Don Q's fishing report for week of May 1-7

Here is the fishing report for the week of May 1-7 for rivers, lakes and streams in Nevada, Northern California and the Sierra.

ALMANOR LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Water conditions are spring-perfect!
Due to the recent weather, most fish have been eating at night, pushing back the best time to go fishing on the lake. Most reports indicate that time is somewhere around 10:00AM.
The salmon have been getting bigger and more hatches has been brining is more catches. Use a fast action lure for best results.
Courtesy of Almanor Fishing Adventures.

ANGEL LAKE, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The road is closed and the lake is completely iced over.
No more reports until about mid or late May when NDOT generally opens the road to this high mountain lake.

BISHOP CREEK AREA, CALIF:
Jared Smith - Parchers Resort (760-873-4177) (sierrasmitty@cebridge.net):
South Lake - North Lake - Intake No. 2 - Bishop Creek:
Parchers Resort & South Lake Boat Landing are closed for winter.
We will reopen May 16th, 2013 for another incredible year of hiking, fishing, kayaking and photography!

BLUE LAKES, HUMBOLDT COUNTY, NEV:
Closed until the second Saturday in June 2013.

BOCA RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Boca is filling up and fishing here has been pretty good. 
Best action by shore fisherman has been the dam and at the deeper troughs outside the inlet. 
Lake is at its winter level so boaters are launching from the east side of the lake.  Those who are able to launch should concentrate their efforts about 50-70 off the dam with kokanee( yes, kokanee) imitations as this is what the large browns are feeding on. 
Also, concentrate off points as large fish will be suspended here. 
Shore fisherman can be successful by throwing all sorts of bait and lures such as large spinners and small stick baits that will imitate kokanee, rainbows, or baitfish.

BRIDGEPORT RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707)
(www.kenssport.com) reports:
April 28, 2013
Well, the reservoir is off and running!
We had lots of great reports from yesterday from trollers, bait anglers and some fly anglers!
It sounds like the trolling was the best bet yesterday, Rapalas and spoons like Thomas Bouyants and needlefish were very productive.
The fish are very fat and sassy right now with most of them running in the 2 to 5 pound range. Lots of nice browns made a showing as well.
Bait anglers did the best with power bait and inflated crawlers and the fly anglers were successful with small midge patterns under indicators like zebra midges, soft hackles and pheasant tails. 

CAPLES LAKE, CALIF:
As of Monday, a report that Caples is fishable at the spillway and dam, there are ice free spots right now, just not ice free enough for boats.

CAPLES LAKE, CALIF:
John Voss of the Caples Lake Resort (209-258-8888) (www.capleslakeresort.com) reports:
Caples Lake is starting to thaw!  We are predicting that the lake will be thawed by the middle of May. We will be reopening for lodging at the end of May on Memorial day weekend.

CARSON RIVER, WEST, CALIF:
A report that it was very crowded with fishermen on the Opening Day (Saturday, April 27), especially at all of the bridges.

CATNIP RESERVOIR, WASHOE COUNTY, NEV:
Closed until the second Saturday in June 2013.

CAVE LAKE, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Cave is ice free and fishing has been good for 8 to 10 inch fish using baits as well as small spinners and flies.
Trout are often seen shoaling in the shallows and sight fishing can be fun.
Brown trout fishing has been slow for numbers but awesome for quality. Two browns, one almost 10 lbs. and one almost 14 lbs. have been caught over the past few weeks.

CHETCO RIVER, ORE:
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (800-720-ODWF) (www.dfw.state.or.us.com) reports:
Steelhead: Closed until May 25 trout opener.

