Don Q's Nevada and Northern California fall fishing report for week of Oct. 22

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. 22, 2014.

ADOBE POND:
Tom Loe of Sierra Drifters Fly Fishing Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Adobe Pond 10/20/14
The drought has kept us off Dobe for most of this summer. Now that the water is cooling, & the weeds thinning out there are some opportunities to get into some awesome wild browns on this special place. This is private water & we have exclusive rights to guide here, please call for booking info.

ALMANOR LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fast action lures were getting more trout than any other method.  
Try the east side of the peninsula, from Bunell Point north to Big Cove, with downrigged No. 2 Needlefish or Speedy Shiners.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

ANGEL LAKE, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Fishing continues to be good at Angel Lake as the surface water temperatures are in the low 50’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, though after the cold front they won’t be as effective.
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.
The tigers are a bit more aggressive this time of year as they are a cross between a brown and a brook trout, both fall spawners.

BISHOP CREEK AREA, CALIF:
Rick and Patti Apted - Lake Sabrina Boat Landing (760-873-7425) (www.lakesabrinaboatlanding.com) reports:
Lake Sabrina:
The Lake Sabrina Boating landing is now closed.

BOCA RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
Lake level very low here at only 20% 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.

BRIDGEPORT RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Bridgeport Reservoir 10/20/14
Shore/tube fishing possible. Lake is very low.
This fishery closes on 11/15. Opens the last Saturday of April 2015.

CAPLES LAKE, CALIF:
John Voss of the Caples Lake Resort (209-258-8888) (www.capleslakeresort,com) reports:
An awesome 3 pound Rainbow Trout was caught trolling in a Caples Resort rental boat, using pink power bait by resort guests, Chris Jennings and his son.  
The water temperature is 54 degrees, cooling down and the fishing is definitely picking up. 
Come enjoy the stunning Fall colors and great fishing here.
We still have cabins available.
Please visit www.capleslakeresort.com for more information.

CAVE LAKE, WHITE PINE COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Fishing is good for 10 to 12 inch trout.
The old standbys of worms or Power Bait are both working.
Fly rodders should be using small olive buggers, Cave Lake specials, hares ears, small leeches and chironomids.
There has been some good dry fly action mid morning and late afternoon.
Dries fished with a dropper, especially along the weed edges can be very effective here even in the late fall on warm afternoons.
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.

CONVICT LAKE AND CONVICT CREEK, CALIF:
Convict Lake Resort (800-992-2260) (www.convictlake.com) reports:
For the second week in a row we had a record fish for the 2014 season photographed at the resort.
This report's "catch of the week" was the largest fish caught from Convict Lake that was checked in at the general store.
Congrats to Craig Miszklevitz with an amazing catch.
Lures and jigs landed some nice trophy trout this week.
Bait fishing with nightcrawlers also remained hot. 
The Morrison's Bonus Cash Weekend is only two weeks away. Come join us on the weekend of Oct. 31st - Nov. 2nd for a chance to win $2000 in cash prizes.
The one weekend it pays to fish. 
Catch of the Week:
Craig Miszklevitz from Lancaster, CA hooked a 8 pound lunker which resulted in the "catch of the week" and the "catch of the year".
Craig was using a Sierra Slammer swimbait and he was fishing the north shore. 
Congratulations Craig on an amazing catch.
Other notable catches this week:
 Lonnie Nafzgar from Graeagle, CA with a 3 pound 12 ounce rainbow and a fat 5 pound 12 ounce rainbow. Lonnie was using a Red/Gold Thomas Buoyant and he was trolling the center of the lake.
Joe Bellantoni from Ontario, CA landed a beautiful 4 pound 5 ounce rainbow.
Joe was using a white jig and was fishing at an unknown location.
Michael Caudillo from Quartz Hill, CA caught a 4 pound and 5 ounce rainbow.
He was using Rainbow Garlic Powerbait and was fishing at the Inlet. 
Joann Lijek from Bishop, CA hooked a stout 5 pound 5 ounce rainbow.
She was using a nightcrawler while fishing along the South Shore near the Inlet. 
Robby Shott from Wildomar, CA with two nice Convict Lake trout.
One was a 3 pounder and the other was a 4 pound 6 ounce rainbow.
Robby was using a nightcrawler and he was fishing at the Inlet.
Tactics/Bait: 
Kastmasters, Thomas Bouyants and Tasmanian Devils were doing well at the lake.
The top colors were Black Thunder (Tasmanian Devils), Red/Gold (Bouyants) and Gold or Silver (Kastmaster). 
A Sierra Slammer Swimbait landed the largest fish of the season.
I'm a big fan of these swimbaits. I've done well with the Grasshopper, King Crimson and Blue Skiner colors.
A lot of different colors of Power bait were working especially anything with garlic. The most successful Power bait colors were yellow, green and rainbow.
Inflated nightcrawler caught some nice rainbows this week.  
The North Shore and inlet were the hot spots. Other locations fishing well were the Inlet, Hangman's Tree, Jetty and South Shore. 
Here is a list of other baits/lures that can be productive:
Sierra Slammers, Tasmanian Devil, Green or brown Marvel Fly Lures, Trout Teasers, 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: 
NOW RUNNING!!
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: 
Highs are going to be in the low 60's and the lows in the mid 30's. The forecast is for mostly sunny throughout the beginning of next week and breezy on Monday. Here is the National Weather Service link that is usually quite accurate: 7-Day Forecast Convict Lake.
Sunrise - Sunset:
Sunrise this week 7:07 am - 7:12 am and Sunset 6:16 pm - 6:08 pm. 
Stocking: 
No stocking scheduled this week.
The next plant of trophy trout at the lake will be  Oct. 30. 

CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
The lake has been on fire. Lots of big fish being hooked.
The fish are moving into the shallower water 6-8 feet.
Try 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.

CROWLEY LAKE, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Crowley Lake 10/20/14
Bite is back on in several locations.
Fish are definitely moving into shallower water in some locations. 6-10 feet if you see some texture or have cloud cover. There are concentrations of fish all over the lake.  Move to another area if you are not getting grabs & weather permits.
The numbers of 20 inch fish have been amazing this fall.
Consistent areas are Hilton Bay, Sandy Pt., Alligator Pt., Layton Springs, & Six Bays. 9-13 feet.
The slope east of Sometimes Bay called Stormy Flats now has a concentration of fish. Good area for tube access in nice weather.
Success using the still water nymphing method depends on position & conditions in a given area.  
The fish can be concentrated in a location, but wind direction & barometric pressure will dictate how your day will go.
As a very general rule…try to position yourself in shallow water fishing towards deeper water. Fish the “lee”, or down current side of a drop-off or peninsula.
Streamer fishing has slowed down due to above average chironomid activity. It can still be a good option for off hatch periods.
As the weather continues to become more seasonal patterns like Loebergs, Punk Perch, crystal Vanderleeches, & Agent Orange will once again be effective. 
Water temps are cooling & the fish are migrating to the “gut” of the lake.
The “Island” off Hilton Pt. is now totally protruding and look likes a volcano has popped up!
We are seeing very low water on Crowley this season.
The fall turnover is ending, water clarity is very good.  
Try a broken back gillie, crystal emerger, midge pupa, or standard gillie for your upper fly during chironomid emergences.
Hang a broken back tiger or bb zebra midge, dark or copper crystal tigers, or crystal zebras as the larva/lower fly.
Give those flies some action if the surface is calm.
You are competing with swimming/wiggling critters, and the movement of your flies is crucial to getting grabs.  
CDFW has planted sub-catchable sized fish, treat them kindly as they are the future of this fishery.  
Special angling restrictions now in place.
Pinch those barbs down, love them and leave them, no scented or live bait please.
The boat launch closes on 10/31/14, the lake remains open for tubing and shore fishing with special regs until 11/15/14.

DAVIS LAKE, CALIF:
Rob Anderson of www.renoflyfishingoutfitters.com (775-742-1754) reports:
October 14th
The Water Temperatures at Davis have come down quite a bit.
The fall bite is starting to kick in.
Fish are still really spread out in the lake which makes it important to move around until you find some fish. They can be in one area one day and in a completely different area the next.
Hanging Blood Midges under an indicator in 4-12 feet of water has been effective. Wiggle Tails with a smaller Callabaetis dropper fished with a slow sinking line is also starting to improve.
Davis is low and there are lots of features to the lake right now.
It is a fun time to fish for sure.
Lightning Tree campground is still open 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. 

