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

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

ALMANOR LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Good bug hatches continue in both basins and fish are biting aggressively.  
Troll fast and use hardware such as Needlefish.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

ANGEL LAKE, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The road is closed to the lake and there will be no fishing reports for Angel Lake until late May of 2015.

BISHOP CREEK AREA, CALIF:
Rick and Patti Apted - Lake Sabrina Boat Landing (760-873-7425) (www.lakesabrinaboatlanding.com) reports:
Lake Sabrina Boat Landing:
5-10-15
DON’T FORGET THE JACKET (even if it’s warm in Bishop)
WATCH OUT FOR DEER if you’re on the road around dawn or dusk.
Thanks, Mom – the 9” of snow was just what we needed and she may not be done yet! Yup, Mother Nature bestowed us with one of the biggest storms in the last two years on Friday – it actually looked like May with snow on the ground here and there.
Not sure if it was the storm, but fishing slowed a smidgen this week.
The inlets are still your best bet, but stay out in a little deeper water and use MiceTails, Nightcrawlers or Power Bait.
Trolling with Nightcrawlers or Thomas Buoyants (Red and Gold) are producing some limits. Salmon Eggs, Nightcrawlers or Power Bait workingfrom shore.
Had a few pictures sent in from anglers on the Lake - Alana Hendrickson and her boyfriend found a great way to keep in shape by using their surfboards, paddling and fishing their way around the Lake. 
Louis and son Vincent Lee from Norwalk came up for their annual Opening Weekend Fishing trip and what a trip it was. They fished the Opener in the morning & evening on 25th, and the morning of 26th. Both limited out within 3 hours (putting back little ones) using Power Bait, Kastmasters and plastic worms. We must have caught 70 fish in 2 days. Thanks for the photos.
Rick Melvin, Tom Belt, Gabriel Belt and Matthew Orozco all from Needles braved the cold temps and made memories out on the Lake using Power Bait and Nightcrawlers.
North Lake, Camp Sabrina and Willow are still closed, but all other campgrounds in Bishop Creek Canyon are opened – still a bit too cool yet for the potable water at those camps.
Bishop Creek Lodge, Creekside RV Park and Cardinal Village Resort will all be opened for Opener.
Parchers Resort opens next weekend.
If you’re coming to the Lake, don’t forget sunscreen and dark glasses – there is still some snow around and that sun is pretty bright against the blue sky.
You may want to pack some bug juice – prior to the snow storm we had some skeeter lurking – so best to be prepared.
And what was I talking about earlier with Mom not being done with Winter yet? Well we’ve got snow showers in the forecast for next weekend. Temps are expected to hover in the mid-50s and then drop to the high-40s on Thursday with a chance of snow thru the weekend. Lows are to be in the high-20s. You can check out the weather forecast according to Howard our local weather ‘guesser’ at www.MammothWeather.com. Y
ou 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. You may need to scroll down on the webpage to see the temps.
Couple of dates to put on your calendar if you’re up this way.
Next weekend, May 16-17, there is the Lone Pine Time Trials out at the Manzanar Airport.  SOLO, Club Racing, SCCA, IMSA, VINTAGE, NASA, the family sled, or whatever. They will find a class for you. 5 or more pre-registered drivers who want to run their own class may do so (commonly known as rent-a-racer). OPEN EXHAUST if your class allows it. Basic car classification will be per the 2015 SCCA National Solo rule book. Still not sure what class? – provide details on how your car is prepared on the entry form (engine, suspension, tires & wheels, etc.) and we’ll find a place for you. Unsafe vehicles will be turned away. This is not an autocross event, this is a high speed time trial. Check it out at www.lonepinetimetrials.com.
The 46th annual Mule Days Celebration is fast approaching - May 19th through 24th and we're all looking forward to another fun week!
Every year during the Memorial Day Weekend, more than 700 mules compete in 181 events at the Bishop Mule Days Celebration.
There is no way to actually describe Mule Days. It is part mule show, part test of skills, and part Wild West show.
Situated on the Tri-County Fairgrounds in Bishop, California, Mule Days has become an international world class event.
Crowds have grown from 200 to more than 30,000 fans!
Highlights of the Celebration include the Thursday night concert, featuring Country Music stars, the longest running non-motorized parade on Saturday morning, Steer roping and penning, an event normally reserved for quarter horses, and the Packer's Scramble – the wildest, noisiest and funniest event of the weekend. There are also barbecues, country dances and an arts & crafts show. For more info: www.muledays.org.
The CHSRA Finals Rodeo is coming to Bishop June 16th - 19th.
Several hundred of California's best cowboys & cowgirls plus families, friends and fans will arrive in Bishop for the CHSRA State Finals Championship.
Since 2005, our community has hosted this prestigious and exciting event and the Bishop Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau is proud to support this important project.
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 6:00pm
               Monday           8:00 to 6:00pm
               Tuesday          8:00 to 6:00pm     
               Wednesday      CLOSED
               Thursday         8:00 to 6:00pm
               Friday             8:00 to 6:00pm
               Saturday         7:00 to 6:00pm
 Hope to see you soon!
 Juanita, Rick, Patti, Bryan & Len