CONVICT LAKE AND CONVICT CREEK, CALIF:
Convict Lake Resort (800-992-2260) (www.convictlake.com) reports:
Hello Convict Lake fishing report followers! 
It was a great fishing opener weekend and everyone is looking forward to an exciting 2013 fishing season. Many happy anglers came by the store with full stringers and limits both on Saturday and Sunday. 
Catch of the Week:
The largest fish caught on the opener was a 5 pound 13 ounce rainbow by Nick Snyder from Palmdale, CA on Panther Martin in Convict Creek.  This fish was the winner of the Fred Hall $500 Largest Fish Opening Day Weekend.
Tactics/Bait:
This past weekend Anglers have had most success with inflated nightcrawlers and Green or Yellow Pow Bait. 
The best productive locations were at the Inlet and South Shore. 
Other locations to try are the Outlet, North Shore, South Shore, Creek, Jetty, Handicap Pier and Hangman's Tree.  
Here is a list of other baits/lures that can be productive:
Trout Teasers, green or brown Marvel Fly Lures, Panther Martin, Needlefish, Thomas Bouyants, Green Wooly Booger and Lip RIpperz Hatchery Dust on Power Bait. 
Derby News:
Round-up at the Lake Fishing Derby started Sunday, April 28th for a chance to win $6,000 in Resort Prizes!
We would like to thank everyone who entered a fish and participated in the Fred Hall $500 largest fish over the opener.
Weather:
The weather has been amazing for this time of year. This weekend highs were near 70, the lows around 35 with calm wind and sunny skies.
We couldn't ask for better weather on the opener.
Stocking:
DFG stocked on Tuesday prior to opener.

CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Fishing was slow for fly rodders on opening day. The fish are still deep in 18-20 feet of water. Warming weather should improve the bite here.

CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Kent Rianda of The Trout Fly and Troutfitter (760-934-2517) (www.thetroutfitter.com) reports:
Water conditions:
Water temp: 50-52F on the bottom.
WARNING-The lake is much lower than previous years. Watch out for Pelican Point which sticks out way into the lake. If you leave the marina and head straight for McGee Bay, you will run aground!
Look for white buoys and pass to the east.
Fishing conditions:
Midges are going off!
Daphnia is bad in some places. Look for suspended fish and go elsewhere. It moves daily.

DAVIS LAKE, CALIF:
Jim and Jeanne of the J & J Grizzly Store (530-832-0270) (www.grizzlystore.portola-ca.com) report:
Lightning Tree area, Eagle Point, Coot Bay and Mallard Cove have all been producing nice results. The lake is 82% full.
Fish have been going up the streams.
Remember the streams going into the lake are closed until the Saturday of Memorial Weekend.

DAVIS LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
May until the end of July is the best time to be fishing on Lake Davis. This is when the damsel fly hatch begins, bring large rainbows into the shallows and surface. The fishing can be nerve-racking, many large rainbows splashing, water containing thousands of migrating nymphs at times.
You only hope they take your imitation along with the other "real" foo
Use night crawlers dressed with Berkley’s garlic-flavored trout dip.
The average fish reported has been around 17 inches in length. 
Courtesy of Fly Fish with Don.

DAVIS LAKE, CALIF:
A report that on Saturday, there were very few boats and shore fishermen.
However, it was noisy from all of the seagulls and geese.

DONNER LAKE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Donner has been fishing great. 
Lots of rainbows being caught along the west end on power bait, salmon eggs, and nightcrawlers. 
A little patience is needed but the payoff has been worth it. 
Macks and some browns have also been caught from shore by large pyramid type spoons, floating and countdown rapalas, and even some by nightcrawlers.  Carolina rigging a Floating Rapala with a large slip sinker and a 12 inch leader was working wonders for one angler who caught both Macks and a couple of browns. 
Catching minnows can be deadly this time of year for the Macks as they are within casting distance. 
With water temps near 47 degrees the Kokes have started to bite but so far only small ones are grabbing now. 
Also, for those trolling for Macks action has been good. 
Trolling the usual suspects that will imitate small Kokes and Rainbows will be the top producers. 

FALL RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fall River is now open season! While the reports coming in are mixed, the river itself has had good results but expect even better results in late May.

