California Fly Fishing

A Graph...We Need Snow!

2012-02-03T09:14:00.000-08:00

Need I say more!

TRUCKEE TRIVIA # 8

2012-01-30T18:47:00.000-08:00

Question # 8:
What do these "snow" hieroglyphics mean?

Belated Fall 2011 & Early 2012 Fishing Report.

2012-01-27T18:37:00.000-08:00

Back deck of my place during the front-end of the recent snows

Well, finally after 3 weeks into 2012 we finally have received significant snow! The fish need it. Now I'm into my winter-hibernation mode and I don't mind it because the local economy and the trout needed the percipitation.

As for the 49ers...the old ABC Wide World of Sports program said it well in its intro:

"The Exhileration of Victory and the Agony of Defeat!" Enough said from this life long '9er fan.

"White gold" is what fuels the Lake Tahoe economy...winter, spring, summer and fall. December to the 3rd week of Janurary we witnessed blue skies, scattered clouds and normally light breezes. Air temperatures had been in the high 40's to mid-50's in the Truckee area. So, winter outdoor activities were a bit limited. Prior to the most recent snowfall, a ski patrol buddy says that skiers had to ski to on the "snow islands". Locals adjusted and participated in an extended period of biking, hiking, jogging duck-hunting and...fly fishing.

BT near the CA/NV border

We experienced one of the better Fall fly fishing seasons in quite a few years on both the BT and LT . I’m speculating it was the result of the bountiful water we received during the previous winter.
About the 3nd week of December the fly fishing in the Truckee area definitely sloooed-down. Granted, access to the waters was still open, but the really cold weather and early AM air-temps were in the high-single-digits to teens afforded optimum fly fishing times a very narrow window; 10:30 am - 2:30 pm. Hoped-for preferred conditions were scattered clouds as opposed to clear azure skies without…and this was a key…very little wind. When the winds started, the wind-chill factor came into play. If, even during sunny days, the winds appeared, it became very uncomfortable. Obviously proper winter clothing helped, but it still wasn’t pleasant.

The BT produced RB’s to 17”; most were wild in the 8”-11” range. I'm talking in the upper river above the Boca inflow to Trout Creek; having received "grapevine" reports of heftier 2-5 pounders in the "canyon" to the stateline. The water was really cold(and remains); 38-42 degrees. The fish were/are not moving and you had to hit them on the head. Productive flies are #18 Olive Micro-Mays and BHFBPT, #16 Rubber-Legged Copper John and Olive Bird's Nests trailing a # 14 Flesh Juan....under an indicator with 5-6 # 4 shot. Only dry fly hooked fish was on a #14 Elk Hair, in the upper stretches via dry/drop rig. There were /are few bugs in flight and an absence of consistently rising trout.

The LT had the most consistent, rising trout during noon to 2:30. There were sippers that moved to sized 22-24 Organza Spinners, #20 Olive,Thorax-No-Hackles and FlashBack WD-40's. The water was really low at 40-44 cfs so nymphing was limited to a few selcted runs. Late December into January we were hooking and netting both Browns and Rainbows to 20 inches. In Fall, Browns to 23" and RainBows in the 12"-20" range were encountered; mostly indicator-nymphing and eating various-colored San Juans, Eggs and sized 20-22 dark midge larva and pupa.

The LT...upper Meadow...

...a "20-20"

TRUCKEE TRIVIA #7

2012-01-15T19:15:00.000-08:00

Question #7:
What Truckee River Watershed body of water has been nominated
to Congress for "Wild & Scenic" status?

Pet Peeve #2: Stream Etiquette

2012-01-08T11:35:00.000-08:00

My opinion is that proper stream manners amongst anglers should simply be "...do unto others as you would have them do unto you."...the Golden Rule. I'm often amazed at the lack of stream etiquette displayed on a trout stream. I'm speaking wade-fishing; that is what I mostly do. Yes, I do drift-fish; but that is generally with guides that I hire...that is another topic entirely.
Here are are some consensus generalities:

1-The angler facing/casting upstream has the right-of-way relative to a downstream fishing angler. The downstream fishing angler should stop fishing a sufficient distance above the upstream fishing angler. IMO, a minimum of 50 yards is reasonable distance; then loop around to below the upstream facing angler and continue fishing.

2-If two anglers are fishing in the same direction and side of the stream and one of them is moving faster than the other; the faster angler should loop around the slower angler and proceed fishing a reasonable distance away. IMO, 50 yards is a minimum, but, ideally out-of-sight of the other is better; providing it is at the minimum distance.

3-If someone sitting aside the stream and not actively fly fishing; DO NOT assume they are not fishing. They can be changing flies, observing a rising trout or untangling their leader. Also, it is poor manners to assume that you can fish on an opposite bank. If in doubt merely ask.

Here's my take:

1-I believe that 90% of anglers who display poor stream etiquette are unaware of stream manners. If appropriate and there is an opportunity, diplomatically educate. The remaining 10% are consciously violating good stream manners; they're trying to beat you to a fish or crowd you because they want to fish the area you're fishing; they are "gaming" you. It is your decision how you deal with these jerks you will occasionally meet on the water.

2-Etiquette is subject to the venue. For instance, California's special regulation waters on both Hot Creek and Hat Creek have different standards relative to spacing amongst the anglers than the Little Truckee. At the former two creeks; it is generally accepted to be just outside the casting-range of others. At the Little Truckee a minimum of 50 yards spacing is the established distance between anglers amongst the regular visitors.

Welcome 2012 & Unreported Fall 2011 Happenings

2011-12-31T22:14:00.000-08:00

Well, here's hoping everyone had pleasant memories of 2011. I'm looking forward to 2012.

...Christmas ice-skating, some played hockey, on an unnamed lake with family in northern California, to be specific Weed CA. This actually is a video wishing everyone Merry Christmas & Happy New Year..but I'm so techno-challenged I can't get it to download & play via the blog.

Fall of 2012 awarded us with great fly fishing...thanks to the previous year's tremendous snowfall. There were other non-ffing events I didn't report. Here are some...

Truckee River Day*, Ocober 16...the Little Truckee's Meadow section; one of the day's varied volunteer water-related projects throughout the Truckee area that day....

Planting willows for bank stabilization at the tail-out of Papa's Pool

The 3rd annual Gilligan's Rib BBQ competition; October 15. This year's winner was from Texas! In 2012 it will probably go international...good-time had by all.

The first annual "give us back our rivers" Tahoe-Truckee Fly Fishers' FISH-IN...mid-November

Early November....pursuing Steelhead on the Trinity.

....and visiting friends in Redding

Splitting Firewood for the winter...which hasn't arrived yet!!

*A personal gauge to see who helps out with "hands-on" projects on the local waters One of the three (3) prerequistes for being a fully commited GIVER...as opposed to being a total TAKER

ThanksGiving...on the Wrong Coast?

2011-12-05T19:12:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving in Virginia with "extended family" at their second home on the shores of the Rappahannock river in the "Northern Neck" of Chesapeake Bay. Suffice it to says we ate lots of food, read books & magazines, hiked, watched lots of football, both college and the pros...overwhelmingly, did a lot of nothing......it was a perfect holiday.

Since we were surprise visitors for our friends' children, I did not have an option to check-out fly fishing opportunities available. I wanted to surprise my fly-fishng-fool "adopted" nephew with a guided trip on local waters...hoping we had a chance at in-shore Stripers.For sure, next year I'll bring some gear. This Large Mouth Bass was caught and released by Morgan Wells, a neighbor, it was encountered in a 10-12 acre pond a mile from where we stayed. The next day he got another one a bit smaller.

Here's a view from the back-deck, here we BBQ'd, had cocktails, read, relaxed and witnessed beautiful sunsets. The weather was perfect, in the 70's with mild breezes. We roasted hot-dogs and ate "smores" by the fire-pit in the evenings.

...of course we had to sample the local bounty; fresh oysters purchased from the local "waterman".

The "connection"; Karen and her long-time good buddy, Alston.

Our nephew (Alston's son), Ryan Johnson, Ally and their two children, Sage and Drake. The enclave is called "Little Florida" because of similarities to the more southerly state.

Overdue Post...I'm Still Alive

2011-11-27T12:56:00.000-08:00

Plus, I inadvertently deleted my post of October 16, 2011*....an E-Quickie Fishing Update.

Well, I'm still back in Virginia having had a wonderful extended Thanksgiving with close friends. We're right on the Rappahannock River...beachfront...one of the four (4) rivers of the "Northern Neck" of Chesapeake Bay. I was going to download some images, but, time is an issue since I'm using a computer that is being used constantly. When I get to California I may post some images of interest.

As for the fly fishing in the Truckee area, it remained productive prior to my departure. The flows on both the BT and LT were very friendly; all the way to the CA/NV stateline. Both the Browns & RainBows continued eating; sensing that winter is approaching so they are bulking-up and feeding aggressively. Streamers are duping the big guys and nymphing has been the most consistent method; producing Browns to 26" and RB's to 20". On the BT the lower flows above the Boca inflow, dry/droppers were fooling mostly RB's in the 8"-12" range with an occassional brown to 13".

.
Bugs being observed are BWO's, Little Olive Stones, October Caddisand micro-caddis. Producing flies have been attractor down-wings(#6-10), #14-18, "generics" (BHFBPT, HaresEars, Princes), David Foster's original Copper Jacket, size 12 and #18-22 midge larva & pupae (dark...as in black) or Flask-Back WD-40's trailing #14 Flesh Juans. Swinging October Caddis Pupae some got tugs.

PLEASE, do not harass the Browns that are ON redds. Let them do their thing without being harassed. Some anglers don't seem to get that message. It remains the old "It is legal, but is it ethical?" question. I'm of the opinion there has to be a very high-profile discussion by fishery conservation groups about the ethics of fishing on, through and immediately below redds.

* an excerpt from the deleted post entitled "...the seasons, they are changing":

Yes indeed, the weather has changed and we're now starting to wear some of our winter clothing...or at least thinking about it.

We're experiencing progressinvely cooool mornings; as in ice-in-the-guides...such as a friend just experienced if you get on the water tooooo early. And the fishing has been really pretty good and progressively gets even better.

Flies: #20-22 Black Midge Pupa and Olive WD-40 Flashbacks, #18 FBPT, #18 Olive ParaDuns, #16 BHFBPT, #14-16 Flesh Juans,#6-8 Orange Caddis Pupa

Netted Trout: RB's to 19" and Browns to 23". higher proportion of RB's on the BT, with an even mix between Browns & RB's on the LT. The larger trout are more predictable on the LT. The BT water produces better numbers, but smaller fish...thus far.

Most Consistant Method: Without question...from my first-hand experience with both clients & myself..indicator nymphing. Use two-fly rigs; big/small with the latter trailing. Anglers using streamers also, but "NetWork" reports seem to reinforce that the deep nymphing is producung the heavier tugs.

TRUCKEE TRIVIA # 6

2011-09-29T09:37:00.000-07:00

Question #6:

What year did the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation complete the earthen-filled dam creating Prosser Creek Reservoir?

Quickie E-Fishing Report IX

2011-09-24T12:42:00.000-07:00

Acccording to the calendar and the weather, Fall is in the air. The mornings are dewy & evenings are brisk; with nighttime temperatures into the high-30's. Ground vegetation is drying & fallen pine-needles are forming soft mats on the forest floor. All, a precursor of the aspens, cottonwoods & alders turning gold.The "second season" has arrived.

The running waters are low, clear & cooling; the lake inlets' magnetic effects are gathering early migrants for the Browns upcoming spawn. Trout are are more eagerly eating our flies & there are few flyanglers on the local waters. The moving waters currently overshadow the lakes relative to the places of choice to cast the fly; although there is one particular unnamed lake or two (...or inlet, HINT). all types of water start to fish quite well now, through October, into Novemeber and/or until the snows progressively eliminate access.

A recent communication/fishing report to a client:

Q----How has it been for the past couple of weeks? Will the fishing be any good next weekend in Tahoe?

A----I’m not a clairvoyant & seldom with complete assuredly predict what is happening in advance, but fishing has been pretty decent the last three weeks and I feel it will continue. Admittedly I’d like to see more cloud-cover though. The days have been mild. The waters are low & clear but we’re catching trout on the big Truckee up to 17”. Most are 8”-12” wild rainbows & browns…90% being the former. Producing methods have been dry/dropper and indicator rigs; the latter being the most productive.

We’ve been working the water above Hirschdale all the way to Trout creek (low flows here but the trout are willing). I’m seriously thinking about using a 4 wt in the upper section because the fish are smallish, but very aggressive and feisty. They are eating small flies. The best fly has been a #18 BHFBPT, followed by #18 Micro-May or #16 Rubber-Legged Copper John…either trialing a #14 Flesh Juans while fishing deep or a #14 Stimulator in a dry/drop ser-up. I’m dropping the sub-surface fly under the Stimulator longer than normal; 24”-30”.

AM’s have been the best time and it slows in the early afternoon. As the sun fades the last 1-1/2 hours perks things up as far as willing trout. Leaving at 2PM I haven’t recorded a water temp of over 63…a decent temp. There are few aquatic in flight and the hoppers remain thick. But, if there is no wind…hasn’t been a lot…hoppers are not haphazardly landing in the water; so I haven’t used specific hopper patterns since there not always available.

As for the Little Truckee*….forgetaboutit!. I’m not taking any clients there right now because the water is way too low at 15-17 cfs. During a Bureau of Reclamation 6 year inspection it was noticed that a gasket was leaking or defective. They are working on it now. Until that is completed and the flows are increased I will not fish it or take clientsthere…the trout are really exposed to predators right now and that includ us!

Prior to thge ramp-down when it was 110 cfs there were sippers that moved to sized #22-24 Organza Spinners. Most were not hooked becuase of the tiny flies even though the gaps were opened (...off-set the points).

*NOTE: As of 9/23 the LT repairs are done an currently the flow is 157 cfs...good fishing flow. The BT remains a good choice in the AM. Few bugs are in flight and there remains few rising trout.

TRUCKEE TRIVIA #5...da Stumper Answer

2011-09-14T15:23:00.000-07:00

OK, thought I'd step it up a bit and make the trivia a bit more challenging. Maybe it was too challenging.

