NorthYubaGuide – Page 2

Spring into Action: Your Ultimate Guide to Fly Fishing in the Season

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.

Introduction to Fly Fishing in Spring

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.

Understanding Early Spring Fly Fishing Techniques

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.

Essential Gear for Spring Fly Fishing

To have a successful early spring fly fishing experience, you’ll need the right gear. Here are some essentials to consider:

Waders

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

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.

Fly Rod

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.

Fly Reel

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.

Fly Line

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.

Flies

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

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.

Midge Patterns

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.

Nymph Patterns

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.

Streamer Patterns

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

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.

Look for Slow-Moving Water

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.

Focus on Deeper Water

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.

Check Local Hatch Charts

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

Tips for Successful Early Spring Fly Fishing

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind for successful early spring fly fishing:

Be Patient

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.

Stay Warm and Dry

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.

Watch the Weather

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 Considerations for Spring Fly Fishing

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:

Wear a Life Jacket

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.

Use A Wading Staff

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.

Avoid High Water

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 in Early Spring

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:

Respect Other Anglers

Be respectful of other anglers on the water. Give them plenty of space and avoid fishing too close to them.

Don’t Crowd the Fish

Fish are easily spooked in the early spring, so avoid crowding them or casting too close to their holding areas.

Practice Catch and Release

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 in Early Spring

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:

Use Barbless Hooks

Barbless hooks are easier to remove and cause less harm to fish, making them a great choice for catch and release fishing.

Don’t Leave Trash Behind

Pack out all your trash and dispose of it properly. Leave the area cleaner than you found it.

Respect Wildlife

Respect the wildlife in the area, and avoid disturbing or harassing them. Be aware of nesting birds and other sensitive areas.

Conclusion – Spring into Action with These Early Spring Fly Fishing Tips

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.

Are Baetis and Blue Winged Olive the same thing?

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!

It’s high people. Flows will be up well into Summer

Flows are very high and will continue to be high with our tremendous snow pack. If you’re thinking of hitting the North Fork Yuba, plan on mid June at this point. The Spring run off is going to be here for a long time. Thinks lakes.

Mountain Biking Downieville, avoid the crowds

The Pauley Creek to Second Divide shuttle is a great way to switch things up on the Downieville trail network and explore some lesser-known trails.

The ride starts by taking you along the beautiful Gold Valley Rim Trail, which offers stunning views of the Sierra Buttes and Lakes Basin. While the upper section of the trail is not very technical, the lower section features some gnarly terrain, including steep rock gardens and exposed bedrock slabs. It’s a thrilling downhill ride that is definitely worth the price of admission!

From there, you’ll descend an OHV track to reach the Pauley Creek singletrack, which takes you down a lush, green valley with some exciting rocky sections. It’s a unique trail that provides a refreshing change of scenery.

The route mapped here briefly rejoins the classic Downieville Downhill before taking you on the more technical and less-traveled Second Divide. This trail features substantial rock moves and fall exposure, which may not be for everyone, but it’s sure to provide a challenge for those who enjoy it.

Finally, you’ll rejoin the Classic on First Divide and head back to downtown Downieville. Overall, this shuttle is a fun and exhilarating way to explore the trails of Downieville!

Downieville Mountain Biking

The Winner’s Circle at Downieville Classic | Ride Unleashed

Check out Giant Bikes video on mountain biking in Downieville.

It’s just a solitary event.

There’s nothing like it anywhere else in the world.

It’s not a UCI race.

It’s not the World Championships.

It’s not part of some bigger series.

It’s just one weekend in one place.

What makes it special is the people

that put it on, that recognized what they had here, invited

people to come experience it the last 25 years,

and it’s a legendary place.

It changed the course of my life this bike race.

The reason we’re here, it’s actually Stephan’s idea.

He thought it would be neat to have all three

of us being double winners to come to Downieville

and just go ride together.

This is a pretty cool deal to get

to come back with two guys that dominated this place.

And just go ride for fun and not have a bunch of pressure,

and just drink beers around the fire

and enjoy each other’s company.

What year did you win?

Memory is vague, but the research

shows 2009 was the first time I showed up here with a bicycle.

It’s been 13 years since you won at Downieville.

Holy shit.