FEATHER RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The river is flowing nicely and there are strippers all up and down the water from Shanghai Falls. Shads are also appearing in small amounts. 
Courtesy of Johnsons Bait & Tackle & FishKevinBrock.

FRENCHMAN RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Wiggin’s Trading Post at Chilcoot (530-993-4683) reports:
It was a great stream opener for those who came out to Chilcoot this past weekend - great weather and great fishing.
Justin Preston of Loyalton caught 2 German Browns on Saturday in Little Last Chance Creek. The fish had a combined weight of 2 ½ pounds. He used worms for bait.
Troy and Taylor Weyer from Sparks, NV each caught their limit on Saturday. They were fishing near Lunker Point using nightcrawlers and chartreuse power bait. Their fish measured between 15 and 22 inches.
Haleigh Higgins caught 3 nice rainbows in about 3 hours on Sunday, April 28th at Spring Creek. Two of her fish were about 12" in length and one was 14 inches.
A large group of friends came up for the opener on Saturday. 14 people fished and caught a total of 40 fish - all between 14 and 17 inches.
They used power bait and nightcrawlers and fished Spring Creek and Big Cove, going about 10 to 15 feet deep.
Come up and join the fun at Frenchman Lake. Chilcoot, Frenchman and Spring Creek Campgrounds are currently open.
Stop by Wiggin’s Trading Post for all of your camping and fishing needs

FRENCHMAN RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
So far the weather has been great and the fishing even better! The recent spring opener was fantastic and there are plenty of reports of great catches
The lengths of the trout being caught are anywhere from 14” to 22”, with the majority of the trout being caught by nightcrawlers and powerbait.
The Chilcoot, Frenchman, and Spring Creek campgrounds are all open.
Courtesy of The Wiggins Trading Post.

HAT CREEK, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fishing has been an absolute blast! By far, Hat Creek is one of the most fun creeks to just walk and wade alongside.
The Rainbows are not very large, but can be quite aggressive.

HOT CREEK, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Water flow is 16 CFS. Runoff is beginning and fishing is tough here.
Scuds, San Juan worms and copper johns.

HOT CREEK, CALIF:
Kent Rianda of The Trout Fly and Troutfitter (760-934-2517) ( HYPERLINK "http://www.thetroutfitter.com" www.thetroutfitter.com) reports:
Water conditions:
Hot!!!
Flows at 34 CFS as of 4/29.
Gate is open! Access is open to all 3 parking lots. Trails are clear.
Fishing conditions:
Excellent. Fishing is great with lots of bugs going off.
Basically Match the Hatch is the game. Nothing serious though since the fish have been in winter mode they will pretty much eat anything.
P.S. It's getting hot enough where u can start thinking outside the box...hopper, ants, maybe?

ILLIPAH RESERVOIR, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Illipah is now completely ice free and fishing has been good for 14 to 16 inch fish. The water from the creek is slightly murky, though the silt is settling out in the lake and visibility is good there.
Float tubers seem to be having the best luck in the south 1/3 of the lake using wooly buggers, leech patterns, chironomids and hares ears.
The road going in is rutted and if wet, anglers should take care.

JACKSON MEADOWS RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Not confirmed but this lake should be accessible now! 
Good fishing here early!

JAKE'S/BOIES RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
This lake is ice free, it has been stocked and fishing should be good here. This is the time to fish Jakes Creek Reservoir from shore, as the weeds start to grow in late May and early June making fishing from shore difficult later in the summer.

JIGGS / ZUNINO RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Unfortunately, Jiggs has dried up.

JUNE LAKE LOOP, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) ( HYPERLINK "http://www.performanceanglers.com" www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Best reports for opening weekend from Silver Lake. Float tube fly rodders fishind black or purple woolly buggers on full sink lines did well.  

KIRMAN LAKE, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) ( HYPERLINK "http://www.kenssport.com" www.kenssport.com) reports:
Kirman is open now but we haven't had any reports back yet, will update as soon as we can!

