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Truckee Tahoe Fly Fishing Report January 22nd, 2021

It is snowing lightly as I write this #flyfishing report for the #Truckeeriver and #Littletruckee Rivers. We need the snow. Currently, we are lagging behind in snow and water which we need for fishing and other activities summer. No need to panic yet but a few weeks of snow would be really nice for the short and long term. Conditions are pretty similar to my last report. This is generally the slowest time of the year for the catching. I would suggest taking some laps at one of the area ski resorts in morning and fishing in the afternoon. #Alpinemeadows would be my choice for skiing.


Remember it is "Winter Regulations" time of year for our area. This means that the Truckee River is open from Trout Creek to the stateline and the Little Truckee is open between Boca and Stampede reservoirs only. Zero Kill and barbless hooks only. Don't be fishing along 89 between Truckee and Tahoe City!


Truckee River Conditions

Flows in Truckee are 82cfs and the flows below Boca inflow are 292cfs. Mid-day water temps are on the cool side 36-38 degrees. Will warm up a few more degrees then that on the sunny days. The water is very clear.

Winter Rainbow


The new rehab area on the Truckee along Glenshire drive.

Little Truckee River Conditions

Flows on the Little Truckee are at 81 degrees and the water out here is cold too at 38 degrees. The water is clear.


Truckee River/Little Truckee River Tactics

Look for deeper slower runs at this time of year. If there is a hatch the fish may move up towards the riffles or faster water. There has been a pretty decent Midge hatch in the mid to late afternoons which has been getting some fish looking up.

1) Fish low and slow.

2) Fish the heat of the day.

3) Fish smaller flies. Midges and Mayflies are on the menu.

4) Nymphing will be most productive method.

5) Try a streamer.


Truckee River/Little Truckee River Suggested Flies

Beatis, and Midges are all out and about. Hoppers 10-12, Royal Wluff 10-14, or Chubby 10-12 for indicator fly. Parachute Adams 14-22, Griffiths Gnat 16-22, Quigley Cripple 16-20, Thorax Dun 14-18, Hackle Stacker 14-18, and Compara Dun 16-20. For nymphs: Micro May 16-20, Rainbow Warrior 16-20, Pheasant Tail 16-20, Flashback PT 16-20, Perdigons 16-18, SJW, Copper Johns 14-20, Zebra Midge 18-22, RS2 16-20, WD-40 16-22, Brassie 16-20 and Prince 16-20. Streamers Sparkle Minnow 4, Sculpzilla 4, Muddler Minnow 6, and Woolley Bugger 6-8.

Midge with flyline for scale.

Truckee River/Little Truckee River Summary

We are in the winter mode right now fishing can be slow or it can be on fire for 15 minutes. If you can get out then you have a shot. It is technical right now with smaller flies and fine tippet. There has been a pretty good Midge hatch in the afternoons. The water is cold so thick set of socks and get out there!


Four Seasons Fly Fishing is the premier #Orvis endorsed #Guide service in the #Truckee#Tahoe area. We offer walk/wade trips on our rivers and on the local reservoirs, as well as #flyfishingclinics for beginners to experts in all styles of Fly Fishing. Give us a call to book your adventure today. 530-386-0525

email brian@flyfishingtruckee-tahoe.com



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