ANSWER: 2.7 miles*

* from the San Francisco Fly Casting Club's printed "Brief History":

"...Since the Truckee River is designated as a navigable river, the Club asks that those floating the the 2.7 miles of river respect the fact that the waters as designated "Fly Fishing Only---Catch & Release" and respect the fact that shorelines are the private property of the Club for use by members and guests. The Club supports a number of fishing-related groups and respectfully requests that same support in return."

Independence Lake Update

2011-09-05T10:54:00.000-07:00

Surprisingly, my post on the Truckee River Watershed Council stakeholder's meeting in April has consistently shown as one of the top viewing posts on my blog...and that was five months ago. I'm guessing that the new land owner's purchase/policy of usage of the surrounding land around the lake, The Nature Conservancy, has piqued people's interest...pro and con. Below is a belated post on the TNC's current policy of ingress and egress, camping, boat rentals etc...

Fishing regulations:
No live bait, use of artificials required; all cutthroat trout must be released; limit five kokanee salmon or brook trout.

Camping:
Seven primitive walk-in campsites, with bear-proof food storagebox, picnic table and fire ring provided; no developed, piped water orgarbage service (pack it in, pack it out); first-come, first-served; $10 per night, maximum of six people per site.

Boat rentals available:
Three 14-foot aluminum boats with 10-horsepower 4-cycle outboards, $50 day, $25 half-day; eight kayaks, including two tandems, four pontoon float tubes, $20, $10.

Dogs:
OK on trails and in campsites, must be leashed.

Restrictions:
No watercraft permitted except for rentals, no hunting or firing guns, no campfires outside of designated rings at campsites, no smoking, firewood cutting, felt-soled waders or live bait.

How to get there:
From Truckee, take Highway 89 north for 15 miles to
turnoff marked "Independence Lake, Webber Lake, Jackson Meadow Reservoir."

Turn left and go 1.5 miles (on paved road) to junction (signed
"Independence Lake - 5 miles").

Turn left and drive 2 miles (becomes dirt,rough for some vehicles) to a fork (signed "Independence Lake - miles").

Take right fork and go 0.5 of a mile to another fork. Bear left and drive across a stream (if you do not drive across a stream just after taking this fork, you have taken the wrong fork), and continue to signed entrance road for Independence Lake Preserve. High-clearance vehicles required.

TRUCKEE TRIVIA #5

2011-08-31T17:08:00.000-07:00

Question #5:

How many miles* of the Truckee River are within the private property boundries of the San Francisco Fly Fishing & Casting Club?

*,,,to a tenth of a mile

Quickie E-Fishing Report VIII

2011-08-22T12:01:00.000-07:00

This is a replica of a recent e-post (sans images and * comment) on a Bulletin Board:

The weather around Truckee has been pleasant with blue skies, sparse cloud cover and mild breezes. We are experiencing mid-summer fly fishing conditions(in late August!); most especially clear and warming waters. Plenty of bugs are available providing your timing is accurate; best approach being mornings and evening excursions, whether on moving or stillwaters.

The TRUCKEE RIVER has slowed a bit relative to the more productive angling we had during July and into early August.. The hackneyed reason... waters flirting with the higher 60's... by late afternoon, more significant in the upper river above Prosser inflow to Lake Tahoe; flowing at 278 cfs.

So, while angling in the "upper"river", it is best to seek cooler flows, whether you look for such at seepage springs and pocket-water surrounded by aerated whitewater. The other option is to explore the heavier currents below Prosser and Boca inflows; currently at 392 and 558 cfs, respectively. Overall, deep nymphing techniques will provide the most consistent angling; more so during the heat of the day. "Picking pockets" with dry-dropper methods works best in the AM and during the last light of the day.

Generic patterns in sizes 14-18 are suggested. There are lots of Spotted Sedges with a waning amount of Little Yellow Stones flying around (Hint: in the stream side bushes). Like-sized, dry, down winged patterns of the aforementioned get opportunistic grabs. Upwings such as Royal Wulffs and Humpies (I prefer ParaChute Humpies); any hair-wing attractors especially in the quicker flows.... Stimulators are good choices and do not hesitate to use an out-sized 10 or 12. The hoppers are thick now.

I must admit the most productive pattern I've used recently, with either deep-nymphing or as a dropper off of an indicator dry has been Matt "Gilligan" Koles' Gil's PMD Nymph. We have some great tyers in this area, even the well-known fly guru Andy Burk; but Gilligan's original patterns are fooling tons of trout in this area...and I do use Andy's patterns.

The Little Truckee is getting very low (139 cfs). There are both mayflies and caddis emerging...but very few heads showing, in the Meadow area. Now is the time of year I personally start using midges; as trailers during nymphing or dry-droppering.

It remains crowded with displays of poor angling etiquette; not to mention scammer guides who do not have USFS permits*. The smaller trout are making more of an appearance.

Kyle...Go Giants!

IMO, the larger ones have become very educated. Grade A spring-creek tactics...and skills...are required here. If not, do not venture here, you may become very frustrated.

*The below badge should be visibly displayed by a guide while operating/guiding commercially on Tahoe National Forest lands in the Truckee area. If not, they are suspect guides who are under-cutting USFS permitted guides who have lot more operating expenses because of 4%+ fees paid...'off the top'.Thus undercutting fee-wise permitted guides since they have less operating expenses (possibly no liability insurance). They're not complying with federal/state & county laws. IMO do not enable them.

Defintion #10 STREAM OF CONSCIOUSNESS

2011-08-14T12:44:00.000-07:00

Stream of Consciousness:

A fly angling teaching method used when instructing beginners. It entails the instructor demonstrating/verbalizing actual fly fishing for about 10 minutes. While fishing, the instructor is explaining their thinking as to the why & what they are doing. The student is actually seeing and hearing the thought processing being used to fish. This mehtod works for all types of learners.

Quickie E-Fishing Report VII

2011-08-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

Yeah..."cut & paste" is efficient...

---Excerpts of my personal e-notes to others on LT:

*Yesterday---"...fished the lower meadow using a dry/dropper rig and landed ½ dozen of a dozen hooked and another 10 misses…all under 12”. Neither of us saw heads."

*"...4:30-& 7:30 and hooked two. Broke one-off on the take; it ate a dropper of dry/dropper rig on 5X..then landed a girthy, 19” RB on a SJ worm via lead and indicator"

*About a week ago when flows were 436CFS..."The flows are dropping slowly....mostly PMD’s and a couple of other mayflies are emerging in numbers at the latest start of 1:30. They are all dun-colored wings, but three different abdominal-colors, yellow, orange at 14-16 and olive at maybe a 12 (Flav??, it would be earlier than anticipated since Green Drakes have been seen as late as august 1st!)...I've received two reports of success with EC Cripples 14-18. There are caddis 18-20 flying around. IMO, The most consistent method that produces at this flow is  indicator nymphing (whether long-lining or short-lining). Search at top of runs or riffles, but be careful because there can be trout in the tail-outs, smooth water along the banks, seams & really obvious foam lines (the thinner the better). There are sight-fishing opportunities. Essentially soft water for the surface-film fishing and the deeper faster water & pools go sub-surface.

There is lot of moss so if you sub-surface two people who are not  skilled, you’ll be pulling moss all day

I personally have been using 6-7 #6 (I add; when in doubt add!) or up  to 5 #4’s…Flesh Juans trailing 14-18's. I have not been using small midges at these flows. An exception is having success with myself and/or clients during 3-4 sessions trailing 20-22's (yarn indicator not Thingabobber; I use the latter in the quicker flows with heavier weight).…it all gets down to the client’s skill level. The trout are there and they are eating top and bottom."

2---Quote from my post Keine Bulletin Boad on 7/10/11:

"I'm a firm believer in synthesizing information. Several contributors to this BB provide their take on what is happening in the Truckee area from a fly fishing perspective. All of it is helpful; so gather a bit of wisdom here & there and you'll get a pretty decent idea as to what is actually happening in the immediate Truckee area's waters"

3---My post on Keine's BB today:

"In the last three days the flow into the Truckee from the dam at Tahoe City has increased 180%; 60-171 cfs....The good news is that the stretch of water along state route #89 will have more water, but the caveat is the water-release is from the top of the lake which will be warmer than water-releases from bottom-release dams such as at Prosser and Boca dams. So bring your thermometer. AM and evenings are advised...ideally.

...But, fish are being duped during the day in pocket-water via "sticking & moving" with either nymphing or dry/dropper methods in the water upstream of the Boca inflow to Prosser Creek...cooler water at a nice fly-fishable mode of 290-300 cfs.

Lots of Spotted Sedges and Yellow Stones and personally unidentified mayflies. Generic patterns are sufficient.

The Little Truckee above Stampede Lake is a good "prospecting" play now in the Perazzo Meadows area. During the last week below Stampede dam there has been a 39% decrease in dam release to 239cfs. IMO, the trout really have not adjusted to the newer flows and feeding lies because of the ramp-downs. There are several mayflies and smallish caddis emerging and flitting around, swallows are working mid-day and the early appearances of dragonflies is occurring on their hunts for the mayfly emergers. Regretably there still remains few consistant snouts exposing themselves."

22 Pound Brown!!

2011-08-05T10:35:00.000-07:00

Yes indeed; three weeks ago a guide-client of mine caught and released a 22 POUND Brown on the BT . Two people called to congratulate me on such a horrendous guiding accomplishment. Yes, I am Da MAN..and this solidifies my enshrinement in the California Fly Angling Guide Hall of Fame.

.....Problem is, it is not true; my client landed a 22 INCH Brown on the BT; interesting how the grapevine may distort the truth. Apparently he went into a local shop and mentioned his catch...and it morphed to unbelievable proportion as the info went through the local grapevine.

NOTE: The above 6 foot, wooden, brown sculpture was on a home in the tiny village of Via Manhuellas in southern Chile's Patagonia

TRUCKEE TRIVIA #4

2011-07-23T08:03:00.000-07:00

Question:

Of the eight (8) "special regulation"* waters within one hour's drive of the town of Truckee; which water was the first CREEK to receive "C & R"* regulations?

*long-time California fly anglers may still use the term WILD TROUT waters because that was the designation used by CA F&G in the 80's

Fauna, Flora & Fly Fishing Fun

2011-07-18T10:00:00.000-07:00

Finally most waters in the Truckee Watershed basin are fly fishable & producing wild trout. Whether it is the BT, LT (although still high), small creeks and streams; the flows are fishable and water temps have reached the bottom-cusp-range to encourage bug emergences triggering trout feeding...at the surface. We've been streamer and nymph fishing for an extended amount of time this year; now we have better options for "head-hunting". During the last week we have sight-fished and raised trout to the surface via "prospecting the water". So, fly fishing is now in full-swing and will continue; providing great fly-angling through the normal "dog-days" of mid-August through September.

Anglers are now encountering unselective Brookies in the creeks and more finicky...larger...RainBows & Browns in the bigger water & lakes.

There have been multiple aqautic bug emergences from small BWO's and Caddis, to mid-sized PMD's, PED's & Mahogany Duns(?) to the large western Green Drakes and Golden StoneFlies. All of these bugs are about 5 weeks behind relative to their normal adult appearances. I've personally observed Green Drake adults throughout the area; from tiny brooks to the big Truckee. We have seen them during the day and at dusk.

As I've previously mentioned in this blog, wild flowers are profuse; even the native grasses are as high & healthy as I've witnessed during the 30-plus years since I bult my first home in Truckee.

Above is merely a sampling, there are many others blooming...reds, yellows, lavenders...too numerous to photograph & post here.

The Last Big Bug of June

2011-07-13T22:06:00.000-07:00

I spotted my season's first adult Golden StoneFly last Monday (7/11) on the BT.

Second Big Bug of June Confirmed!

2011-07-09T16:21:00.000-07:00

I personally observed the 2nd Big Bug of June, the Western Green Drake on Thursday, July 7 on the LT. About 1/2 dozen were spotted there yesterday. So, they are present in the Truckee area.

The grapevine says adults are in the "Grand Canyon of the Truckee"...thus far not verified. Seining along the Glenshire-stretch of the BT reveals a healthy population of mature nymphs; some with bulbous wing-cases....The Drakes' emergence on the big river is behind their regular appearance which occurs as early as the 1st week of June to the last week of June....normally. I'm speculating the late adult appearance is the result of the huge volumes of water & cooler water temps Mother Nature has provided this year. With the BT sloooowly receding in flow, we may experience an unusual JULY Green Drake hatch.

As for the 3rd Big Bug of June, the Golden Stonefly; personally I have not observed any. I've received one report of an adult sighting. Similar to the Drakes; mature, adult nymphs appear in the seinings.

"You Can't Always Get What You Want"

2011-07-06T08:37:00.000-07:00

...for you older and newer generation Rolling Stones fans, OR you old guys may recall President Nixon saying in his re-election campaign of 1968; "I see the light at the end of the tunnel". This is the sentiment that most Truckee area fly anglers are feeling right now.

Yes, at this point in time, the snow-melt is decreasing, slowly. Progressively, as the water drops we have more water to fish and the fishing picks-up. The BT flow charts along West River Street show peak-flow at 610cfs, with the low point at 425 cfs. For this time of year the average is 300cfs; thus 140%-200% of normal flow; depending on when you're on the water. The heavier flows occur late in the afternoon, as clarity becomes more turbid. The water temps have not reached the preferred 55-56 degrees yet. We're fly fishing above the Prosser Creek inflow; below there is serious combat wading. Personally, I consider it foolhardy & dangerous to even consider wading below the Boca inflow, it has been in the 1900-2000 cfs range...so forgretaboutit!!

There are three methods that will produce right now; "tight-lining", indicator nymphing or streamer fishing. Look for the "softer" water and current breaks. Most willing trout are dispersed...to the bank-side. Here, generally, they'll contend with less water velocity. There are few, if any rising trout; so go down using generic stonefly nymphs trailing a bright green or olive caddis larva patterns. Select your preferred Sculpin pattern (IMO the crawfish is over-sold/touted), and do your favorite "strip-tease."

Other good options right now are to fish the smaller tributary streams & creeks; both of which are clear/clearing and fishable..maybe still a bit too high, but very fishable. Also, lake inlets are producing.

Flora #1

2011-06-24T11:17:00.000-07:00

This water-year is fueling a profuse wild flower explosion in the Truckee watershed basin. Thus far there has been 3-4 flowers I've never seen before. Below are a couple of images of a Camas Lily; a white one!?! I can only speculate that it is either an albino or rare mutation. If anyone can enlighten; I'm receptive.

a Flowing "Mea Culpa"!

