The above video from Orvis will give you some good tips on safe wading.
A wading staff makes a huge difference. A staff can be a dowl with a bike grip, a stick, or a purpose built wading staff. Orvis currently has the best wading staff available- it’s very light, fast to deploy, easy to store, and is sturdy. They are not cheap, but if you use it, it’s money well spent.
It may be cold but there are some large rainbow trout in the North Yuba right now. You’ll have the best luck with a streamer or nymph in the deeper water. If you can get on the water before the snow melts and increases the flows, you’ll find some larger fish that have come into the river from Bullards Bar Reservoir.
Bring layers and be ready for the big temperature swings.
Right now, there is not bait fishing allowed and you can’t keep any of your catch. This river is well patrolled by Game Wardens. You can get your fishing licence online or at the hardware store in Downieville.
Fishing up at the North Fork Yuba River has been absolutely fantastic lately! It’s that time of year when pretty much every body of water is teeming with action, and fall is hands down the best season for anglers here in Northern California. Right now, the water temperatures are hanging around a comfy 53 to 58 degrees. What’s even better is that there’s hardly any fishing pressure, and the campgrounds are practically deserted.
If you’re planning to fish the North Yuba, you’ll want to head downstream of Downieville. Look for those sunny spots that October caddis love – they enjoy basking in the warm, sunny bends of the river. The water characteristics in the lower watershed are quite different from the upper areas. You’ll find longer runs, riffles, and fewer pocket water spots, not to mention some bigger fish lurking around.
For the best fishing experience, aim to be out there during the warmest part of the day, roughly between 11 am and 4 pm. The trout are getting pretty excited about Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs), October Caddis, and other smaller caddis, so those are good flys to use. Whether you prefer tight line nymphing, using a dry/dropper setup, or going with dry flies, all of these approaches have been proven to work well. I generally tight line (euro nymph) unless I see trout feeding on the surface.
While I haven’t spotted any brown trout on redds just yet, I’m pretty sure that they’re coming soon. With the upcoming warmer weather this weekend, a camping and fishing trip to the North Fork Yuba River with those beautiful fall colors is something you won’t want to miss!
If you’re planning to do some fishing at the North Fork Yuba River, things are looking pretty good. From the upper areas down to Downieville, you’ll find some decent action. The water temperatures have dropped a bit due to the colder nights we’ve been having.
The silver lining is that you won’t have to deal with too many other anglers – it’s pretty quiet out there, especially in the middle of the week. As the water levels have receded for the season, the trout are gathering in the larger plunge pools and runs. To catch the bigger ones, keep an eye out for those deeper pockets. Happy fishing, and enjoy the solitude!
A basic Dry/Dropper rig will work fine, a big bushy rubber legged stimulator or the equivalent, with a red copper John underneath. Purple is another great color. Don’t forget about hoppers and ants in the afternoon when warmer air temperatures make them more active. Mayfly spinner fall has been on one day, and sparse the next. A few big Pale Evening spinners in the mid morning, and a resurgence of caddis during the day. It’s not necessary to be on the water early with these cooler temps, starting at 10am is fine.
If you don’t mind hauling two rods, bring a shorter and lighter dry fly rod for the dry dropper and a longer and lighter rod for tight line nymphing.
In the realm of trail adventures, the Sunrise Trail marks the starting point atop Packer Saddle, accessible through various shuttle options. It presents a delightful, flowing path, adorned with machine-crafted berms, albeit occasionally marred by skidding. To enhance the thrill, it boasts enticing tabletops and whoops.
On the left, an alternative trail emerges, known as Pack Saddle Loop, seamlessly merging with the Sunrise Trail. Both options offer similar amusement, yet the less frequented left route may hold superior condition, a hidden gem awaiting discovery.
Venturing into the treacherous terrain of Butcher Ranch, brace yourself for an onslaught of challenges. Here lies the apex of technical difficulty on the Downieville Downhill, encompassing treacherous rock gardens, capable of leaving your teeth clattering and wrists aching.
