Don Q's Fishing Report for the week of Sept. 24

ANGEL LAKE, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Fishing is picking up with the cooler temperatures and hoppers are on the hillsides above Angel.

However, anglers are still reporting a few slow days here.
Fish are being taken on both dry flies and small buggers as well as nymphs that have green or peacock herl in them. Early in the day, have the nymph about three feet below the indicator, but as the sun climbs in the sky, start fishing the dropper deeper. PT’s, blue copper Johns, olive hares ears, and olive soft hackles all should be productive. Small olive wooly and crystal buggers on a sink tip line should be productive as well.

The usual small spinners, worms and Power Bait are also effective here for bait and spin anglers. Start fishing off of the bottom and move up in the water column if you don’t get any hits.

BISHOP CREEK AREA, CALIF:
Rick and Patti Apted - Lake Sabrina Boat Landing (760-873-7425) (www.lakesabrinaboatlanding.com) reports:

Lake Sabrina:
IT’S THAT TIME, WATCH OUT FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS – THEY MAY BE LURKING AROUND THE NEXT CORNER ON THE ROAD!

Also, take it slow coming up the hill – had 3 deer hit over the weekend!
Please note our hours: Store Hours Sunday thru Saturday 8:00am to 5:00pm
The Cafe is CLOSED for the Summer!

Fall is definitely in the air – the colors are spectacular especially against the beautiful blue skies and puffy white clouds and then the eagle appears – ahhhh – Life is Grand!

Looks like the colors may be peaking up at the Lake this coming weekend and with some cooler temps coming this way – well . . . . . . – might be the end of the leaves up our way – the ribbon of Aspen in Aspendell are just now starting the change.

The groves of Aspen up the South Lake road are also approaching the ‘AHHHH’ time of Fall as are the trees up at North Lake.

No sign of ‘Yogi’ up at the Lake lately – I still look all ways when coming out of the building just in case.

More deer down in the Lake bed looking for a drink and the eagles and osprey are still out cruising the Lake.

Max and A.N.N., also, had their first experience with a Mountain garter Snake – quite entertaining to watch – A.N.N. got a couple of ‘kisses’ before the snake slithered back into the garden area - unharmed.

A.N.N., also, got meet another of her siblings – Mitch, a packer from Bishop Pack Outfitters, brought up ‘FROG’ a brother of A.N.N.’s from a few litters down – same disposition as A.N.N.

Still the same stuff working on what is left of the Lake - Fishing in deeper water (that would be behind what is normally the Island or taking a bit of a hike to at least the front of the back natural Lake) with Nightcrawlers or Power Bait.

Fishing the inlets (not much water coming in at any of them) with a fly and a bubble, Nightcrawlers, Power Bait or Lures are getting limits.
Most are catching and releasing so as to not have to carry out a limit.
And yes, depending on your auto, you can still drive to the front of the back Lake – AND PLEASE REMEMBER TO PICK UP YOUR TRASH when leaving – sure would appreciate it.

The signals should be gone this week as the Bridge Crew worked late into Saturday night paving both sides of the road leading to and from the bridge – just a bit more cosmetic work and - yahoo – done!

A bit of a change may be in store for us this week – temps are cooling and with a bit of moisture coming in once again – our local weather guesser is call for a possible dusting of snow for the coming weekend.

Prior to the weekend, look for some breezy conditions. You can check NOAA’s website at http://www.weather.gov and enter ASPENDELL, CA on the site and it will give you a fairly good hint at the weather up at the Lake or check in with Howard at www.MammothWeather.com.

Remember when using the bug juice and SANITIZER you need to really wash your hands before fishing - then rub some Salmon Egg juice, worm dirt or Anglers Bros Trout attractant to take that smell off.

Also, remember your polarized dark glasses, JACKETS, and sunscreen.
Got half of the deck painted and part of the building – still need to stain the red and then paint the deck – joys of joys, but with the views right now – no complaints – oh, and - if you happen to come by and see a ‘CLOSED – GONE FISHIN’ sign on the door, it’s because we haven’t had a car in the lot for at least an hour or two and we’re tired of scraping and painting – hope you understand the closed sign – the fish are calling. Bryan will be here during the week periodically to give us a chance to get off the mountain.

BOCA RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:

No crowds and the fishing has been improving with each passing day! 
Lake level continues to drop here and will concentrate fish in certain areas as last week's plant of trout indicates.

