Middle Feather River

It has happened way earlier than expected; water temps are now too warm to safely catch and release. With this in mind I am pulling off the Middle Fork Feather River until fall when the water temps become more conducive to catch and release angling. This is the earliest that I have shut down on the Feather in my 19 seasons guiding here. This current long duration heat wave has been pretty rough and it is affecting many of our fisheries in a negative way. Hope it breaks soon!

Truckee River

The current heat wave has made the fishing on the Truckee River a bit tougher. And then there was today. My client hooked well over 20 fish landing 16. All on the Rusty Jig! We concentrated fishing fast deeper pocket water with a dry dropper rig and it was very effective. Water temps are 60-62 degrees to start at 7 am and 64-66 by 11:30 rising quickly to 68 by 1pm or so. With this in mind stop fishing when temps hit 68. The fish thank you!

The best fishing is occurring in the fast oxygenated water with some rising fish in some of the flats and glides. Nymphing is king but clients have had shots at fish on small and big dry flies this week. Spent caddis, small baetis and pmds are moving fish as are yellow sallies. Per usual, I have been using the Chubby Chernobyl in orange for my big dry and today we moved four fish to it. Fish are looking up for certain.

What’s Working

Nymphs: Rusty Jig aka The Magic Fly (14-16), Electrolyte Baetis (14-16), Jigged PT (14-16), Rain Drop Perdition (16), Fox’s Pupa Olive (16), Sparkle Caddis (14), Iron Sally (14) Dries: E/C Caddis (14-16), Parachute Adams (14-18), Comparadun (14), Elk Hair Caddis (14-18),

Locations

Jay Clark - Professional fly fishing guide for the MIddle Fork Feather River and Truckee River.

About The Author

Jay Clark is a lifelong outdoorsman that enjoys being near the water. Starting out with fishing as a childhood pastime, Jay has honed his skills over the years, evolving from a hobbyist to a seasoned fly fishing pro. Jay’s passion runs deep – offering guided fishing excursions along the Middle Feather River, Truckee River, and serene stillwater spots in the Northern Sierra.

Interested in going fishing in the Lost Sierra? All levels welcome. Book a guided fly fishing trip today!

Fred Cheatham

02/03/2024

I had the opportunity of fishing with Jay in the middle of winter. My expectations were not too high for the actual fishing but very high to find a guide in the Graeagle area. The temperatures were below freezing but you would have never guessed it from Jay. He hopped out of his truck having the energy and enthusiasm of a kid going fishing for the first time...like me fishing all the time...AND the way it should be. We fished for a full day and I lost count of how many fish I caught BUT the part that impressed me was his ability to teach and hopefully break me of my bad habits. He is a fantastic instructor, teacher, guide, and an amazing person. I had such a great day on the water with Jay, I immediately booked another trip with him the same week (another great day). I had an amazing time with Jay and learned a lot!! Looking forward to our next adventure. Thank you JAY!!

Doug Softy

08/09/2023

Jay did a fantastic job. As a novice to fly fishing, I appreciated the instruction and Jay’s patience. He’s “hooked” me on the sport!

Dwight French

02/06/2023

My son Nico and I have used many guides. Jay Clark is simply the very best experience! He knows his profession, yes. But just as important, he knows how to make the experience memorable. He not only teaches you about the art of fly fishing but he teaches you about nature, how to respect and preserve it and how to appreciate it beyond just its beauty. If you’re looking for a true teacher that wants you to have a great experience as much as he wants you to land the perfect fish story to tell your family and friends, Jay Clark is the best choice!

Christopher Olson

03/06/2022

Trout fishing with Jay is exciting and enjoyable. I really appreciate his local knowledge, passion, and professionalism. Every time we go out I learn more and become a better angler - while at the same time keeping it simple. Jay is approachable and connects well with people - probably why I keep coming back. Can't wait for next time!

Brian Bowyer

02/07/2020

Jay helped us with various techniques, he was extremely informative. He has a great personality and worked very hard for us on the river We are both better fishermen from the experience. I highly recommend!!! Thanks Jay

Emanuel Rose

29/06/2020

Jay is an excellent guide, extremely knowledgeable and patient.

Robert Blodgett

01/06/2020

Jay taught us to fly fish like the pros. He knew the hot spots and gave us just the right gear line rigging. Maybe it wasn't the best of days for the Mountain Whitefish but it definitely was for us. Plus, it was amazing times to spend with my sons to unplug and enjoy the beautiful Truckee. There are other guide "firms" out there, but the personalized time Jay spends with you is so much more worth it. We will be back. I would suggest anyone else does too.

Mario Guel

09/04/2020

Hey dude. Call me. I have some things I want to discuss. You have my number.

Edward Lanning

13/02/2020

I have fished with Jay numerous times. I remember the first time when another guide who was already booked on the day I could fish recommended Jay to me and said "He will work his a** off for you." It was so very true. Jay will teach you what you need to know and patiently work with you for as long as it takes on your trip. I've fished Pyramid Lake with him and now I feel very confident on the lake from the teaching he has given me, and have enjoyed success from the things he has shown me. Thanks Jay!