DAVIS LAKE, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports:
For the Fly Flingers in Boats or Float Tubes the best areas have been Lightning Tree, Fairview Point, Mosquito Cove, and along Five Tree Point shoreline. 
Stripping Jay Fair's Wiggle tails in Olive and Black have been good along with nymphing Chironomid and midge patterns. 
Waning Callibaetis hatches have also picked up some fish where there are lots of weeds such as the Mosquito Cove area. 
Highly recommended that you use nothing less than 4x leader or tippet here as the takes are aggressive! 
As the weeds start to disappear now with the colder temps those trolling hardware have had lots of success with needlefish, kastmasters, wedding rings, and small Dick Nites. 
Big Rainbows here as the average is around 18 inches!

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 mid 60's for the week it's a great time to get out in the morning and evenings to fish though this lake will put fish out during the day. 
Mack fishing here has been fair and Jigging for these guys  have been good at depths from 70-100ft and some smaller guys being caught along the shoreline.
Kokanee fishing has still be good with fat little guys ranging from 8-11 inches in 45-80 feet with most of the schools being between Loch Leven Lodge and China Cove as these will be next year's Kokes. 
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:
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.  Bobberfishing 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:
Fishing has improved this past week and NDOW stocked 7,500 rainbows at this Lincoln County reservoir.
Fly-fishers saw success for rainbows using Woolly Buggers in brown, olive and black in the center of the lake, while shore anglers found good action with a black hare’s ear nymph.
Water clarity is slowly improving and German brown trout should start their fall spawning soon.
The facilities at the campground are open year around.

ECHO CANYON RESERVOIR, LINCOLN COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Both crappie and bass were hitting this past week as the water temperature increased a little with the warmer days.
Trout are taking nightcrawlers with mini marshmallow for bait anglers, and according to park rangers the fish should start hitting on silver or gold spinners soon. Trout action generally picks up with fall temperatures.

FALL RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Water Conditions are great and the fishing has been excellent.  
The better hatches have been going off in the mornings.  
This is one of the rivers that will close on Nov. 15th.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

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.

FORT CHURCHILL COOLING PONDS, LYON COUNTY, NEV:
Closed.

FRENCHMAN RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fall fishing is getting off to a great start here at Frenchman Lake.
A man from Graeagle caught two 18 to 20 inch rainbows from his kayak while trolling flashers and power bait.
While he was fishing he saw 3 fly fishermen catching some nice sized rainbows near Frenchman boat launch. 
Another man from Reno, a regular at Frenchman Lake and often mentioned in this fishing report, caught 4 rainbows totaling 9 lbs (1 fish weighed 3.07 lbs!). He was bank fishing from the dam with nightcrawlers.
Courtesy of Wiggin's Trading Post.

HOT CREEK, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Water flow is up a bit to 4 CFS. Try an attractor dry  like a stimulator  with a nymph as a dropper WD-40, green rock worms or scuds. 
Weed's are beginning to break down.

HOT CREEK, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Hot Creek 10/20/14
Hot Creek is suffering from low water, silt, and extensive weed growth.  
This limits the available water you can fish.
Dry flies are the most effective patterns to use. I suggest a 10 foot leader and rod to keep the fly line off the weeds. My hi-vis caddis & hi-vis para BWO are good choices to fish the faster slot water that has less weed.  
There are a few sections that can be fished with a dry dropper nymph rig. Broken back zebras or assassin birds nest bead heads in #18 are good calls for the dropper.
This is a year around fishery with special regs in place.

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.
Brown trout are very active as they enter their fall spawning season.
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.

JAKE'S/BOIES RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The wind really helped clear some of the weeds out and shore fishing is definitely getting easier here.
There is open water between the shore and a small ring of weeds.
There are also channels through the weeds so shore anglers are having a better time getting their bait to the fish and fishing has been good.
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.