If you're after the stockers I would concentrate my efforts on the shoreline up and down from the boat launch. Key here is to get an early start or to fish in the evening but with all the boaters and PWC users gone anytime can be nice just to get out. 
Best action by shore fisherman has been the dam and at the deeper troughs outside the inlet, with the flows starting to drop coming out of the LT. 
If you pinch your barbs and fish lures only one can work the Little Truckee River that flows into Boca but be cognizant that you may be fishing besides fly fisherman. Please be courteous to each other's space.

With flows coming out of the LT at a paltry 90 CFS you'll probably find more fish in the lake now than in the stream. Also, concentrate off points as large fish will be suspended here. 

Shore fisherman can be successful by throwing all sorts of bait and lures such as large spinners and small stick baits that will imitate kokanee, rainbows, or baitfish.

BRIDGEPORT RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707)
www.kenssport.com) reports:

September 23, 2013
The reservoir still isn't producing too much yet, hopefully it'll start coming alive now that the weather is cooling off, the water temps should be dropping now and I'd expect the fish to start looking for food to pack on some weight for the winter.    

BRIDEGPORT RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:

Love this still water; however very low water here friends. The public boat ramp remains open for smaller rigs. Jeffery at the marina is towing his rentals here, RV Park is a great place to stay.

Fish will be concentrated in the section nearest the dam, towards Rainbow Pt. Tubing will be good soon.

I believe some really big browns will be caught here this fall-they are confined so to speak. 

Let’s go get them!

Give us a call and we will put you on them from a drift boat or tube.

CAPLES LAKE, CALIF:
John Voss of the Caples Lake Resort (209-258-8888) (www.capleslakeresort,com) reports:

Snow arrived with the 1st day of Fall 2013.
We have 4″ of snow Sunday morning 9-22. 

CAVE LAKE, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
As usual this report sees little or no change from previous weeks as Cave is fishing like Cave, with anglers reporting fair to good catch rates of 8 to 10 inch fish.

The usual worms, small spinners and minnow imitations should work for spin fishermen.

Flyrodders should be using small Cave Lake Specials, zug bugs, prince nymphs, hares ears, PT’s, and small wooly buggers. If there are insects hatching, most dries will work. Especially effective here are renegades, Griffith’s gnats, blue duns, red quills, elk hair caddis and small stimulators.

This is a great place to take kids to get them hooked on fishing. Take them fishing on the north side of the lake. They may not catch anything over eight or nine inches there, but they will catch fish.

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

Now that the ocean fishery has closed anglers can start focusing on trolling the Chetco River estuary.

Chinook numbers will continue to build all Sept. and through October.
Bank anglers can do pretty good from the South Jetty and fishing pier.

CONVICT LAKE AND CONVICT CREEK, CALIF:
Convict Lake Resort (800-992-2260) (www.convictlake.com) reports:

Dear Don,
The fishing continues to be excellent as autumn creeps into the high country.
The temperatures have started to drop and there is a scattering of yellow in the canyon. Catch huge Alpers trout in a setting so beautiful; you'll have a hard time concentrating on the fishing. 

Since the start of our fall derby on September 2nd, 23 anglers have qualified for the raffle comprised of $6,000 in Resort Prizes.
Stop by the general store to get up-to-date information on what is working out on the lake and learn more about our fall derby series. 
Fishing Lodging Specials!

Until Oct. 31st: Packages starting at $379+tax
(2 nights, Sun-Thurs + $100 restaurant credit + full day motor boat)
Late Fall: Nov. 3rd - Nov. 15th: Packages starting at $199+tax
(2 nights, Sun-Thurs + full day motor boat)   
Book Fishing Lodging Specials by contacting our reservation department directly at 760-934-3800 or info@convictlake.com

Catch of the Week: 
Congratulations to Dave Prentece of Long Beach, CA who caught a stout 4 pound and 7 ounce rainbow.  Dave hooked this nice fish with a Kastmaster at the South Shore. Way to go Dave!

Other Notable catches this week:
William McConnell of June Lake, CA caught a beautiful 2 pound and 11 ounce rainbow. He was using Garlic Power bait while fishing at the Outlet.
Dave Cavalli of Santa Barbara, CA hooked a 2 pound and 8 ounce rainbow. Dave was using Nightcrawler and was fishing at the North Shore.

Tactics/Bait:
Kastmasters and Thomas Bouyants were the hot lures this week.
No matter the time of year a red/gold Thomas Bouyant should spend some time on the end of your line. It is one of the top Eastern Sierra lures.
The Power bait colors with the most success this week were garlic cheese, green and rainbow.