The upper portion of Butcher Ranch, while more serene, commences with a series of switchbacks through the forest and open scrubland, presenting an exquisite visual feast. Embrace the scenic beauty and savor the moment at a leisurely pace.
Descending to lower Butcher Ranch elevates the intensity, introducing sections replete with devious rock gardens, including the formidable Waterfall, among the most formidable obstacles along the entire trail.
As you near the conclusion of Butcher Ranch, the rugged rock gardens give way to loamy earth and playful switchbacks meandering through captivating forests. Upon completing the switchbacks, a dash of technical climbing and narrow sidehill traversal with exposed edges awaits. However, after surmounting these challenges, a smooth journey ensues, culminating in a modest climb to Third Divide.
Welcome to the realm of Third Divide, where exhilaration reaches its zenith, courtesy of velocity and fluidity. However, tread cautiously, for the play of dappled light through the forest canopy obscures features and rocks, leading to harrowing encounters with the unexpected. My personal experience attests to several heart-stopping moments on Third Divide, where hidden rocks and roots caught me off guard.
For most adventurers, Third Divide stands as the pinnacle of the Downieville Downhill, providing an abundance of joyous escapades. Yet, be mindful of the conclusion—a steep and treacherously loose descent leading to the river, where a bridge awaits. Exercise restraint in maintaining your speed, as it is all too easy to surrender control in this particular stretch.
Upon concluding the thrill ride on Third Divide, a gentle descent along a dirt road ensues for just under a mile, followed by a well-timed right turn onto First Divide. Should you find yourself pedaling up a substantial incline on the road, you have inadvertently surpassed your intended destination.
First Divide serves as a fusion of Butcher Ranch, Third Divide, and a sprinkle of cross-country pedaling. While certain rocky features pose a challenge, an abundance of flow and speed awaits. Along much of the trail, the tumultuous currents of Lavezzola Creek gracefully parallel your path on the right, occasionally revealing the grandeur of massive cliffs. Stay vigilant and keep your gaze affixed to the trail, averting any unnecessary mishaps.
Finally, First Divide brings the Downieville Downhill to its conclusion, punctuated by a series of brief yet steep ascents. At this juncture, the town once again beckons, offering the opportunity for another exhilarating round.
You don’t need to pay for a shuttle in Downieville to get some great riding in. This trail is excellent for a e-mtb bike or excellent for a strong rider on an analog bike. The trail is challenging but not so much that you’ll need a helicopter rescue. This 25 mile, out and back will be rewarding
Find the parking lot at the end of Durgan Flat Way. It’s 1/4 West of the courthouse. The trail starts right there. It follows the North Yuba for a quarter mile, then you climb into the forest.
You’ll climb through some beautiful forest as you gain altitude with some fun switchbacks. When you get to a bridge, take a break and cool off. The creek is spring fed, so it’s cold and chills that little area.
From the bridge, continue on traversing the slope to your decent. This is the first of three excellent descents… watch your speed and call out on blind corners. The trail is skinny with a steep drops throughout – not a serious as the drops on 2nd Divide, but steep..
The Upper Section of the North Yuba Trail drops you onto The Old Toll Road in Good Years Bar. You’ll be back to the edge of the North Yuba. Go Left and follow the river flow into the tiny town of Good Years bar. At the stop sign go right across a bridge over the river and up to Highway 49. From here go Left for about a 1/4 mile.
Look for the road marker 11.92 a seen below. The trailhead to St Charle Hill can be seen in the right side of the photo. Take this skinny trail up to find some Golden Singletrack. Some of the local elitist riders have somehow forced this trail off of trailforks. Some of these guys claimed building the trail…they may have cleaned it, but they didn’t build it. We all own this property. Enjoy it.
A short distance will bring you to a unique sign made from chainsaw parts. Go Right here. Thanks to the dirt bikers that put this trail in. In the Fall of 2021 I helped some local MTB boys clear some of the upper section of fallen trees. It take a village to raise a trail.
