Current Water Conditions

The Little Truckee River is running low and clear at 52 CFS between Stampede and Boca. It’s a technical fishery right now—rewarding but challenging. Trout are spooky in these conditions, so stealth and precise presentations are essential. Early mornings provide the best bite, with action tapering off once the sun is overhead. It’s best to wrap up by noon to avoid stressing the fish in these low flows.

Water Temperatures

Cold water releases from Stampede are keeping the water comfortable in the mid-50s°F, rarely climbing above 56°F. While bug activity is steady, trout become far less active during bright afternoons.

Hatches

PMDs, caddis, midges, and mayflies are all present from about 8am to 2pm. Downsizing flies to the 18–22 range is often necessary for success.

Effective Tactics

Well-placed PMD dries can be effective during hatch windows, while hopper-dropper rigs shine in mid-mornings. Tightline nymphing in deeper slots works once trout settle down. Long leaders (12–14 feet) with 6x–7x tippet are key to fooling wary fish in clear water.

Catch Report

Most fish are running 14–18 inches, with some browns stretching close to 20 inches. Well-presented dries during low-light windows are producing some of the best fish of the week.

Fly Box Must-Haves

Pale Morning Duns (#18), Black Caddis (#18), E/C Caddis (#18), Midge Emergers (#20-22), Zebra Midges (#20), Elk Hair Caddis (#18), Quigley's Blue Winged Olives (#18), Burkes Pale Morning Duns (#18), PT Nymphs (#20), Juju Baetis (#18-20), Flossy Worms (#12)