Don Q's Nevada and Northern California fishing report for week of Oct. 1

Here is this week's fishing report for rivers, lakes and streams in Nevada and Northern California. This report is for the week of Oct. 1-7, 2014.

ALMANOR LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The East Basin has been the hot area.  The trolling lanes in some of the well known bait spots like Rocky Point, Canyon Dam, Big Springs and the A-Frame had decent fish.  The Hamilton Branch has been packed with anglers lining the shore due to a good bite there.  
The big Browns are still at Rec. 2, as they have been all month.  
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

ANGEL LAKE, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Fishing is very good at Angel Lake as the surface water temperatures are in the low 60’s. This reservoir seems to do better with worms over Power Bait and with small black and gold or green and gold spinners and rooster tails. For flies, just about anything olive or with peacock herl for nymphs should improve your chances.
Red and yellow seems to be the best color for dries.
Hopper patterns are very good right now.
They are starting to hit dries regularly but nymphing is still working best now.
Dry flies fished with a dropper are very effective here from now until late September. A popular rig is a small yellow stimulator with an olive soft hackle fished about three to four feet below it.
Fish this near brush, rock faces and rocky shorelines.

BISHOP CREEK AREA, CALIF:
Rick and Patti Apted - Lake Sabrina Boat Landing (760-873-7425) (www.lakesabrinaboatlanding.com) reports:
Lake Sabrina:
A fire in the wood stove Saturday morning as it was downright cold - 30° at 6:00am. Got a wee bit more snow this week on both Saturday and Sunday – sure was great to see that white stuff floating down.
Also had some pretty strong breezes on Thursday and Friday – not many anglers out braving the weather, although there were lots of photographers out and about. Not sure what these cooler temps will do to the leaves – with the breezes we had there are a few naked trees.
The fishing continued to be on the good side for those out in the elements (and there weren’t many).
The DingleBerry Inlets is your best bet with Nightcrawlers, Jigs (Sierra Slammers) or Power Bait.
Those huddling on shore are using Nightcrawlers or Power Bait.
Trolling a bit on the slow side, but a few came out using lures or Nightcrawlers.
A few larger Rainbows were pulled out this week – Bishop local Chris Gaskill reeled in a fine looking 2-1/2 pounder. Another Bishop local Bob Kindel landed 2 of those nice fish – a 2-pounder and a 2-1/4 pounder on lures. Raymond Escarzega of Los Alamitos and Chris Stark of La Habra brought in a 1-3/4 pound Rainbow along with a few more for dinner using Garlic Power Bait.
Still no bear sightings at the building although there are BIG paw prints and bear scat along the shorelines of the Lake especially at the back by the DingleBerry Inlet.
Had a couple of deer around the building eating the apples – sure was a bit of a surprise to look out the back door window and see a deer in your back yard – doesn’t happen too often with all the people around.
Twas quite a week for weather – strong breezes, cooler temps and that wonderful white stuff we call snow.
The breezes came in on Thursday and stayed thru Friday with sustained winds of 29mph and gusts up to 49mph.
Saturday brought the cooler temps with morning temperature at the Lake of 30 and intermittent snow showers thru the day – Sunday – not much different from Saturday. It seems that we had our head in the clouds at times too this weekend – and when the Lake starts steaming – it can get pretty eerie.
This coming week’s outlook is for warmer temps with highs in Aspendell on Saturday to be in the low-70s and the lows in the mid-30’s – oh what a difference a week makes.
DON’T FORGET YOUR JACKETS & YOUR WOOLIES!
You can also check out www.weather.gov – enter Aspendell, CA (which is the little community right below Lake Sabrina) in the search field and you’ll get the forecast for the higher elevation or take a look at Howard Sheckter, our local weather ‘guesser’ report at www.MammothWeather.com.
Remember the sunscreen, ponchos and dark polarized glasses. The glare off the water is tough on the eyes.
It’s tough breathing out there for some - what with runny noses, stuffed noses & watery eyes, believe us, we know!
One other important item – bug juice, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, cologne, perfume, or any other foo-foo juice is like a fish repellent. If you use any of these items you’re basically using fish repellant, and will need to wash your hands, then apply Bite-On fish attractant or rub your hands in worm dirt or pour some Salmon Egg juice on your hands… anything to get the foo-foo stink off your hands.
October 5th will be the last day for the Café and homemade pie and ice cream at Lake Sabrina Boat Landing this year. We will continue to be open for boat rentals, tackle, snacks and cold drinks for a few more weeks.

BOCA RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
Lake level very low here at only 16% capacity. 
Small car top boats, small aluminum boats or float tubes here, water level is too low to launch anything else.  
Fishing by the dam in the morning has been good along with the inlet portion of the lake more towards the evening. 
Lots of Personal Water Craft or Jet Skis ripping around the lake during the day so look for morning and evening fishing to be more productive.
 
