Fall Fly Fishing

Fall is the arguably the finest season on the Truckee. Photo courtesy Austin Zimmerman

A Truckee River Primer

Counter to the prevailing belief, trout season on the Truckee River does not come to a close with the end of summer. As a fly shop, we at Trout Creek Outfitters have made it our mission to dispel this antiquated belief. For those of us who fish the river year-round, fall may as well be the season opener. The recreational crowds of swimmers and rafters disappear, and as the leaves change color, only anglers remain. 

Cooler weather means more comfortable conditions for the angler, ideal water temperatures for trout, and an altogether better fishing experience. Fall flows are modest, and the water is clear. Access to the river is great, and the trophy fish that the Truckee River is known for are beginning to become active once again after seemingly disappearing for the summer season. 

Given these ideal conditions, I would go so far as to say that fall is the most anticipated season of the year for the Truckee angler. Read on for information that will help you have a great experience when you head to the Truckee.

WATER TEMPERATURES

The water temperatures during the months of October and November are warmer than you might think. Bear in mind that this is a season of change. The water temperatures are going from a state of being far too warm for trout and are dropping into an ideal range before becoming very cold as we head into December and January. We are currently experiencing water temperatures on the Truckee that range into the upper 50s and even the lower 60s. This means that most trout are still holding in faster water than you might expect. Try euro-nymphing pocket water, riffles, and the tops of runs with heavy crawdad patterns, stoneflies, and sculpins. 

As we head into the end of October, the temperatures will begin to come down. Keep an eye on the water temperature and consider making a regular visit to the USGS website for up-to-date information, as conditions can change quickly this time of the year. If peak water temperatures begin to drop below fifty degrees, it’s time to shift away from euro-nymphing and focus more on indicator nymphing as fish will begin to slink farther into the main run and tail outs. For those who like a challenge, there will be opportunities to throw a dry fly at fish rising to emerging blue-winged olive (BWO) and midges.

FLY PATTERNS

The menu during the fall season is wide open during October. October caddis and pale morning dun (PMD) are still kicking around, while the bugs of winter, such as BWO and midges, are also beginning to show. General imitations such as pheasant tails are a great option this time of the year. The egg and worm bites are beginning to pick up, and stoneflies are always a staple option. Pat’s rubber legs under the indicator and flies such as the Rock Steady Stone for those who are euro-nymphing are equally responsible for putting some great fish in the net. Being ready with flies to match a specific hatch, such as PMD, Caddis or BWO, is a good practice, but not necessary for success. 

LAYERING UP

At this time of year, nighttime air temperatures can drop below 40 degrees while daytime temperatures can still hit the 60s or 70s. rise to over 70 degrees. Anglers should plan to layer up in the morning and shed layers as the day progresses and the sun starts to warm up the river canyon.

It is not critical to get out early in the morning this time of the year. You can sleep in and have your coffee Hitting the river by 8:30 or 9:00 a.m. and fishing up until about 4:00 p.m. makes for a very productive day. I find that fishing during the fall season is far more comfortable than fishing during the height of summer, where sun exposure on the river can be heavy. 

In summary, fall on the Truckee River rewards those willing to adapt to the cooler weather and shifting conditions. Trophy-sized browns and healthy rainbows are the prize for those who are perceptive and thoughtful enough to capitalize on the changing patterns of the fall season. Come on up and see for yourself!

Austin with a beautiful rainbow. Photo courtesy Austin Zimmerman
Add a comment

Leave a Reply