JIGGS/ZUNINO RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Construction is almost complete at this Elko County Reservoir that has been dry for the past five or six years.
All that is left is some mechanical work on the outflow mechanism for irrigation, rip rap on the dam and the spillway channel and a bentonite clay “wall” around the deep water pool in the middle of the lake.
With some help from Mother Nature in the form of snow this winter, and anglers may be lucky enough to be fishing this beautiful little gem by early summer.

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 is fair.
Try a humpie or stimulator with a hares ear or pheasant tail dropper.

LAUGHTON, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Colorado River:
Anglers continue to have fair success catching stripers and catfish in the areas of Big Bend, Community Park and the Casino Row.
Anchovies have generated the most active response from the fish.
Anglers’ primary focus remains on the recently stocked rainbow trout.
Many anglers are reporting limits of eight- to twelve-inch fish.
Most of the catch is coming from the stocking points of Rotary Park and Davis Camp, but the trout are beginning to disperse to various pockets along the river.
Nightcrawlers or Power Bait with a little Hatchery Dust has enticed many fish.

LEWISTON LAKE, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Fishing has been fair to good. Best reports are generated by anglers fishing early in the mornings. Fishing #16 Pheasant Tail Nymphs or #16 Black A.P.s has been the most productive techniques. Retrieving leeches on full sinking on a sinking line is also a productive method of angling with a fly rod on Lewiston. 
Lewiston is known for its big, bad bows. Best fishing happens mid day.
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:
Fishing was better last week and all the lakes are well stocked.
Try Upper Twin with Doc's Twin Lake Special black or olive or try hanging a callibaetis nymph under an indicator.

MARLETT LAKE, WASHOE COUNTY, NEV:

Closed.

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:
Closed.

LAKE MEAD, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
With cooler weather here to stay, now is not only a good time, but also an enjoyable time to go fishing.
Anglers have reported moderate success for striped bass, catfish and smallmouth bass, with afternoons providing the best fishing.
Largemouth bass have been a little harder to come by.
Jigging has been the most successful technique for catching striped bass.
Trolling in the Boulder Basin also has been productive.
Drop shot rigs fished around cliff walls, rocky points or areas with submerged weed beds have been productive for smallmouth bass.
Catfish are active in the backs of coves at night and are hitting a variety of baits, such as hot dogs, chicken livers or corn.

LAKE MOHAVE, CLARK COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Reports of anglers catching fish on the lake has been sparse but conditions are right for tight lines.
Success has been had by anglers fishing the backs of coves.
Catfish can be found cruising the shallows at night while bluegill and redear sunfish are most active in the morning and late afternoon.
Nightcrawlers or pieces thereof can work well for these species.
Striped bass have been a little more elusive but fishing has picked up in the late afternoon hours with anchovies being the top bait.

OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Upper Owens River:
Flow is steady at 54 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 135 CFS and fishing  is good.
A mid-day BWO hatch is bringing the fish to the surface.
Para Adam's or sparkle dun. 
Nymphing with Barr's graphic caddis, olive pheasant tails or copper zebra midges very productive.