KLAMATH RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Nothing new has changed from last week, expect changes in May or June.
Most fishermen agree that it is too late in the season for the Klamath to be a good choice. The steelheads have dwindled and will return en masse next autumn. However, if one is inclined to fish on the Klamath the weather is fantastic and the spring air refreshing.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

LEWISTON LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Conditions have remained relatively the same as hatches continue, especially in the early morning. Conditions will most likely improve as summer goes on, however, reports indicate the Rainbow here have not been large.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

MAMMOTH LAKES BASIN, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
George Lake - Mary Lake – Mamie Lake – Twin Lakes:
Road to the lakes basin is still closed.
Lakes is open but fishing is slow due to very cold water temps.

MAMMOTH LAKES BASIN, CALIF:
Kent Rianda of The Trout Fly and Troutfitter (760-934-2517) (www.thetroutfitter.com) reports:
George Lake - Mary Lake – Mamie Lake – Twin Lakes:
Water conditions:
The snow is melting fast in the surrounding areas..lakes are getting full.
Fishing conditions:
Lower Twin is open and ice free.

MARLETTE LAKE, CARSON CITY & WASHOE COUNTIES, NEV:
Closed until July 15, 2013.

ORVILLE LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Action remains steady at Lake Oroville for bass at around 30 feet using jigs, shaky head, dart head and drop shot worms.
There has been a wide open bite on 10-12 inch land-locked Coho Salmon on just about any offering with minnows is a good bet. 
Courtesy of My Outdoor Buddy.

OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Upper Owens River:
Current flow is 110 CFS.
Some larger spawning fish near the mouth.
Section above the bridge is still slow. The section from the bridge to the monument is closed until Memorial day.
Try egg patterns, San Juan worms, Prince nymphs and copper John's.
Lower Owens River:
Water flow is currently 225 CFS. Fishing is good.
Caddis hatch is unpredictable. Red  jujube midge, small Stevie's Wonders in black or grey and olive or grey WD-40's.
Baetis hatch midday but not much surface action.
Water flow due to jump up this week.

OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Kent Rianda of The Trout Fly and Troutfitter (760-934-2517) ( HYPERLINK "http://www.thetroutfitter.com" www.thetroutfitter.com) reports:
Upper Owens River:
Water conditions:
Good. As of 4/25 the flows are up to about 110 CFS.
Fishing conditions:
Fair to Good. Because of the runoff, the water will be slightly discolored.
Below the confluence of HC, the water is darker. Above, around Long Ears, the water is clear.
The flows are going up everyweek making the fishing a little challenging.
Not to say you can't hook. Make sure to use some weights.
Lower Owens River:
Water conditions:
Good. Flows are at 225 CFS as of 4/29.
Water is slightly off color and warming up every day.
Fishing conditions:
Same ol same ol, flows still holding along with the same daytime temps in the 80s! Fish are on the bite by 9am and it goes until 4 pm
Owens River Gorge:
Water conditions:
Great. Flow: 175 CFS. This is an abnormal flow for the gorge, which usually runs at 45 CFS. It should be at this higher flow until the LADWP finishes some work on the power plants. Estimated to be about another week or so.
Fishing conditions:
Flows and conditions remain the same as last week.
Pleasant Valley Reservoir:
Water conditions:
Water level is average and stream section flows vary from day to day.
Fishing conditions:
Water is still cold so the rule of thumb is "Deep, dark and slow."
The area right below the stream section continues to be the hot spot.
Mostly 13-14" fish but strong pullers.
Rock Creek:
Water conditions:
39 CFS. The water will be clear due to the melt off around Mosquito Flats.
Fishing conditions:
Fish have been in winter mode so they will pretty much eat anything.
The creek will be good along with the lake.
Pull streamers or drop midges along the banks.