2011-06-22T11:18:00.000-07:00

My 5/10 and 6/1 posts; PEAKING & TREND LINES and ADJUSTED PROGNOSIS...SLIGHTLY, respectively, declared that the snow-melt was waning. I was wrong...oh so wrong! My crystal-ball whose accuracy I was touting...sheepishly...was not.

June 6 marked the start of this warm spell. The BT started raging from a wadeable 300 cfs to over 1000cfs along West River street in Truckee. The historical average for this period in this area has been 250-300 cfs; hence we're currently at 740; flowing at 240% of normal. The LT is now at 831cfs in the special reg area; the highest I can recollect at this time of year. Regardless of these challenging conditions; trout are being hooked & netted. The caveat is that the trout hooked at these flows are difficult to bring to the net. I'm thinking if you net 50% of those fish hooked that you're doing OK.
...for a real, not arms extended image:
One accuracy on my predictions is that now we fly fish the small creeks, streams and lake inlets....HINT!

TRUCKEE TRIVIA #3

2011-06-17T18:35:00.000-07:00

Question #3:

Who was the first California licensed fly fishing guide in the Tahoe area? What year?

Be on the Lookout!

2011-06-10T09:40:00.000-07:00

...for the first Big Bugs of June. With this warming trend the Flying Black Ants will appear, and disappear, just as quickly. They can be on the menu for as little of 1-2 days to 10 days. Don't leave home without your favorite pattern in your fly box.

Shad...A change of pace

2011-06-06T19:34:00.000-07:00

What with all this unpredictable weather; on Sunday I decided to venture off the mountain in search of Shad on the American River. Two days before the flows at Nimbus Dam were ramped-up from 5000 to 7000cfs. In reality I know diddlysqaut about shad fishing ; having done it only twice before. So I relied on the advice of Al that the flow increase could slow things down a bit & make the shad more difficult to locate.

So I anticipated little in the way of fishing, but looked forward to visiting with a couple fly fishing buddies (we've been to Chilean Patagonia together)...catching-up with each others lives. I met Al Smatsky, who operates Excellent Adventures and Dan Mc Daniel (3-times president of the Northern California Council of the Federation of Fly Fishing) early in Sacramento and we went to the American river (I have not idea where the put-in was)"Geez Al get-off the phone, I need a net job here!"
Action wasn't as torrid as what I've heard of shad fishing; but we were getting solid tugs and landing a few. The skies were overcast and there was an occassional drizzle, but very minor.

There were wild yellow irises throughout our drift. At lunch I chance to get close and admire them...

We were using 7 and 8 weight rods and casting 250-400 grain 30' heads; both integrated lines and shooting-heads with shooting lines. Regardless ro their samllish size the shad still put up strong struggles and good bends in th rods.

Adjusted Prognosis...Slightly

2011-06-01T17:56:00.001-07:00

Come on....it just stopped snowing in Truckee! This endless winter is getting to be a bit too much. Here's a image of my back deck & forest. As I mention in my 4/20 post (Quickie E-Fishing Report VI); "...keep in mind that spring mountain weather is unpredictable"...yes indeed.The locals have been out wetting a line and when the weather breaks a bit are finding fishable water & willing fish . This is the time of year is when we hook & net some hefty trout; not many but of quality . Fall is the other time we tag the larger trout.Actually, my crystal-ball has been pretty accurate. In my May 10 entry, Peaking & Trend Lines I predicted that we were a "...MINIMUM of 3 weeks out" for settling and improved fly fishing conditions. The flow trend-line remains steadily downward; so we're "...definitely in a waning period." relative to snow-melt.

This current blow may retard my previous predictions...not much...say one more week, so now let's say good times are as close as next week on the BT. Behind town and downstream to the Prosser Creek inflow; currently the flows are a manageable 346-360 cfs. near my preferred bench-march for wade-fishing of 300 cfs. The further upstream to Tahoe City, the less turbulent the flows; 68 cfs being released from the lake at Tahoe City. Below Prosser the flows are near 600 cfs and way too heavy below Boca inflow at 1450 cfs. The major caveat now is WATER TEMPERATURES; still below 50 degrees, we need a few up-ticks above that number for prime-time.
Per April 7th's More Snow?!!...Seasonal Prognosis; "Expect the hatches to be compressed and intense...but later than normal...late year for the BT...negatively impact the fishery (read:crowds) on the LT...BT big boys & girls will not be stung for a long while...down deep...plus is that the smaller streams will be fishable for an extended amount of time..." This latter excerpt was written close to two months ago and it still seems accurate. I guess my crystal-ball is functioning properly.

Lest We Forget...Memorial Day

2011-05-28T18:35:00.000-07:00

Let's not forget what this week-end is all about. It is for honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice...their lives...for the freedoms we all enjoy today.

Take a moment to ponder and say a silent "thank you" for those that have proceeded us; those who stepped-up when their country called. Right or wrong...they went. I salute all military veterans and most especially today those who remain in our memories.

TRUCKEE TRIVA #2 Answer

2011-05-25T11:16:00.000-07:00

Mickey Culter has the correct answer to TT QUESTION #2; Martis Lake.

Butter has guessed Sagehen creek, on the west-side of highway 89, up to UC Sagehen's Research Facility. The regulations there are ZERO kill, no bait and artifiicial barbless hooks only. My recollection is that Sagehen's special reg water was, chronologically, the 4th in the eight (8) special reg waters within 1 hour's drive from Truckee. I'm guessing the regs started in the mid-late'80's.

NOTE: For some reason Google is not allowing me to post this replying to the answers by Mickey & Butter...any help is solicited.

TRUCKEE TRIVIA # 2

2011-05-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

There are eight (8) special regulation waters within one hour's drive of Truckee.

Question #2:

Of these, which body of water was the first to be designated for special regulations; alternately known Wild Trout or C & R water?

Bend Orgeon's ORVIS NorthWest Guide Rendezvous

2011-05-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

During May 12-13 I attended the ORVIS Guide Rendezvous in Bend Oregon. I had never been there, although I've always wanted to fish the Deschutes river for its Redsides and the famous Salmon Fly hatch. I didn't fish, but want to return there again to fished the river.

After spending a night at Weed CA at my sister-in-law's we had a pleasant drive through southern Oregon via highway #97.

Sport Shop in Crescent Oregon

Tom Evenson leads a seminar at the Ameritel Hotel; topic being Internet marketing. Tom is ORVIS' western ELOG (Endorsed Lodges, Outfitters & Guides) director.

Jeff Putman demonstrating/instructing Spey rod techniques on the Deschutes river
"Hole" #2, one of 18 challenging tests on the Casting Course at the Old Mill area along the Deschutes river....ORVIS company store in the background. There was a 3-hole challenge event amongst the attendees.; suffice it to say I did not win any of the first 3 prizes...

Peaking & Trend Lines

2011-05-10T08:35:00.000-07:00

BT/LT Junction...one of two channels below Boca inflow...currently at 2220cfs !!

We've been in the midst of heavy snow-melt starting the 2nd week of March. During this 2 month period there has been four (4) "peak & ebb" cycles relative to snow-melt/flows in the BT; specfically from data I check-out along West River street in Truckee to the Prosser inflow.

The four "peaks" generally ascend during a 8-10 day period (weather related of course); then subside . The first occurred at 400 (2nd-3rd week of March) and second at 375 cfs (1st week of April), Then, showing an ascending trend-line with the latter two peaks at 625 (2nd-3rd week of April) and 850 cfs (ending today). I'm guessing that the latter is the last peak for the year in the aforementioned stretch of river. So we're definitely in a waning period. Now we can fine-tune our crystal balls and predict with more certainty optimum times for fly angling...in the near future...MINIMUM of 3 weeks out.

Again, I'm speaking mostly about the upper stretch of river above Prosser creek inflow. This area is more reflective of the natural run-off because there are 6-7 creeks along state route #89 and, IMO during this time of year, both inflows from Donner & Martis creeks are insignificant relative to my assessment of wading/fly fishing conditions. Prosser & Boca dams have strictly man-made releases, although reflective of the melt, but are less natural.

Now is the time to explore the small creeks and streams. As for the LT; it is totally dependent on when they lower the flows below the dam; currently at the high 600's.
...a 'small creek' Rainbow

Fishmas Eve 2011

2011-04-30T13:05:00.000-07:00

Friday, April 29th marked the date of the 6th annual Fishmas Eve. It was originated by Stefan McLeod. Initially Stefan funded the event with the credits from his window-cleaning business and attendees made donations for the food and tips for the Blue Coyote crew. The intent was, and continues to be, a commemtorative event of California's now defunct & ritualistic "general trout opener" in the Truckee area which occurred the last Saturday in April. That first year, the Wild Trout waters of the BT and LT were officially opened for the "winter season"; November 15 to the last Friday in April.

Stefan is now president of the local Trout Unlimited group, Chapter 103. This year's event was sponsored by TU and the crowd was the biggest yet...guessing 55-60 attendees.

It was a good time to BS and smooze with fellow fly anglers. Plus, over $1000 was donated to local trout conservation efforts. Stefan...good work!

There were also lots of great raffle prizes....

TRUCKEE TRIVIA #1

2011-04-28T10:07:00.000-07:00

I'm starting a new game Truckee Trivia*. Hopefully the game will be informative from a regional standpoint & be fun for those who participate. We'll start with a relatively easy trivia:

Question #1----Where is Horner's Corner"?

How much do regional fly anglers really know about the history of fly angling in the Truckee area? How and when did the reality of the great potental for trophy & quality angling come about and who, where, what, & how did it all come about?

A newer generation of local anglers are partaking in the quality of fly fishing that exists here. But, I'm of the opinion that they take the quality fly angling for granted and haven't a clue how this all came about. Who proceeded them and laid the ground work via political lobbying, hands-on projects and funding of local conservation efforts?
*At one time I was a "Trivial Pursuits" fanatic. Almost to the extend that I was going to start
marketing myself as a "Trivial Pursuits" referee. For a fee I would appear at somone's home wearing a striped black/white shirt and have a whistle. It never happened...

Quickie E-Fishing Report VI

2011-04-20T09:39:00.000-07:00

My reply to a client's inquiry about the BT:

"I would say that we currently have marginal conditions. We’re in the midst of snow-melt. We had a really big winter and still have lots of snow in the higher elevations. Last week we were fishing both the Truckee and Little Truckee. Then yesterday’s rain increased the melt & added rain-water. Even along Glenshire Drive the flow has been 500-515 cfs…big.

By Thursday there could be improved conditions, but I wouldn’t bet on it. Keep in mind that spring mountain weather is unpredictable."

Let's not sugar-coat things...the waters are raging even in the small streams & creeks. The issues now and in the immediate future that will determine fly angling conditions are FLOWS & WATER TEMPERATURES. If you don't pay attention to the aforementioned, you will be flailing away to no avail. Time-wise, fly fishable conditions are still a bit away. If only I had a crystal ball............ This is the time of year we do a lot of "scouting" looking for the optium fly fishing conditions

Definition #9 POST-POST-HOLE

2011-04-17T07:05:00.000-07:00

Post-Post Hole: The point in time when the snow is receeding and there is diminishing chances of unexpected drops through air holes under the snow that can hyper-extend/injure one’s knee. The activity relates to the non-use of snow shoes.

Independence Lake

2011-04-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is welcoming public ideas and feedback about the recreation and access management plan currently underway for Independence Lake. The primary goals of protecting the Lahontan cutthroat (LCT) habitat and keeping aquatic invasive species (AIS) out of the ecosystem will guide this management plan. An online survey has been set up to collect input on specific strategies related to management issues. To ensure each person may only fill out the survey once, sign-in is required. The link is:https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ILP2011 The Nature Conservancy acquired property around Independence Lake in Spring 2010. Independence Lake is located in Northern California in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is 2.5 miles long, 0.5 miles wide with 5.8 miles of shoreline. It is at almost 7,000 feet of elevation. Independence Lake is home to one of only two wild, self-sustaining Lake populations of LCT in the world. In addition, Independence Lake hosts populations of six other native fishes. Independence Lake also plays an important role in providing clean drinking water to western Nevada.*************Lisa WallaceExecutive DirectorTruckee River Watershed CouncilP.O. Box 8568Truckee, CA 96162(530) 550-8760 (Phone)(530) 725-4407 (fax)http://www.truckeeriverwc.org/lwallace@truckeeriverwc.org On Monday evening I attended a TU "focus group" meeting in Truckee about the Nature Conservancy's planning for recreational usage at Independence Lake north of Truckee. Although I haven't visited/fly fished it in years it is unique in that it currently has resident, original DNA strain (...in miniscule %) of the Lahontan Cutthroat. The main reason why the TNC purchased the land surrounding the lake is to preserve this remant population of the LCT. There are various interest groups involved; some primarily focused on sustaining the existing LCT population, others access to and angling rights at the Lake. I fall into the primary focus of the first group; preserve the LCT that are present, everything else is secondary. I'm a suspicious-type and I'm of the opinion that there are "foxes guarding the hen house" during these discussions.

More Snow?!!...Seasonal Prognosis*

2011-04-07T12:58:00.000-07:00

Yeah, it started again last evening on our return from Ralph & Lisa Cutter's new presentation entitled "Lies". It was at the Cal-Neva resort & sponsored by the Tahoe Truckee Fly Fishers. Visibility was dicey, especially driving over Brockway Summit. You lucky skiers & gliders will be in Nirvana into late May. SquawlyWood received nearly 59 FEET of snow this winter, breaking the old record by 29 inches. This has been a wonderful year for snow as it relates to invigorating & enhancing habitat for ALL of our local flora & fauna. As of April 1st the Truckee River Basin's 17 measurement sites has this year's snow-pack at 181% of average. More important to us fly anglers is the water-content for April 1; it was 161% of normal. As far as "wettness", this year trails only '83 and '95; 227% and 182%, respectively. So what do these numbers mean as it relates to melt/run-off into our waters? Multiply 181 x 1.61; hence flows will essentially be 291% of normal. Yikes! da PROGNOSIS: It will be a very 'late' year for the BT and it will negatively impact the fishery (read:crowds) on the LT. The up-side is that the BT big boys & girls will not be stung for a long while because we'll not effectively tempt them down-deep...if we can even reach them. I'm predicting a spectacular Fall season. Another plus is that the smaller streams will be fly fishable for an extended amount of time. There will be plenty of healthy, stream-bred trout available for those who will know the whats, wheres, whens and hows. HINT: take-out your seldom used 3 weight rods so that you can put a proper bend in them when encountering the smallish brookies, browns & rainbows; a 12 " trout is "big". A couple of last thoughts. Expect the aquatic HATCHES to be compressed and intense...but later than usual. Do not forget about terresterials; it can be a banner year as it relates to beetles & hoppers. *I do know about paragraphs...my Google editing seems to be disabled, so above are 5-6 paragraphs without seperation!!

