Nevada County Fishing Reports

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) reports that river flows are excellent, and fishing conditions are currently great. The river is flowing steadily at around 300 cfs and has been stable for some time. Stocked Lahontan Cutthroat Trout have been reported around parks in town and to the west. Water temperatures are ideal, with fish scattered throughout. Small spinners and spoons are performing well, especially in deeper areas. There have been some late afternoon mayfly hatches, which are expected to increase as winter approaches. Fishing should remain good until extreme cold weather sets in.

No stockings since spring, but with cooling water temperatures, rainbow trout are becoming much more aggressive, chasing shad into shallower areas of the lake. The best trout action has been in the early mornings using shad-colored spoons or spinners. Spotted bass activity is also improving with the cooler temps. Dropshots, T-rigged Roboworms, and small flukes are all getting attention. Fishing should only improve over the next few weeks.

The rainbow trout fishing at Donner remains good thanks to the cooling temperatures. The stockings in June and July are still providing plenty of catchable fish in the 12 to 15-inch range. The west side has been particularly productive with Powerbait or blown-up nightcrawlers off the bottom.

The Mackinaw bite continues to be slow as most trollers are heading to Tahoe. However, as fall approaches and the water temperature continues to drop, they should become more active (aim for early October). The kokanee bite has been solid, with small schools starting to form. They should be a viable target through October before the spawn. Water levels have dropped to 85 percent capacity.