BRIDGEPORT RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707)
www.kenssport.com) reports:
September 28, 2014
The reservoir is still fishing pretty well from the shore down near the dam.
Most anglers are reporting good numbers of fish in the 1 to 2 pound range with a few getting up to around 4 pounds.
Didn't hear of any browns this week but there's been some nice perch being caught along with the rainbows.
Bait anglers are using inflated crawlers, mice tails and power bait, lure anglers are using kastmasters, rapalas and thomas bouyants. Fly anglers are also doing pretty well tubing down near the dam with seal buggers, wooly buggers, soft hackles zug bugs and prince nymphs.

CARSON RIVER, DOUGLAS COUNTY, NEVADA:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Current flow is 30 CFS near Gardnerville. Fishing will be slow with low flows.

CAVE LAKE, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Again, little or no change here as water levels have remained steady all summer and fishing for 10 to 12 inch fish has been good.
The surface water temps should drop quickly with the cold front and rain that is expected to move through this weekend.
The old standby of worms or Power Bait should both work.
Fly rodders should be using damsel nymphs, small olive buggers, Cave Lake specials, hares ears, small leeches and chironomids.
Dries fished with a dropper, especially along the weed edges is very effective here. The usual arrangement of dry flies such as Adams, elk hair caddis, royal coachmen, stimulators and renegades are all effective for dries, while soft hackles, prince nymphs, PT’s, hares ears and small leech patterns make great droppers. Black and gold or green and gold spinners and rooster tails should also be effective.

CHETCO RIVER, ORE:
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (800-720-ODWF) (www.dfw.state.or.us.com) reports:
Temporary regulations have been adopted for the Chetco River starting Sept. 1.
Anglers should check these regulation changes prior to fishing the river.
The temporary regulations do not affect the tributaries, and with cooler water conditions anglers may want to fish some of the bigger tributaries for cutthroat that can reach 18 to 20-inches.
Both casting spinners or fly fishing can be really good.

CONVICT LAKE AND CONVICT CREEK, CALIF:
Convict Lake Resort (800-992-2260) (www.convictlake.com) reports:
It's a great time of year for fishing and viewing the fall colors.
The fishing has stayed hot and I'm sure it will continue as another big fish stocking is scheduled for Tuesday, September 30th.
As for the colors they are 
starting to turn and should be in full effect within a few weeks. 
ANOTHER BIG FISH STOCKING ALERT: 
The Convict Lake Resort will be stocking the lake with 400 pounds of trophy trout on September 30th.
Next week would be a good time to join the derby. It runs from September 1st  to the end of the 2014 fishing season, November 15. We will be giving away $6,000 in Resort Prizes! Enter the derby and catch a fish 14 inches or longer to be eligible to win one of sixty resort prizes. Come join the fun! 
Catch of the Week: 
Congratulations to Dwayne Bell 
from Lancaster, CA with an excellent fish pulled from Convict Lake at Hangman's Tree. He was using a nightcrawler when he scored a stout 5 pound 1 ounce rainbow. Great job Dwayne! 
Other notable catches this week:
Peter Sessoyeff from Redwood, CA with a limit stringer. The stringer's largest fish was a 4 pound 1 ounce rainbow. Peter was using Silver Needlefish and he was trolling near Hangman's Tree.
Kim Koreyasu from Torrance, CA hooked a nice fish fishing at the South Shore. Kim was using a nightcrawler when she landed a 3 pound 10 ounce rainbow. 
Marc Alvarez from Bakerfield, CA landed a 3 pound and 9 ounce rainbow.
He was using a Thomas Bouyant and was fishing at the South Shore. 
Mike Malick from Temcula, CA caught a quality 3 pound 13 ounce rainbow.
He was using a Roostertail and was fishing at the Inlet.
Dave and Ryan Cavalli from Santa Barbara, CA with two full stringers.
The stringer's largest fish was a 3 pound 10 ounce rainbow caught by Ryan.
The second largest from the stringers was a 2 pound 14 ounce rainbow caught by Dave. They was using nightcrawlers along the North Shore.
Congrats to Margo Orellana for hooking two toads and they were her personal bests.  They weighed 3 pounds 2 ounces and 3 pounds 6 ounces. She caught them on a chartruese Power Worm at the Inlet. Mark Zirges with a 3 1/2 pounder which qualified him in the derby raffle. They caught and released about 30 fish in two days, and kept 5 for the barbecue. Great fishing!
Tactics/Bait:  
The lures of choice this week were Thomas Bouyants, Roostertails and Needlefish. Gold/red and silver were the hot colors on the lures.
Mice Tails and Power Worms were also knocking them dead all week.  
For trolling use a Rapala, Needlefish, Tasmanian Devils or Marvel Fly Lures.
The most successful Power bait color was Rainbow. Any Power bait with garlic continued to be deathly. Using a garlic dip can also increase the number and size on the fish you catch.  
All along the North Shore and Inlet were the hottest spots this week.
Other locations fishing well were the South Shore and Hangman Tree location. 
DFG is scheduled to stock the creek early next week.
At the creek give salmon eggs a shot.
Here is a list of other baits/lures that can be productive:
Sierra Slammers, Tasmanian Devil, Green, purple or brown Marvel Fly Lures, Panther Martin, Needlefish, Roostertails, and Bite-on Fury Shad or Lip Ripperz Hatchery Dust on Power bait.
Here is a list of recommended flies:  
Dry Flies:
Adams, Female Adams, Cutter's Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulators, Black/Red Ants, Sierra Bright Dot, Royal Coachman and Hoppers.  
Streamers:
Wooly Bugger (black, brown, olive, or green), Mutuka (black, brown, olive, or green), Hornberg, and Muddler Minnows. 
Wet Flies (Nymphs):
Prince Nymph, Flashback Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, Zebra Midge (red and black), Copper John (red and copper) and San Juan Worm (brown or red).
Other Resources:
View our Convict Lake Fishing Map and Fishing Rig Suggestion brochures. Both brochures are available in the General Store.
Derby News:
Our fall derby series Ambush at the Lake started on September 1st and will run until November 15th. Come join us for a chance to win $6,000 in Resort Prizes!
Also mark your calendars for the Morrison's Bonus Cash Weekend on Oct. 31 - Nov. 2. $2000 in cash prizes.
Weather: 
The forecast for the beginning of next week will start with chance of showers and by Monday it is forecasted to be mostly sunny. 
Temps will be dropping but by Tuesday they will start to warm up again.
Highs are going to be in the low-50's and the lows in the high-30's.
By Tuesday the highs will be back up in the low-60 The weather is away changing day to day in the high country. Make sure to visit the National Weather Service link which is usually accurate: 7-Day Forecast Convict Lake.
Sunrise - Sunset:
Sunrise this week 6:48 am - 6:53 am and Sunset 6:47 pm - 6:38 pm. 
Stocking: 
The Convict Lake Resort will stock the lake with 400 pounds of trophy trout on September 30th. 
DGF is scheduled to plant at the lake the week of September 28th.

CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:  
Windy weather slowed fishing on the lake last week.
Forecast is for better weather next week.
Try Mc Gee Bay and the Green Banks area in 8-12 feet of water with copper zebra midges and Stevie's Wonder gray/black.
Also the perch fry are abundant so a matuka or an olive woolly bugger on a sink tip or a full sink line has been productive as well.

DAVIS LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fly fishing is still slow, but is improving for anglers at Lake Davis, according to J&J Grizzly Store and Camping Restaurant 
“One angler reported catching and releasing 3 rainbows from 20 to 21 inches long this morning,” said Graham. “He was fishing orange Wooly Buggers off Jenkins Point. ”
Trolling has been slow.
Boaters are experiencing the top action while fishing rainbow garlic Power Bait and worms around the Big Island, said Graham.
 “Shore fishermen are finding the best action early in the morning and late in the evenings in Mallard Cove while tossing out nightcrawlers,” she advised. 
Brown bullhead catfish offer the hottest action on the reservoir.
“Shore anglers are hooking lots of cats averaging 1 to 1-1/2 pounds while using worms in Coot Bay and off Camp Five,” she added. 
The lake is 58 percent of capacity and surface water temperatures range from 68 to 72 degrees. 
Courtesy of the Fishsniffer.com.

DONNER LAKE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
This lake was stocked heavily a while ago but still continues to fish well! 
With temps in the low 80's for the week it's a great time to get out in mornings and evenings to fish though this lake will still put fish out during the day. 
Mack fishing here has been fair and jigging for these guys  has been good at depths from 70-100 ft and some smaller guys being caught along the shoreline.
Kokanee fishing still good with fat little guys ranging from 10-12 inches in 45-80 feet with most of the schools being between Loch Leven Lodge and China Cove and some larger Kokes in the 13-14 inch range on the opposite shore from the boat launch suspended 60-80 feet in 100-120 feet of water.  Kokes haven't turned yet but will soon so now is the time to get out and fish for them!  Also, for the boaters, there is a section off the shoreline at the State Park where the depth drops off quickly and lots of fish are concentrated there.  
Small Macks have been busy cruising the shorelines in the morning and evening picking of small rainbows. Throw imitations that will mimic these and smaller baitfish now in these dusk and dawn hours to be successful!