BOCA RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
Dumping a lot of water from this lake recently with releases at 152 CFS  below the Dam.  Lake was starting to fill but now has dropped to 18% full. 
Be careful driving down to the shoreline as most areas are like quicksand!  
Best spots to fish here are around the dam in the morning tossing small minnow imitations, larger spoons and spinners for the browns that cruise here early and outside the inlet for mostly hungry rainbows that are of age yet to spawn. 
Nightcrawlers, Rapala's, Power bait, small Kastmasters, and jigs have been good for Rainbows and Browns.  

BRIDGEPORT RESERVOIR, CALIF: 
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
May 10, 2015
Bridgeport is still doing pretty well trolling and bait fishing from boats, the shore anglers are picking up some fish with bait but not as many as the anglers fishing from boats. Trolling has been good with blades and crawlers as well as small Rapalas and needlefish. Bait anglers have been doing well with power bait, mice tails and inflated crawlers.
We've had rainbows up to 9 pounds this week, as well as lots of nice 1 to 2.5 pound browns and some nice perch making a showing up to 2.5 pounds as well.
We haven't had any reports from fly anglers on the reservoir this week but I would expect stripping some big streamers in the narrow section near the public marina would be a good bet for them.        

BRIDGEPORT RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Nasty the last couple of days.  Weekend looks fine.
The Bridge will fish well in the early part of this season.
It received a good jag of TROPHY RAINBOWS, & catchable sized browns, rainbows, and cutthroat recently.
Conditions are excellent despite low water.
A small boat launch/courtesy dock near the dam will get you on the water.
Tubers should do great this spring working the drop-offs with Loebergs, crystal leeches, and punk perch patterns.
On the warmer days still water nymphing with Assassins, callibaetis nymphs, broken back midges, gillies, and flashback PT’s will get you pull downs with your Under-cator. 10-13 feet should get you into them.
See Jeffery at the marina for flies,  boat rentals, and fishing info.

BUCKS LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Plenty of fish were being marked, but there weren't as many takers.  
Run gear from 35 to 55 feet down for the Macs and gear from 20 to 30 for the kokes.  A variety of plugs and spoons have been working with greens and blues being the best producers.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

CONVICT LAKE AND CONVICT CREEK, CALIF:
Convict Lake Resort (800-992-2260) (www.convictlake.com) reports:
We were hit with a late winter storm last week.
We received about a foot of snow at the lake starting on Thursday and continuing into Friday morning. It did slow down the fishing a little but we did get the biggest fish from the past 2 years just prior to the storm.
If you are worried about the snow, no need to fret. Most of the snow has melted lake level as of today.
We have extended our Spring Lodging Special until Thursday June 4th!!
Sunday - Thursday
Starting with one Mountain 1 Room Cabins
$299+TAX
2 Nights for 2 Persons
$100 Restaurant Credit
Full Day Boat & Motor Rental
*Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend Excluded
Catch of the Week: 
More like the "Catch of the Past 2 Years". Carlos Roma with a 8 pound 
7 ounce Rainbow. Carlos was using a brown jig when he landed this monster. He was fishing at the Inlet. Great job Carlos. 

Other notable catches this week: 
John Riker from Huntington Beach, CA seems to always lands quality fish while visiting Convict Lake. John's fish was a 4 pound 10 ounce Rainbow and he was using yellow Power bait. 