PIT RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Currently, the Pit River is a wise choice to go fishing on.
Fishermen advise to go fly-fishing at sundown as the adult stoneflies drop down to lay eggs at that time .
We'd recommend pheasant tail nymphs for best results.   
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

PROSSER RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
From the dam down to the section where the two inlets meet fishing has been pretty good.  Nice trout in the 14 to 18 inch range have been caught on Kastmasters in 1/4 oz to 1/8 oz in Perch, Watermelon, Brook trout, and Gold early and late while Firetiger, Chrome/Blue, and Chrome have produced better during the mid day hours.  Look for similar colors in Roostertails, Panther Martins, and Thomas Bouyants. 
For those who have more patience than me throwing nightcrawlers, Power Bait, or Salmon eggs will certainly be a sure bet when the schools come by. 
Trollers should concentrate along drop offs by the shoreline and through the Prosser Creek arm with needlefish, Dick Nites, and Sierra Spinner (that just not for Kokes!) tipped with a nightcrawler.

RUBY LAKE NWR, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Harrison Pass is now open so anglers can knock about 30 miles off the trip to the Refuge. The water in the collection ditch is clearing and fishing has been fair to good depending upon the day, though many of the fish are stockers that were recently planted.
The south ponds and collection ditch have been stocked.
Chironomids, blood midges and hares ears in sizes 14 to 18 are working.
Hare’s ears seem to be the best pattern to start with and then if the fish aren’t going for them, move to the others.
If you see fish rolling, grease the nymphs and fish them in the film to top six inches, otherwise, get them all the way down to the bottom and then start working them up in the water column until you find the fish.
Expect to lose some tackle.
Wooly buggers in black, olive and white with some flash should also be tried if the small stuff isn’t working.
If you tie your own flies, put some rubber legs on your buggers for some extra action.
Many anglers fish just the brown dike and the pond behind the hatchery, but there is plenty of great fishing the whole length of the ditch.
The collection ditch is artificial lures only and wading is not allowed.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (LOWER), CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The water conditions have made the lower Sacramento a tough situation, but if you can brave the fast flow speeds and high winds then the fishing has been great. Lots of big Rainbows have been caught so far.  
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (UPPER), CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The best fishing has taken place in the early morning, but even at its best the upper Sacramento has been fair.
Expect better water conditions (and better fishing) as the summer goes on, allowing for slower flows and higher temperatures. 
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (LOWER), CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
Fly fishing:
As of   April 29, 2013, water flow is currently  11,000  CFS.
Lower Sacramento River fly fishing report, fly fishing has been excellent. Mid day, caddis hatch is epic. Weather warming this week, fishing will continue to be excellent. 
Double hook ups common now.
Using  rubber legs black and brown , black caddis # 16 or 14 , olive Micro Mays # 16 , yellow Sucker spawns.
Fishing  great all the way down to Jellys Ferry bridge.
Nice size Rainbows,16 to 20 inches average , occasional 24 to 25 inch . 
Our guides are fishing daily, call or email us today.
We offer daily guided fishing trips, 7 days a week. 
All fly fishing gear is included on our guided fly fishing trips.  
Daily drifting Redding, California and Anderson, California fly fishing
for wild rainbow trout.
Groups and Clubs welcome, we can accommodate ANY size group.

SACRAMENTO RIVER, CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
Bass fishing:
April 29, 2013- BASS ARE IN ! 
Striped bass fishing in the Sacramento River Colusa area is fair to good.
A great fighting fish, using spinning gear and live bait. 
Today, has started out slow today. Water is on the rise fast at 10,000 CFS today, and up to 11,000 CFS by tomorrow.
This throw off the bite for a day. We will keep you posted.

SAN JOAQUIN/RED’S MEADOW, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) ( HYPERLINK "http://www.performanceanglers.com" www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Road is closed.

SHASTA LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fishing as, for the most part, has been great! Best results are coming in from the Dry Creek area. Hummdingers and  Wiggle Hoochies have been good at reaching the lower depth salmon who drop down during the mid-day. Shoreline bass fishing has improved as well, and should improve even more as the weather warms even more. 
Courtesy of Sacriver Guide.