EAGLE LAKE, CALIF:
Bryan Roccucci of www.bigdaddyfishing.com (530-283-4103) reports:
Eagle Lake Fishing Report, September 20, 2014
It is time to get back to Trophy Trout Fishing and Fall is here.
Eagle Lake has been fishing absolutely outstanding in recent weeks with catch rates at 10 fish per hour in the mornings.
Despite the water still being a little on the warm side (67 degrees) the fish are up shallow and actively feeding on the lake's population of Tui Chub minnows.
We have been getting fish on both the east and west sides and for the last few days the bite has been unchanged.
Today we got off to a little bit of a slower start with only a couple of hook-ups in the first hour but we pushed just a little further north and got on the fish.
We finished up landing 6 limits of nice fish with the two biggest being 3 pounds 7 oz. Look for this bite to only get better as the waters cool.

EAGLE LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Get out early and be ready to fish at first light.  
Fish the east side of the lake by the springs at Eagle's Nest with lead core from 3 to 6 colors deep. Options included Sure Catch Goldilocks, bikini Needlefish or Jay Fair flies. 
Bobber fishing with nightcrawlers has also been a good option as well.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

EAGLE VALLEY RESERVOIR, LINCOLN COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
This past week a 4+ pound largemouth was caught by a young man.
Those determined to catch trout did well using the usual orange or rainbow power bait mostly off the dam and fishing dock.

ECHO CANYON RESERVOIR, LINCOLN COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Rainbow trout have been taking orange or rainbow Power Bait, but passing on lures and flies. Bass action has dropped off dramatically during the past week. Cooler temperatures have cleared much of the weed growth from the lake.

FEATHER RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
There are some kings being caught here at the bottom, middle and upper ends of the river. Down low, the anchor crowd at the color line at Verona has been seeing slow to decent fishing, deepening on the day while fishing K15’s and spinners. Anchor anglers fishing plugs above Shanghai Falls are also seeing a few spurts of fish moving at first light. Up around Thermalito, there are some dark springers and a few moderately bright fall fish but the flows are low, warm and grassy and it’s mostly a crack of dawn type of deal. 
Courtesy of fishwithjd.com.

FRENCHMAN RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The reports are that some fishermen have limited on rainbows while fishing from their boats at Crystal Point.
The fish measured between 15 and 19 inches each.  
Trollers do best with flashers dragging a nightcrawler, or try wooly worms or roostertails of various colors. 
Bank fishing has been good at the dam and at Big Cove. 
Lots of fishermen say that fall fishing is the best fishing.  
Come on out to Frenchman Lake and see for yourself! 
Courtesy of Wiggin's Trading Post.

HOT CREEK, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Water flow  down to 2 CFS. Try an attractor dry like a stimulator with a nymph as a dropper.WD-40, green rock worms or scuds. 
Heavy weed growth makes accurate casting a must. With cooler weather and shorter days the weeds should begin to break down soon.

HUMBOLDT COUNTY WATERS, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Bilk Creek Reservoir:  
Fishing has been good for bass using spinner baits and top water poppers.
Anglers in float tubes casting top water poppers at the bass will catch fish.
As things heat up, morning and evening fishing is recommended.
Humboldt County Small Streams: 
Small streams in the Santa Rosa Mountains are all producing lots of brook trout. Abel, Singas, McConnell, Rebel and Canyon Creeks are small but full of fish. Be careful while hiking many of these small streams because of the frequent occurrences of rattlesnakes.
Chimney Reservoir:
No new reports.

ILLIPAH RESERVOIR, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Water levels have stabilized and anglers report good success for fish between 12 and 17 inches. Most anglers are having success with Power Bait.
Float tube anglers continue to report good fishing for trout primarily early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Best area seems to be in the area where the creek enters the lake.
Minnow imitations, natural baits and wooly buggers on a sinking line are all worth a try here.
Shore anglers report good luck on the west side of the lake and at the inlet where the creek enters the reservoir.
Other flies this time of year should include prince nymphs, zug bugs, hares ears and damsel fly nymphs.

JACKSON MEADOWS RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
With this lake being stocked a while ago with a healthy planting of DFW trout this lake will fish great for months now! 
If you're looking for bigger fish here you're going to have to fish the face of the dam more as there is always some big fish hanging on the ledges of the dam. 
Fishing small apex's about 25-35 feet down has been the ticket here for boaters as some anglers can't keep trout off their hooks! 
Small trout in the 12-14 inch range but numbers are high. 
Look for larger trout on the bottom in 45-55 feet of water or off the face of the dam with small minnow or crayfish imitations. 
A 7 lb Brown was caught and released two weeks ago! 
As water levels drop slightly the only launch feasible for boats is the one at Pass Creek not Woodcamp!  
Lake is at 69% capacity and it's a great escape from the masses that descend on Truckee on the weekends. 