Howard Palmquist from Sugarloaf, CA landed a 4 pound 2 ounce Rainbow which resulted in a nice dinner.
He was fishing the South Shore and using Nightcrawlers
Tactics/Bait:
The most successful Power bait color was yellow.  Any color with garlic worked well. I would suggest using some type of added attractant. Pro-Cure, Bait-On, Lip Ripperz and Berkley all make excellent attractants, which are sold at the general store.
The Inlet was the hottest spot this week. Other locations fishing well were the South Shore, North Shore, the Handicap Pier 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, Roostertails, 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 26th. 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 5-7. $2000 in cash prizes.   
Weather: 
Sometime forecasting the weather in the Eastern Sierra is like flipping a coin but here is the National Weather Service link that is usually quite accurate: 7-Day Forecast Convict Lake. 
At the start of next week the highs will be in the low 60's and the lows on the mid 30's. NWS is calling for a breezy day on Monday.
Sunrise - Sunset:
Sunrise this week 5:53 am - 5:47 am and Sunset 7:52 pm - 7:58 pm.
Stocking: 
We are scheduled to stock Trophy Trout on May 19th. Our stocking date was moved from May 14th to the 19th

CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Crowley Lake 5/8/15
Stormy the last couple of days, weekend looks better.
The big chironomid hatches have triggered some consistent bites during the good weather/high barometer periods before the T-storms develop. Looks like some nasty cold weather heading our way through Saturday.
Sandy Pt. Whiskey Bay, Hilton Bay, Layton Springs/Alligator Pt., & Sometimes Bay, & Crooked Creek have been the more consistent areas.
12/15 feet is prime depth.
It is quite possible to catch a trout almost anywhere this year as water conditions are very good with warmer that usual temps.
Some perch also showing up on the hard bottom areas. Those frustrating “drive bys” on your Under-cator are likely to be Sacramento Perch defending their nest.
I suggest you have crystal emergers and pupa patterns #18, gillies #18 & 20, crystal tiger midges both dark, and copper #14 through 18 along with their articulated brethren the “broken back midges” #16 and 18.  
Try the BB dark zebra as your lower fly if the wind provides some texture. My Under-cator strike detector “slides” to make it easier for you to fish deeper water. 

DAVIS LAKE, CALIF:
Rob Anderson of www.renoflyfishingoutfitters.com (775-742-1754) reports:
Current conditions are quite strange, in some aspects conditions are way ahead and other factors about the same for this time of year.
Water temps are ranging from 53-55 degrees, there is going to be some colder overnight temperatures next week which will help keep the temps stable.
Water is a tad off color but not too bad.
Water levels are at 56%, not scary low by any means and it only creates more habitat for the trout stalker fishing off the bank.
Boat ramps; Lightning Tree is way above the water line, Camp 5 is ok only for very small boats, and Honker cover is in good shape for now.
Fish behavior is about normal for this time of year with a few exceptions.
Right now fish are scattered throughout the lake, and they are roaming around looking for a good neighborhood to live in for the next few months.
Most of the rainbows are in the upper water column, and a few are down on the bottom as well. I did see some rising fish in certain coves for a few hours, and then they were gone. Where to is a mystery. I even saw a few fish still in the coves of the east side in full spawn mode.
Rainbows are ranging in size of 17 to 22”.
Blood midges are out in two different sizes, 10, and 14.
There is also a small gray midge hatching in a size 18.
Blow in feed of Carpenter ants and the black and red burying beetles were on the surface with a few fish eating them.
Fish will be keying in on these terrestrials in the next few weeks so make sure you have some Loco ants in your box.
I saw my first damsel swimming towards shore, and a few early Callabaetis mayflies. Vertical presentations under the bobber have been best using Albino Wino midge pupa #10-14, and Pheasant Tail flashbacks #14-16.
Mornings to noon time have been best.

DAVIS LAKE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Fishing from the bank has been tough recently but with the expected plant of DFW trout this week it should pick up. 
A lot of the holdover fish have moved into deeper water and those with boats will have the best success. 
Needlefish, Wedding rings, Dick Nites, or similar trolled in about 15-25 feet of water has been best.

DONNER LAKE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Lake is at 62% capacity.  
It's been over a month since this lake has seen a stock of catchable Rainbows so you're going to have to be patient.  
Some boaters have been having success catching Macks around the China Cove area in about 90-110 feet of water with #3 silver needlefish and similar lures.  
Jigging also taking some nice Macks also when they've been holding deep.  
Kokanee is fishing is okay as trolling at 15-30 feet down is now the method with dodgers in Gold, Silver, or variations of the same with Pink, Orange, or Green followed by Pink, Orange, and Chartreuse spinners, wedding rings, Scorpions, Hoochies, and Kokanuts. 
Kokes are a little small ranging in the 11 inch range. 
As the season progresses they may come up in size to maybe 13-14 inches if food is plentiful and competition for food low. 
For the shore fisherman this week you'll have to work a little bit harder to catch those planters as they are dispersing through the lake now. We are stocked with everything to get you out there and catch those fish! Some might be rewarded with a nice Mackinaw that might venture in to feed on these planters!  

