A welcome round of rain and cooler weather rolled through the region this week, bringing on the worm bite and setting the stage for some great fall fishing. With daytime highs now settling into the upper 50s, it’s starting to feel like late October here in Truckee. Anglers on both the California and Nevada sides of the river have been finding some nice fish, giving us plenty to be excited about as the fall season continues. Grab an extra layer and read on for this week’s report!
October 23rd Fly Fishing Report for the Truckee River, Little Truckee River and Pyramid Lake
Truckee River Fishing Report
Increased releases from our local lakes have given the Truckee a welcome bump in flows, bringing the Glenshire stretch into a healthy, fishable range. Paired with the recent rain, this should make for some productive fishing with “trashier” flies like worms and eggs. Try pairing either with a Pat’s Rubber Legs as you work your way through the river. The added tint to the water also gives you some room to bump up your tippet to 3X or 4X, making it easier to turn over heavier rigs and put pressure on a good fish once hooked.
We’re starting to favor traditional indicator rigs as fish settle into the slower, deeper runs and pools. Euro nymphing still has its place, but an indicator gives you more reach and lets you cover those larger holding areas effectively. Take the time to adjust your depth and weight as you move between runs so your flies stay down where the fish are feeding.
This is also one of our favorite windows to throw streamers. The combination of cooler temperatures, rain, and changing pressure can bring out an aggressive response, making it worth spending some time looking for a fish willing to chase. Don’t overlook the Nevada side, either—there’s some excellent fishing to be found out east this time of year. Mornings have been a little slower on the California side, so there’s no need to rush out the door before things have a chance to warm up.
Recommended Flies for the Truckee River
The Little Truckee saw a bump in flows out of Stampede this week, offering some welcome relief after the recent low water. We’re not sure how long these increased releases will last, and we’re still encouraging anglers to give these fish a much-needed break as we approach the brown trout spawn. With good opportunities on the main Truckee, consider giving the Little Truckee some extra breathing room.
For those heading out, Mole Flies imitating emerging blue-winged olives and small midge patterns will be your best bets. Keep your approach slow and deliberate, focus on a natural presentation, and take time to watch for feeding fish before casting. As spawning activity begins, please leave paired-up fish alone and avoid walking through redds.
Recommended Flies for the Little Truckee River
Pyramid Lake Fishing Report
The recent weather has fish moving at Pyramid Lake, although they haven’t pushed into consistent shore-fishing range just yet. Fish have been spread throughout the water column, with some suspended and others still holding tight to the bottom in 40–80 feet of water.
Paying attention to where they’re holding has been key, so don’t get locked into fishing one depth throughout the day. Stripping vertically through the water column has been the ticket to getting those suspended fish to eat.
We’ve also seen some fish coming on slip-indicator rigs in the 40–60-foot range, making that another option when you find fish holding at a consistent depth.
Overall, the bite has been a little slower than in previous weeks as we work toward the start of more consistent shore fishing. We’re keeping a close eye on that transition and looking forward to having more opportunities from the beach soon!
Check the Flows Before You Go...
Fall Guided Trips
Trout Creek Outfitters Clearance Rack!
Before you go, take a moment to explore our end of summer blowout sale featured on this Clearance Rack. It's a great opportunity to find quality gear at reduced prices, perfect for adding to your kit or trying something new. You might just hook a fantastic deal!
Watch Doug Ouellette Break Down Pyramid Lake Beetle Retrieves on YouTube!
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