Yeah.

Yeah, that’s why I feel old.

So Adam, is he’s just a super-talented bike racer guy.

He just has this mind to make a bike work really well.

In fact, gone to the Olympics in 2008.

The next year is when he won Downieville.

He was coming off the Olympics.

He was the best American cross-country racer arguably

at the time, and he came here, and he won, and that

was like a big deal for him.

I remember he was stoked, and I was just

super excited to come see this place for myself after that.

It’s an honor to have won here, and I

think it speaks to a person’s versatility as a rider,

and I’ve always been really proud of that versatility.

What we have here is a 2009 vintage Downieville

classic first-place award seat.

Every year the seats different and this seat

has looked different every year since because I’ve

been riding and enjoying it.

It makes me think of Downieville.

There’s a lot of parallels between Steve and Adam.

These are both guys that are old school mountain-biker-type

guys.

They’re both incredibly fit dudes,

but they also just have a natural connection

with the bike.

It’s an extension of them that most people will never

approach.

In 2019, I made it a goal to win Downieville,

which I was able to pull off.

Growing up as a little kid, I always

had posters of Adam and Carl, and I saw them

as some of the two best US racers.

To have my name on the winner’s charts with those two

and a handful of other top athletes, it’s really special.

I won 2010, ’11, ’12, ’13, ’14, five times.

I was good at it for a while.

This was my place for a little while.

As much as some of the locals might have loved it

or loathed it, I was king of the county around here for a bit.

And it’s really cool to be with Stephan, who’s that new guy.

He’s the defending champ.

He’s the National champion in Marathon.

That’s why he’s on this custom red, white, and blue bike.

Steve is at the top of his game.

It’s going to be exciting to see what he can do.

So Downieville Double is to win both the cross country

on Saturday and the downhill on Sunday.

A lot of people have made a career out

of winning one or the other, but to win both is really unique.

Only four guys have done it, and Adam, Stephan, and I

are three of those four.

That’s a pretty unique situation.

[KUINKA, “PORCELAIN FRAME”] I was never one to talk about

what came before, but she kissed in a way and made me move

against the floor.

Living in the night, I held her ordinary name about the windows

out on Wall Street with the marble and the porcelain frame.

She takes me round the room.

She takes me by the hand led me through the smokey and crowd

till I could hardly stand.

Beneath the streets and city lights,

I laid her down to rest.

Laid my hand upon her chest and said I loved but merely

guessed it all away.

I think Downieville being dubbed the All Mountain World

Championships is 100% accurate.

You’ve got to have the fitness and the strength and the skill

and just kind of the mental fortitude

to be able to ride all around in these mountains.

All Mountain World Champ, for sure,

and I don’t think there’s another event that could really

lay claim to that in the way that Downieville does.

[KUINKA, “PORCELAIN FRAME”]

(SINGING) It’s the kind of consolation

that you get when you’re alone, past the skin

and past the bones, in an ordinary tone.

Ask the question, take me dancing,

take me out and take me home.

Beneath the trees, we taste the leaves.

Oh, please don’t leave.

I want to roam this earth with you.

You know–

I didn’t think I’d ever win here.

So the best win for me was the first time.

There were so many guys that had made legends of themself

by their successes here.

World Cup Downhillers and World Champions

come here, and XC guys, and roadies

and like all these people that can flex

on some part of the course.

But to really bring it all together

and to finish the thing intact with your bike

in one piece and your body, that takes something else.

For me putting my stamp on this event

is one of my proudest moments in bike racing.

[KUINKA, “PORCELAIN FRAME”] Oh, love, break my bones,

love take me home.

Love lead me astray.

Weighed me down with stones.

Love sat me afire.

I can see no more.

Love break my heart and tear down my door.

Love bring me away.

Burn down my home.

There’s an emptiness there that I can’t afford.

Love lift me up for another day.

Love leave your mark.

I am here to stay.

Winning a World Cup Cross Country or something,

I don’t know.

I’d probably take Downieville over that.

In terms of being an American rider from the West Coast,

this means a lot.

Downieville Mountain Biking

Lower Yuba Fishing Regulations

I don’t guide the Lower Yuba, but do fish it in the Winter months. It’s not as spectacular as the North Yuba but it does hold large trout and steelhead.

