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.
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!
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:
From Highway 20 to Englebright Dam:
Other regulations on the lower Yuba River:
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.
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.
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 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.
The October Caddis is a blast to fish. Trout hammer these bugs. This time of year, they are the meal of choice on the North Yuba. They will hatch in the later part of the day in calmer water. The birds will let you know when they are going off- these big bugs are a nice meal for a calorie burning bird. Known as the “Big Bug” these insects are long, and thick! Pupa imitations should be tied on a #6 or #8 3xl hook with a burnt orange body, burnt orange front hackle, black ostrich collar and a black bead. Short line high sticking pocket water will land you the most fish. Fishing these bugs as adult dry flys is thrilling.
Milton Reservoir is stunningly beautiful. This lake is full of large brown trout that will take a properly presented fly. Get there while you can, this lake sits at an elevation of 5700 feet and ices over in winter. This fishery is catch and release only and no bait is allowed. DFW will very happily put poachers in front of a judge. Don’t be that person.
Take a look at the Milton Page for more information and tactics for this beautiful lake.