Nevada County Fishing Reports

Scotts Flat is warming… with water temps now pushing into the high 50s, the smallmouth bite is starting to heat up as well. Reaction baits are doing most of the damage… chatterbaits, swimbaits, rattle traps, even old-school rooster tails are getting hit. Water clarity is very good so stick to natural colors. They are active and chasing shallow.

Trout action should pick up soon too. The last CDFW plant was in mid-March, but another stock is expected this week. Meanwhile, kayak anglers have been sticking some quality brown trout by working spoons in transition areas.

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.