JAKE'S/BOIES RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
This reservoir is very weedy, water levels are seasonally low and fishing from shore is difficult.
Anglers should plan on bringing a small boat, canoe or float tube for best chance at success. Anglers report fair fishing for 13 to 16 inch trout and a few bass.
Anglers should try Power Bait and worms or small spinners fished slowly.
Fly rodders should give hares ears, PT nymphs, zug bugs and prince nymphs along with wooly buggers a chance.
Fish are averaging 10 to 17 inches in size with most anglers using small spinners, minnow imitations or flies.
The weeds are dying back and in mid to late October fishing from shore should start picking up.

JIGGS/ZUNINO RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
This once popular fishery has been dry for a number of years. But lovers of Jiggs do not despair. Starting in mid to late July work will begin restoring the dam, deepening the area closest to the dam and adding bentonite clay to the bottom to help it hold water. Work is to be completed in October and if we have a good winter, anglers should be able to fish it in the spring or summer of 2015!

JUNE LAKE LOOP, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Grant - Gull - June - Silver Lakes and Rush Creek:
Rush Creek flow is up to 26 CFS and fishing has improved.
Try a humpie or stimulator with a hares ear or pheasant tail dropper.

KIRMAN LAKE, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
September 28, 2014
Kirman has been a little tough this week, it sounds like the brookies are starting to try to spawn and often they get a bit of lock-jaw when they're sitting on beds. There's been a few fish getting caught but overall it's been a little slow.    

LAHONTAN RESERVOIR, CHURCHILL COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Lahontan, despite the low water (or maybe because of it) the fishing has been pretty good.  The best fishing has been by the dam where the Truckee canal dumps in.  Anglers are reporting walleye and wipers in the 15-inch plus range.
The dam was closed last week and water levels will remain pretty constant for about a month with a little water from the canal coming in, this should make fishing easier and better for a few weeks.
All state parks boat launches are closed and beach launching is difficult due to muddy banks.

LAUGHTON, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Colorado River:
Fishing has slowed a bit over the week.
While the striped bass and catfish are out there, they have proven a little more challenging to get on the hook.
It has been recommended by local anglers to use bait saver thread to help cut anchovies stay on the hook.
Most of the striped bass being caught through this area are in the one to three pound range.
A few of the lunker catfish brought in are pushing over nine pounds.

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:
Windy conditions have hampered fishing last week.
Try Upper Twin with Doc's Twin Lake Special black or olive or try hanging a callibaetis nymph under an indicator.

MARLETTE LAKE, WASHOE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Fishing has been good. 
Make sure you have enough water for the five mile hike in. 
Fishing is allowable one hour before sunrise to two hours after sunset. 
Limit is zero fish, catch and release fishing only. 
Only artificial lures with single barbless hooks may be used. 
Season will be closed Sept. 30. 

MARTIS LAKE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
CLOSED FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR BECAUSE OF WEEDS AND SPORADIC FISH LOSS!

MASON VALLEY WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Bass fishing has been good at Hinkson and North Pond, float tubes and kayaks are needed to get into the open channels where anglers can access the fish.
Trout fishing slow to nonexistent lately.
Will be closed to fishing Sept. 30.

LAKE MEAD, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
It has been a good week for fishing.
Most stripers are being caught on lures with the best luck coming from working jigs. Sunrise has been the best time for bites.
With the new moon Wednesday, night fishing should be hot, especially when fishing under a light.
Boulder Basin, specifically the Boulder Beach area, has been producing several catfish in the three to four pound range.
Anticipation for the improved fall fishing is mounting as conditions align.
Storms coming in through the weekend will lower the temperatures, which will gradually bring the fish shallower.

LAKE MOHAVE, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Fishing at Willow Beach has been good over the past week.
A few stripers in the double digits have been brought in with the biggest weighing in at 21 pounds. Various swimbaits have been used to entice these striped bass.
Action for black bass species is slowing down but the bluegill and redear sunfish are as feisty as ever.
Nightcrawler pieces have been the top bait while working the backs of coves.

OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Upper Owens River:
Flow is steady at 50 CFS. The water is low and clear. Try caddis pupa, San Juan worms and egg patterns. The fish are scattered so cover lots of water.
Lower Owens River:
Water flow  has dropped to 217 CFS and fishing has improved.
Not much surface action  but nymph fishing is great.
WD40's , rainbow warriors, baetis emergers.

PAHRANAGAT WILDLIFE REFUGE, LINCOLN COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Anglers are finding some success at the upper marsh for panfish and catfish.
Mealworms or nightcrawlers below a bobber will catch fish.

