This report will focus on the #Truckee and #Littletruckee rivers. We have been getting some snow and rain over the last couple weeks but not enough to really close the gap on the yearly averages. While it is too soon to tell, we may be down on water this year. It is transition time up here where things are frozen one day and a muddy mess the next. The access is good for both the Truckee and Little Truckee but there are some muddy areas that you just don't need to drive through. The flows are also up on both rivers and some of the seasonal streams have water flowing through at this time. Now that the days are getting longer we are starting to see some of the early spring bugs like the Skwalla Stone make their appearance with the March Browns not far behind.
Looking ahead I have added some clinics for the spring and summer. There is more info on my website here or give me a call at 530-386-0525.
May 22nd Nymphing Clinic Full-day on the Truckee River
June 12th Women's Only Clinic Full-day on the Truckee River
July 21st and 22nd Two Day Clinic Truckee Area Sampler
August 2nd - 5th Hosted Montana trip Blackfoot and Bitterroot rivers
Truckee River Conditions
They are dumping Tahoe at the moment so flows are 345cfs in Truckee and 473cfs at Boca. The water clarity is good. I didn't take water temps this week but figure they are in the upper 30's low 40's at best.
Truckee River Tactics
With the change in flows you will have to add some weight to get down and stay down. Indicator nymphing will be the most productive. Keep your eye out for the afternoon hatches of BWO's and Skwalas. Streamers are also a good choice this time of year, especially if the fish have a chance to spread out. It is still early in the year and is not necessary to get out early, instead fish the heat of the day.
Truckee River Suggested Flies
Hoppers 10-12, Royal Wluff 10-14, Skwala 8-10, 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: Pat's rubber leg 8-10, 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
Truckee River Summary
The flows are up on the Truckee River and so you will need to adjust your plan from the last couple of months. Skwalas are starting to appear so have the dry fly rod ready. Access is good all the way to the stateline.
Little Truckee River Conditions
The flows on the LT are at 153cfs and the clarity is good there as well. Water is cold in the low 40's. Access is good with a few snow spots left in the shaded areas.
Little Truckee River Tactics
With the increase in flows the fish may be a little more spread out and relaxed. There are some decent hatches of Midges, BWO's, Little Winter Stones, and Skwalas in the mid to late afternoons. The fish are looking up for these at times. These fish see plenty of action so adjust your plan.
1) Fish low and slow.
2) Fish the heat of the day.
3) Change it up - fish small flies and big flies until you find one they like. Midges and Mayflies are on the menu along with the Skwala Stones and Little Winter Stones.
4) Nymphing will be the most productive method most of the time. There are some dry fly opportunities to be had.
5) Try a streamer.
Little Truckee River Suggested Flies
Try the Skwala Stone 8-10 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, Black AP 12-16, and Prince 16-20. Streamers Sparkle Minnow 4, Sculpzilla 4, Muddler Minnow 6, and Woolley Bugger 6-8.
Little Truckee River Summary
The flows are up, the access is decent, and there are a few fish hitting the surface in the afternoons. They are still picky so bring all your stuff and switch it up until you find what is working.
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