EAGLE LAKE, CALIF:
Closed. Will re-open the Saturday of Memorial weekend.

FALL RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The Fly Shop in Redding suggests fishing above the Island Road Bridge midday.  Fishing was rated fair to good this past week.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News/The Fly Shop.

FEATHER RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
A few decent 4-5 pound Steelhead have been caught in the high flow section of the Feather River using nightcrawlers with Pro-Cure Anise and hot pink bait oil according to Craig Bentley at Huntington’s Sportsman’s Store in Oroville. 
Courtesy of myoutdoorbuddy.com.

FRENCHMAN RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Has been fishing very well.

HAT CREEK, UPPER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
These waters are spring fed, so the drought should not impact it.  
Some of the Forest Service campgrounds are open.  
Worms, eggs, and lures should all work well.  Water conditions are great.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

HOT CREEK, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Hot Creek 5/8/15
Watch the hike into the canyon for the next few days. Lots of snow and ice along the sides. Road into HC is fine.
Spring through early summer will be the best periods to fish the crick this year.
As the spring and summer roll on, conditions will only worsen in drought years.
The weeds are beginning to grow earlier than usual making drifts tougher in the limited open water.  
Some good caddis/mayfly activity currently. High winged dark olive, or dun colored bodies #16/18 are good profiles for the BWO’s. Keep them well dressed to ride high in the foam. PT’s & bird’s nest patterns are best for nymphs.
Small parachute midge or mayfly patterns used with a 10 foot leader are best for surface presentations when the fish are on the midges/or clusters.
There are a few sections that can be fished with a dry dropper nymph rig.
Try my hi-vis caddis pattern, it works well here. 
Small dead drifted Punk Perch, broken back zebras, small gillies, egg patterns, SJ worms, scuds, flashback PT’s, or assassin birds nest bead heads in #18 are good calls for the dropper. Size 18 or smaller crystal olive caddis larva or zebra midges are good calls as droppers.
This is a year around fishery with special regs in place.

JACKSON MEADOWS RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
Lake is a couple of feet above the dam gates so my best guess would be around 80% full.  Lots of water coming in from the surrounding creeks is a good sign along with the surrounding snow on the mountains. 
Fishing from boat best in 15-20 feet of water with Needlefish, Wedding rings or similar lures tipped with nightcrawlers have been the most effective. 
Don't discount using Rapalas as some of the larger trout have gone for these.  
Some nice rainbows being caught around the Woodcamp boat launch but you're going to have to work for them.  Some days are good and some days are not.  Hey, it sure beats work! 
Best areas for boaters has been Southwest corner and across the dam. 
For the shore fisherman holdover trout have been pretty eager to bite on nightcrawlers floated with a mallow or power bait, while those throwing hardware are using small Kastmasters or Roostertails.

KIRMAN LAKE, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
May 10, 2015
We still haven't had much for reports from Kirman, we hear the water is pretty low but still very fishable. When we get any reports from up there we'll be sure to pass them on.        

KLAMATH RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The upper Klamath river is flowing at a respectable 2400 CFS and the steelhead action has been great. There are lots of half pounders or 14" to 20" fish in the system with guides reporting "all you want" action. 
Courtesy of usafishing.com.

MARLETT LAKE, WASHOE COUNTY, NEV:
Closed. Will re-open July 15, 2015.

OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Upper Owens River 5/8/15
The feeder roads are currently a mess and a high profile 4X4 vehicle should be used to avoid getting stuck.
Flows have dropped back down to winter release rates (43 CFS above Hot Creek.) I do not expect the LADWP to increase flows again this summer as they have used their water allotment for 2015 from Grant Lake already.
This has made conditions ideal for the spring run of cutthroat & cuttbows up from Crowley. We are seeing good numbers of twenty inch plus fish actively on the redds. Dead drifting a variety of patterns through the shallow gravel beds, deep slots, & pools with or without an Under-cator can produce grabs.
Crystal leeches, Agent orange,  assassins, flashback pheasant tails, crystal eggs, SJ worms, & broken back midges will all work depending on the water you are angling. It is crucial to keep your flies near the bottom, and your fly line and Under-cator OFF the fish so you do not shadow them. Drag those hooks sets downstream so you pull into the fishes mouth and achieve “angle” when you come tight. Some midge and mayfly activity; but the staged up fish don’t really care as they are not feeding.
*Special angling regs in effect year around. 
Open year around upstream from the Benton Crossing Bridge NO BAIT!!!. 
Middle Owens River (Bishop area) 5/8/15 
Flows lowering to 175 CFS below the dam at Pleasant Valley Reservoir.  
We are still getting some trophy bows and good numbers of smaller browns while pulling streamers with sinking tip lines.  
Still good conditions for wading the WT section; but you will need more weight and dry\dropper rigs are out in most runs.
I have been told that a significant flow increase is not in the short term water management plans this year due to the extreme drought.
We are settling into a typical late spring pattern, with the bite slowing down as the sun gets higher.
You will see some large spring caddis, and last generation smaller BWO’s #18-20. High-vis & natural caddis adults, parachute hi-vis mayfly, or blue dun adults are correct profiles for surface presentations.
Assassin birds nest, flashback pheasant tails, broken back midges, crystal olive caddis, & olive zebra larva patterns good calls for nymphing with an Under-cator. Have some Loebergs, Punk Perch, & crystal Vanderleeches if you choose to toss streamers.
This fishery remains open year around. Special regs from the footbridge at Pleasant Valley campground to the fishing monument 4.7 miles downstream.

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 night crawlers below a bobber will catch fish.

PINE FOREST COMPLEX, HUMBOLDT COUNTY, NEV:
Onion Valley Reservoir: 
Closed. Will re-open second Saturday in June, 2015.
Blue Lakes: 
Closed. Will re-open second Saturday in June, 2015.
Knott Creek Reservoir: 
Closed. Will re-open second Saturday in June, 2015.

PIT RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Water conditions are good, and with plenty of hatches going off, the fishing has been good.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

PLEASANT VALLEY RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Pleasant Valley Reservoir 5/8/15
The levels are really fluctuating as the LADWP uses PVR as a “buffer” to accommodate the water used for power generation. It has dropped to 4376′ which is very low. Watch the mud along the banks near the inlet.
The small river section has been best for numbers of smaller rainbows, & browns-use dry/dropper bead head nymph combos here.
Forget fishing the river, or inlet if the hydro station is ramped up. Power generation can occur anytime during the spring.
Stimulators, hi-vis para BWO’s, or hi-vis caddis may be used as the upper fly-use crystal olive caddis larva, flashback PT’s, Assassins, broken back or crystal tiger & zebra midges as your dropper bead head nymph.
Tubing  has really picked up from the launch ramp, up to the inlet section.
Streamers like Loebergs, Agent Orange, Crystal leeches, & Spruce-A-Bu’s will get you into some nice browns, & larger bows in the rez proper.
Use a full sinking, or heavy sink tip line to get down 10-15 feet quickly.
You can also fish “Crowley midge style” in the rez near the drop-offs.
Fish chironomid patterns below an Under-cator. Gillies, broken back midges, crystal emergers & pupa patterns. Tiger & zebra midges are always a solid choice for your larva pattern.
This fishery is open year around.
The Gorge 5/8/15
This fishery is not effected by flow increases on the Middle Owens, and with the recent increased water it is receiving is fishing well.
Have those mayfly nymphs, PMD adults, & caddis adults handy.
The spring caddis are coming off steady. This maybe the best dry fly fishery we have during the spring months.
The Gorge could be classified as the true “tailwater” from Crowley Lake.
The fish here are all wild browns with a large one going 16 inches. Moderate/difficult hiking is required to access the more secluded sections. Rock hopping and bush whacking can be expected.
Dry/dropper bead head nymph combos work well in the deeper pools.
Use PT’s, Assassin birds nest, broken back midges, tiger midges, & crystal olive larva patterns as the nymphs. Hi-vis para BWO’s, Stimulators, parachute midge adults, & elk caddis, & hi-vis caddis are good choices for your dry fly.
Pack in water, have cleated wading boots and a stout staff. 2-4wt. rods are perfect for this water.
Snakes may be out early!

PROSSER RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
Lake has come up slightly to about 20% capacity. 
Recently, a decent Smallmouth bite around the dam and along the shoreline for those who prefer the Bronzebacks to Trout.  Some sporadic holdover trout here and with the upcoming stocking of fish this lake should start to fish well again. 
Use small flashy lures at first as the stocked fish will be more aggressive than hungry and then after a couple of days Power bait and other baits will start to take more fish.