PINE FOREST COMPLEX, HUMBOLDT COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Roads:
Access to the Pine Forest best with a 4-wheel drive.
Season closes on November 15.
Onion Valley Reservoir: 
Reservoir started the season with low water and was drained due to water demands. It is slowly refilling but will not have fish until restocked.
Blue Lakes: 
Recently stocked on Sept. 17th with cuttbows and rainbows, 2004 and 3528 respectively. Fishing has been and remains good for both bait and fly anglers.
Four species of trout can be caught: brook, tiger, rainbows and cutbows.
Fish from 10 to 18 inches are being caught.
Blue Lakes is located only a couple of miles above Onion Valley Reservoir but is only accessible by a hiking trail.
It offers opportunity for both bait and fly anglers.
Water level is low, but fishing has been good for 10"-12".  F
ly fisherman have been catching fish on nymphs and some on dry flies. 
Bait fisherman are catching fish on your typical power bait and worms.
Knott Creek Reservoir: 
Fishing should be good this fall even with the low water. 
Most of the fish have been concentrated in the deeper water near the dam. 
Typical leach and nymph patterns are catching fish. 
Midge patterns under a strike indicator should still be working near the dam. Knott Creek is an artificial fly and lure fishing destination.
Fly anglers reported luck with sheep creek and black leach patterns down deep.
Check the regulations for all of the rules.
Fish early before the sun hits the water and late when the sun is going down.

PROSSER RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
Lake is at 21% capacity and has been fishing great for the Smallmouth. 
Crayfish and minnow patterns have been good for the fly flingers and Crayfish crankbaits, Senkos, Panther Martin spinners, and live worms have been good for the rest. 
Fishing outside the inlets and around the dam has produced the best results. 
Smallmouth fishing here has been great in the evening hours!

RUBY LAKE NWR, WHITE PINE, COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Water temperatures are the key now.
Luckily for bass anglers, the above average temperatures have kept the bass a bit more active than they usually are this time of year. That changes this weekend and expect bass fishing to slow way down. With the cooler water temperatures anglers should slow their presentation down.
Water levels are low and Narciss is nothing more than a mud flat.
The main boat ramp is still usable, though care should be taken especially on the west side of the dock which has a drop off below the ramp.
The collection ditch is hit or miss for trout. Small olive buggers, hare’s ears, damsel/dragonfly nymphs and leech patterns should all work.
The ditch is artificial lures and flies only.
Fishing in the main part of the marsh for bass is fair to slow with anglers catching one keeper for every seven to eight fish caught. It’s only going to get slower with the cold front moving through.
Dark colored soft plastics with either some sparkle or a contrasting colored tail rigged weedless and thrown right into the tules are your best bet for bass.

RYE PATCH RESERVOIR, PERSHING COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The boat launches are closed due to low water levels.
Shore launching is risky and is done at your own risk.
Fishing has been slow. 

SACRAMENTO RIVER (LOWER), CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
King Salmon fishing:
September 29, 2014
King Salmon fishing on the Sacramento River.
Water flow is currently 5,000 CFS. 
Salmon fishing the Sacramento River today was awesome, limits! 
Part of the weekend was a bit tough, but just overnight the fishing heated up.
Recent rain storms brought a rush of fish upriver.
Getting into some larger salmon now. Salmon averaging in weight, over 20 pounds, several fish caught over 30 pounds. 
Using Flatfish lures is the hot ticket.
Roe bite is early in the day.
Fishing the upper section of the Sacramento River now, fish are headed upriver.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (UPPER), CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Releases out of Keswick Reservoir are 6,133 CFS.
The fishing has turned on over the past couple days.
#4 Brown Rubber Legs and small brown #18 mayfly patterns like Hogan's S&M, Mercer's Micro Mayfly are solid patterns.
Dry fly fishing really isn't happening, but if you stick around near riffles and shallow water until sundown, you might find a few fish sipping off the surface, eating #18 cream colored mayflies. 
Bring a good hook set and really pay attention to the indicator. The takes are super subtle. It's really easy to miss your best opportunities. 
Best fishing happens mid day which is typical during the summer.
The sweetest time to be on the water is at sunset.
Near sunset is also the best time during the summer to find rising fish eating Hydropsyche emergers and cripples.
Expect stable conditions and good fishing through August and September. 
Courtesy of the Fly Shop

SACRAMENTO RIVER (UPPER), CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Autumn brings giant October Caddis, as well as the nicest weather of the season.
The first of the monstrous October Caddis larvae begin to appear on the rocks and boulders near the edge of the river as early as late August, but by mid September there are literally millions of the inch-long cases decorating the river bottom as they prepare to emerge with the cooler nights of fall.
The adult insects hatch at dusk throughout October and November, proving brief flurries of dry fly activity every evening and enticing trout to rise to big attractor patterns sometimes even in the middle of the day. Moreover, they'll eat the larvae and pupae of the caddis like trout candy every hour of the day.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

SAN JOAQUIN RIVER/RED’S MEADOW, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Flow is now 7 CFS.

