Run off is in full swing! We’re seeing the Reno gauge around 4,000 cfs and jumping up to 5,000 cfs at times. The water is a little off color because of these flow changes, but not enough to deter one from fishing. High water will be around for the next few weeks until our giant snowpack begins to melt. Fishing high water can be equal parts challenge and reward!

Fish will be concentrated into smaller areas due to high velocities and debris. Finding any soft water is bound to have fish in it. As in past reports the banks, inside bend of river turns, and behind structure will hold trout most often.

Faster water and turbidity means that trout won’t have a lot of time to see and react to your fly. Using bigger flies will increase your odds as the trout will see them from further away. Attractor flies and bright worm flies will also induce a strike. I personally like to fish streamers this time of year as you can control their speed in the water through mending and line management. Big black, white, or chartreuse streamers will fish the best.

Flies That We Suggest: Squirmy Wormy, San Juan Worm, Wire Worm, Carot, Double Bead Stone, Sculpzilla, Weirs Sculpin, Beldar Rubber Legs, Cheech Leech.