OWENS RIVER, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Upper Owens River 10/20/14
Fair “catching” here for medium rainbows and a few browns, it is picking up this week. Some large migratory rainbows now holding in the deeper pools.
Steady action while nymphing the deeper holes above the bridge.
Hopper activity slowing down with the cooler weather in the morns.
Water conditions are very good, although flows are very low.
You will find the river choked with weed in many sections down from the bridge. River conditions are better above the confluence of Hot Creek.
Tandem nymph rigs in the deeper pools are doing the trick.
You can dead drift broken back midges & egg patterns without an Under-cator.
Flows consistent at 49 CFS. Short water tactics are necessary to fool the wild fish here. Look for the deeper pools and runs during off hatch periods.
Caddis (#18 or smaller dark bodies) and mayfly adults are good choices for the open riffle water. Hi-vis para bwo and caddis # 16-18 will get grabs.  
Some hoppers showing up now. Use a Stimulator or larger hi-vis pattern with a bead head nymph as the dropper 2 feet beneath the dry for a deadly tanden rig.
Nymphing with SJ worms, crystal soft egg patterns, flashback PT’s, Assassin bird’s nest, broken back midges, crystal olive caddis & zebra larva patterns near the bottom. I prefer to use a clear or yellow Under-cator on moving water as they are less conspicuous.
The pink & orange work better on the still waters like Crowley and Bridgeport.  
Think about streamers in the stiff afternoon winds.
You will have to hunt down pools large; or deep enough to cast a streamer-they are very limited under current conditions. 
Patterns like Loebergs, Punk Perch, Crystal Leeches, & Agent Orange will get takes when used with a light sinking tip line.
Special angling regs in effect.
Open year around upstream from the Benton Crossing Bridge. Closed from the Bridge to the fishing monument until the Saturday of Memorial Day 2015. Same regs as Crowley Lake downstream from the monument to the lake proper, this section will then close on 11/15.
Middle Owens River (Bishop area) 10/20/14 
Flows have dropped to 138 CFS & conditions are very good drifting the lower sections, & wading the wild trout area.
Numbers have been excellent off the drift boat, the bigs are on the chew.
It has been EXCELLENT recently for trophy bows.
There are solid hatches of fall caddis, tiny Trico mayflies, and some PMD’s.
Birds nest patterns like Assassins, flashback PT’s, and hares ears make for good profiles of a mayfly nymph and caddis pupa. 
Crystal olive caddis larva, & olive zebra midges are also good choices for a lower fly imitation of  caddis larvae, green rock worms, or midge larva.
Have hi-vis caddis adults & hi-vis para mayfly adults for the morning hatch.
The chub and sucker spawn was immense this summer, and we are seeing “balls” of these small baitfish in the pillow water and along the weeds. Streamer fishing is the best way to imitate these small forage fish by using the “dip & strip technique” with heavy to moderate sinking tip lines.
Go to patterns are Loebergs, Punk Perch, Crystal leeches, & Spruce-a-bu’s.
This fishery stays open year around.
Special regs from the footbridge at Pleasant Valley campground to the fishing monument 4.5 miles downstream. 

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.

PIT RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
It continues to fish well.  September, and into October are high season months here, but bring a staff, as the rocks and boulders in here are unforgiving.  
This is one of the rivers that will close on Nov. 15.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

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 flyflingers 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!

PYRAMID LAKE, WASHOE COUNTY,NEV:
Rob Anderson of www.renoflyfishingoutfitters.com (775-742-1754) reports:
October 14th
The first two weeks of the season have been really good overall.
The fish have been aggressively chasing Tui Chubs around the lake and in some cases right up to shore and in shallow water.
Most of the fish however have been in 20-60 feet of water.
Anglers fishing from boats either trolling or jigging in those depths seem to be doing the best.
Shore fishing has been a little tougher for sure.
The key right now is finding fish and the bait. This can require some moving around and fishing different areas.
Shore anglers can focus on deep drop off areas such as Block House or Sand hole. Boaters are doing very well across the lake near Anderson Bay or Hell’s Kitchen and also on the West side near Warrior Point and heading south.
There have been some really big fish caught so far and it should only get better over the next couple of months.
The water is still pretty warm near the surface so take care releasing fish after a long fight.
Jigs and Spoons are working for the boaters in 20-60 feet of water.
Shore Anglers fly fishing should try a fast sinking line with small Minnow Patterns or Wooly Buggers in White or Olive.
If you venture out into the lake with a Pontoon Boat or Float Tube look for water in the 20-30 feet range and let your line sink.
Lots of grabs are coming on the way up from the bottom.
Indicator Nymphing is also worth a try but you need to be able to get your flies down deep. An Umpqua Deep Water Indicator Leader is the way to go for sure. This allows you to fish under an indicator in up to 20 feet. Try Big Nymph Patterns such as Maholo Nymphs and Leeches that will sink a little faster.

RUBY LAKE NWR, WHITE PINE, COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Water temperatures continue to drop and bass fishing is pretty much done for the year. 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 still hit or miss for trout though it should start picking up.
Small olive buggers, hare’s ears, damsel/dragonfly nymphs and leech patterns should all work.
The ditch is artificial lures and flies only.
Unit 21 still has fairly good water and has been stocked with trout.

