
Flows are as follows:
Truckee – 632 CFS
Boca Bridge – 2070 CFS
Farad – 2360 CFS
Reno – 2440 CFS
All of these flows are 3 to 4 times the normal fishable flows in the river.
BE CAREFUL!!
LITTLE TRUCKEE RIVER:
The Truckee River Outfitters (775-853-7368) (info@renoflyshop.com):
Flows are big in the stretch between Stampede and Boca. Currently they are at 756 CFS (normal flows would be about 200 CFS). Because of the tailwater nature of this section stream, the water is clear and fishable. You need to concentrate on areas of SLOW moving water. Hatches include BWO’s, carpenter ants, a few green drakes and a few PMDs. Nymphing is going to be your best bet. Heavy flies or lots of weight to get them on the bottom, in the current seams, is what you need. Swinging a streamer through likely looking water is also a good second method with these water conditions. Use caution if you try to cross the Little Truckee. The combination of a slick bottom and very high flows makes wading difficult. If you want to do something different, try fishing Boca Reservoir or Stampede reservoir, at the inflow of the Little Truckee. We have had some good reports from both places this past week.
TRUCKEE RIVER, WASHOE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The Truckee current flow in Reno is 2720 cfs. Extreme high flows do not wade. Fishing will be blown out for some time. Check back in a few weeks.
TWIN LAKES, CALIF:
Annett’s Mono Village (760- 932-7071) (www.monovillage.com) reports:
Upper Twin Lake:
Garlic Power Bait was used by Larry McKinney from Yerington for his 3-pound, 14-ounce rainbow. It also worked for Dunnil Nupez, also from Yerington for a 2-pound, 15-ounce rainbow. Gene Martin of Palmdale was trolling a worm for his 2-pound, 2-ounce brown. Water level is high with top 2 feet about 50 degrees. Fish and Game are planting weekly.
TWIN LAKES AREA, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
Upper Twin Lake – Lower Twin Lake – Robinson Creek:
The Twins have been fishing well with bait and trolling. Small Rapalas, Thomas Bouyants, excel lures and Needlefish have all been doing well, also crawlers, Power Bait and Power Eggs have been catching some nice fish. We’ve had some good reports from the shore up there with Zekes bait as well.
VIRGINIA LAKES, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
The ice on Little V is about 50% or more gone, Big V is still iced over but getting ready to go and Trumbull is about 98% ice free though you’ll have to walk through snow to get there. Fishing should be good on Little V with bait, spinners and streamers at this time, and only getting better as the water warms up!!
VIRGINIA LAKES, CALIF:
John and Carolyn Webb of the Virginia Lakes Resort (760-647-6484) (vir@qnet.com) reports:
There’s rumors summer is here, and the last week of warm weather had managed to thaw Little Virginia in about 4 days. Big Virginia is rotten and not fishable except for the inlet which is doing very well, and Trumble Lake is totally ice free for over 10 days. Fishing has generally been good if you could get your offering into the water without falling in yourself. Salmon egg cluster, salmon peach Power Bait, Berkeley Live in natural, nightcrawlers and gold lures were your best bet for this week. Next week is the official arrival of summer, and Ill be waiting patiently to view this arrival. There is still plenty of snow if you have a hankering to bring up your sled and feel like 12 again. Trails are covered with snow, but if you do any hiking be sure to watch for snow bridges as they can be dangerous. Alpers were planted in Little Virginia last week and the list of anglers since June 16th is below. The largest for the week was Mark Axup of Sacramento who celebrated his birthday with a 6 lb 4oz Alpers on a fly out of Little Virginia on the 18th. Brent Voeller of Costa Mesa 2 lb 12 oz Alpers on Salmon Peach Power Bait. Sandy French of Long Beach a 2 lb 9 oz Alpers on Power Bait. Jeremy Gates of Riverside with a 2 lb 13oz Alpers on salmon eggs. George Hunter of LA, 3 lb 14 oz Alpers on Power Bait. Greg Johnson of Manhattan Beach caught a 2 lb, 2 lb, and a 3 lb 13oz Alpers on lures. Ron Knechtel of Corona took a 3 lb 1oz on a gold lure. Michael Tucker of Lemon Grove caught a 2 lb Alpers on Power Bait. Michelle Dude of Foster City with 4 Alpers on 6.18.11 on lures. Surprise for her Dad for Father’s Day. Grant Nichols of Temecula caught a 3 lb 7oz Alpers on Carolyn’s pie crust.
