Current Water Conditions

Flows on the Little Truckee remain elevated but stable at approximately 500 CFS between Boca and Stampede. While high, the water is crystal clear, allowing for excellent sight-fishing opportunities. Wading remains technical—ideal for experienced anglers comfortable with tailwater conditions.

Water Temperatures

Water temperatures are holding steady in the mid-50s°F, perfect for active trout and consistent hatch activity throughout the day.

Hatches

The Little Truckee is alive with midday hatch activity, particularly between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Expect solid appearances of Pale Morning Duns, Blue Winged Olives, Green Drakes, and Caddis. Occasional ants and beetles are also starting to bring fish up in slower seams. The PMD hatch is hot right now.

Effective Tactics

Effective tactics on the Little Truckee River this week revolve around precision and stealth. Tightline nymphing continues to be the most productive method, especially in faster runs and deeper seams—use a euro setup with 5x tippet, small split shot, and subtle presentations to get into the strike zone. During the midday hatch window, dry fly fishing is turning on in calmer sections; focus on rising fish in foam lines and tailouts with well-presented PMDs and Green Drakes. In the evenings, swinging small streamers or soft hackles near structure can provoke aggressive takes from larger browns holding tight to undercut banks. Regardless of your approach, stealth, long leaders, and deliberate casting are key to success on this technical tailwater.

Catch Report

Reports from the week show consistent hookups on subsurface rigs, with browns and rainbows averaging 14–17". Several fish over 18" have been landed on dries during the hatch window. Stealth and long leaders are key.

Fly Box Must-Haves

Juju Baetis (#18-20), Green Drakes (#12), Pheasant Tails (#16), Small Streamers, Pale Morning Duns, Split-Case PMDs, Quigley's Blue Winged Olives, Zebra Midges (#20), San Juan Worms - In Tan Colors, Moles Flies, Film Critics