top of page

Trip Planning

Here are helpful resources for you to make the most of your Truckee / Tahoe fly fishing trip

Fly Fishing Seasons

Fly fishing in the Truckee/Tahoe area has four distinct seasons.  The seasons vary from year to year but generally fall into these four time frames.  Each season lends itself to certain bug types and techniques.  Here are some general guidelines for deciding when and what to fish.

Spring

March, April, May

  • Water temps are still cold early but warming in May.  38-50 degree water temps

  • Bugs are generally BWO’s, Midges, March Browns Sqwalla’s and Brown Stones. 

  • Nymphing will be the most productive method. Some good dry fly action possible. Streamers are worth some time.

  • Flows can be low or high. Weather can play a factor.

  • Winter Regulations apply until the last Saturday in April. Zero Kill and barbless hook regulations are in effect. Some sections of Truckee are closed. Check the regulations.

Fall

September, October, November

  • Water temps start gradually cooling down mid-September.

  • Bugs are downsizing and hatches are more concentrated

  • Nymphing, streamers, and some dry fly action

  • Flows will drop even lower

  • General Trout Season closes November 15th and we go back to winter regulations.

Summer

June, July, August

  • Water temps are still cool in June (50-55 degrees) to hot in August (68-70 degrees) in the freestone river streams.

  • Cool mornings and warm afternoons.

  • All bugs are in play. Biggest bugs hatch in June.

  • All techniques are effective. Best for dry fly action.

  • All waters are open and flows are dropping on most waters

Winter

December, January, February

  • Water temps are generally cold (38-40 degrees).

  • Bugs are small and hatches are short lived.

  • Flows will follow the weather.  Warm and rainy, river will be high.  Cold or below freezing, the river will be lower.

  • Fish the heat of the day.

  • Access can be an issue because of snow on the ground.

Lodging in Lake Tahoe & Truckee

There are many great places to stay when taking in some Lake Tahoe Area fly fishing.

home_1.jpg

Cedar House Sport Hotel

10918 Brockway Road Truckee, CA 96161

Located in Martis Valley in Truckee, CA, the Cedar House Sport Hotel takes online reservation or call 530-582-5655

mothernaturesinn.jpg

Mother's Nature Inn

551 North lake Blvd Tahoe City, CA 946145 

Located in the heart of Tahoe City and close to shopping, restaurants and the shores of Lake Tahoe.

RIVERR_Exterior.jpg

River Ranch Lodge

2285 River Road Tahoe City, CA 96145 

The River Ranch Lodge has 19 rooms and is the only place located right on the Truckee river. Very busy during June, July, and August, plan ahead to stay here. Also has a restaurant and bar.

squaw-valley-lodge.jpg

Squaw Valley Lodge

201 Squaw Peak Road Olympic Valley, CA 96146

Located in Squaw Valley with amenities, and within walking distance to shopping and restaurants.

What to Bring

Here's what we recommend you bring on your fishing excursion

Fishing License

Hat

Sunglasses

Sunscreen

Jacket / Layers Appropriate for the Day

Local Resources

When you visit the Lake Tahoe and Truckee area, be sure to check out these great local resources. Lake Tahoe area fishing is just one of the great amenities you can enjoy!

​

  • Mountain Hardware and Sports 11320 Donner Pass Road Truckee, CA 96161 530-587-4844 Mountain Hardware is my meeting point for most trips. They are the only fly fishing shop in town and have a very knowledgeable staff. They sell fishing licenses as well.

​

  • Jay Clark – (JayClarkFlyFishing.com) Jay is a local guide that offers guiding on the Plumas National Forest, mainly Davis Lake and the Middle Fork of the the Feather. He is also authorized on my USFS permit and helps with large groups and when we are busy. Patient and knowledgeable about the fly fishing techniques for the area, Jay is a great guide to spend a day with.

​

  • Tahoe Adventure Company Leads high quality adventure travel trips and tours with a focus on experiencing the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains, trails and brilliant waters of Lake Tahoe.

​

  • Tahoe Mountain Guides Offers customized mountain bike tours throughout the Tahoe Basin. As the only group licensed to hold tours in the majestic Tahoe National Forest, TMG can ensure you have a breathtaking ride that will test your skills.

bottom of page