PYRAMID LAKE, WASHOE COUNTY,NEV:
Rob Anderson of www.renoflyfishingoutfitters.com (775-742-1754) reports:
May brings the end of the spawn and warmer water conditions to Pyramid.
Even though there is some really good fishing days still out there at the lake, you have to shift gears and really look at how the weather is changing the lake on a daily basis.
Summit Lake strain Cutthroats are still around but the urge to spawn is waning and the need to be in cooler water is evident.
There are not as many fish cruising the ledges in shallow water and calm weather days have become even tougher than usual.
The water is reaching 60 degrees or better in the shallows in the afternoons and there even has been an algae bloom going on.
This has all but shut off the bite after lunch.
Anglers are still catching fish on windy days but there have not been too many of those out there lately with the high pressure and warm weather we have had.
There is a storm approaching in the next couple of days and there should be an opportunity or two to get out there and get the wind in your face.
Callabaetis mayflies are starting to hatch as well as midges.
There should be some Tui Chubs showing up feeding on these bugs and with them usually come the new Pilot Peak strain of Cutty’s. These fish seem to have a little more tolerance for warm water and lengthen our fishing season in the spring over the past couple of years. It may be necessary to get into a little deeper water and leave the hatchery area alone.
There are still some great fishing days at Pyramid you just have to choose them accordingly. As the spring goes on look use more Pyramid Lake Balanced Leeches and Minnows, White Ghost Tadpoles, White Woolybuggers and any bait fish pattern with a shooting head. Nymphing with Maholo Nymphs and Midges will still work well as imitations for the Callabaetis and Midges.

PYRAMID LAKE, WASHOE COUNTY, NEV:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
With some Thunderstorms coming in later in the day be careful not to be caught out on your boat out on this lake.
 Cutts are in the shallows and have been congregating in the South nets area of the lake.  Caution as this area can get pretty crowded this time of year.   
For those trolling we now carry Lyman's sz 4 and sz 3 flatties in popular Pyramid colors and Father Murphys Pyramid Vibrator Spoons.  These have been the go to lures at this lake this year. 
Early has been best for the boaters as the Cutties will be more accessible of the shelves at this time but when they move to the shallows the bite gets tougher. 
Be safe; be smart when you venture out here.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (LOWER), CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
King Salmon closed. Will re-open July 16.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (LOWER), CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
As of  May 11, 2015 water flow is currently 7,500 CFS.
Lower Sacramento River fishing report -  Sacramento River fishing is excellent, RED HOT TROUT FISHING.
We are fishing from the 44 bridge to Jellys Ferry Bridge daily. 
Water is clear, and weather perfect.
With most days averaging over 30 fish days, fishing for rainbows has been fantastic. Mornings and afternoon trips have been great.  Kirk's afternoon trip Saturday produced over 40 fish in 4 hours. 
We offer both spin fishing and fly fishing.
Working best are PT's, and  Micro Mayflies.
Starting April 27th, the area of the Sacramento River from Keswick Dam to the Highway 44 Bridge will be closed until August 1 , 2015. 
Please do not be alarmed , as we will still be fishing daily.
This is a very small portion of the river system, and this will help ensure the preservation of our salmon and trout fishery. 
Drift  boats or Jet boats 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 (LOWER), CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
Striped Bass:
May 11, 2015 
The Striped Bass fishing has slowed.
The Striped bass fishing  is fishing is slow, fish are very small now.
Please call and speak with guides and owners before booking for striped bass, as to ensure you are getting a qualified experienced guide.
Some reports are false and misleading. This makes it all the more important to us, the Original " Sac River Guide.com" and our Professional team of guides, to be very honest about the fishing conditions and to provide a place where every fisherman can come and read what is really happening on the water.
We sincerely appreciate you all,  and we will continue to provide you with the all the latest, honest fishing reports.  
Call us today at 1800-670-4448.

SHASTA LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
It was all about the Brown Trout bite with a few Rainbows mixed in, but the Salmon fishing has been non-existent.  
A good bite continues for a ton of smaller bass with a few of the larger ones still on beds, as well as some post spawners available now.  
Fish from the surface down to 10 feet with topwater gear early and late in the day, and then worms and Senkos during the day. All colors are working.
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 11, 2015  Shasta Lake guided fishing-
Northern California fishing Lake Shasta. 
Offer daily guided fishing on Lake Shasta. 
For Shasta Lake fishing,  catching Rainbow Trout and King salmon, trolling Shasta Lake main body, fish ranging in size 2 to 4 pound.
Trout fishing has been good. 
King salmon, up to  75 ft deep. Salmon fishing heating up this week. Catching a combination of trout and salmon now!
Spotted bass and Small mouth bass, Catching limits of bass daily- RED HOT! 
We are catching bass along the banks and down 35 ft.
Averaging over 40  hook ups a day. This weekend produced 91 bass on Saturday and 104 bass caught on Sunday's guided trip.
Using spinner baits and crankbaits early morning, and using rubber worms the rest of the day, with mid-afternoons being the best as the day warms.  
If you have any more questions or to book your Northern California guided Lake Shasta fishing trip, please call us at 1-800-670-4448. 