The Outlet, North and the South Shores were all productive spots this week. Other locations to try are: Inlet, Windy Point, Jetty, West Shore, Creek, Handicap Pier, and Hangman's Tree. 

Here is a list of other baits/lures that can be productive:
Trout Teasers, green or brown Marvel Fly Lures, Panther Martin, Needlefish, Thomas Bouyants, Green Wooly Booger and Lip RIpperz Hatchery Dust on Power bait.

Other Resources: 
View our Convict Lake Fishing Map and Fishing Rig Suggestion brochures.
Both brochures are available in the General Store. 

Derby News: 
NOW RUNNING. Join the fun by participating in the Ambush at the Lake Fishing Derby for a chance to win $6,000 in Resort Prizes!
Also mark your calendars for the Morrison's Cash Bonus Weekend on November 1-3. $2000 in cash prizes.

Weather: 
This week there are variable temperatures forecasted. Make sure to check the National Weather Service site before heading out. Temps could rise or fall dramatically from day to day. Here is the National Weather Service link that is usually quite accurate: 7-Day Forecast Convict Lake. 

Sunrise - Sunset: 
Sunrise this week 6:37 am - 6:42 am and Sunset 7:06 pm - 6:57 pm.

Stocking: 
DFG stocked the lake on Tuesday, September 16th.
Alpers stocked 500 pounds on Friday, September 20th.  

CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:

The lake is very low but fishing is still  good but not too consistent. 
Most  of the catch is made up of smaller fish with an occasional 18" +  fish.
McGee Bay is still producing. Some decent reports from the north arm as well. Try Stevie's Wonder  gray/black in 8-10 feet of water.

CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:

The cooler weather has triggered the blue algae bloom once again and it has become a nuisance in McGee Bay and the North Arm.  The fall turnover seems to make the algae more “stringy” & it can be difficult to keep your flies clean while still water nymphing. Soak times need to be reduced, clean your bugs every cast.

Chironomids still emerging in force, damsel and perch fry activity lessening; however still a significant part of the larger trout’s diet for sure.

The bigs are punishing the perch during the low light periods & I suggest you think about tossing or trolling some Loebergs or Punk Perch at these times with an intermediate or heavy sinking tip line.

We will guide you in float tubes here and instruct you how to get into the bigs this fall. 

Fishing from the shoreline in the Six Bays area can also be productive.  This area can go off under these conditions and you can use both still water nymphing and streamers while casting from the beach.

Gillies, crystal emergers & pupa imitations #18/20-punk perch light or dark #14/16 as uppers. Broken back tigers and zebras, crystal zebras #14-18 near the bottom if you choose to still water nymph below an Under-cator.

If ya’ll do not know where the navigation hazards are while boating I suggest you ask. There are some islands and high spots in areas you would not expect. Launch ramp still ok for large boats, it is steep and you will be off the concrete pad. Launch next to the small courtesy dock if you have a tandem axle boat trailer, it has some rip-rap past the concrete. The boating facility closes 10-30 but the lake remains open until 11-15.

DAVIS LAKE, CALIF:
Jim and Jeannie of the J &J's Grizzly Store and Camping Resort (530-832-0270) (www.grizzlystore.portola-ca.com) report:

The lake level is at 70%.
The Lake temperature is unknown but we are having 30 degree nights so it should be dropping.

Trolling: the Dick Nite Pearl Hot Head was working well yesterday.
Jon B. had a fly fishing class this weekend, no one said how they were doing but sold a lot of the burnt orange wiggle tails and the rust wiggle tails; they were up at the north end of the lake.

Bank fishing is slow because of the weather.

DONNER LAKE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 

This lake will receive another stocking of trout this week and it will continue to be the place to fish in our area now!  

Word is out that the Koke bite is hot here and its better late than never! 
Some beautiful fish ranging from 13-16 inches!

Get the kids out there or your buddy who has a difficult time catching fish and have a good time! Remember to be a steward and keep just what you can eat! No need to fill your freezer with multiple trips and leave some fish for the kids to catch!

Power bait will be the primary bait one will be using along with small shiny lures such as 1/12 to 1/8 Kastmasters, Roostertails, or Panther Martins.  Kokanee fishing has been sporadic but some nice kokes are being caught by guides and they seem to be concentrating their efforts off the deeper water, 40-80 feet down, on the North shore up and down from the public pier.  Pink, Orange and Chartreuse have been the best color choices.

Catching minnows can be deadly still and bumping these offerings off the bottom can yield big results.

