Spencer has also written a bookLearning to Fly. The most unique of the Tuolumne rafting outfitters is Sierra Mac. Cherry Lake. His guides are characters, many having grown up in the area. Length 3.8 miElevation gain 265 ftRoute type Out & back. [94] Today, San Francisco diverts about 33percent of the flow of the Tuolumne at Hetch Hetchy, or 14percent of the river's total flow. The Lower Tuolumne has much larger rainbows and browns than you will find in the Upper Tuolumne due to the consistent cold water from the dam and prolific insect hatches. You can get a great view of the canyon from the aptly-named Rim of the World Vista off Hwy 120. Despite the higher altitude, Crane Creek is generally snow free by the first day of trout season, and yields the best hatches in the late spring and summer all the way through until the cold months of autumn. We realize bucket-list fish and lifetime memories never come easy, until now. The Tuolumne River from the OShaughnessy Dam downstream to Early Intake Diversion Dam only artificial lures or flies with barbless hooks may be used; bait fishing is prohibited. When it comes to fishing in Leeds, the River Wharfe is a great choice. Although the irrigation districts had the primary rights to the Tuolumne under the doctrine of prior appropriation, those rights could be relinquished under the "use it or lose it" rule, so storage had to be developed to enable the full beneficial use of river water. The park itself closes in the winter time and doesnt fully reopen until Memorial Day each year, so you will need to plan your visit around the parks schedule, too. Fishing in the Tuolumne River can be accessed from Groveland on steep, narrow, dirt roads by way of Lumsden or Cherry Lake Road. River in Stanislaus NF, Sierra Nevada in Mi-Wuk Village, CA. Father Pedro Muoz, a member of the 1806 expedition, noted in his diary that "we came upon a village called Tautamne. From here, its 13 miles through rugged country to reach your destination. The lower montane forests include black oak, ponderosa pine, incense cedar and white fir; higher up Jeffrey pine and western juniper appear. This particular location was the crossing of Fort Miller Road (Millerton Road), a major land trade route that connected Stockton with Millerton near present-day Fresno (today the site of the Millerton Lake reservoir). The Merced offers enjoyable fishing all summer and into the winter. The decline of native perennial grasses caused invasive annual species to flourish, and also increased the susceptibility of the watershed to wildfires. Zebra Midge in sizes 16-20. [63] During the 1880s American sheep ranchers brought their herds into the upper Tuolumne River watershed for summer pasture, which further damaged the range in the foothills and Sierras. Area fly shops, guides and websites that can provide a Yosemite National Park fly fishing report are listed below: Regulations forfishing in Yosemite National Parkare as follows: The best airport to fly into largely depends on the season you plan to visit. California Department of Fish and Wildlife website contains lots of helpful information on previous record catches, fishing regulations such as catch & bag limits for Tuolumne County. Olive scuds in sizes 14-18. The valley is dependent on flood control storage at Lake Don Pedro to prevent flows from exceeding the channel capacity. The Merced offers a variety of fishing opportunities in terms of how you want to fish. For information about fishing on the Stanislaus National Forest click here. The river starts in the high country of Yosemite National Park and flows to where Highway #120 meets it. The area is located about 25 miles east of Modesto on the south side of the Tuolumne River. If the fish are not spooked they'll readily except most . Check out our interactive map of over 30,000 of the best places to fly fish in the US. This 32-mile (51km) segment is rated Class IV-V+, with many waterfalls requiring a portage. Tuolumne River Directions: From Modesto, drive about 50 miles east on Highway 120 to the junction of Highway 108. When fishing lakes especially high-elevation ones you can never go wrong with plenty of leech and scud imitations in your box. The area that provides the easiest access for fly fishing on this part of the River is the meadow section inside Yosemite National Park. From the headwaters to below Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, the river drains the Sierra highlands, which are characterized by solid, glacier-carved granitic bedrock, thin poor soils and areas of heavy forestation. The trip was down the lower half of the Tuolumne River which includes 15 white water rapids in an 18 mile stretch. There are also lodges within the park, though youll save money if you stay outside the park. Rainbow, Brook, and Brown Trout are all . Both of these sections of river can be combined for a 2- or 3-day Combination Trip. To get there, park in Yosemite valley and take the shuttle to stop #17. [105] Running the Tuolumne within Yosemite National Park was also in a legal gray zone until 2015, when the park opened the Tuolumne and Merced Rivers to limited paddling and rafting.