SHASTA LAKE, CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
April 29, 2013  
Shasta Lake guided fishing- Northern California fishing Lake Shasta. 
We offer daily guided fishing on Lake Shasta.
Lake Shasta fishing has been good.
Catching salmon and trout now,  Rainbow trout  on the surface and salmon 
60- 80  feet deep.
The Dry Creek area, using Cripp Lures and Wiggle Hoochies.  
 Shasta is place to be for lots of action and great trout & salmon fishing.
Bass fishing continues to be great!

SOUTH FORK RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The dock at the main park boat ramp on the northeast shore is in and the ramp is usable. The new ramp on the southwest side of the lake is not usable at this time.
The west side of the lake continues to produce fish from Jet Ski Beach north to the dam, with some of the best fishing taking place on the bluffs on the northwest side of the lake near the dam.
Trout and bass are also being caught along the face of the dam by boaters.
Anglers are catching trout in the backs of the coves along the eastern shore.
The mud flats at the south end are starting to produce more fish for fly fishermen in float tubes.
In many of the areas, anglers are catching the trout off of the points.
Look for swallows actively feeding above the water’s surface and fish those areas with chironomids as they are feeding on hatching midges.
Anglers continue to catch black bass using crankbaits, soft plastics, and wooly buggers as well as with worms.
Remember all black bass must be returned immediately to the water at the location they were caught until July 1.
Trout are also being caught using many of the same presentations. Chironomids suspended five to seven feet below an indicator are the hot flies. Snowcones, frostbite chironomids, chromies, and tungsten zebra midges should all work depending upon the day.
Of course other flies, such as wooly buggers, leeches, seal buggers, hare’s ears and PT nymphs can all be productive as other insects become more active with the warming trend of the water, which is in the high 40’s and should move into the 50’s soon.
Fishing the stream below the reservoir has produced some nice fish, while fishing above the reservoir is slowing down.
Anglers are being asked to avoid the redds (fish nests), which are clean gravel patches seen on the bottom of the river.
Bass anglers are catching both largemouth and smallmouth bass using soft plastics and deep diving crankbaits.
Some wipers are also showing up in the creel.

STAMPEDE RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Boat launch is wide open. 
Word is out here now and a lot of Macks are being caught as they are in full on feed mode.  Fishing around the island has been the hot spot in 10-20 feet of water before first light.  Also, off the dam in 10-20 feet of water has seen some action.  As the light hits the water start fishing for the Macks around drop offs and then start looking for them later suspended in deeper water. 
Kokanee fishing has started here, not red hot mind you, but look for them just outside the Little Truckee Arm, Sagehen Arm and the point around these two areas.  Top lining in some really shallow water will bring results with a variety of Kokanee lures now.  Get out early! 
For the shore fisherman spoons, large Spinners, and stick baits will work and of course if you're throwing bait nothing beats an inflated nightcrawler drenched in your favorite scent. 
Action here has been better for the boater, but recent reports have indicated that shore fishing has picked up. 
Reports over the past few weeks have some nice Smallies being caught from the shore! 

LAKE TAHOE:
Rick and Tresa Kennedy of Tight Line Guide Service (888-975-0990) (www.fish tightlines.com) report:
04/26
We launched at Cave Rock State Park to accommodate our group of six that were staying at Zephyr Cove.
We were launched, paperwork done and ready to fish just after 6:00 AM.
We discussed starting on the East shore for rainbows and browns or head straight to the deep water and try to load up on Mack’s.
Everyone was in agreement to go for the Mack’s.
After little boat ride we dropped our spoons down to a bunch of schooled fish that were 260 to 300 feet deep. We started off with a double. These first two fish came on White Glow Spoon’s 5’ off the bottom.
From that point on we continued to land fish using the white spoons and Sep’s Glow Pro Secrets. We also lost couple along the way.
These guys didn’t want to keep any fish so everything was released today.
After everyone had their share of reeling these fish in from 300’ we decided to hit the shallow water and troll our way back to Cave Rock.
I would guess the average fish today was around 3 pounds with a couple that went 5 to 6 pounds.
During the time we were on the lake today it was like glass and the water temperature was running 42 to 43 degrees.