If you want to grab some GPS information, take a look at the Strava link below. It also has a video of a Black Bear that I found near the top of St Charles Hill and some photos. It’s a great ride- Do It.
Also, in this Spring of 2023, the fishing is junk due to the massive runoff. You can catch fish but it is not productive and walking around the river right now is pain as well as dangerous.
If Strava isn’t you jam, below is a link to Ride with GPS info. Hope this helps you enjoy you time in the Lost Sierra.
Carrying a hyperlight minimalist wallet when fly fishing brings a bunch of awesome benefits that’ll make your fishing adventures even more enjoyable! First off, these wallets are super compact and lightweight, making them incredibly easy to carry around. No more lugging around a bulky wallet that weighs you down or gets in the way of your smooth casting and river navigation. With a hyperlight wallet, you’ll have the freedom to move effortlessly and comfortably on the water.
Another fantastic perk is that these wallets are designed to hold just the essentials, keeping things simple and organized. You’ll have enough space for your fishing license, ID, a couple of credit cards, and some cash – all in a neat and tidy package. Say goodbye to the hassle of digging through multiple compartments or dealing with unnecessary clutter. With a minimalist wallet, you’ll have everything you need within reach without any extra fuss.
And let’s not forget about the durability factor! These wallets are built to withstand the elements, providing water-resistant or waterproof protection for your valuables. Whether it’s a splash, a little spray, or an accidental dip in the water, your belongings will stay safe and dry. Made from top-notch materials like nylon, these wallets are designed to take on the great outdoors and keep your important documents secure and damage-free.
In a nutshell, carrying a hyperlight minimalist wallet while fly fishing is a total game-changer. It offers the perfect blend of convenience, organization, and protection, so you can focus on what really matters – landing that trophy fish and enjoying every moment of your fishing journey. So grab yourself a minimalist wallet and get ready for stress-free and exciting fishing adventures!
If you look closely, the only people that are telling you that prospecting is a money maker are the people that make money off of your efforts. These people are selling accommodations, goods, and food. Are they spending long days hunched over a wet hole in the ground?
Gold panning is a popular activity for people who enjoy the outdoors and the prospect of finding a valuable treasure. However, for most people, gold panning is a waste of time and money.
The odds of finding gold while panning are very slim. In fact, most people who pan for gold never find any gold at all. Even if you do find some gold, it is usually only a small amount. The amount of gold that you can find by panning is not enough to make a profit.
In addition to being a waste of time, gold panning can also be dangerous. Gold panning can be done in rivers, streams, and other bodies of water. These bodies of water can be dangerous, especially if they are fast-moving or contain strong currents. Gold panning can also lead to injuries, such as cuts and bruises.
The only people who benefit from gold panning are the people who sell gold panning equipment. These companies make a lot of money selling equipment to people who are hoping to find gold. However, the vast majority of people who buy gold panning equipment never find any gold.
If you are thinking about trying gold panning, I would advise against it. Gold panning is a waste of time and money. There are better ways to spend your time and money.
Here are some additional reasons why gold panning is a waste of time:
Spring is a season of renewal and rebirth, and for many fly fishermen, it’s also the start of the fishing season. After a long winter of tying flies and dreaming of warmer days, anglers are finally able to get back on the water and chase after their favorite fish species. However, early spring fly fishing can be challenging, as the water is still cold and the fish are often sluggish. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to have a successful and enjoyable early spring fly fishing experience.
Spring is a great time to get out and fly fish. The weather is starting to warm up, the days are getting longer, and the fish are starting to become more active. However, early spring fly fishing can be a bit challenging, as the water is still cold and the fish are often slow-moving. Additionally, the weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers, cold snaps, and windy conditions. But with the right gear, techniques, and mindset, you can still have a great time on the water and catch some fish.