STAMPEDE RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
Lake is holding at 19% capacity. 
Fishing has picked up for Rainbows here, especially in the LT arm, and toplining for Kokanee has been great for those who can launch their boats.  
Like I mentioned, launching any boat other than a small aluminum one can be an adventure and 4-wheel drive is an absolute must.  Go to the right of boat launch and find the steep rocky shoreline, drop boat in and then turn boat and head in direction back to old boat launch as there is a sand bar developing just outside of new launch site.  Watch your props as you approach the shore as some have reported damage from rocks in the shallows! 
Reports of most Kokes ranging in the 14-15 inch range. 
Same as Donner as one will be trolling down to about 8-25 feet with anything in a combo of Pink, Orange, and Chartreuse.  They're starting to get picky! 
Shore fishing has been sporadic for the Bows with power bait, nightcrawlers, and various hardware. 
Smallies are suspended along shelves in the Davis Creek arm and most are being taken on suspending baitfish patterns, Crayfish patterns, and various Jigs worked down these shelves. 
Some big smallies here, but you'll have to work hard for them.

LAKE TAHOE:
A continuing 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:
The Bass bite has been good here, but they are dumping water now, and the water has muddied up.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

TRINITY RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
It's been slower here due to all the releases which have increased flows.
Courtesy of myoutdoorbuddy.com.

TRUCKEE RIVER, CALIF & NEV:
Rob Anderson of www.renoflyfishingoutfitters.com (775-742-1754) reports:
The Truckee is fishing pretty well on the California side between Boca Bridge and the Nevada state line.
There is some water being released from Prosser, Boca and Donner Lake that has kept the river in this part of the river in good shape.
There has even been some dry fly fishing going on.
The mornings have been best for sure but the stormy weather and clouds in the area have some bugs hatching and fish looking up.
Bring your Nymphing rod and some Stoneflies in size 8-10 and some Caddis in size 14-16. Be ready with an Elk Hair Caddis or a Stone Fly dry especially if the sun is off the water.
The Upper stretches between Tahoe City and Truckee as well as the Nevada side of the river are really low right now and fishing tough.
It could be a long time until we get some much needed water for these stretches to be somewhat fishable.
Flows are: Town of Truckee 75 CFS, Boca Bridge 325 CFS, Farad 405 CFS, Reno 174 CFS.

TRUCKEE RIVER, CALIF & NEV:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
California:
Very low flows above the Boca outflow. Flows have also dropped below Boca as they are releasing 110 CFS out of the Dam.  
This week's weather looks windy starting on Monday and Tuesday and then giving way to some wet weather for the rest of the week maybe into the next week!  Best hours to fish will be 10 to 4.  
Water temps have come up and fish are more apt to sample your offerings now. Lots of BWO's, Midges, March Browns, Stones, and even some sporadic Caddis activity. 
Flows are decent but the general outlook could be bleak as we progress into late spring.  Snowpack sits at 5% ( \that's no misprint) now. 
Start to think about March Browns and even some Caddis patterns now as we press into this month and the accelerated fishing season!  Use patterns such as Burk's TB March Brown or Pheasant Tails in size 12 and 14's. 
Fishing has been pretty good with a mix bag of streamer fishing to throwing BWO's, March Browns, and even Caddis dries to rising fish. 
Best sections to fish have been the Glenshire stretch as some anglers have seen double digit days here, but don't disregard the sections toward State Line as water is more open here. 
Nevada:
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:
The flows on the Little Truckee are 88 CFS. Great flows for sure. They have been that way for over a week now. Fish are settled into these flows for sure.
Cloudy stormy weather in the area has sparked the dry fly fishing and there has been some really good days on the L.T.
Flows could change any time so keep an eye on them before you go.
Baetis and Midges are still the top bugs on the L.T. If you are Nymphing or Dry Fly Fishing make as few casts as possible and get good drifts. Observe an area before just plunging in and you will be amazed at what is going on.

TRUCKEE RIVER, LITTLE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
No reports as water levels are low from water being diverted to Sierraville.