SHASTA LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Cover lots of water and target the first 5 feet with crankbaits and spinnerbaits for Bass.  If you can find shade on hard structure like rock or wood in the afternoon head to that.  There is also bait everywhere from the surface to 25 feet.  Best bet has been the first two and last two hours of the day.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

SHASTA LAKE, CALIF:
Kirk and Lisa Portocarrero at outdooradventures@sacriverguide.com and www.sacriverguide.com (1-800-670-4448) report:
September 26, 2014  Shasta Lake guided fishing
Northern California fishing Lake Shasta.  
We offer daily guided fishing on Lake Shasta.
Rainbow trout fishing on Lake Shasta is great. Fishing 30 to 75 ft deep.  Catching limits of trout now, with fish ranging in size from  1 to 3 pounds. 
Fishing main body and near dam.
Shasta Lake King salmon fishing is fair. 
Trolling  100-120 ft deep, shad pattern lures.
Shasta Lake Spotted Bass & Small Mouth Bass fishing has been excellent. Limits daily. Catching 20 to50 fish per day, bigger fish are being caught 25 -30 ft deep. Larger numbers of smaller bass being caught on the top water using spinner baits and tube worms.

SOUTH FORK RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Due to the above average temperatures the surface water temps are still in the 60’s, there are floating mats of weeds and the water is still green with algae.
However, rain is expected this weekend and the influx of cooler water plus the 10 degree cool down forecast for daytime highs should drop the surface water temps into prime trout range.
Trout fishing seems to be better where the algae isn’t quite as thick, though there aren’t many clear areas.
Shore anglers are still having some luck along the northwest corner of the lake and it seems to be best first thing in the morning.
For trout, fluorescent green or orange/yellow seem to be the preferred colors of Power Bait.
Damsels and dragonflies will pretty much disappear after this cold spell.
Fly rodders continue to catch fish using chironomids, hare’s ears, wooly bugger and leech patterns. Leech patterns suspended under an indicator near weed beds should work great this time of year.
Fishing for largemouth bass along the dam and on structure has been good using soft plastics.

SPOONER LAKE, DOUGLAS COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The weed bed continues to be a problem around Spooner Lake.
If anglers do find an opening they should have some success.
A watercraft such as a float tube or kayak is the key to unlocking this lake’s hold on fishing.
Fly anglers have had luck using black, brown, and green wooly buggers. 

STAMPEDE RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
Kokanee fishing here has waned as kokes are turning and with water levels at 24% capacity ( that's correct) it's a must to have 4-wheel drive to launch and even that's been risky especially with the recent rain! 
Everyone is now utilizing the area east of the ramp to launch their boats now.  
Kokes are spread out all over now and some are even starting to turn! 
Spinners, Hoochies, and Radical Glow Tubes have been go to lures in colors with pink, orange, and Purple. 
Best Dodger colors have been copper with any Orange and Pink in it! 
Look for Macks underneath these schools of Kokes and some larger ones still hanging out in the deeper sections of the lake around the dam. 
Trout fishing has been best in the coves up and down from the campgrounds and boat ramp. 
Smallmouth fishing has been great here too in the Davis Creek arm and some of those that are being caught have been pretty nice!

LAKE TAHOE:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Lake Tahoe is the place to be if you are fishing from a boat in northern Nevada. 
It may be one of the few places you still can launch a boat and catch a fish.  Anglers have been reporting good success catching Mackinaw in the 3-5 pound range. Anglers are concentrating in 150 – 300 feet with dodgers and minnows. 

LAKE TAHOE:
A continuing report of limits of average sized Mackinaw Trout being caught on silver flasher blades and minnows, trolled at depths of 100-300 feet on the west side of the lake near Homewood, California.

TOPAZ LAKE:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Season will be closing on September 30 and reopening on January 1.
Fishing has been slow. 

TRINITY RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The bulk of the summer run of steelhead on the Trinity River begins to arrive by mid to late October. The weather on the Trinity River during the fall season is as good as it gets, making October and November the most popular - and therefore crowded - two months of the year on the river.
Steelhead are usually spread out throughout the entire system, so there is a lot of fishable water. 
Moreover, water temperatures are still moderate, so the fish will eat both swinging flies and dead-drifted nymphs and egg patterns.
This early run of steelhead is predominantly hatchery fish headed to the Lewiston National Fish Hatchery, and there's always a few wild steelhead mixed in.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

TRUCKEE RIVER, WASHOE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The Truckee's current flow in Reno has been between 25 and 45 CFS.
The ongoing drought continues to challenge Nevada’s fisheries. Low water levels throughout the Truckee River system will continue to stress this fishery. 
Fishing will be okay in the upper river but the lower river will continue to drop. 
Let’s all hope for rain.

TRUCKEE RIVER, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
Just don't fish here as water levels are so low. With a CFS of only 54 pouring a bucket of water into the river would create more flow than it has now.