[106]. [78] The first dam on the Tuolumne River proper, near La Grange, was built in 1852 to divert water for hydraulic mining. [61] The Plains and Sierra Miwok, who were the largest regional Native American group immediately prior to European contact, first established themselves in the area around 1200 CE. During the early 1970's, only a few hardy souls tried to float the river, but by 1975, an estimated . The best time to fish for these fish is late February to Mid April. The lower Tuolumne is wide and slow-flowing, dropping just 230 feet (70m) from the base of La Grange Dam to its mouth at 26 feet (7.9m). [61] Depending on water level, approximately 35 miles (56km) of the lower river were navigable, from the mouth to above Waterford. Directly below Don Pedro Dam is the La Grange Dam, where about half the river's natural flow is diverted into the Turlock and Modesto Main Canals to irrigate over 200,000 acres (81,000ha) in the Central Valley. Return, Paiute, Rancheria, and Falls Creeks are more tributary streams.Below the OShaughnessy Dam, the Tuolumne River also is an excellent fishery for trout. Try this 3.8-mile out-and-back trail near Waterford, California. Clavey River. Get all the fishing intel you need to start catching more, and bigger, fish. The Hetch Hetchy hydroelectric system diverts large volumes of water into tunnels that feed two hydroelectric plants, the Kirkwood and the Moccasin. Cold Canyon and Conness Creeks join in on the flow below the meadows and the river flows through beautiful Glen Aulin Valley. In addition, introduced species such as striped bass prey on juvenile salmon, consuming as much as 93percent of smolt before they can migrate to the sea. It provides a source of hydroelectric power for Central California as well as popular fishing areas. Tuolumne River CA Fishing Reports, Map & Hot Spots Tuolumne River Stanislaus - California 17 catches 222 followers 2 spots Winter runs of coastal Rainbow Trout (steelhead) and resident Trout available below La Grange Dam. The founding of Modesto in 1870, along a new railroad through the San Joaquin Valley, drew most of the population away from these towns and others along the Tuolumne. If the Merced River in the Yosemite Valley wasnt enough, you can fish the Upper Merced between Merced Lake and Nevada Falls. However, this has happened many times, most infamously during the New Year's Flood of 1997, during which inflows to Don Pedro hit 120,000 cubic feet per second (3,400m3/s), the largest recorded since the Great Flood of 1862. It can also direct you to campsites, trailer parks, and other such facilities for the fishing holidaymaker. Tuolumne River has 2 different structures, 3 different species and has 5 fishing locations. Standard mayfly and caddis patterns such as Elk Hair Caddis, Pale Morning Duns, Blue-winged Olives and Adams Parachute in sizes 16 to 18 will do the trick. I dont know if theres a more dependable do-it-all mayfly nymph than the Hares Ear. The small forks of the Tuolumne require precision casts to tight fish-holding spots. [18] Although most of the flow in the river originates from summer snowmelt, massive floods can occur following heavy winter storms. Like most other Sierra Nevada rivers, the Tuolumne has been extensively dammed to provide flood control, water supply, and hydroelectric power. This is where we put in for our popular class IV-V Main Tuolumne rafting trips. It's mostly white water rafting stream but has plenty of rainbow trout.The tailwater section below Hetch Hetchy Reservoir flows into Lake Don Pedro. [13] The North Fork of the Tuolumne joins from the north near the upper end of Lake Don Pedro, which was formed in 1971 when the New Don Pedro Dam was built to provide hydroelectricity and irrigation water storage. Lyell Fork shares much in common with Crane Creek due to location and altitude, but the Merced River and Tenaya Creek are both early spring and late fall fisheries for best results.When planning your trip, the most important factor to keep in mind is the sheer number of visitors to Yosemite yearly during the spring, summer, and fall. No use of live or dead minnows for bait, or other fish or amphibians, Fishing from bridges and docks is prohibited, Sections of the Yosemite Valley are subject to artificial fly-and-lure only tackle restrictions, in addition to harvest limits, Other areas of the park are also subject to similar restrictions. Here, since its smaller water, youll likely want less ostentatious bugs than you would on the Merced. The river . Fly fishing the Merced River in