The regulations below are subject to change

From the Confluence with the Feather River to Highway 20:

Fishing open all year.
Only artificial lures with barbless hooks may be used.
Daily catch limits: 2 hatchery trout or steelhead.
- Hatchery trout are identified by having a healed adipose fin clip. All other trout and
  steelhead must immediately be released.
Total limits of possession: 4 hatchery trout or steelhead.

From Highway 20 to Englebright Dam:

Fishing is open from December 1 to August 31.
- Only artificial lures with barbless hooks may be used.
- Daily catch limits: 2 hatchery trout or steelhead.
  - Hatchery trout are identified by having a healed adipose fin clip. All other trout and steelhead must immediately be released.
- Total limits of possession: 4 hatchery trout or steelhead.
All fishing is CLOSED from August 31 to December 1.

Other regulations on the lower Yuba River:

The LYR is CLOSED to the take of salmon. There should be no fishing intended to catch salmon. Any salmon caught accidentally must be released immediately.
All anglers must have a Steelhead Fishing Report and Restoration Card in their possession while fishing for or taking steelhead in anadromous waters.
- These must be completed and returned.
- A steelhead is defined as any rainbow trout greater than 16 inches.
It is unlawful to fish without a fishing license if you are 16 or older.
It is unlawful to leave litter in or near water.
Fishing licenses can be purchased from CDFW.

lower yuba

Why do people fly fish?

People fly fish for a variety of reasons. Some people enjoy the challenge and skill involved in fly fishing, while others enjoy the tranquility and peacefulness of spending time in nature while fly fishing. Additionally, fly fishing can be a great way to connect with friends and family, and many people enjoy the social aspect of fly fishing. Others may enjoy the thrill of the catch and the sense of accomplishment that comes with successfully catching a fish. Ultimately, the reasons for fly fishing vary depending on the individual and their personal interests and goals.

Lower Downieville Trails are open and perfect

The trails below Downieville are perfect right now. Add a layer, get up there, and rip. No dust, no heat, no crowds…just sweet trails

The North Yuba Trail:

The Trail begins with a doubletrack (later singletrack) switchback climb for about 2 miles that is narrow in spots. You’ll be nearly immediately in tree cover and remain there for the rest of the hike. There are a few steep and switchback climbs.

After another mile of climbing you’ll cross a wooden bridge and the trail will begin to descend. The descent is mostly smooth and well graded singletack (a few small sections of rocks or roots) that follows the contours of the mountain back down.

Once done with the trail either head back the way you came, pick up your shuttle (if you left one), or follow the fireroad downhill about a mile to the first bridge, cross that to follow the road (up hill) about 4 miles back to Downieville.

The North Yuba Trail is a hiking and mountain biking trail that begins in the historic mining town of Downieville and travels four miles to the village of Goodyear’s Bar, another of Sierra County’s historic communities. The trail then leaves Goodyear’s Bar and continues south along the east side of the North Yuba River to Indian Valley. The trail ends at Rocky Rest Campground where a pedestrian bridge brings hikers and mountain bike riders back to the west side of the river. The trail’s creation was a cooperative effort of the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship and the U.S. Forest Service. For hiking information, the Forest Service office listed below is a good source of information. For mountain biking information on the trail, contact Yuba Expeditions in Downieville at www.yubaexpeditions.com

This classic Sierra Nevada river canyon trail includes spectacular views of the Yuba River below and hidden explorations within forested canyons. There is no exit from the trail until Goodyear’s Bar, and after Goodyear’s Bar there is no exit until Indian Valley.

It’s cold, too cold

The water temperature in the lower section of the North Fork is 40 degrees. For our beloved freestone, this is too cold for fishing. The local trout will be very reluctant to feed. You’re better off going elsewhere to find trout.

The Zebra Midge. One of the best and easiest flys to carry

The Zebra Midge has been around a long time because it consistently fools trout.

They are fast and cheap to tie. I tend to use #18 but they normally range in #16 to #22. These are money on the Little Truckee. Put this on a tag with a larger nymph below to get it down or use it as a dropper off of a dry. I never fish with out these simple and effective flys.

Check out the video from TightLine Productions on how to tie your own.