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:
October 20, 2014- 
King Salmon fishing on the Sacramento River.
Water flow is currently 5,000 CFS.
Limits of salmon being caught daily. Salmon fishing the Sacramento River today was awesome, limits !  All of our boats catching fish.
Fishing the Corning , CA  to  Balls Ferry area.
This is Prime time. Salmon averaging in weight over 20 pounds, several fish caught over 30 pounds.
Using Flatfish lures is the hot ticket. 
Combo trips , salmon, trout and steelhead trips have been great also.
Pro Guide Kirk Portocarrero picked up limits of salmon and hooked up with 18 rainbows and 8 steelhead with his clients yesterday.
Weather is mild and perfect for fishing.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (LOWER), CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
Releases out of Keswick Reservoir are 4,451 CFS.
Time to start fishing egg patterns! King Salmon are just starting to lay eggs and the rainbows are definitely keying on those tasty orange colored treats. Expect egg patterns to dominate the menu through October.
The fishing has been good, but sometimes there's a lull in the bite. Not every riffle, run has eager rainbows in it. There is decent wade access, but the best way to fish this river is out of a drift boat. 
#4 Brown Rubber Legs and small brown #18 mayfly patterns like Hogan's S&M, Mercer's Micro Mayfly are solid, proven 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 black caddis.
Have Mercer's Missing Link in #16-black. You should do well. 
Bring a good hook set and really pay attention to the indicator when drifting in a boat. The takes can be super subtle. It's really easy to miss your best opportunities. Best fishing happens late morning through the afternoon. The sweetest time to be on the water is at sunset.
Expect good fishing and stable conditions through October. 
A few of the hot flies have been egg patterns, #18 Super Flash PTs, TB Peaches & Cream, Bat Wing Emerger, Micro Mayflies in brown and black, #16-18 BH Pheasant Tail Nymphs. Brown Rubber Legs in #6-8 are always good.
Courtesy of the Fly Shop.

SACRAMENTO RIVER (UPPER), CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
This is hands-down the best time of the year to fish the Upper Sacramento.
Fishing has been fun along the entire length of this stretch of the River. From where the waters enter what will someday reemerge as Lake Shasta all the way upstream to Dunsmuir, CA., there's 35 miles of trout-water offering good fishing.
October Caddis are coming off at sunset. Expect good hatches of October Caddis through late October.
Nymphs suspended under October Caddis dries is an excellent plan! Look for good hatches of October Caddis near sunset along the upper river, above Sims Rd.
Productive nymph patterns include #18 Gordon's Amber Wing Prince, #16 Brown Micro Mayfly, #8 Brown or Black Rubber Legs.
Not too much much dry fly fishing happening, but anglers working the edges of tailouts can bring fish up throwing Fat Alberts, Foam-U-Lators, Golden Stones and Cutter's E/C Caddis.
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

SACRAMENTO RIVER, CALIF:
J.D. Richey of www.fishingwithjd.com (916-388-1956) reports:
Report updated Oct. 15, 2014
Salmon: Signs of Life??
The Sac was brutal over the weekend, with approx 150 boats between Garcia Bend and Discovery and no salmon reported.
Sunday showed a little promise and then there were reports of limits near Walnut Grove on Tuesday.  
Guide JD Richey says it’s been a grind for 2-3 fish per day while trolling Spinner Dave’s spinners and Flatfish.
The river below the American is incredibly weedy and it’s warm everywhere — at or around 70 degrees.
Now, for the good news: They’ve been doing well on kings outside in the ocean all week and those fish are yet to come.
Combine that with some cooler weather now and that should turning around.
Around Hamilton City, it’s a darkie-fest with nothing worth eating being caught.

SAN JOAQUIN RIVER, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
San Joaquin River 10/20/14
Flows are at winter levels-very, very low. 
This is a year around fishery.
Hwy 203 closes to vehicles after the first significant snowfall.

SAN JOAQUIN RIVER/RED’S MEADOW, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
Flow is now 4 CFS. Fishing is slow.

