Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Upper Truckee River - At Hwy 50 Abv Meyers - California

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Morning/Evening #20-22 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
Blue Wing Olives Afternoon #18-22 BWO Emerger, Parachute Adams
February Midges Morning/Evening #20-22 Griffith's Gnat, Midge Larva
Blue Wing Olives Afternoon #18-22 Pheasant Tail Nymph, Olive Wooly Bugger
March Midges Morning/Evening #20-22 Gray Midge, Al's Rat
Blue Wing Olives Afternoon #18-22 Tungsten Micro Mayfly, Split Case BWO
March Browns Afternoon #12-14 March Brown Nymph, Adams Dry Fly
April March Browns Afternoon #12-14 March Brown Wet, Parachute Adams
Caddis Evening #14-18 Pupae & Larvae, X-Caddis
Blue Wing Olives Afternoon #18-22 RS2, WD-40
Midges Morning/Evening #20-22 Snowshoe Midge, Midge X
May Stoneflies Morning/Afternoon #8-12 Golden Stone, Skwala Stone
Midges Morning/Evening #20-22 Magic Midge, Disco Midge
June Stoneflies Morning/Afternoon #6-10 Kaufmann's Stone, Girdle Bug
July Terrestrials (Ants, Beetles, Hoppers) Midday #10-16 Dave's Hopper, Black Beetle
August Terrestrials (Ants, Beetles, Hoppers) Midday #10-16 Letort Hopper, Flying Ant
September Terrestrials (Ants, Beetles, Hoppers) Midday #10-16 Joe's Hopper, Foam Ant
Blue Wing Olives Afternoon #18-22 CDC BWO Emerger, Flashback Pheasant Tail
October Blue Wing Olives Afternoon #18-22 BWO Sparkle Dun, RS2
Midges Morning/Evening #20-22 Emerger Midge, WD-40
November Midges Morning/Evening #20-22 Floss Midge, Tiny Blue Winged Olive
Blue Wing Olives Afternoon #18-22 Blue Winged Olive, BWO CDC Dun
December Midges Morning/Evening #20-22 Bead Head Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat
Blue Wing Olives Afternoon #18-22 Hi-vis BWO, Foam Wing Emerger

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Upper Truckee River in California, specifically at Hwy 50 Above Meyers locale, is one of the most sought-after fly fishing destinations providing a unique experience encompassing nature, thrill, and adventure. Here are the best spots:

  • Meyers to Lake Tahoe: This section, running through a scenic mountainous landscape, hosts diverse species, predominately rainbow and brown trout – making it a fly fisher’s haven.
  • South Lake Tahoe: This part of the river is abundant with trout making it a popular spot. Development in the area has ensured good access and facilities for fly fishers.
  • El Dorado Beach: Though known for windsurfing, this zone of the river also provides excellent fly fishing opportunities – especially during fall.
  • Camp Richardson: This spot provides undisturbed fly fishing, primarily due to its reduced footfall and offers compelling challenges for seasoned anglers.

Regardless of where you choose to fish, safely practicing catch and release ensures this stunning spot remains equipped for future fly fishing enthusiasts.

Best Access Points

The Upper Truckee River is a premier choice for seasoned fly fishers. One of the best access points to maximize your chances of a great catch is at Highway 50 above Meyers.

  • Meyers Landing: Located near the South Lake Tahoe Airport, this spot offers extensive fishing opportunities for trout.
  • The “Y”: At the junction of Highway 50 and Highway 89, this access point offers a blend of fast-moving and slow-moving waters.
  • Elks Club Drive: Easily accessible from Highway 50, with several pullouts for parking. Ideal for a discreet fishing location with less crowd.
  • Lake Tahoe Golf Course: For the more adventurous, the golf course perimeter is public land and offers river access for fishing, but also presents challenges with overgrown foliage.

Don’t forget to observe all fishing regulations and leave no trace of your visit to keep this wildlife-rich area pristine for generations to come.

Local Fish

  • Trout: Trout is a highly sought after fish in the Upper Truckee River. This includes Rainbow and Brown Trout varieties.
  • Lake Trout: A favorite amongst fly-fishers for their impressive size, they thrive in the cooler parts of the river.
  • Brook Trout: These stunningly colorful fish are a sight to see and a joy to catch.
  • Coastal Cutthroat Trout: This is a native species and is usually targeted by fly fishers for their fighting abilities and taste.
  • Mackinaw: Also known as Lake Trout, these big fish love the cold deep waters of the Upper Truckee river.
  • Mtn Whitefish: Lubricious species to target as they put up a fantastic fight when hooked on a fly.
  • Kokanee Salmon: They are landlocked Sockeye Salmon that are a superb challenge for fly fishers.
  • Pike: Although not as commonly sought after in fly fishing, they are still a great catch in the river with their ferocious attitude.

About The River

The Upper Truckee River is one of California’s hidden gems and an integral part of the Lake Tahoe watershed. Nestled through the vibrant town of Meyers, this unassuming river has been taking its life-sustaining water from crystal clear Lake Tahoe for thousands of years, carving a direct route through picturesque landscapes on its way to finally entering the Carson Valley.

  • Historically, the Upper Truckee River was a prime location for Native American tribes due to its abundant fish life and freshwater availability. It served as a vital resource for survival and transportation.
  • During the mid-1800s Gold Rush, it was a key route for miners, and logging operations later led to significant changes in its topography.
  • Today, the river is a core part of substantial restoration projects aimed at well-balanced ecosystem restoration.

The Upper Truckee River, quietly golfing through our history – Hwy 50 Abv Meyers, is indeed a beautiful representation of California’s past, present, and future.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Recent Articles

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons
Gear ReviewsFly Fishing

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons

April 20, 2024

Hip Waders or Chest Waders? Choosing the right gear for fly fishing can make all the difference in…

Read More
Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions
Fly TyingFly Fishing

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

April 18, 2024

Welcome to fly tying: How to tie a Pheasant Tail Nymph! If you’re new here or a seasoned…

Read More

Fly Tying Articles

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

April 18, 2024