TRUCKEE RIVER, LITTLE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
Done.

TWIN LAKES, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
September 28, 2014
The Twins are still reporting great fishing, lots and lots of fish in the half pound to 1.5 pound range with some fish up to around 5 pounds being reported.
Mice tails, power bait, crawlers, thomas bouyants, kastmasters, rapalas are all doing well from the shore and trolling anglers are using rapalas, thomas bouyants and needlefish.    

VIRGINIA LAKES, CALIF:  
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
September 28, 2014
The Virginias are still fishing excellent both from shore or tubes.
Fly anglers are stripping matukas, seal buggers and stillwater nymphs with soft hackle and zug bug droppers. Bait anglers are doing well with mice tails, power bait and crawlers. Lure anglers are having success with thomas bouyants, kastmasters and panther martins. 

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, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
East Walker Flow is currently at 24 CFS. Fishing has been good even with low flows. It was recently stocked on September 11 with 1,608 rainbows. Try using callibaetis, October caddis, and San Juan worm patterns this time of year.
Current brown trout study is going on and researchers are requesting information on tagged fish including color (to determine if wild or hatchery) and location where caught. 

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
East Walker River:
September 28, 2014 
The East is still running at around 23 CFS right now and the fishing has seemed to be picking up a bit this past week with the cooler weather.
We've had some good reports from the water between the bridge and Murphy's Pond as well as the Nevada side, and even a few good reports from the Miracle Mile section.
We're not necessarily hearing about lots of numbers of fish but we're certainly hearing about some very good quality fish, most anglers are reporting catching 2 to 10 fish for a half day with some fish going up to 21 or 22 inches.
Dry/dropper rigs, straight nymphing and some streamers are all doing well. Patterns to try include zuddlers, zonkers, double bunnies, sculpzilla, para madam x, chubby chernobyl, stimulator, san juan worm, prince nymph, pheasant tail, tailwater tiny, silver streak, flashback emerger, zebra midge, wd-40, rainbow warrior, dark lord and copper john.                    
Sceirine Ranch:
September 28, 2014
The ranch fished pretty well this week also, with many of the same patterns as listed above doing the trick down there.   
Hunewill Pond:
September 28, 2014
We haven't had anyone on the pond this week but the weather is still getting cooler so it should be fishing well, if you want to book some time out there just give us a call.

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Water flow at 21 CFS. Not recommended.

WALKER RIVER, WEST, CALIF:
Jim Reid of Ken’s Sporting Goods Store in Bridgeport (760- 932-7707) (www.kenssport.com) reports:
September 28, 2014
The West is still hanging in there in spite of the low water flows, you'll need to search out the deeper pockets and pools where the fish are hanging out and sneak in on them for success.
Fly anglers are using dry/dropper rigs with hoppers or stimulators on top and a soft hackle, copper john or pheasant tail underneath. Bait anglers are using salmon eggs and mini crawlers and lure anglers are going with panther martins, roostertails and mepps spinners.       

WILDHORSE RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
This week the water temperature broke the 60 degree mark coming in at 59 degrees. Perfect for trout fishing.
Lots of green in the canyon, but the water around the state park is clearing up pretty nicely.
Shore fishing has been picking up, but expect a slight slowdown this week due to the weather. Then with the cooler weather and shorter days expect trout fishing to improve.
Most shore anglers are having success using Power Bait or worms.
Launching large boats is not recommended at all. Only car toppers or boats that can be hand carried to the water are recommended.
Fly rodders continue to have some success with buggers, hare’s ears, leech patterns and chironomids fished from float tubes or kick boats. Just make sure you are using a full sink line and give it time to get the flies down deep.
The fish are still avoiding the shallow south end of the lake due to warm water temperatures there, though as the water cools down they may start moving into that end.

WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Water levels are extremely low and warm.
Limits have been lifted, but due to water conditions, the trip isn’t worth it.

WILSON RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
There is very little change here. Wilson is approximately 40% full, though the boat ramp is still usable for smaller boats.
Anglers have had fair luck for trout in the 12-16” size between the boat ramp and the canyon by the dam as well as along the rock by the cabin.
A few fish in the 18 to 20 inch fish were also being reported.
Very few bass are being caught.
Expect poor road conditions for a few days with the projected weather.

WHISKEYTOWN LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
The lake and ramps are in great shape and the kokanee fishing has also been outstanding for fish from 13 to 15 1/2 inches.  
Troll at a pink Apex behind a Slingblade in the channel at the bridge or the cold water curtain.  Try an Uncle Larry's spinner with pink and white beads tipped with Shoepeg Sweet, the long kernel corn you can get in the grocery store.  
You have to keep the hooks tipped with corn, so if your aren't getting hit check to see if your corn is gone.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

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