Springtime!!....

2011-03-29T13:27:00.000-07:00

...in Nevada. Finally, the extended period of snow-fall has ceased. There is talk that this will be a "top-3" year. The snow-pack around Truckee is waaaay above normal for this time of year; still limiting access severely on both the BT and LT. Yesterday Pancho and I ventured across the border into Nevada. Succinctly, 3 hook-ups, one break-off and ZERO lands during a 1-1/2 session from 3:15-4:45 PM. We experienced clear skies, sun and no wind with water-temp at 46 degrees, relatively low flows and great clarity. We came upon a run that had "bulging" surface-feeders. Skwalas, BWO and midges were emerging...sparsely. The hook-ups were on the stoneflies; two at the surface and one below. Still another 2 weeks for things to get going in the immediate Truckee area. Remember, water-temps will be a determining factor....not to mention clarity & volume of flows.

Truckee Fly Angling Update

2011-03-21T11:15:00.000-07:00

As for fly fishing in the immediate Truckee area...it is wishful thinking. We received heavy snow yesterday (Sunday, March 20) and the minimal access points that were available on both the BT and LT are officially declared closed by CyberFly!!

The grapevine has this season's snowfall as the heaviest in 25 years. My recollection is that the most famous recorded snow-falls to date were the winters of '51, 83 and '92.

Suddenly the sky has cleared & the sun is peaking through. I'm sure it is a temporary aberration because there are forecasts for the next 5-6 days of snow! Is there such a notion as TOO MUCH SNOW...from a fly angling perspective?

SOME NUMBERS:

Truckee measurement Site #2 @ 6509'---217% of normal snow-pack. It is the highest % of pack as of this date in the Truckee Basin; the lowest % being at Mt Rose site (8800') at 116%

Basin-wide average is now at 147% of normal...good stuff! I haven't even mentioned water-content, which is more critical than snow-pack as it relates to run-off/melt and our precious fly fishing. Let's assume a minimum of 130% of normal water-content (which is a conservative guess), thus 147 X 1.30=191% of average water-content. Hey, we may not be able to see our first consistent dry fly fishing until the end of July...at the earliest. Sub-surface fishing this year will account for 99.9% of the trout fooled...a very liberal guess.

Bob-Bob Bobcating Along...

2011-03-18T14:59:00.000-07:00

Today I've seen two images of a bobcat. The first was on da Sheriff of the Canyon's blog (http://www.gilligansguideservice.blogspot.com/) and the second was in today's Sierra Sun newspaper (http://www.sierrasun.com/). So, I had to share my "bobcat" image in the blogisphere.For those who have never observed a bobcat in the wild; it is an exhilarating experience. They are reclusive & seldom seen. I was here in Truckee for about 20 years when I saw my first one along the "West Loop" of the Truckee river.

The one imaged above was seen "up close & personal". Three, late winter-early springs ago I was in my living room and heard a loud thump* coming from our back deck. I turned a saw this magnificent animal, on its haunches on my deck rail. It was almost robotic in that it was slowing rotating its head side-to-side. It was not more than 10 feet from my window. My camera was readily available. I grabed it and went to the patio door, hoping that he/she was still there, it wasn't. It was slowly walking up a snow-patch off our deck with its back to me. I hissed and it turned around &...I clicked the camera.

Thus far I haven't seen a mountain lion up here in the mountains. They are around because last year one was sighted about a 1/2 mile from my home and tracks were identified about a 1/4 mile away. If my heart was pumping when I saw the bobcat...I hope I don't pass-out when I seen lion in close.

* I later attributed the loud thump to the probability that the bobcat attempted to ambush (from a close-in tree) a squirrel or chipmuck that are frequent visitors since I live on the edge of the forest.

Over-Due Truckee Weather/Fly Angling Report

2011-03-13T12:49:00.000-07:00

...a self-portrait

It is 7 PM...new "daylight-saving-time", and we're receiving a steady fall of heavy-wet snow. Before we gradually settle into early spring we can use a few good wintry-blasts to pad the recorded, March 1 water-content of 124% of normal for this region. Jeez, if we can get the figure above 130+% of normal water-content...the trout will be appreciative. This is wet/sleet/snow pattern is predicted for the next 5-6 days. Bring it on!

This post was to occur about two weeks ago. At that time I'd just finished a busy 6-week run of three shows and venturing to Chilean Patagonia. Then the unexpected occurred; severe water-damage from a failing fixture at my "labor-of-love" cabin in Truckee; built in 1979. It has occupied the last 10 days of my life. Now I'm resigned to getting screwed by the insurance company. They will "depreciate" a 30 year-old carpet and padding. They'll subtract that $$$ figure from the replacement of a new carpet. I'll probably owe them money!!!

So, what do the current weather-patterns suggest to us fly anglers? Here's my take:

Access is, and will continue to be of concern for the next 2-3 weeks. More of a factor in the BT 's upper-river with more ingress points downstream as one proceeds down the canyon to the state-line. For sure everything is open in Nevada.

A "low & slow" mind-set with a tandem big-fly/small-fly rig (I think light/dark also) will get more tight-lines than hoping for the rarer near the surface taker. If the latter, think in the surface-film or slightly below; there might be a stillborn or crippled BWO or March Brown, midge, winter black stone or Skwala adrift. If the latter scenario is your choice, then go at mid-days, hope for little or no wind, lots of solar heating (read sparse cloud-cover) Prospect/target eddies, flats or light-velocity runs.

An excerpt from "Early Season on the Truckee" which I authored n the 2009 spring issue of Sierra Fisherman:
"...Early in the year there are sparse surface emergences. You will observe the ubiquitous, little, black winter stones peppering the snow banks and flitting above/on the water surface; midges, March Browns, first-brood BWO...Skwala hatch. Don’t hold your breath anticipating many, if any, of these bugs getting eaten on top…"

So, wait until early June when the "Big Bugs of June" make an appearance.

Truckee Fly Angling Update

2011-02-17T07:46:00.000-08:00

Let it snow! As for fly fishing...fogetaboutit!

After six (6) weeks of a relative La Nina dry-spell this current dump of "white gold" is welcome. At my 6500' elevation we've received 2 feet...good forthe trout. If you're really jonesing head for Reno.

UPDATE: as of 6:45 AM on Friday the 18th: 4 feet of new at my place since last Monday night! Yeah!

Chilean Patagonia Report/Images

2011-02-15T07:57:00.001-08:00

Here's a quicky e-report to Jon (http://jonbaiocchiflyfishingnews.blog/) who has also had the pleasure of fishing Chilean Patagonia waters (specifically in & around the Rio Cisnes) near the Picacho Lodge (http://www.picacholodge.com/) where I stayed from 5-12 February:

"...The weather was almost too warm for me. We (the 7 anglers at the lodge) got some nice trout; there was one Brown netted that was 28” (or 80 centimeters) and several in the 23”-26” range, Saw the stag beetle. The two largest trout I personally landed were both Browns to 22”, on dries (#8 Black Fat Albert and # 6 Beige Chenobyl Hopper). My largest Rainbow was 21” ( #8 Damsel, dry). There were 5-6 landed by the group that were in the 24”-25” range; mostly Browns and one RainBow".

I haven't mentioned streamers, and yes I did use them. They produced best on the lagos (rivers) and "lagunas" (smallish ponds) They accounted for most of the larger trout by the group. Rubber-Wiggle-Legged streamers in Black, Rust & Olive produced best. We used 20'sink-tips at 200 grains with the sub-surface imitiations. The "group" consisted of myself & Al Smatsky (http://www.excellentadventures.com/) and five (5) Hungarians. I thought my flights were long; it took them 42 hours from Budapest Hungary!

The food, as usual, was fabulous. The staff was as helpful, professional and fun; becoming family since I first went to the lodge in 2008.

Al & I will be "hosting" groups there in 2012. If anyone wants info contact me and I'll provide fees for the 7night/6day day that you "...can't refuse".

Yes...even chinooks were present in very sparse numbers...we didn't target them...way to deep.

Note: The Picacho Lodge started operation in 2005. It is a fly fishing lodge. This year the owner allowed the Hungarian group to fish with conventional gear (spoons & spinners...single-hook only, barbless and strictly catch & release)....only the second time since the lodge opened. The salmon above and the largest Brown imaged were caught via "hardware". I wanted to disclose this and not mislead the reader. For sure the big guys are there and we are figuiring how we will adjust our fly fishing techniques & gear to dupe them. Essentially they are down deeper in the lagos & rio pools and we could not get down to them...this year.

Truckee Conditons....

2011-01-27T08:09:00.000-08:00

Suddenly...we need more snow! I should have shut my mouth in conversations noting La Nina's tendency for minimal snow in January & February after strong Decembers. We have not had a significant snow-fall for going on 4 weeks. Admittedly we've experienced some beautiful , sunny days though. The upside is that the fly fishing has been productive and very accessible, most especially on the BT. Dead-drifting a small/big tandem, some lead, under an indicator is my personal preference right now.

Appearances During January & February

2011-01-15T07:11:00.000-08:00

I like doing 'shows" whether in a booth, giving a presentation or involved in a seminar. I'll be involved in the following:

1---Sacramento ISE, 21-23 January

Two seminars entitled "Fly Fishing the Sierra",

ORVIS booth and helping with "Fly Fishing 101"

.....off to Chilean Patagonia 2-14 February, maybe this time I'll post images and a report

2---Pasadena Fly Fishing Show, 19-20 February

in the Sierra Fisherman booth and will talk at the

Destination Theater

3---Pleasanton Fly Fishing Show, 25-27 February

similar to Pasadena I'll make a presentation in the

Destination Theater; Truckee Guide NetWork booth

If at any of the three events, please come-by and say hello. I like placing names with faces.

Below are images of the last 'group"event I attended; October's Truckee River Day. I attended the Little Truckee Project and later the 'fair"along highway 89. The huge, colorful trout was an inflatable "bounce-room" for the kids.

Between Storms...

2011-01-14T18:51:00.000-08:00

...such as now! During the next week we'll experience pleasant weather which will afford the fly fisher an opportune time to do some mid-day fly angling in the Truckee area. The BT is more accessible than the LT...Today was a perfect day (home image below); no wind, sun and & wispy clouds.My intent was to meet Pancho on the main Truckee. It was an intended respite from the "shack nasties" that can afflict us mountain dwellers. It didn't happen because of an unforeseen minor injury to my wife while skiing...a chipped tooth. When I finally arrived at the rendezvous-point on the river...late in the day...I didn't wader-up. Pancho had just finished a very satisfying session. He landed three (3) upper-teen Browns and lost a larger Rainbow on an aerial at the end of a strong surge across the river. All four hook-ups where under an indicator, some shot and a, promised, undisclosed fly.

If you visit, strap-on you snow-shoes & test the "warmer"waters...you may be surprised.

Here's an excerpt from an article I authored for the Spring 2009 issue of Sierra Fisherman magazine; entitled "Early Season on the Truckee River":

"During winter and spring, California’s Truckee river is fly fished like most freestone streams in the California. Water flow and water temperature are the key factors governing strategy; and why fly anglers adjust tactics accordingly. For consistent success; simply, fish…“low & slow”. For surface addicts; wait as springtime wanes into summer; there will be an occasional, although limited, opportunity to feed that jones.

"If accessing the river during January, February and March (snow-shoes are a good idea); go at mid-day seeking warmer water exposed to solar heating. You’ll find warmth in “soft water”, mild currents, edges and eddies. During May to mid-June; ideal conditions may still be an “iffy” proposition; wholly dependent on the snow-melt. Your best ploy remains the earlier months’ tactics of stripping streamers or a preferred technique with a tandem, big/small fly rig deep in the deep runs, troughs and pools and in the lower-water column of eddies in boulder-strewn pocket-waters.

Early in the year there are sparse surface emergences. You will observe the ubiquitous, little, black winter stones peppering the snow banks and flitting above/on the water surface; midges, March Browns, first-brood BWO, and thus far, an unconfirmed Skwala hatch. Don’t hold your breath anticipating many, if any, of these bugs getting eaten on top…"

"Snow We Got!"...a follow-up

2011-01-03T10:05:00.000-08:00

In my previous post I forgot to show why we love the snow & the life-giving elixir it provides our watery friends...the trout.

Snow We Got!

2011-01-02T14:08:00.000-08:00

Snow-wise we've experienced a phenominal month of December. If you feel "...a winter-wonderland" is a hackneyed expression, your're probably right, but, it sure is beautiful here in the mountains. Since Thanksgiving both locals and visitors have been frollicking in the "white-gold"; skiing, gliding or snow-shoeing.

Excerpt from the local 12/29 210 Sierra Sun newapaper:

"The early winter storms have brought the Lake Tahoe Basin's snowpack to 219 percent of average...already received 70 percent of our annual snowfall, and technically were just entering the winter.

Over at Squaw Valley USA...over 21 feet of snowfall this season...120-130 inches is traditionally high snow count for this time of year...best snow conditions in more than a decade."

Hey, I haven't even mentioned how all this snow is going to benefit our regional fly angling fisheries...................

Quickie E-Fishing Report V

2010-12-12T13:41:00.001-08:00

...a reply to a conditions update for a visiting fly angler nexr week:

"...I went to the BT yesterday. There was access along Glenshire drive and two of us netted a trout apiece; 18" and 14" Rainbows during a 2:15-4:30 PM period. Both ate a #8 Hare's Ear Stonefly nymph...two #2 shot under an indicator. The water was 45 degrees at 200 cfs and clarity was good... forgot my camera and missed 2-3 great angling/scenery images...expecting some snow so access/conditions are unpredictable & can change."

Cyber Flash!! #3

2010-12-04T14:50:00.000-08:00

a bit delayed, but....

Well, it is official via concensus of my BB's (blog buddies); da Sheriff, Jon & Jay are concurring relative to my post of 11/21/10...winter is here.