Early spring fly fishing requires different techniques than other times of the year. The water is still cold, which means the fish are less active and less likely to chase after fast-moving flies. You’ll need to slow down your retrieve and use smaller, more subtle flies that mimic the insects and other prey that the fish are feeding on. Additionally, you’ll want to focus on fishing deeper and slower, as the fish will be holding in deeper water where the temperature is more consistent.
One effective technique for early spring fly fishing is nymphing. Nymphs are fly patterns that imitate the immature stages of aquatic insects, such as mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies. These insects are a major food source for trout and other fish, especially in the early spring when they are starting to emerge from their winter hibernation. By fishing nymphs deep and slow, you can entice even the most lethargic fish to strike.
Another effective technique is streamer fishing. Streamers are large, often brightly colored flies that imitate baitfish, leeches, or other prey that the fish are feeding on. They are often fished on sinking lines, allowing you to fish them deep and slow. Streamers are especially effective in early spring when the fish are starting to become more active and are looking for larger prey.
To have a successful early spring fly fishing experience, you’ll need the right gear. Here are some essentials to consider:
Waders are a must-have for early spring fly fishing. They will keep you dry and warm in the cold water, allowing you to stay on the water longer and fish more effectively. Look for waders with built-in insulation or layering options so you can adjust your warmth level depending on the weather.
Boots are another essential piece of gear for early spring fly fishing. Look for boots with rubber soles or studded soles to provide traction on slippery rocks and streambeds. You’ll also want to consider the type of terrain you’ll be fishing in and choose boots with appropriate ankle support.
A fly rod is the most important piece of gear for any fly fisherman. For early spring fly fishing, you’ll want to choose a rod with a medium to fast action that is capable of casting the small, lightweight flies you’ll be using. Look for a rod in the 4-6 weight range, depending on the size of the fish you’ll be targeting.
Your fly reel should match the weight of your fly rod and have a smooth drag system to help you fight and land fish. Look for a reel with a large arbor to help you quickly retrieve line and fight fish more effectively.
Your fly line should match your rod and reel and have a taper that matches the type of fishing you’ll be doing. For early spring fly fishing, a weight-forward floating line is usually the best choice. You may also want to consider adding a sinking tip or full sinking line to your arsenal for fishing deep.
Choosing the right flies for early spring fly fishing is crucial. You’ll want to focus on small, subtle patterns that mimic the insects and other prey that the fish are feeding on. Some effective patterns to try include midges, nymphs, and small streamers.
Choosing the right flies for early spring fly fishing can be a bit tricky, as the insects and other prey that the fish are feeding on will vary depending on the location, water temperature, and other factors. However, there are a few general patterns that tend to work well in early spring.
Midges are small, delicate insects that hatch throughout the year, but are especially important in the early spring when other insects are still dormant. Look for midge patterns in sizes 18-24, and fish them deep and slow.
Nymphs are the immature stages of aquatic insects, such as mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies. These insects are a major food source for trout and other fish, especially in the early spring when they are starting to emerge from their winter hibernation. Look for nymph patterns in sizes 12-18, and fish them deep and slow.
Streamers are large, often brightly colored flies that imitate baitfish, leeches, or other prey that the fish are feeding on. They are often fished on sinking lines, allowing you to fish them deep and slow. Streamers are especially effective in early spring when the fish are starting to become more active and are looking for larger prey.
Finding the right location for early spring fly fishing can be a bit challenging, as the water temperature and fish behavior can vary significantly from one location to another. However, there are a few general tips to keep in mind.
In early spring, the water is still cold, which means the fish are less active and less likely to chase after fast-moving prey. Look for slow-moving water, such as pools, eddies, and backwaters, where the fish can conserve energy and wait for food to come to them.
Fish will often hold in deeper water in the early spring, where the temperature is more consistent and the current is less strong. Look for deep holes, runs, and channels where the fish can find refuge from the cold water and wait for food to come to them.