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 for that.  Best bet has been the first two, and last two, hours of the day.  Look for bass rounding up the baitfish.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

SOUTH FORK RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
Water temperatures in the 50’s and with wind from earlier in the week, much of the weeds and algae have been blown to shore helping to clear the water.
With the cooler temperatures trout are moving into shore especially in the morning and early evening hours.
For trout, fluorescent green or orange/yellow seem to be the preferred colors of Power Bait.
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 and close to shorelines should work great this time of year.
Several fly flishermen report luck with either red or blue copper Johns below an indicator in the shallows close to shore. Ditto for chironomids, though fish those over muddy bottoms.
Bass fishing has slowed down considerably, though this time of year is good for larger bass. Anglers report fair to good fishing along Jet Ski Beach and the south end. The eastern shore on either side of Tomera Cove has been fishing well, especially for fly rodders using the aforementioned copper Johns. One angler even reports some good dry fly action along the eastern shore below the campground around mid morning.

STAMPEDE RESERVOIR, CALIF:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
Lake is stable now at 22% capacity and fishing has been decent for Rainbows, Macks, and Smallies. 
Small boats can still launch to the right of the ramp as they are concentrating their efforts outside the inlets and the deeper sections around the dam. 
Shore fishing has been sporadic for the Bows with power bait, nightcrawlers, and various hardware. 
Smallies are suspended along shelves in the Davis Creek arm and most are being taken on suspending baitfish patterns, Crayfish patterns, and various Jigs worked down these shelves. 

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:
Closed.

TRINITY RIVER, CALIF:
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530-365-7500) (www.shastacascade.com) reports:
River flows are 429 CFS.
Interested in catching steelhead by skating dries? Right now is the time to do it.
Get on this river within the next couple weeks or at least while weather conditions remain warm. Warm weather means water temps will stay within the 55-65° range.
Steelhead seem to follow or chase after swung flies on the surface or sub-surface more aggressively when water temps are above 50°.
Over all, water conditions are good this week and fishing is good. Expect to get into one steelhead, maybe 2. Get more than 3 and you're probably going to find double digits because you're surrounded by Steelhead. Enjoy!
Courtesy of The Fly Shop.

TRUCKEE RIVER, CALIF & NEV:
Rob Anderson of www.renoflyfishingoutfitters.com (775-742-1754) reports:
October 14th
The river remains very low. The highest flows are around Farad at 69 CFS.
The water is cooler now for sure.
The best areas for fish are on the California side of the River between Boca Bridge and the State Line. This section of the river has the most water and a pretty good gradient with more flowing water.
The Upper California section and the Nevada side are relatively flat and run much slower in low water situations creating much more “Frog Water”.
The whole river can be fished but try to tread lightly and take care of the fish.
There has been some Baetis And even an October Caddis hatch occasionally in the evenings.
Flows are: Town of Truckee 6 CFS, Boca Bridge 54 CFS, Farad 69 CFS, Reno 34 CFS and Vista 80 CFS.

TRUCKEE RIVER, CALIF & NEV:
Mountain Hardware and Sports of Truckee (530-587-4844) (mountainhardwareandsports@gmail.com) reports: 
California:
Nice weather all week with lows in the 30's and high in the low to mid 60's. 
Water temps have come down and that means one can fish all day now!  
Fish are pretty concentrated now and everyone should put in the back of their minds what the river looks like now. Take a careful look at structure that is now out or partly out of the water for a reference later when the water does come up. 
Almost no water coming out of Tahoe and most anglers if they are going to fish the river will fish downstream of the Boca outlet.   
Even though water levels are now low the fishing has been pretty good with some good dry fly fishing if you know time and place. 
Great time to use a dry dropper rig and cover some water! 
Nymphing will consist of Stones or October Caddis trailed by PMD, Caddis, BWO and Midge patterns have been great. 
Also, Crayfish are done molting but don't pass up on throwing a crayfish pattern in those deep holes and stretches that one can find on the Big T. 
Streamer fishing and dry fly fishing has picked up recently below Boca. 
That means not just nymphing!  Explore different stretches of water and give your old spot a break or try and fish the area lakes. Still, most fish will be taken by high-sticking the pocket water. 
Lots of things on the menu now such as BWO's, Baetis, Midges, October Caddis, Stones, and waning hatches of Caddis and PMD's.  If you're fishing dries consider using 4x-6x leaders now and when nymphing 4x-5x tippet.
Nevada:
Caution!  If you do fish the Truckee in Nevada please be aware that New Zealand Mudsnails have been found in sections of water there so please clean your shoes and gear accordingly to avoid aquatic hitch hikers!  
Study the water and turn rocks and see what is going on, also seine for what is in the drift.  Little things like this and slowing your approach to the river’s edge will greatly increase your chances of being successful. 
Again, make sure your box is stocked with every conceivable stage of bugs that are present now!  (x) = drawer number.