Also, for those trolling for Macks action has been good if you're working the ledges along the North shoreline 45-80 feet down. Trolling the usual suspects that will imitate small Kokes and Rainbows will be the top producers. Jigging for Macks can also be effective as they will be found at depths of 75 to 100 feet.

EAGLE VALLEY RESERVOIR, LINCOLN COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:

Two Henderson fly-fishermen caught and released 69 trout averaging 11 to 13 inches and a handful of largemouth bass while fishing this past weekend.
Shore anglers are catching trout with Power Bait and small spinners.
Trout activity will continue to increase as temperature cool.
The annual One-Fly Tournament is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 21.
For more information contact Eagle Valley Resort at (775) 728-4460.

ECHO CANYON RESERVOIR, LINCOLN COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:

This past week saw fewer anglers on the reservoir, though people are still catching fish.

Trout are taking a variety of baits and lures.
Anglers also are catching a lot of crayfish.
With temperatures beginning to cool, Eagle Creek, located between Eagle Valley and Echo Canyon reservoirs, should start fishing well, according to Ranger Ben Johnson.

HOT CREEK, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:

Water flow is  down to 4 CFS. Rain,snow and wind over the weekend slowed down the bite. Weather  should improve this week.
Try a hopper or stimulator  with a buckskin nymphs caddis pupa or small pheasant tails as a dropper. Some decent dry fly fishing in the afternoon with CDC caddis and Hot Creek caddis.

ILLIPAH RESERVOIR, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:

Water levels here are below 50% of capacity and may drop even more due to stock watering. Fishing has been just fair to good, with the best fishing being early in the morning or late in the evening.
Bait anglers should stick to worms or Power Bait, though if fishing early in the morning or late in the evening, a live grasshopper on a live wire hook fished in the lake near where the creek comes in may be effective.
Fly rodders should be throwing black or olive wooly buggers, larger hares ears, prince nymphs, or zug bugs.
Take care driving in and out of this lake with the wet and muddy conditions due to the recent rains.

JACKSON MEADOWS RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:

This lake was last stocked the week of 8/25/13 but with the crowds gone this lake is a great escape for those who need to get a little further out of town! 
Anglers here are doing great throwing power bait and small lures such as 1/8 oz Kastmasters, Panther Martins and Roostertails. 
For the trolling crowd the action has been from the corner of the dam down to Woodcamp. Other areas have been off drop offs into deeper water. 
Needlefish, Dick Nites, Kastmasters, and Sierra Spinners tipped with a Nightcrawler always works well. 
Some big fish are always caught here in September and October and now after this weekend it will be very quiet here as the crowds will go away. 

JAKES/BOIES RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:

This lake is fishing slow to fair for both trout and bass. Expect the trout fishing to pick up with cooler temperatures.
With water levels down and weeds up, fishing from shore is difficult if not impossible. Float tubes and small car top boats are the way to go.
Small spinners and minnow imitations as well as worms and Power Bait are good for bait anglers, while the usual assortment of damselfly, prince and PT nymphs along with zug bugs, wooly buggers and crystal buggers should work for fly rodders.

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

Unfortunately, Jiggs has dried up.

JUNE LAKE LOOP, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:

Grant - Gull - June - Silver Lakes and Rush Creek:
Silver Lake still seems to be the best for float tube fly rodders fishing black or purple woolly buggers on full sink lines doing well.
Rush Creek flow is 24 CFS.
Royal coachmen, elk hair caddis, prince nymphs and copper Johns.

KIRMAN LAKE, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
September 23, 2013
Only had a couple reports from Kirman this week, there was some pretty good action on streamers, nymphs and still a few fish on scud. Anglers were doing well with seal buggers, stillwater nymphs, zuddlers, moal leeches, prince nymphs, pheasant tails, zebra midges and flashback scud.  

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:
Middle Twin Lakes is the best bet for fly rodders.
Doc's Twin Lake Special black or brown.

LAKE MEAD, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:

Top-water action has been good for anglers pursuing striped bass.
Success has come to those jigging spoons or throwing Spinnows and Jumpin’ Minnows. Early morning and evenings are best. Fish have been caught as far up lake as Sandy Point, which has been an ideal spot for some.
While fishing for largemouth or smallmouth bass, work the backs of coves or rocky points using various swimbaits.

LAKE MOHAVE, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:

Striper fishing has picked up but there have been no reports of anglers catching anything of notable size. Most fishermen have been using anchovies for bait, working in about 40 to 50 feet of water.
Largemouth and smallmouth bass can be found in the backs of coves on grass beds and enticed with imitation crawdads or cut anchovies.
Catfish have also been actively taking anchovies as well.
Anglers working below Willow Beach continue to catch double-digit stripers between mile marker 51 and 53. Many of these are taking A.C. Plugs and other trout imitations.

