Stay updated with the latest California Freshwater regulations in the area.

<< Back to Fishing Report Main Page

Last Updated July 10th, 2025

Truckee River Fishing Report

Current Water Conditions

The Truckee River is flowing strong and fishing has been solid as we move into mid-July. Flows remain consistent and healthy—hovering around 294 CFS near Tahoe City, 361 CFS through Truckee, and roughly 665 CFS at Farad. Anticipate a slight increase in volume if additional water is released from Lake Tahoe. Mornings offer excellent clarity and cool temperatures, making for productive outings. By mid-morning, wet wading is comfortable, though early risers may still want an extra layer.                

Water Temperatures

Water temperatures are staying in the high 50s to low 60s°F, which keeps trout actively feeding during the cooler parts of the day. Expect slight warming through the afternoon as daytime temps rise.

Hatches

You’ll still find good evening activity from PMDs, Yellow Sallies, and Caddis, though hotter days are compressing the hatch window a bit. Watch for rising trout near sunrise and sunset. Prime hatch timing is around 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Effective Tactics

Nymphing continues to produce across seams, pocket water, and tailouts, with both tightline and indicator setups working well. The dry fly bite is best early and late—roughly 6–11 a.m. and again near dusk. Morning sessions with caddis emergers have brought in some impressive trout. When the light is low, streamers like crayfish and Sculpzillas are effective in deeper channels and along cutbanks. A 5x leader paired with an indicator or dry-dropper setup remains a reliable choice.

Catch Report

The action has been consistent throughout the system, especially in the Glenshire, Hirschdale, and canyon areas. Anglers are reporting solid rainbows and browns in the 14–20" range, with some streamer-eating bruisers topping out around 24"..

Fly Box Must-Haves

Little Truckee River Fishing Report

Current Water Conditions

Flows remain steady at about 280 CFS between Stampede and Boca, still running on the high side but absolutely fishable for seasoned anglers. The river is clear and cold—perfect for spotting fish—but anglers should move cautiously, especially around the willows and deeper slots, where footing can be tricky.

Water Temperatures

Thanks to its tailwater source, the water holds cool in the low 50s°F. These consistent temps keep insect activity healthy and trout feeding throughout the da

Hatches

Midday hatches are holding strong. PMDs are leading the charge, backed up by Green Drakes, BWOs, and Midges. Terrestrials like ants and beetles are starting to draw attention near banks and grassy seams. Overcast skies can spark heavier BWO and midge activity.

Effective Tactics

Tightline nymphing is still the most productive technique—target faster seams and structure using subtle patterns like Juju Baetis, Zebra Midges, and classic Pheasant Tails. During hatch windows, dry fly anglers should aim for long, delicate presentations using 13-foot leaders and light tippet (5x or 6x) in slower stretches. As the sun sets, soft hackles and small streamers swung near undercut banks can trigger bites.

Catch Report

Fishing has been steady with trout in the 14–18" range being caught regularly. Some browns over 20” have been fooled by dries. To succeed here, it’s all about stealth, patience, and spot-on presentations.

Fly Box Must-Haves