Middle Fork Feather River

The recent cooler, fall like weather has the Middle Fork Feather River back in shape after a long hot summer. Water temps are 58-66 degrees and the flows, while low, are imminently fishable. Fish are being caught on a variety of methods in a variety of water types. Tricos are prevalent all day with the mid afternoon spinner fall bring feeding fish to the surface. Caddis hatching in the evenings and ovipositing mid day along with a few blue wing olives and PMD’s in the mix. Expect to start seeing Isonychia Mayflies hatch over the next few weeks.

What’s Working

Dry Flies: Comparadun black (18-22), Hackle Stacker (16-20), Trico Spinner (20-22), Film Critic BWO (14-20), Sparkle Flag BWO (14-18) E/C Caddis (14-18) Nymphs: Electrolyte Baetis (14-16), Jiggy Sparkle Caddis (14-16), Rusty Jig (14-16), Plastic Surgeon (14-16), Jigged Pheasant Tail (14-18), Crystal Warrior (14-16)

Truckee River

The Truckee continues to fish well with a nice drop in water temps and great flows. Dry droppers are still very effective with numerous fish hitting the big dry this week. Trico spinners are falling mid day and have the fish looking up. Tight line and indicator tactics are catching fish as well. I spent an enjoyable day swinging streamers below Farad on the Trout Spey rig. Didn’t have a ton of action but that’s not what swinging is all about.

We are starting to find fish in slower deeper water, but the pocket water is still very good. Look for rising fish in the seams and slower water mid day as they eat drowned Tricos.

What’s Working

Nymphs Electrolyte Baetis (14-16), Rusty Jig (14-16), Jiggy Caddis (14-16), Crawdaddy (8-10) Jigged 20 Incher (8-10), Plastic Surgeon (14-16), Crystal Warrior (14-16), Rubberlegs (8-10), Dries Drowned Trico (18-22), Film Critic (16-20), Sparkle Flag BWO (14-18) Chubby Chernobyl orange, black/purple (10-12) Streamers Sculpzilla natural, olive, white (10), Dolly Llama olive/white (10)

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!