McCloud Reservoir Outflowon McCloud River
October Caddis are actively hatching
- 01October Caddis are actively hatching, providing excellent dry fly opportunities.
- 02Midge and BWO activity is consistent, especially on overcast days, requiring smaller patterns.
- 03Egg patterns are becoming increasingly important as a food source for resident trout.
- 04Deep pools and current seams in the 10 miles of public water are key holding areas for trout.
- 05Versatility in fly selection, combining larger dries with smaller nymphs/emergers, will be crucial for success.
What to tie on at McCloud Reservoir Outflow
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Flashback Pheasant Tail Nymph
A versatile general mayfly nymph imitation, effective year-round and particularly good during fall BWO periods when nymphs are active subsurface.
Zebra Midge
Midges are a consistent food source year-round on the McCloud, especially in the slower runs and pools, and this pattern effectively imitates their abundant pupae.
Buy at AmazonElk Hair Caddis
A staple dry fly for imitating general caddis adults, which are actively hatching on the McCloud from late spring through fall.
Buy at AmazonTungsten Bead Pat's Rubber Legs
Large stonefly nymphs are active and provide a substantial food source, making this weighted pattern essential for getting down to trout in the McCloud's deeper pockets and runs during strong spring flows.
Buy at AmazonBlue-Winged Olive Comparadun
Blue-Winged Olives are actively hatching in early spring, especially on overcast days, and this low-profile dry fly is excellent for selective trout feeding on emergers and adults on the McCloud.
Woolly Bugger (Olive)
A versatile streamer pattern that imitates leeches and baitfish, effective year-round for enticing aggressive strikes from larger trout in the colder spring flows of the McCloud River.
Flashback Hare's Ear
A versatile and reliable general mayfly nymph imitation that is effective year-round on the McCloud, particularly as various mayfly nymphs become active in early spring.
Buy at AmazonCopper John
An excellent all-around attractor nymph that excels in the consistent, faster flows of the McCloud River, effective year-round as a point fly in nymph rigs.
Buy at AmazonYellow Sally
Imitates the actively hatching Little Yellow Stoneflies (Yellow Sallies) common during summer, drawing aggressive surface strikes from opportunistic trout.
Buy at AmazonCalifornia season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.