As the seasons change, so do the insects that trout and other fish feed on, making it essential for fly anglers to adapt their fly selection accordingly. Northern California offers some of the best fly fishing opportunities, from the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe to the picturesque Burney Falls region and the majestic Mount Shasta area. Each of these locations has its own unique characteristics and demands a specific approach to fly selection.

Dry Flies by Region

• Lake Tahoe Area: Dry flies are essential in this region, especially during the summer months when hatches are abundant. Patterns like the Parachute Adams, Stimulator, and Royal Wulff are highly effective. These flies imitate a variety of insects and can be presented in a way that entices even the most selective trout.

• Burney Falls Region: Dry flies play a significant role in fishing the renowned Hat Creek. During the Blue Wing Olive hatch in spring, patterns like the Blue Wing Olive Parachute or the Sparkle Dun are successful. In summer, when terrestrials are abundant, patterns like the Ant or the Beetle can be deadly.

• Mount Shasta Area: Dry flies are important in this area, particularly during the summer caddisfly hatches. Patterns like the X-Caddis or the Goddard Caddis are popular choices. In fall, attractor patterns like the Royal Wulff or the Humpy can produce excellent results.

Underwater Flies by Region

• Lake Tahoe Area: Nymphs are crucial in this area, especially in spring and early summer. Patterns like the Pheasant Tail Nymph or the Hare’s Ear Nymph can be highly effective. These flies should be fished near the bottom where trout are feeding on emerging insects.

• Burney Falls Region: Nymphs are a staple in the fly boxes of anglers fishing the Hat Creek. Patterns like the Pheasant Tail Nymph, Hare’s Ear Nymph, and Copper John are effective choices. These flies should be fished below the surface using techniques like nymphing or the indicator rig.

• Mount Shasta Area: Nymphs are essential in this area, particularly in spring when stoneflies are active. Patterns like the Stimulator or the Rubber Legs Stone are effective choices. These flies should be fished near the bottom where trout are feeding on these large insects.

Best Shops to Get Flies in These Areas

For anglers looking to stock up on flies for their Northern California fishing adventures, there are several top-notch fly shops to choose from. In the Lake Tahoe area, The Troutfitter and The Reno Fly Shop are excellent options. In the Burney Falls region, The Fly Shop in Redding is a must-visit. In the Mount Shasta area, The Fifth Season and The Fly Shop in Redding are both great choices.

Flies for the Time of Season

Spring Flies:

• Lake Tahoe Area: In spring, as waters warm up, aquatic insects become more active. Nymphs such as the Pheasant Tail Nymph and the Hare’s Ear Nymph are excellent choices. These imitate the emerging insects and can be fished near the bottom where trout are feeding.
• Burney Falls Region: The Blue Wing Olive hatch in spring calls for patterns like the Blue Wing Olive Parachute or the Sparkle Dun. These imitate the hatching mayflies and can be presented in the surface film where fish are feeding.
• Mount Shasta Area: Stoneflies like the Stimulator or the Rubber Legs Stone are effective in spring. These large insects are a favorite food source for trout and can be fished near the bottom where they are most active.

Summer Flies:

• Lake Tahoe Area: Dry flies like the Elk Hair Caddis and the Adams Fly are great choices as summer arrives and hatches become more prolific. These imitate the adult insects floating on the surface, enticing trout to rise.
• Burney Falls Region: Terrestrial patterns like the Ant or the Beetle are effective in summer when insects from land fall onto the water. These flies can be fished along the banks where trout are looking for an easy meal.
• Mount Shasta Area: Caddisflies like the X-Caddis or the Goddard Caddis are popular in summer. These flies imitate the caddisflies that are abundant during this time and can be fished in the surface film where trout are feeding.

Fall Flies:

• Lake Tahoe Area: Streamers like the Woolly Bugger or the Zonker are effective in fall as fish start to feed more aggressively before winter. These imitate larger baitfish or leeches, enticing trout looking for a substantial meal.
• Burney Falls Region: Midge patterns like the Griffith’s Gnat or the Zebra Midge are reliable in fall. These small flies imitate the midges that are abundant during this time and can be fished in the surface film or just below.
• Mount Shasta Area: Attractor patterns like the Royal Wulff or the Humpy can produce excellent results in fall. These flies are highly visible and can attract trout even in fast-moving water.

Conclusion

Whether you’re fishing the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe, the renowned streams of the Burney Falls region, or the stunning rivers of the Mount Shasta area, having the right flies is crucial. By adapting your fly selection to the time of season and the specific characteristics of each area, you can maximize your chances of success. Be sure to visit the best fly shops in these areas to stock up on the flies you need for your next Northern California fly fishing adventure. Remember, it’s not just about the flies you choose, but also about the experience and the memories you create along the way.