Access, and I'm talking the ability to merely park your vehicle...to snow-shoe, glide or "snow-clump"( see NOTE below)...to the "open" BT waters from the Boca inflow upstream up to to Trout Creek, is minimal; if not improbable. The road to the LT at Boca dam is closed; snow-laden and will remain unplowed for the foreseeable future.

If you want a reliable and continuing assessment as to what fly fishing venues will afford you the best fly angling opportunities in the 1) Truckee area, 2) north of town to Quincey, and 3) west to Pyramid Lake, "follow" my BB's blogs; da Sheriff*, Jon** & Jay***and Jay***...respectively.

NOTE: "Definition #1..." posted of November 23, 2009

*----www.gilligansguideservice.blogspot.com

**---www.jonbaiocchiflyfishingnews.blogspot.com

***--www.northernsierraflyfishing.blogspot.com

F*#k Yeah!! #2 & Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T11:05:00.000-08:00

Actually these two thoughts are not mutually exclusive; they are inter-dependent from my perspective. I'm wishing everyone a pleasant Thanksgiving Day and I'm thanking the the BaseBall gods for my hometown's San Francisco Giants...the undisputable World Champines!!

Referenced Blog Posts:

10/3/2010----"...want a champagne shower?"
11/3/2010----SF Giants are World Champs!!!"

For you fans and non-fans, I'd like to share this You Tube video/song with you for the its refrain & complicated lyrics:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGbJ2f6CHlk

Glittering Christmas Gifts

2010-11-23T11:48:00.000-08:00

My good bud, da Sheriff of da Canyon (http://www.gilliganguideservice.com/) recently posted a suggested Christmas gift. Hey, the gift is nice and creative, but it is really not a SERIOUS gift for someone special. If you want such contact my other bud, Johnny da Jewler. http://www.johnleonardstudio.com/.
Check out some of his original fly angling related items below. I believe these are sterling silver. My wife has "danglies" such as the earings & pendant with stone. If you want something special he'll create a one of a kind...providing you got the pesos, denaros, shekels, bread or bannanas.The above is a belt-buckle...incredible jumping trout; earrings or pendant

End of "Regular" Season

2010-11-21T14:13:00.000-08:00

It is official, the "regular" season is over. This also applies to my guiding season; although I did guide last year on December 5 0f last year (see December 2009's Frozen Fingers & Icey Guides).

Currently we're in the midst of our first serious winter snow-storm of the season. As of 2 PM today we've received 2 feet PLUS of snow at our back deck at our home at 6500'. The attached image will give you a perspective.
The sun has attempted to peak through on several occasions...very briefly. The snow will continue through early Tuesday. That translates to another 2 feet at my place and minimally another 4 feet on the high peaks; which I'm predicting at cumulatively high-up at 8 feet on new snow. All this bodes well for a good wet winter that will definitely benefit the local trout fisheries.

...My perpetually lighted front-yard forest

A view from our bedroom

Name This Trout...

2010-11-11T20:58:00.000-08:00

...and where was it caught?

Veterans Day

2010-11-11T20:50:00.000-08:00

...just a note of thanks to those who served; willingly or not...right or wrong. I personally salute all those who have served.

PS---Received 5" of snow as of Monday morning at my place at 6500' in Truckee. Winter is pretty much here. Nevertheless I'll be on the water tommorrow (11/12) for some last licks, and as long as I can reach and effectively fish both main rivers here, the BT (big Truckee) and LT (Little Truckee).

Definition #8 DANGLIES

2010-11-08T18:00:00.000-08:00

Danglies---

Those "must have" items that we hang on our fly fishing vests, packs or lanyards; nippers, hemos, tippet spools, floatant etc.

SF Giants are World Champs!!!

2010-11-02T15:59:00.000-07:00

Finally... after 56 years in San Francisco. What a wondrous journey. The San Francisco Giants are atop the baseball world. How nice it is to stick-it to all the pundits who gave SF's motley & eclectic crew of youngsters/oldsters and story-book characters...NO CHANCE...against the likes of the Phillies and Rangers. How sweet it is!

FISHING UPDATE:

Oh, been wanting to write a report. Quickly; had some snow over a week ago. The rain/snow blew-out the BT for several days and now it is flowing clearly and nicely. Best time to fish it is mid-day. You'll see few bugs; so dredging near the bottom is the best method right now. Best I've seen as of late are mostly wild RainBows to 14"...I do not count the "club" fish as legit. Generic patterns remain the staples; no sophisication needed.

The LT was fishing great for about 3 weeks with the unsettled weather; slowed a bit this last few days. Through most of October there were tremendous emergences of various aquatics...and lots of heads at the surface. Today we have nice fall weather and clear skies. The rising trout and intense hatches have nevertheless produced decent sessions for both clients and myself; 5-7 fish to hand; biggest being both Rainbows and Browns to 18". Producing flies have been; #8-12 San Juans, Eggs to BWO emergers and Midge larva down to tiny #24.

Quickie E-Fishing Report IV

2010-10-14T09:06:00.000-07:00

"I'm suggesting the Truckee from as early as 9AM to 4PM...dry-dropper & indicator nymphing; pocket-water & pools/deep-runs respectively. Water temps are not an issue so it can be productive all day. I've been "working" the stretch between Prosser & Boca; nice managable wading flows. If your swinging you're Spey...the "canyon" has bigger water at about 450 cfs. You'll see some adult BWO's and I believe a Mahoney Dun. If you stay until dusk, you should see some October Caddis (unverified...grapevine intel).

As for the Little Truckee; the best times for rising trout is from 11AM-3PM. The most productive patterns have been small-sized 18-24; BWO emergers & spinners. The exception can be a Beetle or Ant pattern in size 10-14...if you get frustrated with the selective risers. The water flow is low at about 45cfs. All four (4) orders of aquatic bugs are present as adults; mayflies (minimally two sizes), stoneflies (16-20), caddis (three sizes...two October Caddis observed!!) and of course midges ...down to size 72."

Defintion #7 CHEATING

2010-10-12T09:13:00.000-07:00

Cheating:

The act of fly anglers who consciously do not de-barb their hooks while fly fishing on special regulation waters that require barbless hooks...because they want that little edge.

Definition #6---TIMING

2010-10-09T12:06:00.000-07:00

Timing:

The perfect alignment of weather, a profuse aquatic bug emergence and steady, rhythmic surface-feeding trout. Essentially a trout fly-angler's Nirvana

"...want a champagne shower?"...plus Truckee FFing Update

2010-10-03T16:40:00.000-07:00

F*#K YEAH!!

This is the response from Tim "da Freak" Lincecum; pitcher for the San Francisco Giants; consecutive, two-time...2008 & 09 seasons...Cy Young award winner of the National League. The Giants just won the Western Division of the National League. I'm thinking that this response will be forever immortalized in the world of televised Major League BaseBall history!

This post is dedicated to three of my favorite people... da Dom, Swill de Beers and finally "Gonzo" McKurtis (who graciously invited me to fish with him today...but I declined having to see the SF Giants & 49er games on TV). The first two I know are SF Giants die-hards.

...current FLY FISHING REPORT:

Per the previous report..the BT is producing fish via two methods; indicator nymphing, 2-3 #6 shot, big & small tandem of # 20 Rubber-Legged, Copper John and #16 PTFBPT under an indicator or hopper/dropper using the aforementioned # 20 trailer; having been what my clients are using...small trout so far. Water still low in mid-section and temps are just fine. If you venture into the "canyon", think October Caddis PUPAE patterns , swinging such patterns in the tail-outs...advice, up-tick your tippet size.

The LT...crowded; even at mid-week! Dam to TU's '09 national TV feature in its "On The Rise" series and Andy's article in the 2005 spring issue of NorthWest Fly Fishing. Now, if someone offers me a grand...as in US $1000.00... MAYBE I'll consider publishing my 3600-word version of the LT in a national magazine (go to my homepage & click-on Little Truckee...it is there)...IMO best ever written on the subject. Yes, I can be a writing-whore.

The "Meadow" area remains unpredictable, super-low in cfs; not knowing when you''ll see "heads"...if so inclined. Ron Soskowski of Coronado CA finally seduced a 17-1/2" RB on a #22 Harrop CDC Captive BWO Dun...after we changed flies about 3-4 times to a pod of 4-5 steadily sipping 17"-22" trout. So, if looking for "technical" fly fishing head for the Meadow. I'm suggesting 11 AM-3:30 PM as PrimeTime for "head-hunting".

HINT: Otherwise, check-out inlet flows into lakes or rivers...enough said.

We're experiencing overcast skies, both drizzle & heavy downpours, thunder & lighting for the next 6 days...bring rain-gear. The fall fishing is shaping-up to be epic.

A Resurrection

2010-09-29T16:59:00.000-07:00

CyberFly!! is resurrecting the once famous Truckee Fly Angling Update because of requests of some of the "old-timers". It was e-mailed to a subscriber list of close to 500 recipients. It was started in '97 and ceased in late 2004...pre-blog era. I have a brief explanation of why I discontinued the factual fly fishing report on my 18th century web-site's homepage (http://www.cyberfly.com/)... and a click-on sample of one of my last entries.

The current version (below) is & will be faaaar shorter than the original, not as thorough & may or may not include its favored "Flora & Fauna Observations". Your feedback & personal reports are always appreciated & encouraged...so that others can tune-in to what you've experienced along what I'm reporting. Then, hopefully with your other additional comments this blog report may become timely & reliable advice for those planning a vist to the Truckee area. Uh...comments will be monitored for disparaging remarks or anyhing I disagree ;-)

Back to the Present:

It is officially Fall in the Truckee both visually & chronologically. The leaves are amber, gold & red...some are falling to the ground during brisk winds. The BT and LT are at low-flows; the exception being in the canyon below the Boca inflow.

Yesterday, the BT at the Loop, from 9:30AM-12:30PM produced well; about a dozen smallish 8"-11" RainBows. The hot fly was a #20 Rubber-Legged Copper John; under an indicator with two (2) #6 shot. The water was 58-61 degrees. BWO's, a tiny #20-22 (PsuedoCleon?), 18-20 Tan Caddis and a sized #14 Mahogony Dun (?) were high-lighted against the sun and/or dipping/egg-laying on the flows which were at comfortable 150cfs. A brief 1-1/2 hour session on the LT resulted in a brightly-colored 10" brown which ate a #18 Olive ComParaDun. Several larger trout were rising...consistently, but failed to eat. The water level is at minumal flows of 37 cfs. A mild breeze was present.

Quickie E-Fishing Report III

2010-09-15T22:50:00.000-07:00

Current Fly Fishing Update:

Yesterday (Sunday, 19 September) we experienced really gusty wind, which made it difficult to cast; especially guiding/instructing beginners. The previous day a relative beginner hooked and landed trout...there was no wind. Bugs on both the BT and the LT were veeeery sparse; seeing both caddis & an occassional BWO. Water temps are comfortable for the trout's feeding metabolism...and they are eating...providing you can make the right presentation & the right fly. So, what else is new.

HINT: Locals are waiting for the big Fall Browns to gather, start moving and getting active.

...my requested advise-reply to a fella who will visit from Marin county later this week:

"Nice time to visit, the autumn colors are just starting to show and we’ve had a few morning frosts….Plus the crowds are gone!

Yes, for sure erratic flows on Little Truckee; being almost too low. There is lots of “gunk”, even when doing a dry/dropper. Trout are holding/congregating in the deep water only; so pick such water OR search the shallow riffles in the absence of showing fish. This past week (even with the low flows) clients have landed Browns to 19” (#18 Psycho Prince) and 6-8 Rainbows in the 16”-18” range. The latter being duped on dries as large as #12 SawMill Ants and small as #22 BWO Organza Spinners. There has been no really specific ideal time since we’ve hooked & netted trout as early as 8AM to 6PM. If I had to pick one time-frame I’d say 12-4PM.
There has not been any consistent rises to bugs. We’ve been seeing very sporadic BWO in the 18-20 size and caddis from 12-18 range. There are tons of midges and the “surface-sippers” (the old SS; Nazi trout we call them) are leisurely ingesting them. A client said he actually saw a trout jump-out of the water after a low–flying dragon-fly…interesting, never thought about them…even knowing they are an effective top-water pattern in some lakes in Chilean Patagonia. The big Truckee is now in really fine fishing shape. The water temps are ideal. We’ve been on the water as early as 8 AM; generally leaving about 1PM. Some bugs, nothing really notable and few rising trout. Largest trout this past week has been a 17” RainBow which ate a #16 Red Copper John. Other productive flies have been #14-16 Elk-Hair Caddis with smallish droppers such as #16-20 Rubber-Legged Copper-Johns in various hues. We hven’t netted any Browns. I can’t tell you what’s happening at dusk because I haven’t been there.

I’ve been “working” the lower Glenshire stretch (getting a bit too low) and preferring the venue between Boca inflow upstream to the Prosser creek inflow; there being about 200 cfs. Below Boca it is 500cfs; hence, for me, “combat-wading”. If you have the stamina and sure-footedness venture into the canyon below Hirschdale because the largest trout in the river are there. Best options would be indicator nymphing with generic big/small patterns...plus lead.

So far the Browns have not been gathering for the spawning rituals, but that can be occurring soon as we continue to get the cooling, early fall weather.

I am busy…today doing “administrative” stuff at home; then occupied with “work” to Sunday. Then, Tuesday the 21st, I leave Silver Creek and will return the 27th …for some personal fly-fishing (with my bamboo rod)…I’m getting a bit excited."

North Fork Yuba II

2010-09-06T20:00:00.000-07:00

This North Fork Yuba scene is another 4-6 weeks away...no computer enhancement.

Fall is a wonderful time to visit the NFY. The weather is really pleasant; it is shirt-sleeve or light-fleece time...carry a packable wind/rain shell though. The water is low and absolute cystalline. It is no-hurry-up fly fishing; late mornings to late afternoon. "Prospecting"* with dry flies will produce feisty rainbows that aggressively inhale your #14-16 generic patterns.

During late-October evenings you'll witness flights of October Caddis...so a huge dry/small nymph dropper tandem is always a good ploy, even during the day. Best to look for shaded areas, aside rock-outcroppings and under stream-side vegetation if you do the daytime angling with the aforementioned rig.