OREGON PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES, ORE:
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (800-720-ODWF) (www.dfw.state.or.us.com) reports:

The recreational Dungeness crabbing is open in the ocean.
Crabbing has been better in the ocean than inside the local bays.
Fishing for bottom fish including rockfish, and lingcod is now closed outside of the 30 fathom curve until Sept. 30.
The marine fish daily bag limit is seven fish and a separate daily limit for lingcod (two). Retention of 1 cabezon per day is now allowed.
Fishing for bottom fish has been a little slower this past week.
Chinook salmon fishing in the ocean remains open. Anglers have had good success fishing near Coos Bay and Winchester Bay. Trolling with cut plug herring works well.
The ocean non-selective coho season is open 7 days per week until the end of Sept. or until the 19,580 fish quota is met.
Don’t forget, when salmon fishing in the ocean your hooks must be barbless.
Ocean coho fishing has been slow in the Bandon to Winchester Bay area.

OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:

Upper Owens River:
Flow has lowered to 58 CFS. Special regulations still in effect upstream of the Benton Crossing Bridge and from the monument to Crowley Lake.
The section from the bridge to the monument is closed.
Fishing is fair. Try egg patterns, San Juan worms ,Prince nymphs and copper John's. It's important to cover lots of water as the fish are scattered
Lower Owens River:
Water flow is currently 224 CFS.  Flow just dropped on Sat.  Fishing should be great once the fish adjust to the change in water level.
Try WD-40'S, pheasant tails and hares ears.

OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:

Upper Owens River:
This is the section of river that flows into Crowley Lake. Hot Creek joins the UO in two places above the Benton Crossing Bridge. 
Numbers have been good recently during the mid-week periods after just so-so “catching” during the Labor Day traffic.
Increasing migration of browns/bows out of Crowley is now in progress.
With the amount of browns I have seen this season in Crowley we may have an epic spawn *IF* they can get out of the lake.
Flows have been significantly reduced, water levels are low for this time of year.  Clarity is great, weeds are not an issue here. 
Tis’ the time of year for a “hopper and a dropper”- hang a flashback poxyback PT, crystal caddis, or birds nest under a Stimulator, Sofa Pillow, or your favorite hopper pattern #14-12. 
The ones I have seen are dark brown this year. 
San Juan worms, roe patterns, & broken back midges are also good selections for nymphing the deeper pools.
Do not overlook streamer fishing during migration periods on the UO.  Stripping Loebergs & punk perch along the deeper channels and along the under cut banks can pay off with a trophy fish on those windy/cloudy days.
The section of river downstream from the bridge to the CDFW regulation sign will close to ALL anglers after 9-30-13.
Monument to Crowley open until 11-15 with special regs, up from the bridge is year around with special regs.
McGee/Convict Creeks also have some fall migrants in the lower sections, although due to low water there are not many sections deep enough to hold significant numbers of fish.
Dries & dry/dropper bead heads have been the hot ticket here as well.
Middle Owens River:
I have been very pleased with how the MO has fished this summer. 
The lower than usual release rates have made river conditions excellent. With the air temps beginning to cool some in the Owens Valley fishing has become more consistent and the trout are feeding into the mid-day periods now. 
We are targeting on imitating the numerous chubs and sucker fry that are holding in the softer water along the banks with streamers like Loebergs, punk perch, and Spruce-A- Bu’s. 
My go to fly for the last two weeks has been the light hackled Loeberg used with a heavy sinking tip. 
300 CFS is the current release; however I suspect this will drop well before the typical reduction in November. Water clarity/temps are excellent & there is strong Trico mayfly emergence, sedge caddis & midge activity.
The wild trout section is very fishable at this release, you have sections that are difficult to cross and navigate unless you're a strong (and tall) wader.
Nymphing with a couple BB or AB shot will get you down to the fish. Use flashback/poxyback PT’s with or without beads, Assassin bird’s nest- both light & dark, broken back tigers & zebras, and crystal olive caddis larva patterns #14-20.  #16 elk caddis imitations fished in the lower light periods will get surface looks.
A footnote:
The “Middle Owens” is the section of river emanating from below the dam at Pleasant Valley Reservoir just north of Bishop & terminating at Tinemaha Reservoir near Big Pine. 
It was designated the Lower Owens before the re-watering project that put flow back into the old channel that flows into Owens Lake-called the LORP project, hence the re-labeling of the Lower Owens.