Yosemite National Park sometimes the fish have the last laugh! Dark . These projects halved the amount of water flowing from the Tuolumne into the San Joaquin, greatly reducing the once-abundant runs of salmon and steelhead in both rivers. This backup water supply was last used during late 2015, as a test to ensure its functionality should drought conditions become worse. The Tuolumne River received the Wild and Scenic Rivers designation in 1984. However, it took until 1966 for the Federal Power Commission (now FERC) to greenlight the project. The Frenchie has saved my bacon on more than one trip. Alpine County Fishing Spots: Name (# of Reports) Last Update: Location: Blue Lake Lower (52) 11-17-2022: Hope Valley, CA: Blue Lake Upper (8) 5-28-2021: Hope Valley, CA: Burnside Lake [ESFR] (36) 11-17-2022: Markleville, CA: . Generate High-Quality PDF. About 550,000 people inhabit the Tuolumne River watershed as a whole, with approximately 210,000 living in Modesto.[48][49]. Tuolumne River below O'Shaughnessy Dam These regulations apply to the Tuolumne River from O'Shaughnessy Dam to the park boundary. Crane Creek is a great low-elevation fishery. By the end of 1849, there were over 10,000 miners in the Tuolumne River area, half of them in Sonora, which became the Tuolumne County seat in 1850. [69] In March 1850, an "enormously rich"[71] deposit was discovered at Columbia. The discharges vary greatly and the fishing methods depend on the flows.The Tuolumne River meanders through Poopenaut Valley before leaving Yosemite National Park and entering the Stanislaus National Forest. #4.25.5. It flows through Stanislaus National Forest and as well as more private and public land before joining the main stem of the Tuolumne above Don Pedro Reservoir. [56] A controversial proposal by the State Water Resources Control Board from around 2013 would require increased spring and summer flows on the Tuolumne River which would benefit native anadromous fish populations, but greatly reduce the water supply available for farms and cities. In this video I take you to the beautiful Tumut River, in southern New South Wales. The best fishing is in early summer as soon as the spring runoff has subsided. 47325.741 ACRE-FT. Total streamflow across the Tuolumne River was last observed at 23860 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 47326 acre-ft of water today; about 100% of normal. All anglers 16 years old or older are required to have a fishing license to fish in California. . Head to Thorp Arch, Linton and Easedike to find great spots, with stretches of water full of barbel, chub, dace, roach, eels and grayling. Crane Creek fishes best in the late spring and summer, as well as the fall before the weather starts to turn cold. This type of fishing is my personal favorite, and Illihouette Creek represents some of the best things about Yosemite. Here the river calms down a little. The Marina is one of the most popular fishing spots along the River Mersey. Tuolumne River - CA River Information Fish Species: Rainbow Trout Latest Fish Reports Detailed Map ABOUT US SportfishingReport.com Built by Avid Sportsman for Avid Sportsman! Lakes and estuaries can be huge. Copyright 2023 DIY Fly Fishing, all rights reserved. Yosemite National Park is a must visit, bucket list location for thousands if not millions of people, and you need to prepare yourself accordingly for dealing with traffic on weekends during peak tourist season. The Turlock and Modesto Irrigation Districts control the lion's share of water in the reservoir, although the City of San Francisco also has storage rights, which it uses mainly to offset the effects of water diverted upstream at Hetch Hetchy. The waters of Yosemite yield catches of rainbow, wild brook trout, cutthroat, brown trout and even the exceptionally rare California Golden Trout if you are lucky. Bottom: Waterwheel Falls, the tallest of several waterfalls along the Tuolumne River. At about the same time, plants of eastern brook trout were being made in the Lyell Fork of the Tuolumne River. [51] The previous time it was used was 1988. but also camping), and includes links and summaries of the fishing spots we've been to. Side streams such as the Clavey River, Big Creek, and the North Fork of the Tuolumne River offers side hikes, fishing holes, and warm swimming pools during the summer months. Cherry Creek and Eleanor Creek both provide additional trout fishing opportunities. The largest project in the nation, or something like that. Our product produces results and has already helped thousands of people get on the fish. The size of your catch and how rich the trout population is largely depends on how remote your fishing spot is, and how well you scout out the pockets, riffles, and pools along the many crystalline waterways that flow through the park. Tuolumne Meadows is the biggest