Different insects hatch at different times of the year, and knowing what insects are present in the water can help you choose the right flies and fishing techniques. Check local hatch charts or ask local anglers for advice on what insects are hatching in the early spring. Take a look at the North Yuba Hatch Chart
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind for successful early spring fly fishing:
Early spring fly fishing can be slow, and it may take some time to find the fish and figure out what they’re feeding on. Be patient and persistent, and don’t be afraid to change flies and techniques if you’re not having success.
The water is still cold in the early spring, so it’s important to stay warm and dry. Wear appropriate clothing and gear, and take frequent breaks to warm up if needed.
The weather can be unpredictable in the early spring, so be prepared for sudden rain showers, cold snaps, and windy conditions. Keep an eye on the forecast and plan accordingly.
Safety should always be a top priority when fly fishing, and this is especially true in the early spring when the water is still cold and the weather can be unpredictable. Here are some safety considerations to keep in mind:
Wearing a life jacket can save your life in the event of an accident or unexpected cold-water immersion. Make sure your life jacket fits properly and is appropriate for the type of fishing you’ll be doing.
Wading staffs can help you maintain your balance and footing in slippery or fast-moving water. Consider using a wading staff, especially if you’re fishing alone or in challenging conditions.
High water can be dangerous and unpredictable, so avoid fishing in high water conditions. Check local stream gauges or talk to local anglers to get an idea of the water levels and conditions.
Fly fishing etiquette is important year-round, but it’s especially important in the early spring when the water is still cold and the fish are less active. Here are some general etiquette guidelines to keep in mind:
Be respectful of other anglers on the water. Give them plenty of space and avoid fishing too close to them.
Fish are easily spooked in the early spring, so avoid crowding them or casting too close to their holding areas.
Early spring is a vulnerable time for fish, as they are still recovering from the stress of winter. Consider practicing catch and release, and handle fish gently and quickly to minimize stress and harm.
Fly fishing conservation is important year-round, but it’s especially important in the early spring when the water is still cold and the fish are less active. Here are some conservation tips to keep in mind:
Barbless hooks are easier to remove and cause less harm to fish, making them a great choice for catch and release fishing.
Pack out all your trash and dispose of it properly. Leave the area cleaner than you found it.
Respect the wildlife in the area, and avoid disturbing or harassing them. Be aware of nesting birds and other sensitive areas.
Early spring fly fishing can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. With the right gear, techniques, and mindset, you can have a great time on the water and catch some fish. Remember to be patient, stay warm and dry, and practice good etiquette and conservation. Spring is a season of renewal and rebirth, and there’s no better way to celebrate it than by getting out on the water and fly fishing.
Baetis, let the games begin! This little mayfly can really throw fly fishers for a loop, but that just adds to the excitement. With its small size and varying shades of olive and gray, the Baetis is a challenge to identify, but that’s part of the thrill. And Yes, Blue Winged Olives and Baetis are the same thing.
Don’t worry if you’re not an entomologist, all you need to know is the size and color of the hatch. And trust me, when it comes to Baetis, smaller is better. These tiny bugs are hard for both fish and anglers to spot, making the frenzied feeding frenzy all the more exhilarating.
But don’t be fooled, the Baetis isn’t just one species – it’s a whole family of insects! Blue Wing Olive is the most common name among fly fishers, but there are plenty of other sub-species to look out for. And with up to five hatches per year, each with its own unique hue, the Baetis keeps us on our toes.
So what’s the secret to seeing these elusive insects? Timing is key. Baetis prefer cloudy days and tend to hatch mid-morning to mid-afternoon. And with nymphs that swim like champs and emergers that rise on bubbles, presentation is everything.
But here’s the kicker – fish can be incredibly selective when it comes to feeding on Baetis. So, patience and skill are a must. Be still, present your fly drag-free and delicately, and opt for a parachute pattern to really seal the deal.
With so many imitations out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But fear not, the thrill of the catch is worth the confusion. So grab your gear, head to the water, and let the Baetis games begin!