TRINITY LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
No current fishing report, however good news: March through June are the favorite months for experienced bass anglers there. The lake has good populations of both largemouth and smallmouth bass.
It also holds the California record for small mouth bass!
A dredger piles at the head of the lake, as well as other structures found in the coves and points throughout the lake provide excellent bass fishing for most of the year.
Spring always provides the hottest action, as both species move into the shoreline to spawn.  
Courtesy of Fish Trinity Lake.

TRINITY RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
With higher flows making fishing difficult, do not expect great results to come out of Trinity right now. There are still Rainbows in the river, eating the fresh hatches, but do not expect easy-pickings.  
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

TRINITY RIVER, CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
April 22, 2013
Currently, Water is at 1,110 CFS  increasing to 4,500 CFS by  May 2 , 2013.
Trinity River Steelhead fishing has slowed now, we focus on the Sacramento River for the next month.
Spring run salmon will start to 
show up come May and June. In the meantime we will focus on nice, large Rainbows on the Sac River in Redding to Anderson.

TRUCKEE RIVER, LITTLE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
With flows being over the 200 CFS mark here for almost two weeks the fishing has picked up considerably.  Reports of some nice Browns and Rainbows being caught.
I've heard some grumblings from anglers who recently fished here that they haven't caught any fish or very few. All I have to say is that the LT and the Big T are difficult to fish and that going out once or twice will not yield great results. You have to put in your time or get a guided trip to understand these areas. Mind you that the winter was the driest in about 100 years and that the trout here saw angling pressure almost all winter. The fish here are just educated. 
Get out here now because when the flows drop it will be back to the usual light tippets and stealthy approach that this tailwater is famous for. 
Main hatches here will consist of Midges, BWO's-Baetis Mayflies, and small Winter Stones. Also, with the water being up and aquatic worms being stirred up the use of a San Juan worm can be very effective. One can utilize regular tippet and leader sizes here in 4x, 5x now leaning towards 5x more.

TWIN LAKES, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) ( HYPERLINK "http://www.kenssport.com" www.kenssport.com) reports:
The Twins fishes well yesterday also, lots of fish in the 1 to 6 pound range.
Trolling with Rapalas, needlefish and blades/crawlers did well, also casting lures from the shore and bait fishing from the shore also did well.
The best baits were power bait and crawlers, lures to try are Thomas Bouyants, Kastmasters and countdown Rapalas. 

VIRGINIA LAKES, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
The Virginias are still frozen, but not for long. Lots of fish were caught through the ice yesterday but the anglers we spoke with said it won't be safe for very long. Jigging spoons or crawlers did well for anglers as well as just dropping crawlers or power eggs down towards the bottom. 

WALKER LAKE, MINERAL COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
No new updates. No Lahontan cutthroat have been reported or seen at Walker Lakes since 2009.
Launching is not possible right now.

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
East Walker River:
The flows on the East are still at 50 CFS today. The river received a lot of pressure this weekend due to the regular season opening up yesterday, it seems as though this made fishing a bit more difficult. The low flows and heavy traffic made it necessary to really be on your game to be successful.
We did have some very good reports though from some anglers in spite of the pressure. Most of the anglers that were doing well were nymphing with small midges and caddis nymphs.
The water below the bridge and on into Nevada also seemed to fish pretty well for most anglers.
Patterns that did well this week include: fox's poopah, buckskin caddis, zebra midge, silver streak, copper john, rainbow warrior, chubby chernobyl, madam x, rubber leg stone, micro stone and poxyback stone. 
Sceirine Ranch:
April 28, 2013 
The Sceirine fished excellent this week, this is of course in part because there's not too much pressure on this section.
Our clients who fished the ranch did the best with zebra midges, copper johns, san juan worms and dry dropper rigs with chubby chernobyl or rubber leg stone on top and a midge or stonefly nymph underneath.
Give us a call at the shop if you want to book some time on the ranch! 
Hunewill Pond:
April 28, 2013
The pond fished excellent this week as well, small streamers like seal buggers and stillwater nymphs did well and small midges like zebra's and rojo midges under an indicator were the ticket.
Lots of fish in the 16 to 20 inch range are being caught. 

