While the Truckee River has run at high flows over the last week, it has continued to fish well for those venturing out. The storm this week has cooled off the entire region and has resulted in a drop in flows on the Truckee River. As of this writing, flows are 2700 cfs at the Reno gauge. This is great news for anglers going into the weekend looking to fish. With continued cool weather, flows are expected to continue to drop. Additionally, water clarity will improve rapidly as the flows drop. Clearer water is certainly a benefit to anglers and should help you put a few fish in the net.

Check out our 5 Tips for Fly Fishing High Water recently posted to the site. This article is a great reference point to help dial in your high water techniques. While conditions may be daunting, the payoff can be substantial as some of the biggest fish of every year are caught during this time. 

Fly selection will vary depending on the type of water you are fishing during runoff. Oftentimes, inside bends provide slow and approachable water. Fish will hold in shallow and deep water this time of year- wherever they can find feeding lanes. For water less than three feet of depth, lead flies such as the Squirmy Worm and Pat’s Rubber Leg work great. In deeper water, flies like the Polar Jig and local favorite TJ Hooker will get down quick when required. Smaller mayflies, caddis, or yellow sallies in a size range of 12-16 work great when water clears beyond two feet of visibility. The Carot, Hot Cheek, OCD Caddis and Thread Quill are all great choices.

Flies we Suggest: TJ Hooker, Pat’s Rubber Leg, Polar Jig, Squirmy Worm,  Carot, Hot Cheek, OCD Caddis, Thread Quill