TWIN LAKES, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
May 10, 2015
The Twins are fishing pretty well, some from the shore as well as boats.
There's been some nice rainbows up to around 8 pounds being caught but the big browns were a little more shy this week.
The kokanee are also on the chew pretty well and make great table fare.
Trollers are doing well with needlefish, rapalas and krocodiles , bait anglers are using mice tails, power bait and crawlers.
There's also been some anglers having success casting thomas bouyants and rapalas from the shore.         

TWIN LAKES, CALIF:
Judy Allen at Annett's Mono Village (760- 932-7071) (www.monovillage.com):
Upper Twin Lake:
Catching fish the first part of the week was slow, then the 12 inches of snow fell and the fish starting biting.
Van Munns from Flagstaff, AZ landed a nice 6-pound, 12-ounce rainbow while trolling with a Wooly Bugger.
Joe Solay from Oakhills brought in a 5-pounded rainbow using the Red and Gold Thomas Bouyant lure.
Bob Whitlock from San Ramon caught a 6-pound, 10-ounce rainbow with Chartreuse Power Bait and a 5-pound, 8-ounce using nightcrawlers.
Rick Lancaster from Santa Margarita hooked a 5-pound, 8-ounce while trolling with the Red & Gold TB lure.
The largest catch this week belongs to Mona Lancaster (Rick's wife) as she landed a 6-pound, 13-ounce rainbow with her Red & Gold TB lure.
Regards,
Judy Allen

VIRGINIA LAKES, CALIF:  
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
May 10, 2015
The Virginias are still fishing excellent, lots of nice fish up to around 3 pounds have been being caught up there.
Some anglers are reporting catch and release fishing with 15 to 20 fish per day.
Lure anglers are throwing thomas bouyants, kastmasters and rooster tails, bait folks are using mice tails, power bait and crawlers.
Fly anglers are doing great stripping buggers, seal buggers, simi seal leeches and matukas with soft hackle or zug bug droppers. 

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, NEV. & CALIF:
Rob Anderson of www.renoflyfishingoutfitters.com (775-742-1754) reports:
Flows are up to 108 CFS. Great news for the fish for now. The flows have fluctuated from 20 CFS to 200 CFS and back to 100 CFS over the past two days and the water is probably really off colored. It is a good idea to see if it settles out at a particular flow for a day or so before heading out.
Stone Fly dries fished in larger pools is a fun way to go.
Nymphing with a small Stonefly and a smaller dropper like a Caddis is also worth a try.

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 10, 2015 
Well, it's been a crazy week on the East Walker this past week, the flows jumped up to 185 CFS one day, then back down to 101 the next, then up to 120, and now back down to 21 CFS. This of course can twist up those fish for a few days at a time and make fishing very difficult.
We also had some snow and rain during the week that kept a lot of anglers off the water. Consequently we didn't have many reports from the river this past week though we did talk to a couple die hard anglers who were able to catch a few fish here and there on midges.
Now that the weather has leveled out I'd expect the caddis to warm back up and start hatching so you should be able to get into some fish on caddis nymphs as well as dries since the flows are so low again.
As before the flow fluctuations you'll probably need to be very sneaky and focus on the deeper pools as well as the undercut banks and overhanging willows where fish will be hiding out.
Patterns to go with include: buckskin caddis, LaFontaines deep sparkle pupa, fox's poopah, swimming caddis, elk hair caddis, E/C caddis, flashback emerger, top secret midge, mercury midge, rainbow warrior, san juan worm, dark lord, white zebra midge, zebra midge and silver streak.                    
Sceirine Ranch:
May 10, 2015
We haven't had anyone on the ranch this past week so those fish are ready for some action! Give us a call if you want to book some time on the private water. 760-932-7707.       

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
East Walker River 5/8/15
The release rates have finally come up to 117 CFS. This may flush some silt and weeds out of the channel, but will not be a game changer unless they continue.  
This fishery is open year around with special regs in place.

WALKER RIVER, WEST, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
May 10, 2015
The West has been pretty muddy from the storms we've been having so most anglers have been shying away from there, however, yesterday we did have one angler reporting a great day with several fish in the 5 and 6 pound class! He was fishing bait with lots of garlic scent to help attract the fish in the murky water. It seems to be one  of those situations where if you get out there and work it you should be able to bag a few fish!        

WHISKEYTOWN LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The koke bite continued to be slow on either side of the Hwy 299 Bridge.  
A few bass boats were also spotted on the lake.  Pressure is very light here.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

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