WALKER LAKE, MINERAL COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
No fish have been reported or seen at Walker Lake so far this fishing season. Mineral County Road Dept. has done some work on the State Parks Launch. Launching is improved but you still need four wheel drive.
WALKER RIVERS, NEV:
(East Walker River – West Walker River):
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
East Walker River:
East Walker Flow is at 230 cfs. Wading becomes difficult after 200 cfs and the fish tend to spread out along the banks. Try yellow stones and prince nymphs drift your dropper set close to the outside bends and the tail outs. No reports on the lower section.
WALKER RIVERS, NEV:
The Truckee River Outfitters (775-853-7368) (info@renoflyshop.com):
East Walker River:
Flows have increased significantly here in the last week. The river is currently flowing at 780 CFS. The Nevada side is going to be bigger yet and very off color. The river is clear enough to fish below the dam at Bridgeport Reservoir but it is very large and difficult to access at these flows except for a couple of spots. Concentrate on slow flow areas and fish the seams with lots of weight. Stoneflies, Baetis and small Caddis pupa are good choices.
WALKER RIVERS, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
East Walker – West Walker – Sceirine Ranch – Hunewill Pond:
East Walker River:
The East is running at 590 CFS today, it’s been at that flow for a week or so.
The fishing is still pretty good with small Midge patterns and Caddis Nymphs. We’ve had a couple decent reports on streamers but it’s been mainly Nymphing. A couple things to keep in mind when fishing at this higher flow is to pick the water you want to fish carefully, fish the softer seams and foam lines when you can, also don’t walk straight into the water without fishing your way in, there’s often fish hugging the bank on your way in that you’ll just move out and not have a chance at. Patterns that have been working include buckskin Caddis, Z-Wing Caddis, Fox’s Poopah, LaFontaines Sparkle Pupa, 3-Wire Caddis, GB Caddis, rainbow warriors, San Juan Worms, flashback Emergers, Copper Johns. The Rosachi section is much tougher to fish at this flow than the Cali side hence we haven’t had much for reports from down there.
West Walker River:
The West is running very high and muddy right now, we’ve had a couple decent reports from up there and the Little Walker as well. Be prepared for some fairly difficult fishing at the higher flows. If you work the softer areas you should be able to pull out some nice fish.
Sceirine Ranch:
We only had one client on the ranch this week and unfortunately he wasn’t able to make it back in to give us a report. I’d expect that because the water is a bit mellower on the ranch than it is on the Rosachi that he probably did ok with Nymphs. Usually you can get away with larger Nymphs like Copper Johns, Princes and Birds Nests in 14 and 16. As we get more reports I’ll pass them on!
Hunewill Pond:
We had a couple anglers on the pond this week and they had some decent success. They caught half a dozen fish in a half day, all quality fish. The weeds have grown pretty good already so we’ll try to address that situation ASAP!
WALKER RIVERS, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
East Walker River:
Water flow 599 CFS. Water flow is still up. Approch with caution as at this flow the river is very treacherous. Nymph fish with gray or black Midge pupa, WD-40’s and Prince Nymphs.
WASHOE LAKE, WAHOE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Washoe Lake dried up in 2004 and, although it is presently full and has been restocked, the fish population, consisting mostly of channel catfish and white bass, is small. Fishing is expected to be poor.
YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK AREA, CALIF:
The Tioga Pass Highway (California S.R. 120) to Yosemite (from the east side) is now open. Tioga Pass has an elevation of 9,943 feet, making it the highest automobile pass in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Photo Captions
Photo No. 1:
Nick Dellaripa from La Puente, California with a 3-pound, 8-ounce rainbow trout caught off the Convict Lake jetty with garlic and orange glitter Power Bait, twisted together.
Photo courtesy of the Convict Lake Resort
Photo No. 2:
Lake Sabrina which is located west of Bishop, California.
Photo courtesy of Rick and Patti Apted of the Lake Sabrina Boat Landing
Photo No. 3:
Grant Nichols of Temecula, California with a 3-pound, 7-ounce Alpers Trophy Rainbow Trout caught with “Carolyn’s pie crust” at Virginia Lakes, which are located west of Conway Summit on U.S. 395.
Photo courtesy of the Virginia Lakes Resort
Photo No. 4:
Michelle Dude of Foster City, California with four Alpers Trophy Rainbow Trout caught on lures at Virginia Lakes.
Photo courtesy of the Virginia Lakes Resort
