The extended stable conditions on the Truckee over the last few weeks has made for good flows, clear water and steadily rising water temps. The fishing has been really good and if you were one of the lucky few to think about fishing the river in January during this extended high-pressure system, kudos to you! This will change starting Sunday, the forecasted storm is supposed to last for a week minimum, and it appears to be high odds of snow over rain. Let’s keep our fingers crossed because the crest looks pretty bare for this time of year.
We have been fishing all over the river recently, everywhere from just outside of Tahoe City to all the way down to USA Parkway. It’s ALL been good. The hatches of baetis out east have made for some really consistent action on dries, and the section along Highway 89 has been a great challenge with the slow clear water and ultra spooky fish. Think long leaders, dry droppers, or maybe even some streamer fishing. We absolutely love this river for the variety it offers along its 120 miles of trout water. With the water temps remaining cold, focus on the slow deep runs, walking speed or less along most of the river, except maybe out east.
We have been fishing more egg patterns lately as the rainbows gear up for spawn in a few short weeks. With the precipitation starting this week, worms and stones will also make for great attractors, paring well with baetis nymphs and zebra midges down to a size 22 depending on the water clarity. It’s also worth noting that there are far more stoneflies in the upper reaches of the river than from Reno down, as they require a high water quality and rocky substrate to thrive. Fish mid-day through the evening for the best results.