*Speaking of "prospecting".....placer gold-mining is now officially illegal on the NFY. As anglers we no longer have to be vigilant about stepping into deceptively deeeeeep dredging holes. Another up-side is not rolling an ankle-leg-bone-busting-boulder; having become unstable from suctioning-out its underpinnings. Also the dredging equipment, floating sluice boxes and 8" flexible suction hoses will not be anchored on the water. But, still be conscious of tripping over cables and lines strewn about the defunct mining claims....sometimes hidden amongst the stream vegatation & rocks.

Carrying the Torch

2010-08-30T20:29:00.000-07:00

Here's some recent e-conversation with a client from the east coast:

CLIENT:

"Why not push for catch and release only?"

MY REPLY:

"It was difficult getting what we got. Of course you’re talking to the choir….I've been in fishery political battles for about 35 years…I want the younger crowd taking-up the torch."

Quickie E-Fishing Report II

2010-08-28T12:47:00.000-07:00

Per several requests in lieu of my preaching, rants and general B.S.--- below is another current, succinct fly fishing report. By far it is easier for me to merely relay reports I'm giving to inquiries from existing & prospective clients than attempting to write a esoteric, well-written & creative piece.

"...how’s the fishing?
Simply “FAIR"at best… The big Truckee is lowering, but still a
bit warm. Best times are in the AM, dry-droppers in the pocket-water
and indicator-nymphing the deep runs or pools…with lead. The
Little Truckee has been ramped-up during the 10 days; shutting-off
bug emergences & rising trout or sight-fishing to them. The best
technique has been indicator nymphing and if you’re lucking you
may see a sipping trout in the AM and dusk in the slick water.

Been up a couple of times since we went out. Did pretty good on little ones.
That is what we’re seeing on both rivers. The largest trout during the last week was an 18” rainbow which ate a San Juan Worm, on the LT…few risers even in the evenings

...LT it is currently close to 200 cfs; about 2 weeks ago it was 40 cfs.

...What’s working?
Call...I’ll give you current info as to conditions and what is working. Things can change. I do know we’re expecting some cooler air temps, rain & thunderdstorms this week-end; that can change things for the better. Hopefully this week-end's weather will create a change from the tough"dog-days" we've been experiencing the last 4-5 weeks.

During the last two weeks the best on the LT has been is 6 hook-ups and four lands to 18". On the BT, at most, 5 small ones to 14”. As I've mention, I'd rate things fair at best.

HINT: Lake inlets are a good prospects right now."

Quickie E-Fishing Report

2010-08-25T12:09:00.000-07:00

Here is my e-reply report to an inquiry from a fella in Chicago who wanted to do some golfing & fly fishing (...and escape the heat in the mid-west) in the area:

"The Truckee River is lowering but still too warm...AM fly fishing is best. The Little Truckee is rising (releases from the dam)...few fish rising and few bugs emerging...so there is limited dry fly fishing. Most productive fly fishing on both rivers is indicator nymphing.

Best possibility of consistent dry fly angling is on the North Fork of the Yuba; an hour north of Truckee. It is a beautiful mountain, freestone stream. The stream-bred rainbows are smallish; 6"-11".

The weather in the Tahoe area has been in the 75-85 range with clear skies and at times gusty winds. These conditions are forecasted for minimally the next week. We’re awaiting cooler nights as a precursor to the start of Fall…hence cooler water temps and less crowds."

Photo Essay...North Fork of Yuba

2010-08-25T10:47:00.000-07:00

As I promised, below are images of my favorite "north of Truckee" water that I visit with clients during the "dog days" when the water on the BT is too warm and the LT is too crowded in addition is getting pounded by TOO MANY GUIDES (most being "takers" & not 'givers"...see my post of 10/17/09). I've had clients tell me that the North Fork reminds them of streams they have fly-fished in New Zealand...excepting the size of the trout. I wouldn't know but NZ is on my agenda; possibley during 2012.

Road Kill

2010-08-21T18:48:00.000-07:00

If you spend anytime on the mountain highways and small roads you will undoubtedly see a lot of road kill. Most road-kill is ubiquitous; deer, coyote, raccoon & numerous small varmints such as squirrels & chipmunks. The rarer sightings are of bear and porcupine; the latter seen last Wednesday. I've never seen a mountain lion or bobcat splattered and smeared on the asphalt.

Early in my fly fishing addiction I'd carry a "road-kill kit" entailing a very sharp blade, desiccate powder and plastic bags. There was a point in time when my freezer section had an abundance of bird carcasses, deer and varmint sections...mostly tails.

Eventually, I quit. Mostly because I never really did of lot of fly tying having worked lot with my hands at the family craft business at San Francisco's Telegraph Hill ...so I didn't need the catharsis.

Like Thunder & Lightening...

2010-08-08T20:30:00.000-07:00

Both this last Saturday & Sunday we experienced late afternoon, booming thunder, faint lightening bolts & drizzle. This climatic change was welcomed since we have had an extended period of hot weather & cloudless skies.

If this weather pattern continues it bodes well for the fly angler to adjust their tactical thinking. Specifically, there may be 1) cooler flows because of more cloud-cover 2) more extended periods of bug emergences instead of those of short duration and 3) less wary trout because less bright sunshine will encourage longer stays in feeding lies; in lieu of protective holds and cover. Hence, more chance at opportuntinistic drift feeders.

Yo-Yo Flows & "Other Hatch" Report

2010-08-02T11:26:00.000-07:00

Since my last fly fishing "prime-time" report of late June, regulated flows have played an important part as to WHERE, WHEN, WHAT and HOW to fly fish the local Truckee waters. In addition to being aware of the inflows from Lake Tahoe, Prosser and Boca, other seasonal phenomena have to be accounted for; specifically water temperatures and the summer-time "raft hatch" on the Truckee river.
Throughout the month of July flows were unpredicatable. Initially the BT out of Lake Tahoe was at 70 cfs then progressively ramped-up to its current 331 cfs. The increase was welcomed because the flows were receding, but, the increase in water temps was not welcomed because the lake was inflowing from the surface.

We've been on the BT are early as 7 AM and leave around 1 PM. At the latter time water temperatures are subject to your location. I've recorded a 62 near Bronco creek & at the NV/CA border (image below), 64 at the "loop" and 66 along Glenshire at "Cat-House Hole". The other opportune time is to be on the water during the last hour of light. Then you'll see various-sized Caddis and Little Yellow Stones. Unfortunately there has not been a lot of rising trout. Lead is required. Below Grey's Creek Pancho briefly had on a very large Brown that effortlessly topedoed through a whitwater chute...breaking off a Crawfish pattern. Typically for the BT, the catch is small Rainbows & Browns in the 7"-11" range. One can get complacent; then you get a grab & solid hook-up for the bigger guys in the 16" plus range...be ready.

About the "raft-hatch"...it is all about timing it; assuming you want to MISS IT. The upper river from below the dam to the River Ranch Lodge is quite a scene. It is almost like bumper-cars (...not to mention a lot of eye-candy); especially on week-ends. Times to avoid this hatch are from 11AM-6PM.

If venturing into the Canyon; the permited (50 rafts), "guided" whitewater trips' only ingress point is at the Boca (Little Truckee inflow) ; no earlier than 10 AM. The only egress point is at Floristan; no later than 5PM. Also, the rafters are NOT ALLOWED TO DISEMBARK. If you see such report them to Nevada county. Here's the earliest arrival timing; 10:30 AM the pocket-water above the Hirschdale bridge and 11:30 AM at Grey's Creek.

After Labor day week-end the "hatch" will subside substanially.

The yo-yo flows have also influenced the fly fishing on the LT. It had been at a low of 40 cfs for about a month. Then it was ramped up to as high as 240 cfs...then quickly down again to...you guessed it, 40 cfs. Talk about an adjustment in tactics; from sight-fishing to use of lead and back to a spring-creek game of sight fishing. Nevertheless some quality trout have been netted. The range has been two Browns to 22"* and two Rainbows to 20"**. There are no numbers though; a good session with a client being 10 hook-ups and 5 lands. Most sessions are 1-3 landed. Unlike spring & early summer we're starting to see smallish 8"-12" Browns & Rainbows.

As far as bugs to anticpate; PMD, surpringly BWO's, Midges, smallish Caddis.
We are also anticipating the appearance of the Flavelina (Little Western Green Drake...sized 10-12)

*#16 CDC Biot PMD Comparadun and #20 Purple Coppper John

**#18 CDC Biot BWO Comparadun

August is a great time to venture to the North Fork of the Yuba. Here you will find cool mountain springs that generally provide the NFY with 10 degrees less water temps than the BT. The trout aren't huge, but, very willing. This is a classic "quick-action" river. Use of attractor dries in the #14-16 range and droppers in sized 16-20 will produce good numbers of wild rainbows. A large trout is 12-14"; most are 6"-9".

More of "north of Truckee" in future posts; mostly in the form of an "eye-candy" photo essay of opprotunities in this uncrowded area.

Definition # 5--- POSITIONING

2010-07-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

Positioning:

Where the fly angler places oneself so that they can make the most ideal presentation to a trout or to a location where a trout is likely to be lying.

As an aside relative to a stream's "regulars":

It is a dead give-away that an angler is totally unfamiliar with a specific water when they set-up right where the trout hold! There is no harm if they position themselves away from where the trout are since they will not spook the trout into hiding. BUT, if they position themselves at the least ideal presentation location (on the trout!!); the next angler has to rest the area for an inordinate amount of time before the trout return to their feeding or prime hold from which they where spooked.

Definition #4--- DEATH GRIP

2010-07-20T12:51:00.001-07:00

Death Grip:

Simply, breaking-off a trout because of not giving the trout line. Alternately known as not giving the trout its "head"or not letting it run and take-out line. The break-off can occur at a leader knot or hook knot. Either way, It is a clean break (no "pig-tails"...poorly tied knot); strictly "pilot error."

There are three types:

1-grabbiing/stopping the reel's handle as it spins line off the reel
2-pinching the line to the butt section of the rod with one's line-hand
3-pinching the line to the rod handle, between the reel and control finger

There is a higher probability of the death grip to occurr with fly anglers who are relatively new to the sport and/or those who are not accustomed to fighting large trout.

A Guide's Dilemma

2010-07-16T09:02:00.000-07:00

What is a guide to do in the heat of battle? Bark-out commands like a rabid Smokey-da-Bear-Capped DI (Drill Instructor...having experienced a few) or stoically say nothing & let the client go with their instincts? I'm sure the answer is somewhere in between.

Over the years I've realized that most of my streamside incantations occur when I'm guiding/instructing a beginner or intermediate fly angler (whatever the latter means) who may have limited experience hooking, playing & landing a decent trout. With an experienced fly angler, generally, a lot less encouragement & coaching is required.

The more intense scenarios by this emotionally unrestrained Italian's yelling & screaming probably totally discombobulates the client's instincts of what to do. Actually I'm still trying to temper my behavior & there seems to be some progress...after all these years. Lots of times I do apologize if I was a bit too vocal & most times the client says it was OK or they were not offended by my behavior. I'm sure there have been times when they may have white-lied a bit.

When your adrenalin is pumping and your client is into a big fish there is a tendancy...for sure...that both of you want to net the trout. Of course I have ulterior motives; my personal gratification since I'm actually fly fishing THROUGH the client. But more important to me is the elation & sense of accomplishment that the client may experience. I call this notion the "shareable world"; the passion of mutual experiencing an event. Plus, I/we do enjoy the high-fives, fist-bumps or primal-screams that occur at the net and/or upon the realease.

3rd Big Bug of June..adult?

2010-07-08T13:12:00.000-07:00

I was was guiding on the upper BT on Wednesday and had a brief conversation with a fly angler who I've had e-note communications with since we met at the Pleasanton FFing Show. He mentioned all the Golden StoneFlies he had seen. I mentioned that, personally, I have not seen any adults...yet. Nor had I see any shucks on the boulders. Admittedly, I have not been in the canyon for over a week. Was he speaking about nymphs?

He returned a perplexed look, as if saying "Are you blind?". No, although I do wear corrective lenses & is the reason why I may be alive because I opted-out of becoming an infantry officer in Vietnam. I was being honest and I have to surmise that the adults are prolific in the canyon which he had visited the day before. Yes, I have received reliable intel of them in the canyon; which is a great location to be now for aggressive, "combat-waders" since the flows are below 575 cfs....hint.

As soon as he ventured upstream I returned my focus to the client. Then, I saw ONE shuck of a Golden, amongst a cluster of at least 50 little Yellow Stone exo-skeletons on the downstream side of a mid-stream boulder. For sure, there are plenty of the latter flying around and in the bushes..............with an impressionistic #14 down-wing pattern getting attention at the surface. Regardless, use the NYMPH of the Golden, it will draw attention...below...for more consistent hook-ups.

Yeah, I know it is more of a rush to see that explosion at the surface.

Prime Conditions Have Arrrived

2010-06-29T21:06:00.000-07:00

Finally the BT is coming into fine fishing shape. The melt is almost over. Water temps are getting near the prime-floor-temps of the 55 degree mark. Bugs are hatching and some trout are eating on top. But for consistent success nymphing remains the most assured tactic of success.

Right now I personally focus on the stretch from the Boca inflow to the Donner Creek spill-in. This area requires less combat-wading. Unlike like the da Sheriff of da Canyon * whose turf...Hirschdale to the CA-NV stateline, is big water (...and admittedly a chance of larger trout), my clients have not netted a 5 pounder yet.

*www.gilliganguidservice.com

One such trophy was on for an extended, 3-4 minutes struggle last Tuesday, June 22nd.
It ate a #16 Rubber-Legged, Flash-Backed Hare's Ear It rushed downstream, pocket to pocket and finally into a large pool. I'm saying "Great...now we can net it!", thinking it was ready for the net...it simply uncorked.

March Browns, BWO's, Green Drakes & Yellow Stone adults are being observed mid-day. The take has been wild RainBows to 17-1/2" and Browns to 20" and the real native Mountain WhiteFish to 19".

The LT , below Stampede Dam, was lowered to 30 cfs today!!...geez. At 40cfs for the last 3 weeks we've been sight-fishing. Casting to RB's & Browns to 20"; most in the 15"-18" range with the rarer 12"-13" RB. It has been mostly dry/dropper fishing. The producing dries are #10 Green Drake Emergers, #12 ParaChute Black Flying Ants, #16 PMD Cripples and #18-20 CDC,Grey, Biot ComParaDuns. These flows, IMO, are really too low & may be detrimental to the fishery's health. Most especially de-watering the "nursery", side channels, which is where the newly hatched minnows reside.