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.

PROSSER RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:

Was just stocked  a couple of weeks ago but one should concentrate their efforts in the deeper water still. 
Lake level is very low at 38 percent capacity.
Trout in the 12-16 inch range have been caught on Kastmasters in 1/4 oz to 1/8 oz in Perch, Watermelon, Brook trout, and Gold early and late while Firetiger, Chrome/Blue, and Chrome have produced better during the mid-day hours. Look for similar colors in Roostertails, Panther Martins, and Thomas bouyants.  
Smallmouth fishing will be better this summer than trout fishing here as the water temps will be higher than most of the other regional lakes. 
For those who have more patience than me throwing nightcrawlers, Power bait, or Salmon eggs will certainly be a sure bet when the schools come by and one should be concentrating their efforts by the dam and the deeper water between the two inlets.
Trollers should concentrate along drop offs by the shoreline between Prosser Creek and Alder Creek or across the dam with needlefish, Dick Nites, and Sierra Spinner (there just not for Kokes!) tipped with a nightcrawler.

RUBY LAKE NAT. WILD. REFUGE, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:

Water levels are low and several of the Units are unfishable. Those include Units 10, 13, 14 and 20.
Weeds are up and travel through shallower parts of the marsh or through the tules is difficult.
Bass fishing is starting to slow down as the days get shorter and the water cools. Peak bass fishing will end very quickly, very shortly. Late afternoon is the best time for bass, but anglers report bass from noon on, as long as you don’t get blown off of the lake. With a little work, most anglers can still catch a limit (or close to a limit) of keepers with a day’s worth of fishing.
If you are new to the marsh, dark colored soft plastics rigged weedless and tossed into the reeds seem to work the best. Four to six inch grubs in black, oil, rootbeer, guacamole, watermelon and purple all seem to work well.
Occasionally a contrasting color like chartreuse for a tail can work well, especially in low light.
Fishing the dikes is difficult as the water levels are very low both here and in the main marsh.
It is very difficult to launch a boat at Narciss due to the low water and weedy conditions.
Some trout are still being caught in the spring ponds along the road, as well as on the spring heads in the larger ponds in the main body of water.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (LOWER), CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:

King Salmon fishing:
As of September 22, 2013  water flow is currently 7,000 CFS.
Salmon fishing on the Sacramento River is going great and we are catching some beautiful, big, King salmon. 
Salmon fishing is great. 5 to 10 hook ups a day, limits. Flatfish lures working best, turning to roe later in the day, using Pautzke Red cure. 
Weather perfect. Look for September and October to be red hot, with the month of October being almost a guarantee of catching salmon. 
Balls Ferry Area in Anderson, CA for King Salmon on the Sacramento River fishing is starting to pick up. All the salmon are headed up river and this will be the place to be in about a week.

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

Current flow is 12 CFS. The river is up a bit with recent rain and snow.
Try attractor dry flies like stimulators, sierra brite dots and royal wullfs.

SOUTH FORK RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:

Very little change here as well.
Fishing for bass has been good with surface water temperatures still hovering around 70 degrees.
Trout fishing is improving and should pick up as the surface water temperatures start to cool.
Weeds and algae are still a problem and can be found in all the shallow parts of the lake with soft bottoms and while they can make fishing tough, the weed beds do act as cover and provide an “edge” for anglers to target.
One good hard freeze should start to knock the weeds and algae down.
Several anglers report good luck for trout at the south end of the lake using chironomids and small nymphs under an indicator.
Boaters have a definite advantage trolling using downriggers to control the depth. In many of the areas, anglers are catching the trout off of the points in 15 feet or deeper water.
For fly rodders, the best luck has been with midge and may fly nymph patterns fished between 10 and 15 feet below an indicator. Damsel fly nymphs, leech patterns and buggers will all work at one time or another. Try fishing smaller damsel nymphs or micro leeches vertically under an indicator along the edges of weed beds.
Anglers continue to catch black bass using crankbaits, soft plastics, and wooly buggers. Look for bass on structure and in feeding lanes.
Catfish are also being caught, with the best time being late in the afternoon or early in the morning.

