The Truckee River has dropped in flow significantly since the beginning of June! The reno gauge has decreased from over 3,200 cfs in early June to around a daily peak of 2,000 cfs now in mid June.  

Those who have fished the Truckee River over the last few weeks have been rewarded greatly for their effort. As discussed in earlier reports, tactics and techniques must change according to conditions. On the Nevada side of the Truckee, bigger flies in flashier colors are still working best. This includes Jigged Streamers such as the UV Polar Jig and Weiss UV Jig. Additionally, the TJ Hooker and Nemec Stone are great choices for anchor flies. These stonefly patterns will continue to heat up as the Golden Stoneflies become more active into late June and July. 

With better water clarity, the California side of the Truckee River has fished best. Water clarity in the last few days has hovered between two to five feet. The conditions are conducive to multiple methods of fly fishing and open up many opportunities for anglers. Caddis, Yellow Sallies, and PMD’s all have their time and place through early summer- so make sure to carry variations of these bugs in both surface and subsurface patterns. Additionally, Carpenter Ants have been seen across the Tahoe/Truckee region. This makes for an exciting opportunity to catch fish on the surface. The Mamba Ant is a high floating fly that is capable of suspending a small dropper when the situation warrants it. The Flying Ant is another pattern that works great when fish are keyed on this hatch. This fly is best fished as a single dry when a subtle presentation is key.

Streamer fishing is a common topic of conversation during early summer, and for good reason! With flows continuing to hover around 1,000-2,000 cfs, trout are pushed out of their typical holding spots. When targeting large fish, streamers such as the Barely Legal and Sparkle Minnow are great choices. These flies get down quickly and grab attention with movement and visibility. Both of these patterns can be fished on either a floating line or sinking line depending on the water you are fishing.

We anticipate a gradual decline in flows continuing through the end of the month. With improving conditions, opportunities will continue to expand day by day when fishing the Truckee River.

Flies we Suggest: UV Polar Jig, Weiss UV Jig, TJ Hooker, Nemec Stone, Neon Jig, Duracell, Fire Starter, Mamba Ant, Flying Ant, Barely Legal, Sparkle Minnow