Gary Amendola from Ohio even managed to land & release a flying trout...

and his fishing partner, Phil Murphy managed a beautiful Brown

The small creeks will remain in ideal conditions for the next couple of weeks.

These small running waters host beautifully-colored Brookie & RainBow in the 6"-10" range. A 12 incher is considered a "hog." An ideal rod for these little jewels is a 2 or 3 weight rod. I'm still a small creek junkie and will visit them whenever the opportunity is there...such as now!

One last comment...Now is an opportune time to visit lake inlets. Over the years we've had encounteres with some out-sized trout. Most of the time we probe the deeper water column; stripping streamers and occasionally wind-drift sub-surface fare under an indicator. If one is lucky an angler can also encounter a very decent surface rise to both Damsels and Callibaetis

Cyber Flash!! #2

2010-06-23T06:39:00.000-07:00

...a belated Flash!

The second leg of the fabled Big Bugs of June has landed...made an apppearance. While guiding on Monday, June 21, I personally saw three (3), adult Green Drakes on the Little Truckee from 12-12:10 PM. I also received a report...and you know it is from a reliable source otherwise I do not use it...of four (4) adults viewed in pocket-water along the lower reaches of Glenshire Drive; also at noon. Neither sightings resulted in observed rise activity; which should change soon.

The melt & run-off has decreased and near its end. Finally the BT is fishable with trout that have thus far not been seriously harassesd. Now we'll experience a prolonged season with plenty of water and lot of bugs.

Remember, the sequence of hatch activity is sequenially consistent; when the sequence STARTS is subject to the previous winter's snow-pack & water content the corresponding run-off. Jeff Brown, the manager of the Sagehen Creek UC Research Facility, informed me that at his location they have recorded 146% of BOTH snow-pack and water content.With that in mind, IMO, everything, conservatively, is at least 3-4 weeks behind...if not more.

Now I await reports or personal viewing of the third Big Bugs of June; the Golden Stonefly.

Cyber Flash!! #1

2010-06-15T21:16:00.000-07:00

I saw all of four (4) Black Flying Ants yesterday; my sigthing of this season's first Big Bug of June. A #12 SawMill Black Ant produced several Rainbows in the 17" to 19-3/4" range at the Bluff Slick on LT

a "Quicky" Report

2010-06-09T13:22:00.000-07:00

Finally, we're experiencing some warm weather; with the exception of this morning's greyish-overcast sky & drizzle and gusty winds with clearing skies this afternoon. Because of the unpredictable weather during the last two weeks, I canceled 5 guide days and rescheduled two.

No...I haven't seen the infamous, first Big Bugs of June, the Flying, Black Ant...yet

Here is a report I gave to an inquiring client today:

"The main Truckee is in the mist of run-off, high & discolored. Heavy nymphing with lots of lead and streamers using sink-tips are your best tactics. Behind town it is peaking at 700 cfs and troughing at 500cfs, but, IMO, still too high and possibly very treacherous wading. Looking at the flow charts I'm deducting that the melt is waning, although there is still lots of snow on the high peaks & north slopes.

The LT is very low for this time of year; 41 cfs. The fish are spooky. We're in-between hatches, so there are few consistent risers. If you observe a steady riser, my bet is that they're eating midge emergers. Mid-day you may fool a trout using terresterials, such as ants and beetles; with BH droppers. Be aware...mosquitos have made an appearance!...especially in the shade and at dusk.

The smaller running waters are very near perfect and exploring their lake-inflows are a good ploy...as soon as they clear.

In two-three weeks everything should explode!"

Lest We Forget.....

2010-05-31T11:13:00.000-07:00

"Please, let's remember what Memorial Day is all about. Briefly, think about those who are no longer with us. An ultimate sacrifice was made, their lives...for the freedoms we now enjoy & at times take for granted. It is also an opportunity to thank those who have served this country & lost a friend or two."

excerpt from the May 24, 2002 Truckee Fly Angling Update

Tweener Time...Angling Report

2010-05-27T11:09:00.000-07:00

Well, I decided to stay in today. I received 4" of wet snow at my place last evening and more is expected today! It still remains "tweener-time", most especially on the LT...so I thought!

I received a couple of glowing reports from da Wood-Splitter's Dad of a nice rise and BWO emergence on the LT. That really piqued my interest. So on Tuesday I had to commit to an exploratory venture to the LT. The weather had been...as it currently continues to be...cold, over-cast, rain, sleet, snow & gusty.

I got there late, 3PM. There was a party of four leaving. I spoke with one of the fly-anglers, da owner of the Reno Fly Shop. He informed me that...yes indeed...there was a rise and some trout were eating BWO's. ...earlier. Oh well, I decided to wet a line anyway.

I had a rewarding session. During my 3-6 PM session I hooked 6 and landed 6. I was elated having previously experienced three, blank "scouting" sessions on the BT and LT and last year I had a depressing 8 hook-up/ZERO land session.

There were no bugs and no surface-feeders; tactically I decided on "fishing the water" with a #14 Little, Dark Flesh Juan trailing a #20 Olive Sparkle Pupa under my new "clown" indicator and three (3) # 6 split-shot. Five of the six netted were RB's with the smallest being 17" and the largest 18-1/2". The biggest was a tapped a 19-1/4" Brown male. There was no discernible preference of flies eaten, each fooled three. The Brown ate the # 20 fly; I was envisioning a "20-20" during the ensuing struggle. What was really surprising, and it reinforces my practice of "off-setting" flies that are #20 and smaller, the #20 was embedded in the kip of the brown's lower lip.

Please continue to transmit you wishes to the sun-gods. and the talisman of moving waters.

Endless...winter

2010-05-24T11:47:00.000-07:00

Oh well; tonight we're expecting snow here in Truckee...above 6000'. I'm at 6500' so I'll get another "dusting" that will melt-off quickly; presuming there is some sun peeking through the clouds. Geez...this has been a looong winter.

Nevertheless, whether guiding or not (...have had two cancellations/reschedules this week) this time of year I'm out somewhere on the local waters "scouting". Sunday, Pancho and I went to a couple of "early-season" venues to assess conditions. The two areas, a small stream and a stream-inflow into a lake (...no, not LT into Boca) had ideal water levels, although water temps may be a bit too cool. Fly fishing results...a bump on a streamer and nothing into the net.

How about a chant to the sun-gods? I'm projecting that we'll not see consistent bug emergences and corresponding rise activity for...minimally...three weeks on the BT and LT. Simply things have to warm-up a bit.

Here are some approriate words from Richard Anderson's editorial in California Fly Fisher, June 2010 issue:

"I'm especially looking forward to visiting a few creeks a short drive away...they're places where I'm surest to find both solitude and wildness..where I'll experience the deepest connection with the natural world. This will be a good year for fishers of creeks"

"I'm also planning to visit more lakes this year. There is something special about floating on water, especially on a windless, quiet eveing, when trout begin to dimple a surface that mirrors the immense sky above."

Deja Vu

2010-05-19T18:40:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but I'm anxiously anticipating some top-water activity here in the Truckee area. More specifically, CONSISTENT and PREDICTABLE emergences of bugs...and big bulges, splashes, heads and snouts eating them. also ideally consistent in lieu of sporadic.

I love to quote myself...I was reading the last on-line post (June 28, 2004) of my defunct TRUCKEE FLY ANGLING UPDATE :

"We've experienced typical late spring Sierra-Nevada weather; light rains, occasional greyish skies, late-afternoon thunder & lighting & even snow on the morning of June 7th. Now we expect a summer mode; warm sun , clear and/or billowy-clouded skies, late afternoon, blustery winds & possible thundershowers.The springtime high flows on the rivers & full pool on the stillwaters is waning. The water temperatures are warmer; triggering lots of bug emergences.

The uneducated trout of early season are a bit more sophisticated now that they may have been stung a time or two. Nevertheless, we'll not be burdened with "loading & lobbing" lots of lead on moving waters & deep-lining streamers in the lakes.

It is now dry fly time for those of us who like to switch to more delicate pursuits. Decent fish can now be induced to eat your fly on or in the surface film. The caveat is you must be on the water at the right place & time with the correct fly pattern & presentation...nothing new here."

Some of the above conditions actually apply now...sort of...or will occur in 2-3 weeks. Nevertheless, what is expressed can mirror some of my current fly fishing sentiments (remember my Mood" series of last year?)...even though it was written 6 years ago.

Definition #3---TWEENER TIME

2010-05-15T17:59:00.000-07:00

Tweener-Time:

The in-between period of time when an aquatic or terrestrial hatch has waned/finished and we wait for the next "major" fishable hatch. When the the anticipated "hatch" occurs it is fly fished pre-during-post the appearance of the food item. "Fishing the hatch" is not mutually exclusive relative to fly fishing method/imitations employed, whether one probes the bottom water column, the "transition zone", or on/in/near the surface film (meniscus).

An example; the first-brood, BWO emergence on both the Truckee (BT) and Little Truckee (LT) rivers has ceased.

On the BT we are awaiting the infamous "Big Bugs of June"; the Winged, Black Carpenter Ants, Golden Stoneflies and the western Green Drakes. Personally I do not consider the March Browns a major hatch, it is too sparse; although one can argue it's nymphal form is an effective ploy right now. And, one can suggest that the Goldens are just as sparse...true. I would suggest that although the Goldens are as sparse a hatch as the March Brown; the former has a two-three year life cycle. Hence in its nymphal form it is always available...in various sizes. Also, as an adult, it is of high-caloric value to a big trout which will venture to the surface to ingest the big bug*. Always remember that a trout's survival in the wild is dependent on its efficient use of energy; the food item's caloric value has to out-weigh the energy-expended...maximizing input while minimizing output.

* two years ago Yo Joe duped a 25" Brown to the surface. The area is now called "Walter's Bend".

On the LT, we now anticipate the appearance of the Pale Morning Duns. As mentioned above the BWO's are gone and the winter stones, although some are still flitting around during the warmth of the day, seems to lack the trout's attention.While guiding on Friday; we tried a bit of everything at all levels of the water column. The only pattern that got attention and eaten, at the surface, was a black, foam beetle (hint: a reliable "tweener" fly).

Revisiting Distant Waters....

2010-05-03T11:06:00.000-07:00

I was invited to be an instructor at the ClearWater Guide School in Burney CA; April 25-May 2...flattering. I left Truckee April 23 and stayed that evening as a guest along the banks of Fall river in "the other house" of Truckee residents Hugh & Denice Willaims . On Saturday the 25th ("opening day"), Hugh & I drift-fished the Fall...pre-during-post a PMD hatch. From there I arrived at the Clearwater Lodge on Pit River on Saturday evening, my home for the next week. The school started Sunday afternoon. I would like to thank Lodge managers Bill & Vanessa Downs for the gracious invite.

After I get settled in, catch-up on my "administrative" stuff & un-pack I'm going to provide a lengthy post along with pictures. Suffice it to say I knew lots more and...lots less...relative to fly fishing during the next week. I also became re-acquainted with some "inter-mountain" waters of my earlier immersion into fly fishing and met some new friends; both instructors and students.

Never Take Yourself Too...

2010-04-12T18:27:00.000-07:00

Seriously!

...especially as it pertains to fly fishing

.

Express Yourself !

...think the Frankie Pisciotta Experience

Saying Goodbye to an Old Friend....

2010-04-12T12:36:00.000-07:00

I'm being maudlin here, but I know fly anglers can relate. Last week I said farewell to my trusty '94 Izusu Trooper. It was nearing 180,000 miles and during the last year it had recurring clutch problems and this winter at least one 4WD hub went out...maybe two; making it no longer reliable in the snow and too costly to repair.
Since '98 (bought it used at 55,000 miles) we've shared many memorable angling experiences. We have visited both northern & southern California and areas of the Rocky Mountains west together.

...to all our past fishing rigs...Caio!!

Early Spring Prognosis (...and real fishing report) of BT and LT

2010-04-07T12:57:00.000-07:00

Below you will find my prognosis/advise (...an actual report at the bottom) on fly fishing the early season on both the big Truckee and Little Truckee. Actually I'm plegarizing myself ...again!..from my articles published in 1)the summer 2009 Sierra Fisherman & 2)spring 2002 Northwest Fly Fishing (BT); respectively, and the summer 2009 Sierra Fisherman (LT) (http://www.sierrafisherman.com/).

TRUCKEE RIVER:
1) "Early in the year there are sparse surface emergences. You will observe the ubiquitous, little, black winter stones peppering the snow banks and flitting above/on the water surface; midges, March Browns, first-brood BWO, and thus far, an unconfirmed Skwala hatch. Don’t hold your breath anticipating many, if any, of these bugs getting eaten on top…"

"Early June is a fly-fan’s first real chance to trick a trout to the surface. Waning spring marks the unbeknownst, but locally beloved “Big Bugs of June” arrival; Western Green Drakes, Golden Stones and huge, winged, Black Carpenter Ants provide interesting top-water fare. The stream occupants are aware and on the lookout for the opportunity to ambush such high-caloric morsels."

2) " 'Normal' season, May into early June generally is an "iffy" proposition; wholly dependent on the winter we experience. The best strategy at this time is to explore the small, local streams or still waters. If you really insist on feeding your Truckee Jones, probe with streamers or big and small nymphs (…in tandem) in the deep runs, troughs and pools and in the lower-water column of eddies in boulder-strewn pocket-water. You will observe sparse surface emergences; some March Browns (Ameletus) at mid-day. Don’t hold your breath anticipating them getting eaten on top, nor the spring brood BWO flitting around on sunny days."

"Mid-June is your first real chance of inducing a trout to the surface. Waning spring is an unbeknown and locally loved "Big Bugs Of June" annual happening; Western Green Drakes, Golden Stones and huge, winged, Black Carpenter Ants provide an interesting menu. The stream occupants are aware and on the lookout for the opportunity to ambush such high caloric morsels. Out-sized trout, in the 18"-23" class, lose abandon of their cannibalistic habits and vacate the depths to bust the surface for the chance at these bugs. During this period, you can experience explosive top water takes along with you personal adrenalin rush."

Note: Thus far we're observing BWO's and some March Browns. There has been minimal surface feeding. Best tactic right now is to nymph and streamer fish. I'm receiving reports of Skwalas in the "canyon" and in Nevada. My last visit I guaged the water temps at 42 degrees, still a bit too cold.

