This report will focus on the Truckee River. It looks as though the fires of this summer are behind us, however, we are still yet to have any meaningful rain. Without rain most of the fly fishing venues we frequent are pretty low, the Truckee River being no exception. On the plus side the water temps are good and the fish are still willing to eat a well presented fly. That is if you can get close enough to put your fly in play. The fish are spooky.
Truckee River Conditions
The flow out of Lake Tahoe is minimal at best and the flow in town is 12 cfs and at Boca it is 91 cfs. Water temps are 58 degrees mid-day. The water is as clear as it gets. I don't recall seeing the river this low this early in the fall.
Truckee River Tactics
Truckee River tactic for these conditions is to be very stealthy. The fish are aware of every movement. Smaller bugs, light leader, lighter tippet, with delicate presentations will lead to success. Sight fishing is the ticket and it is more like hunting. Spot it, stalk it, and cast to it. Takes are slow and deliberate and it takes a ton of self control to keep from ripping the fly away too soon. Dries and dry/droppers have been getting some fish. It is a fun game!
Truckee River Suggested Flies
It is time to downsize. The big bugs have come and gone but smaller versions of Royal Wulff and Chubbies make good indicator flies for dry/dropper rigs. Other dries: Parachute Adams 12-22, Stimulator 12-16, Ants 14-18, Quigley Cripple 16-20, Thorax Dun 14-18, Hackle Stacker 14-18, Elkhair Caddis 14-16, E/C Caddis 14-18, and Compara Dun 16-20. For nymphs: Iron Salley 14-16, Haresear 12-14, Burks Bottom Roller 14-16, Micro May 16-20, Rainbow Warrior 16-20, Pheasant Tail 14-20, Flashback PT 14-20, Perdigons 16-18, SJW, Copper Johns 14-20, Crackback Beatis 16-20, Two Bit Hooker 16-20, Soft Hackles, and Princes 12-16.
Truckee River Summary
Truckee River is fishing pretty well. It is technical sight fly fishing right now with dries and dry/droppers. Take your time, downsize your terminal end, and make a decent cast. Good luck!
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