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Water flow has been up and down and is currently 49 CFS.
Fishing is  very tough. 

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Kent Rianda of The Trout Fly and Troutfitter (760-934-2517) ( HYPERLINK "http://www.thetroutfitter.com" www.thetroutfitter.com) reports:
Water conditions
Flows up to 49 CFS and holding steady as of 4/29.
Fishing conditions:
Flows are changing about every week, going from the 50-20 CFS range.
But the fishing is still good. Lot of fish are holding behind rocks (pocket water fishing). With the flows changing, find deep, dark holes,....they're there for sure. I've seen'em!

WALKER RIVER, WEST, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) ( HYPERLINK "http://www.kenssport.com" www.kenssport.com) reports:
The West was running a little high and dirty yesterday due to the nice weather, there were a few anglers who dod well with spinners and crawlers by fishing the calmer water near the edges.
Nice fish in the 1 to 3 pound range were taken.

WASHOE LAKE, WAHOE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Washoe Lake dried up in 2004 and, although it is presently full and has been restocked, the fish population, consisting mostly of channel catfish and white bass, is small. Fishing is expected to be poor.

WILDHORSE RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Very little change here as shore fishing has been fair to good as the fish are in shallow water looking for food in where it’s warmer.
Surface water temps are starting to creep into the mid to high 40’s and should start warming with predicted warmer temperatures.
Bait anglers should fish the shallows using PowerBait or worms, spinners and shallow diving crankbaits for spin fishermen, and fly rodders should be using wooly buggers, seal buggers, leech patterns and chironomids.
The backs of the coves should be good places to hit as rainbows are looking for both food and spawning habitat.
The lake continues to rise but isn’t filling very quickly with lake level just under 50% with the island at the boat ramp still peeking out of the water.
The south end of the lake by Hot Creek, the backs of the coves and and shallow water are the best places to be fishing.
It isn’t expected to fill much more and so NDOW has cut the number of fish it had planned to stock here in half.
Wild Horse Reservoir may have a rough summer due to low lake levels and the best fishing will probably be early in the season.

WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The lake level is very low and fishing for crappie and catfish should start picking up and actually be good through the end of May. There are no recent reports but chances are the best fishing will be in May and then due to possible low water conditions, the fishing will get poor again.

WILSON RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The road to Wilson is still in pretty good shape and this reservoir gets little action due to its remoteness.
Fishing has been fair for trout with fish averaging 14 to 18 inches, with anglers fighting the wind.
The water is about two vertical feet from spilling and it may start spilling in the next week or two as the warmer weather is melting the snow off faster, but it won’t spill for long and fishing the spillway this year will be short lived and not at its best.
The snowmelt has the water fairly turbid.
The same presentations and techniques that would work at South Fork should work here.
The lake is starting to rise, though it is still more than three feet from spilling. While it should spill this spring, chances are it won’t have a lot of flow heading down the canyon and will spill for only a little while.
The same techniques and presentations used at South Fork for both bass and trout will work here.

WHISKEYTOWN LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The fishing conditions has been improving, producing Kokes around twelve inches, indicating even better-sized fish as the summer months go on.
Expect more reports as the summer months continue. 
Courtesy of Fishing Notes.com.

— Don Quilici is the Outdoor editor for Carson Now and www.SouthTahoeNow.com. He can be reached at donquilici@hotmail.com