Easy Breezy
Some colder temperatures have hit the Sierras, but we’re not complaining! The cooler temps especially at night have stabilized some of the rivers that were quickly falling into hoot owl restrictions recommended by CDFW, which is great for the next few weeks of fishing. While it’s always good practice to carry a thermometer and check for hot water in the afternoons, we should be good for the next week or so. Our main stem rivers have been fishing the best, with the creeks quickly losing their water volume. While still fishable, think spooky trout that will run at the slightest shadow or heavy footstep. Our rivers on the other hand are at their perfect flow so get out there on the E. Carson, Truckee, West Walker, East Walker, and of course the Little Truckee.
This report is written to give a quick overview of the Tahoe area, for a more detailed report including access, stop by the shop or give us a call at 530-541-8208
East Fork Carson River: One of our favorite rivers is starting to stabilize to that perfect flow around ~150 CFS, which is why most of our guides are targeting this freestone with tons of public access. From way up above Highway 4 to way below Hangmans, some promising reports have been coming in. The roadside sections have been busy as they’ve planted some fish over the last few weeks, but for an easy access option this is where we recommend. The hike in sections below Hangman’s or way up high (iykyk) have been less quantity but higher quality. We’ve seen some holdover rainbows and cutthroat caught that are upwards of 5 lbs, and some nice 16” wild fish along the way. My general rule for this river is the farther you get away from the car, or the harder it is to climb down to the river, the better the fishing will be. Our best bugs right now have been flashy perdigons, duracell jigs, small (size 12-14) stoneflies and the start of some good caddis fishing. Small midges, mayflies, worms, and general flies also will work.
A tip of the hat to our Off-road trips heading down to the canyon sections of the East Carson, it’s been fishing great!
West Fork of the Carson River: Pretty picked over at the bridges, but the small wild fish that are a blast to chase with dry flys have begun to feed especially in the evening. Grab that 2 WT or fiberglass rod and go for a hike!
East and West Carson River Fishing Regulations:
Carson River, East Fork from Hangman’s Bridge downstream to Nevada State Line: All year. Only artificial lures may be used. Minimum size limit: 14 inches total length. Two Trout.
General Regulations for East Carson River above Hangman’s bridge and West Carson.
Truckee River: The Truckee has been fishing well especially to the anglers who fish it right. Dead drifting in the slow pools to start the morning, and than euro-nymphing or swinging the fast water as the day progresses is a good strategy. Accurate midge or mayflys, (PMD or Green Drakes), with the occasional grab on the stonefly or sculpin are the nymphs of choice right now. Dry dropper is also starting to become effective if your looking for an eat on a big dry fly. Swinging a caddis at the end of your drift, or simply removing your indicator and only swinging is a great way to get some action especially from the hard fighting Truckee rainbows. This cooldown has really helped the NV side of the Truckee with really good reports from West Reno and downtown Reno (if you don’t mind the city scene!). As soon as it gets hot again, expect this section to be the first to return to hoot owl restrictions.
Truckee River Fishing Regulations:
Below Lake Tahoe Dam:(All Year) Closed for 1000’ below Lake Tahoe Dam.
Below 1000’ of the Tahoe Dam to Trout Creek: General Regulations
Trout Creek to Mouth of Prosser Creek: Catch & Release Barbless Artificial Flies only. Zero Bag limit.
Prosser Creek to NV Stateline: Catch & Release Barbless Artificial only. Zero Bag limit.
Little Truckee River: Flows dropped a little which hasn’t effected the fishing, but more anglers tend to flock to this river when they feel more comfortable wading and crossing. High pressure equals picky fish, so bust out that small tippet and tiny flies while focusing on your presentation and drift. A favorite tailwater of ours, but also every one else’s so expect a crowd!
Little Truckee River Fishing Regulations:(All Year)
Stampede Reservoir downstream to Boca Reservoir: Catch & Release Barbless Artificial - NO BAIT. Zero Bag limit.
East Walker River: Another warmer river that benefited greatly from the cooler temps. For the ethical angler, this next week or two may be your last chance to fish this river in the afternoon/evenings so if you’re looking for a longer day than just the morning, now’s your chance! Summertime means caddis, crawdads, and oxygenated water so focus on any fast water flowing over shelves or past large rocks where a fish or two might be sheltering. Tip of the hat to Sceirine Ranch as this private ranch has been fishing really well so give Ken’s Fly shop in bridgeport a shout and ask how you can fish this legendary section of river.
East Walker River Fishing Regulations:
Nevada: Elbow to California Boarder, catch and release, artificial, single hook, barbless.
California: Last Sat. in Apr. through Nov. 15. Only artificial lures may be used. Minimum size limit: 18 inches total length. NOTE: BOW AND ARROW FISHING FOR CARP ONLY IS PERMITTED
Heenan Lake: Heenan Lake is closed until September
Hot Lakes:
East Peak Lake: Private and exclusive to us, ask how you can fish this lake!
Sawmill Lake - Opened and stocked, fishing great!
Higher Elevation Alpine Lakes: Now’s the best time of the year for going on a hike to our >8000’ elevation lakes! Beat the Heat!
Almanor Lake: A Little far from Tahoe but great for camping trips. Hexagenia Hatch full swing!
Tahoe - Not a numbers game but when we fish Tahoe we are looking for that fish of a lifetime.
