The Truckee River has come down in flow in the last few days. We had a cold storm blow through town this past week and really cooled everything off. As a result, runoff slowed and river flows dropped to under 800cfs. Clarity has improved considerably following the drop in flow throughout the Nevada side. Water temperature also decreased here in town which shifted the types of water fish were found in. 

With forecasts predicting a warming trend this upcoming weekend, we expect to see bug life improve down here on the Nevada side. With warmer temperatures and increased bug activity, fish will be eating heavily. A mix of bug types will get the job done. Caddis such as the OCD Caddis and the Ticket are great choices on those warmer days. Additionally, nymphs such as a bead head Birds Nest does a great job representing the Yellow Sally Stonefly which we are eagerly awaiting as our next seasonal hatch. 

European Style Nymphing (ESN) is the preferred method of anglers this time of year on the Truckee River and other local waters. As the water continues to warm, trout will move into faster water such as riffles and pocket water. This fishing method presents flies well in areas where a  short, deep drift is needed. We are starting to use many of the big anchor flies that often account for big Truckee Trout. Bugs like the TJ Hooker and the Mini Crayfish Jig will be good choices from here on out. While we are transitioning into warmer summerlike conditions it is best to select “suggestive” patterns more than “imitative” patterns. The shop favorite Firestarter nymph is back in stock here at the shop and has caught a good number of fish this Spring. 

It’s not too long until bugs start hatching in good numbers down here on the Nevada side. Warmer evenings in mid-late May call for opportunities at rising trout. This time of year, I always carry a few dry flies. High floating Elk Hair Caddis and Yellow Sallies can fish well in the last half hour of sunlight. Look for slicks and flat spots near the bank with a good amount of cover. 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service concluded operations at Marble Bluff Dam on the Truckee River  this season and recorded a total of 798 Lahontan Cutthroat Trout to the facility. 

Flies we Suggest: Firestarter #14, OCD Caddis #14, the Ticket #14, TJ Hooker #8, Masked Marauder #8, Mini Crayfish Jig #6, Elk Hair Caddis, Snowshoe Yellow Sallie, Heisenberg Cowboy