LITTLE TRUCKEE RIVER:
"Mayflies are not as numerous as the midges on the Little Truckee; but, they remain a vital food item. They are eaten by the trout in all of their life-stages; nymph, emerger, adult and spinner. Their real attraction is when they emerge; providing the dry fly “purist” with exciting top-water action. Patterns that sit on or in the surface-film work best, such as Paraduns, Cripples and Comparaduns."

"The Little Truckee has several varieties of mayflies; the heaviest concentrations being Blue-Winged Olives and Pale Morning Duns. The BWO’s are multi-brood aquatics; there will be at least two full-cycles per year. Expect to see the adults late-morning to late afternoon. They will range in sizes #16-#24; the spring brood being the largest and early fall’s Psuedocleons being the tiniest. Prime-times to use spinner imitations are late morning and dusk. Bring your spring-creek “A” game when trout selectively are slurping this life-stage."

"Stoneflies and caddis are present; in lesser numbers than midges and mayflies. The stoneflies are small; size #’s 16-20. The little winter black and brown stones are seen on the snow, in and on the water, during January through March. "

"The trophy water of the Little Truckee provides fly anglers with “wouda, couda, shouda” moments. You will experience jubilation and despair here; regardless, it is fun. This river is a prime example of what is good about tail-water fisheries; healthy wild trout (a high percentage being large) and robust aquatic insect populations. It is open year around. Conversely, it also a classic example what is wrong with them; over-crowding, displays of poor stream-side etiquette and unethical fishing over spawning trout."

Note: Here it is best to copy an e-note sent to a friend.

"LT is fishing & open. I was there yesterday in the meadow & fished it from 12:45-4:PM. I hooked 4 and landed 4; 2 @ 19”, one @ 18” and one at about 16”+; two on dries (#20 CDC Biot ComparaDun) and 2 on a #16 Rubber-legged, Black Copper John…3 # 6 lead shot. The only Brown was taped @ 19-1/4”…on the dry. Flows are at 204cfs. BWO’s emergence occurred from 1:15-2:45…..I didn’t tell you that anglers are at the Inlet.

I haven’t done the BT for a week….nymphing…cold water…same bugs as LT…winter stones on the wane, BWO’s, March Browns?, and supposedly Skwalas..."

To Cast or Not to Cast

2010-03-30T21:07:00.000-07:00

...that is the question.

TO CAST

To cast to trout

Is quite divine

Through the eyes

I feed my line

Hoping that this precious act

Will cleanse my soul and take me back

To that great day

Where all was new

When I could fish

The whole day through

Though every day I can’t partake

My mind and soul infatuate

Over this love I have for trout

I’ll mourn the day

They cast me out

...author unknown

Pre Spring Report...before the Snows

2010-03-29T19:58:00.000-07:00

...durng the last few weeks several "locals" are venturing into the "Canyon" and towards the CA/NV border. Some are fly fishing in Nevada (I'm too cheap to purchase an "out of state resident" Nevada license). Below is an image of Pancho with a decent RainBow at an undisclosed CA-side location. It ate a streamer. Skwalas are emerging in Nevada and steadily moving upstream, some being observed this side of the border. Size 8, down-winged dry patterns have hooked some opportunitistic feeders aware of the presence of the Skwalas. Well, after getting a new rig I had an opportunity to fish a couple days. The weather has been really nice....good to get out. As they say: "March comes in like a lamb & leaves like a lion". How true it is.

On Saturday I met Monkey Pines at the inflow of the LT into the BT at 12:30. The weather was almost "shirt-sleeve"; sun, scattered clouds and a light breeze. He was already in the water casting a streamer with his switch-rod in the Uptream Pool. As I arrived on-stream, he put aside his long rod and tried some indicator nymphing. He didn't get a bump on the streamer. The water was 42 degrees and there were no visible bug activity. I went downstream to indicator nymph the right-side channel below the inflow. After 1/2 hour, nada, there; nor in the left-channel. MP got a bump. IMO, water temps are still too low for good, sustained bite.

Back to the vehicle and talked at lenght with Fish Fan; discussing some local fishery politics since he is the el presidente of new TU Truckee Chapter. This new group will focus mainly on local conservation issues. Then along came da Photographer and we ventured to the middle turn-out of the LT.
We walked through patches of snow and fished the water together for an hour. There were BWO duns on the snow-banks along-side Black winter stones; which are definitely on the wane of their emergences. We saw no risers in the 247cfs flows. I got a nice 18" RainBow on an egg pattern. I woould have used a worm/BWO nymph combo, but I didn't have a SJ.

We returned on Sunday and fished together for a 1-1/2 hour session on the LT's Upper Meadow stretch. Same conditions as the day before. dP located a riser at Sweeper Two and duped it with a perfect, downstream feed into the soft-water immediately in front of a submerged boulder. The17" Rainbow confidently inhaled the #20 CDC Biot ComParaDun (picture below...leaper in the lower, right corner). Again the weather was nice, except for an occassional gust of wind.

Da Photograher & a Leaper

Now it is snowing so I doubt I'll be out for several days. Good, I need to catch-up on lots of "adminstrative" stuff which took a back-seat before I got my new SUV (2007 Honda Pilot).

Definition #2---HOLE HOG

2010-03-21T11:23:00.001-07:00

Hole Hog:

An angler who settles into a specific area on a stream and stays there all day. They are unconcerned or oblivious to the fact that others would like the chance to fish the same area.

They are firm believers in "...possession is 9/10ths of the law."

Spring Prognosis...fish, bugs & crabs?

2010-03-20T12:32:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow will be the official start of spring; although we've experienced spring-like weather in Truckee during the last week. The last significant snow-fall occurred on Friday March 12th.
The snowpack and water-content is "normal" right now; thankfully because there has been two sub-par years.

Regardless of what you read on the Internet or in print about spring arriving, below in is an excerpt from an article I authored in the Spring 2002 issue of NorthWest Fly Fishing as it relates to fly fishing in the Truckee area. I'd like you to keep my suggestions in mind; especially advice (2):

"A thorough understanding of the interacting variables is what seperates the consistently gleeful fly anglers from others. Consider the following: (1) the percentage of water content in the snow is more critical than the amount of precipitation or snow pack. (2) Run-off is weather related; it can be steady and gradual or unpredictable and erratic. Sometimes, the area experiences early springs, other times late, hence you must adjust your overall angling strategy relative to ideal times and places. (3) Finally, water releases from Lake Tahoe and other downstream bodies of water at times seem to occur at the whims of the powers that be; dramatic ramp-ups and slow-downs severely play havoc with the stream biomass...not to mention angler's fun."

The above remains sage advise and has been validated by the test of time. I had to include the quote in this post because I recently received two e-mails; one advising me of an area fly fishing report and the other informing me of a new guide operating in this area. The report/forecast is from an individual who has been in Reno no more than ten years (...fly fishing for less time) and the latter is someone who has been in the Sacramento area all of five years and fly fishing for the same amount of time. What really cracks me-up is both of these individuals are east coast "transplants"...give me a break!

So, my questions are: What da-#$%* do they really know about fly fishing this area? How credible is their fly fishing reports? Why would someone hire a "guide" with so little experience fly fishing an area? Let the buyer be aware....

Today it is overcast; perfect for an a sustained BWO emergence on both the Truckee & Little Truckee. Unfortunately I'll not be on the water today; taxes and an inoperable steed (...my trusty '94 Trooper is in it's final days). The Skwalas are present and the Little Winter Stones are still on the menu (...for how much longer?).

I received a report of a 21-1/2" taped RainBow netted on Friday.

Oh...as for crabs? I'm going to the annual Rotary Club's crab-feed at the new Rec Center in town. I'll be at Richard Anderson's table; the publisher of California Fly Fisher (www.calflyfisher.com). I assure him that his magazine remains the premiere, undisputed, fly angling mag on the west coast; best writers and content.

Fish Porn...

2010-03-09T12:25:00.000-08:00

Hey I like 'fish porn' as much as the next fanatical fly angler...but jeez there are other things in life. Aren't there?

I got a "through-da-grape-vine" report that the infamous Swill D. Beers was lurking on this blog. The message relayed was that he would prefer fewer philosophical musings, rants & raves and more factual reports (...do I want to give too much away?) and 'fish porn'. My take on this matter is there are other blogs with those sort of addictions. Here...if you choose...you'll have to endure more sanitized, and nuanced aspects of fly fishing and life in general...with some occasional humor and in-your-face opinions about things that tweak me the wrong way....

So...I went fishing on Saturday with "The Leader". It was a beautiful late winter day in the Sierra; scattered cumulus clouds, blue sky with an occasional gentle breeze. Winter Stones carpeted the snow banks and there was a sparse BWO emergence...and few steadily working risers. If you've followed my "mood" series; I was in that "head-hunting" mood. I did spot one; maybe having rose 3-4 times in 15 minutes (for sure not steady or rhythmic), but nevertheless a target for my #20 CDC ComParadun. I was really proud of my perfectly tracking 45'-50' casts into the vortex of two converging current seams and the trout ate it on the 4th or 5th drift. I netted/taped a plump, 17" female RainBow. That was it during the entire 2 hour mid-day session...I was a happy camper.

Spring is nearing and more bugs will appear...I'm ready and anxiously awaiting another season. Who knows maybe there will be more reports and some titillating fish-porn or two.

Land of the Patagone...gone?

2010-03-03T14:35:00.000-08:00

As I sit here in my living room looking at Mother Nature's harmless, gently falling snow; I can't stop thinking of MN's not-so-benign behavior...such as the 8.8 earthquake that shook central Chile and produced devastating ruins in some of the coastal towns. Fortunately there were some enlightened building codes...if not there would have been more death. Chalk this one to hind-sight and the government getting it right after Chile experienced a huge quake that killed 3000 in 1964.

While at the Pleasanton Fly Fishing show, replying to e-notes, calls and phone messages at home in Truckee; I explained that where I visit is 600 miles south of the epicenter of the quake. There was no damage in the Coyhaique area. Visit the current, on-line issue of Sierra Fisherman at http://www.sierrafisherman.com/, page 16 for an article on the region I visit.

I've been in contact with one of the lodge-owners and guides, whose families reside in Santiago and have been informed that all is well. Although one of the guides e-noted that this natural disaster is really playing havoc with the psyche of the Chileans.

A return from the land of the Patagone....

2010-02-22T18:46:00.000-08:00

Mount Picacho...southern Chile
Patagonia is derived from the Portuguese word "pata" meaning feet. Magellan (was actually of Portuguese descent, not Spanish...Spain funded his expedition) used the term "patagone" to describe the native people who he thought to be giants...the people with "big feet"(..."gone" is still of unknown origin & meaning). The Patagones were actually Tehielchees Indians who averaged 1.8 meters (5'11") in height compared to 1.55 meters (5'1"); the average Spaniard of the times.

So, last week I arrived back from southern Chile...and no luggage!! After a nervous 1-1/2 days both bags arrived. I was relieved; one bag had about $3500 worth of fly fishing gear. with that issue settled; I unpacked and then prepared for the Pleasanton Fly Fishing Show, February 26-28. I'll be in the Truckee Guide NetWork booth...come by.

In the interim I'm getting a bit pressed for time to prepare for the show...so I'll delay a thorough report/images.

Suffice it to say that it rained 90% of the time...and February is the prime "summer" month?! Fish were caught but not in the numbers I anticipated for the group I "hosted" at the Picacho Lodge (http://www.picacholodge.com/) during 2/6-13/10. Everyone had a great time; a couple may return. Rio Emperor Guillermo ...an unnamed "laguna" outflow

Paperwork & Patagonia

2010-01-27T21:40:00.000-08:00

I've been working feverishly completing all my "administrative" paperwork. I've just got one more to do; my 2009 permit usage report to the Tahoe National Forest. I should finish it and mail it tommorrow.

Then I pack for Chilean Patagonia and leave AM Friday, arriving in southern Chile 24 hours later. The flight is a drag. It generally takes a day to re-coup. I intend to write a report when I get back. I should have something to read prior to the Pleasanton Fly Fishing Show, 26-28 Febuary. Maybe I'll even write about fly fishing...having not lately, except obliquely.

One thing I'll not miss...the snow-shoveling. I've been doing a lot the last 10 days. It is summer in the southern hemphispere...an interesting weather change.

Ole!

shoveling my life away...

2010-01-21T20:34:00.000-08:00

Well, I came back "up the mountain" from the ISE show in San Mateo on Saturday. I made the early get-a-way because I didn't want to get caught in the first wave of snow-falls we've had this week. Actually it hasn't stopped...one after another.

Today, was the 5th straight day I've shoveled and pushed snow off the back-deck. I prefer doing it daily instead of all at once...if and when the white stuff ceases falling! If not, I would have worked my tail-off unloading 4 feet of snow today. The cummulative snow is accurate...because, like the fish I land...I always employ measuring devices. Well, la-de-da; what a self-rightous jerk! Also daily, I shovel the entry to the side of the garage and clear-out the berms that are left at our garage portals by our drive-way-clearing service. I have made one expedition to the north-side of house (sort of like Nantuk of the North); the side of the house with the big picture windows. The mission was to clear the snow so that we can see our live, multi-colored-lighted Christmas trees on the forest-knoll. We keep the lights on for the entire winter. You're probably asking..."what da #@&%" does this have to do with fly fishing?!"

Well, let it snow..the fish need it...yeah!

My back yard...it is beautiful when there is a lull in the snow-fall

Nanuk

...before the snow

2010-01-18T18:38:00.000-08:00

Reading a friend's blog made me think of the title for this post. Check Jay's blog at http://www.northernsierraflyfishing.blogspot.com/. If you like swinging for wild steelhead his recent post shows the passion.

Well, I guess I'm jaded, but the ISE San Mateo is a mere shadow of its past. I had a booth there from 1990-2000. This year I manned in the Sierra Fisherman magazine booth. It afforded me an opportunity to see if the ISE San Mateo improved...nada. I saw more people in one day in the '90's than I saw in 2-1/2 days at this year's ISE.

Regardless, I had fun seeing familiar faces, BSing about fly fishing and was satisfied with the presentation Bill Forward, Andrew Harris & I gave to interested show-goers.

The only time I was tempted to cast a fly was during a feeding frenzy at the Crown Royal Hotel Koi pond in the lobby........