Imagine a day that combines the thrill of a successful hunt and an exceptional fishing trip. Well, one lucky angler from the Carson area, Lew Souder, experienced just that! A remarkable double achievement is how we'd describe it.
The winter chill is here, but the snow seems to be taking its sweet time. During a recent trip around the region, we enjoyed a sunny day in late November, a rare treat for this time of year. While returning home, a stop at the Genoa Bar for some root beer and conversation by the fire seemed like a great idea. But here's where it gets interesting: we lost track of time, thinking it was later than it actually was due to the sun's position behind the mountains.
This phenomenon is a reminder that when you're fishing in deep river gullies, you'll encounter more shadows and darker moments as the sun sets earlier. Now, onto the fishing report! I had high hopes for some ice fishing at higher lakes by December's end, but this report suggests otherwise. However, one area has received an early visit from Santa, so to speak, with some exciting catches.
Speaking of remarkable days, Lew Souder's story is a testament to adaptability. While his luck at Wild Horse Reservoir in northern Elko County wasn't great for fishing, he switched to hunting and bagged a magnificent big horn sheep. But the story doesn't end there! On the same day, he returned to the reservoir and caught a massive 9.5-pound rainbow trout, turning it into an unforgettable fishing and hunting adventure.
Lake Tahoe: Jason from Ruby Jean Charters confirms that the Mackinaw bite is decent, with live minnows behind blades being the preferred method. The action picks up around midday as the sun heats up, and they've caught a few browns and rainbows in the shallows off the rocks. For more details or to book a trip, visit rubyjeancharters.com.
Topaz Lake: The bite is slow in the morning but improves as the sun rises. Trollers are using flashers with crawlers or Rapalas, while shore anglers are finding success on the south end of the lake with salmon peach or chartreuse Powerbait. Some are using inflated crawlers, but caution is advised during early morning launches due to ice on the lake and launch area.
Indian Creek Reservoir: Fishing has been inconsistent, with ice forming early in the morning and lingering around the edges throughout the day. If you can navigate past the ice, you'll find fish waiting.
Red Lake: A thin layer of ice periodically covers the lake, not enough for a safe venture. It's enough to disrupt early morning fishing trips. If you manage to fish, try salmon eggs off a bobber or a gold Kastmaster by the dam.
Caples Lake: Disappointingly, there's no ice forming on the lake this week. Anglers have had some success on the south end by the spillway or off the dam using Panther Martin spinners or Kastmasters. Note that the lake is closed to boat launching until next year, but the Caples Lake Lodge and restaurant will open on the 18th, offering a potential ice fishing update.
Bridgeport Reservoir: Fishing is off-limits until the last Saturday in April.
Carson River West Fork: The river is running low and slow, but a few spots in the canyon and meadow still hold fish. Remember, it's catch-and-release season, so use artificial lures or flies with barbless hooks only.
Carson River East Fork: The river is thriving, and the fish are biting! The Alpine County Fish and Game Commission has generously planted 1500 pounds of 2 to 5-pound rainbows throughout the river to promote winter fisheries and support fellow anglers. It's catch-and-release with artificial lures or flies and barbless hooks until the last Saturday in April. For a special getaway, the Carson River Resort offers cabins for rent, including the river cabin, which I'd highly recommend. Call 530-694-2229 for reservations.
Blue Lakes Road: Closed for the season.
Upper Owens River: Above Benton Crossing, it's barbless flies and lures, catch-and-release, and open all year. Since September, there have been three significant runs of Browns and Rainbows between Lake Crowley and the river. During the latest run, these fish were concentrated in the deepest bends, leading to impressive catches of 18" to 24" fish using Yellow Spot and Flashback Pheasant Tail nymphs under an indicator. Now, these fish are spreading out for spawning, moving into deeper runs.
Lower Owen Wild Trout Section: Below Pleasant Valley Campground, it's also barbless flies and lures, catch-and-release, and open all year. This section becomes a winter fishing hotspot when conditions align. A mid-October trip yielded a good number of Browns and Rainbows up to 18 inches. Thick brush and reeds limit access to some spots, but this will improve as they go dormant. Lures like Panther Martins, Thomas Buoyants, and Rapalas (with belly hooks removed) are effective. Similar fly fishing techniques to the Upper Owens are used here, and a consistent midday Mayfly hatch provides excellent dry fly action.
Small Creeks: Most smaller local creeks are open all year or extend beyond the general season, then transitioning to barbless flies and lures, catch-and-release. Notable creeks include Hot Creek, Rush Creek below Grant Lake, Parker, Walker, Lee Vining, and Green Creeks, which offer barbless flies and lures, catch-and-release until the general season reopens.
Important Reminder: Always check the CDFW Regulations' alphabetical listing of waters to know which sections are open and when. Stay prepared with a full gas tank, water, and snacks for your fishing adventures. We wish you safe and enjoyable trips!
Share your catch photos at editor@carsonnow.org, and stay tuned for more fishing updates. Happy fishing, and tight lines!
And now, a question for you: What's your strategy for adapting to changing fishing conditions, especially when the weather doesn't cooperate? Do you have any tips for making the most of a fishing trip when the elements throw a curveball? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