SMITH RIVER, OREGON:
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (800-720-ODWF) (www.dfw.state.or.us.com) reports:

Trout season in the Smith River basin closes starting Sept. 16.
Check the regulations for gear and harvest restrictions

STAMPEDE RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:

A recent fish kill in Stampede by the dam has been attributed to an oxygen deprivation problem that occurred when the lake turned over. 
Not too alarming because of the amount of fish in this body of water and this may actually benefit the lake in the long run because of an overabundance of certain species in the lake such as kokanee and mackinaw. 
Power bait has been the go to bait here and working the shoreline up and down from the boat launch is your best bet early and late in the day.
Mack fishing has slowed a touch but that doesn't mean you won't hang one. Fish under or around schools of Kokes now if you're targeting the Macks.
Koke fishing has slowed a bit as they are schooling up and will be found in various locations around the lake now in 40-70 feet of water.
Pink, Chartreuse, and Orange in hoochies and squids have been go to's. 
Spinners will also work in these colors so don't dismay if these lures are your go to's. 
20 to 40 fish days for the Kokes are here for some! The average size though has been 10-12 inches, but recently some larger kokes in the 14-16 range have been caught. 
See Mr Z at our store or give him a call to find out the latest news. He's got us stocked with some great Kokanee gear!
For the shore fisherman spoons, spinners, and stick baits will work and of course if you're throwing bait nothing beats an inflated nightcrawler drenched in your favorite scent. 

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

California:
Flows above the Boca outflow are down to winter level and flows below this are considerably higher as they are dumping about 250 CFS out of Boca. 
Over the next month we will see a transition in Hatches as mornings get colder and daytime temps drop.
Caddis hatches have subsided somewhat and most the fishing will be subsurface except for those areas with the lows flows where there has been some good dry activity. 
For those who must throw a dry one can work sections quickly by using a dry/stimi dropper also. Other hatches include PMD's in the late mornings to mid-afternoon, Little Yellow Stones, BWO's, and PED's in the evenings along with the Caddis. 
Fish these patterns in the evening hours or in the morning as some of the larger trout in the river will be feeding on these guys. 
Rolling big Stoneflies during the day with imitations of Mayfly crawlers and Caddis Pupa behind them can be effective. 
One will be fishing various water now depending on time of day. 
To have success on our rivers one should note that it's necessary to have good repeated drifts! 
Nymphing will consist of large primary flies such as Pat's Rubberlegs, Buggers, large Copper Johns(reds!), Prince Nymphs, large Caddis pupa and Stonefly imitations trailed behind 16-18 inches with Caddis, PMD, BWO, PED, Midge and General nymphs such as Copper Johns, Pheasant Tails, Hares Ears, and Bird's Nests in sizes 14-18. 
Also, streamer fishing is a good option now. Sculpin imitations have been the best. Streamer fishing will be best in the wee hours of morning now or into dusk. Soft hackle imitations of Caddis and Mayfly's work well when fish are feeding just under the surface. 
Nevada:
If the California side of the Truckee is getting you flustered maybe a trip to the Nevada side will turn your luck around.
Caution! If you do fish the Truckee in Nevada please be aware that New Zealand Mudsnails have been found in sections of water there so please clean your shoes and gear accordingly to avoid aquatic hitch hikers!  
Study the water and turn rocks and see what is going on, also seine for what is in the drift.  Little things like this and slowing your approach to the river’s edge will greatly increase your chances of being successful. 
Again, make sure your box is stocked with every conceivable stage of bugs that are present now!  (x) = drawer number.

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

Fishing here will be tough as flows will be low and temps will be in the upper 50's. Small lures and baits such as salmon eggs and garden worms will draw some fish out.

TWIN LAKES, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:

September 23, 2013
The Twins are fishing well lately, lots of fish in the 8 to 14 inch range with some fish showing up to around 4 pounds. Power bait, crawlers, power eggs and mice tails are all doing well from the shore or boats, also trolling with blades and crawlers or spoons like Thomas Bouyants and Jakes has been good. Fly anglers are doing well stripping streamers like wooly buggers, seal buggers and mini leeches. 

VIRGINIA LAKES, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:

September 23, 2013
The Virginias are still fishing excellent, lots of nice fish being caught up there. Power bait, power eggs, mice tails and crawlers are all doing well.
Lure fishermen are using kastmasters, phoebe's, thomas bouyants and Jakes spin a lures. Fly anglers are fishing small nymphs under an indicator or strippping streamers with droppers. Patterns to try include mini leeches, matukas, seal buggers, soft hackles, zug bugs, prince nymphs, zebra midges and rainbow warriors.    

WALKER LAKE, MINERAL COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:

No new updates. No Lahontan cutthroat have been reported or seen at Walker Lakes since 2009.
Launching is not possible right now.