TRUCKEE RIVER, LITTLE, CALIF:
Rob Anderson of www.renoflyfishingoutfitters.com (775-742-1754) reports:
October 14th
Flows have been holding steady at 40 CFS for a while now. These are low flows but we are used to seeing the Little Truckee at these flows this time of year.
There has been a really good Baetis Hatch going on for some time, usually in mid to late morning.
Nymphing and dry fly fishing with size 18-20 Baetis patterns have been working well.
The Little Truckee has been getting hammered all season so a good pattern, a good drift and a stealthy approach is a must.
Light Tippet will also help. Less drifts and more observation will help a ton.
Take a good look at a run or pool and watch for feeding fish. After you have made a few casts give it a break for a few minutes and try a new angle.
Look for fish in shallow moving water.
Keep an eye on your flies for moss and muck from the river.

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

VIRGINIA LAKES, CALIF:
John and Carolyn Webb of the Virginia Lakes Resort (760-647-6484) (vir@qnet.com) report:
Have a great winter, and let's pray for a lot of snow for water to refill all the reservoirs, lakes and streams with plenty for the ski resorts.
May you all have a Happy, Healthy 2015, see you on the water in late April!
Carolyn

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. & CALIF:
Rob Anderson of www.renoflyfishingoutfitters.com (775-742-1754) reports:
October 14th
The East Walker is extremely low right now at 20 CFS.
It is still fishable but it is low.
Small bugs and light tippets are a little more important now with steady flows and more clear water.
Baetis and Midges in size 18-22 are your best bet right now either fished with or without an indicator High Stick style.
There has been some dry fly activity mainly on the California side near the dam.
It is getting cold in the Bridgeport area overnight and there is no rush to get on the water. You can pretty much fish all day right now.

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Steve Osterman of Performance Guide Service (760-934-6101) (www.performanceanglers.com) reports:
East Walker River 10/20/14
Flows currently at 20cfs. I was taught if you do not have anything nice to say, don’t say it ay all…
This fishery is open year around with special regs in place.

WALKER RIVER, EAST, CALIF:
Tom Loe of the Sierra Drifters Guide Service (760-935-4250) (www.sierradrifters.com) reports:
Water flow at 20 CFS. Low and slow. Try the Lower Owens.

WILDHORSE RESERVOIR, ELKO COUNTY, NEV:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (www.ndow.org) reports:
The high winds earlier this week combined with the cold nights have the algae and weeds retreating and the water is starting to clear up.
Trout are moving into the shallows looking for food early morning and late evening, then hanging off shore in a bit deeper water during the day hiding from predators. Most shore anglers are having success using Power Bait or worms.
Launching boats from trailers is not recommended at all. Only car toppers or boats that can be hand carried to the water are recommended.
Fly rodders are having success with buggers, hare’s ears, leech patterns and chironomids fished from float tubes or kick boats. Fish the nymphs under an indicator and the buggers and leech patterns with an intermediate sink line in the shallows early in the morning. If fishing chironomids a slip-strike indicator allowing you to fish the fly right on the bottom with a floating line.

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:
Wilson is 40% full and the boat ramp is out of the water and not useable.
The surface water temperature is now in the 50’s with trout fishing starting to come on.
While the weeds are dying back, the algae is still around and the water is turbid.
Fishing for bass is slow, while fishing for trout is fair to good.
The lures, baits and flies that work at South Fork Reservoir should work here.
If you are in the area chukar, deer or elk hunting, bring a fishing pole.

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 been good for fish from 13 to 16 inches.  Troll a pink Apex behind a Sling Blade in the channel at the bridge or the coldwater curtain.  Try an Uncle Larrys spinner, with pink and white beads, tipped with shoepeg sweet corn, the long kernel corn you can get in the grocery store.  You have to keep the hooks tipped with corn, so if you aren't getting a hit, check to see if your corn is gone.
Courtesy of Western Outdoor News.

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