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:

East Walker River:
September 23, 2013 
The East is running at 55 CFS today and is still fishing well.
Not too much dry action lately with the cooler weather but the nymph and streamer fishing is pretty good.
Starting to hear more and more about streamers lately.
There seems to be lots of fish in the 12 to 16 inch range being caught lately with some 18 to 22 inchers being caught here and there.
Patterns to try include: rainbow warrior, wd-40, zebra midge, san juan worm, buckskin caddis, pheasant tail, prince nymph, dark lord, micro mayfly, zuddler, moal leech, jj special and sculpzilla.      
Sceirine Ranch:
September 23, 2013 
The Sceirine is still fishing excellent, lots of nice fish being caught down there, in addition to the patterns mentioned above you can also run a dead drift crawfish, hare's ear or fox's poopah.       
Hunewill Pond:
September 23, 2013
The pond fished excellent this week, lots of nice feisty fish in the 14 to 20 inch range being caught. Streamers and midges seemed to produce the most with a few fish being caught on the surface. Zuddlers, moal leeches, zebra midge, wd-40, rojo midge and para adams all did well this week. 

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:

Water flow has been up and down and is currently 54 CFS. Fishing is a little better with the bump up in flow. Midge patterns, baetis emergers and pheasant tails. Early am or last hour of the day.

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:

Flows are running at 45-70 CFS. Low for this time of year and the weeds have consumed the riffles and channels in many sections. 
Once again, the fish are here-there are just very limited areas to fish. 
A comment that has stuck in my mind from a very experienced SDFF member “we could not find a place to fish, all the pools were shallow or had someone on them”  Water temps are cooling; however you will not see any miracle spikes in flows this fall.

WALKER RIVER, WEST, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:

September 23, 2013
The West is cranking out some nice fish, and lots of them still! Lots of good reports from the West even with the low and clear water.
Panther martins, rooster tails and mepps have been doing well for the spin anglers, bait anglers are using baby crawlers and salmon eggs.
Fly anglers are using hoppers, beetles, ants, prince nymphs, pheasant tails, hare's ears and san juan worms.      

WALKER RIVER, WEST, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:

As far as tail water fisheries go on the east side this fall, the WW is better than most with regards to flows. Aggressive stocking from the CDFW & local  businesses have also boosted fish counts.
Hit the campground areas and Pikel Meadows with dry/dropper bead head combos. A Stimulator and a tiger midge or crystal olive caddis work super here most of the time. Look for the darker water-this color change will tell you where the deeper pools are & the majority of the fish.

WILDHORSE RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:

The reservoir continues to drop as the current capacity is down to around 20%. As you move north on the lake, the algae growth does diminish and once north of Hendricks Arm, it actually clears up. The surface water temperature is cooling averaging in the low to mid 60’s during the afternoon.
Bass fishing has been fair to good, though as the days shorten, they tend to feed more getting ready for winter and on any given day it can be good.
Trout fishing has been fair to good. Not much angler use, but shore anglers seem to be sticking with Power Bait or worms, while boaters are using minnow type imitations with some success.
Fly rodders will have their best luck with damsel fly nymphs, leech patterns, crystal buggers and wooly buggers.
Don’t forget chironomids and hare’s ears.
One 17 inch wiper was reported off of the rock face south of the state park boat ramp.
Smallmouth fishing is fair to good with most fish being caught with green soft plastics. For green think pumpkin or avocado depending upon what brand of plastic baits you prefer.
Anglers may keep one wiper (white bass x striped bass hybrid) and one smallmouth bass 15 inches or larger.
There is no limit in place on trout through Oct. 15th, but limits on all other species apply and all fishing regulations must still be followed including methods of fishing.

WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:

The lake is down to around 5% of capacity and turbid.
It is probably not worth the trip.
This fishery is probably gone until we get enough moisture to recharge both it and the surrounding lands.

WILSON RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:

The water level has dropped and is currently about 25-30% of capacity and there is a lot of algae.
The boat ramp is out of the water and unless it is a car topper, launching a boat here is not recommended.
Like most of the waters in the region, trout fishing should start picking up and bass fishing may slow as the water cools down. Fishing has been slow to fair for trout with fish averaging 11to 14 inches, with anglers doing fair along the shorelines near the boat ramp.
The same presentations and techniques that would work at South Fork should work here.
Anglers report green soft plastics are working for bass.
Surface water temperatures are in the mid 60’s.

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Photo: Another very nice King Salmon from the Sacramento River.
Photo courtesy of Kirk Portocarrero at outdooradventures