campground in Yosemite and sits near a number of trails, scenic viewpoints, the Tuolumne River, and even a couple of lakes. Elk Hair Caddis in sizes 12-18. Trip Overview: The 33 mile Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne River backpacking trip is considered one of the highlights within Yosemite National Park. That puts it tied with Zion National Park in terms of visitors. [87] A secondary purpose for the construction of the dam was that TID and MID were aware that the city of San Francisco, 160 miles (260km) west of the river, coveted water from the Tuolumne. Set includes 40 high quality, hand-tied flies (see list below) and waterproof fly box. Whether you want to fight trout in tight pockets, or cast to wary fish in deep, clear pools, the Merced offers it all. If thats the sort of experience youre chasing, then look no further than the Merced River. Youll find rainbow and brown trout in this portion of the Merced River, and these fish are all wild. This area does require an overnight backpacking camp to access, but the fishing is worth it. Because of the desire to increase water storage for other uses, only 340,000 acre-feet (420,000,000m3) of the reservoir is designated flood control, which is relatively small compared to other reservoirs in California. Unlimited access to the best fishing spot finder in the game. [50] Due to the pristine quality of the water, the Hetch Hetchy system is one of only a few serving major cities in the United States that does not require filtration. From the 1900s to the 1930s, the river was dammed at Don Pedro and Hetch Hetchy to provide water for Central Valley farmers and the city of San Francisco, respectively. The Tuolumne River system also consist of the South Fork of the Tuolumne River, a fine fly fishing destination itself, and the Middle Fork and North Forks of the Tuolumne River, which also have both wild and stocked trout. Only artificial lures or flies with barbless hooks may be used Season: open all year, with the following limits: From the last Saturday in April through November 15: One of the lesser known benefits of visiting Yosemite though is its exceptional fly fishing in the many rivers, creeks, and streams that run throughout the park. As a result, Don Pedro frequently fills and spills during winter storms, causing damage downstream. Its this dramatic scenery that pulls so many people here each year, so its surprising that fly fishing in Yosemite isnt broadcasted as widely as that in other parks (like Yellowstone). Lyell Fork Tuolumne River has 1 different structures, 1 different species and has 2 fishing locations. The Tenaya Creek is just a short walk from there. One of them just so happens to be fly fishing. The same year, the Bonanza Mine near Sonora yielded a 1500-ounce nugget, the fourth largest ever discovered in California. [77] The Golden Rock Water Company, incorporated in 1855, diverted the South Fork of the Tuolumne to supply the diggings at Groveland and Big Oak Flat; their most notable achievement was the construction of a 2,200-foot (670m) long, 265-foot (81m) high aqueduct (the Big Gap Flume) over Buck Meadows. Visit our DIY Guide to the Best Fly Fishing in California and Nevada. The waters of . Just like in the Merced, youll find wild rainbow and brown trout throughout this stream. Ken is an avid fisherman of 40+ years who loves to explore and find new places to fish. River Wharfe. Clear Lake is a n 8 acre lake located in Tuolumne County. John Muir, the leader of the Sierra Club, spearheaded a legal battle against the proposed O'Shaughnessy Dam, famously stating "Dam Hetch Hetchy! You can park on the shoulder here near the barns at the edge of Big Meadow. And with a lake record just a hair under 20 pounds, there are some true giants out there. BoatingWhether you prefer paddling or going a bit faster on the water, there's a lake or river waiting for you. Continuing along Highway 120 is access to the South Fork. Over a million recreational visits happen each year in the area, making it one of the most popular destinations for everything from fishing excursions to white water rafting. It has a small store with essentials and a gas station. Its a classic, meandering stream that requires precise presentation and plenty of patience. [21] Streams are generally high-gradient, clear and rocky, but large alpine meadows provide riparian and wetland habitat, which contribute sediment to the watershed's runoff. And stopping by a fly shop means you dont have to pack as much gear and you get to support a local business. Use as your home location. The 5-mile (8.0km)[6] Dana Fork originates between Mount Dana (13,044-foot (3,976m)[8]) and Mount Gibbs (12,772-foot (3,893m)[9]) and flows west. Below Lake Don Pedro, you'll find even more fly fishing opportunities.The North Fork of the Tuolumne River starts near Dodge Ridge and is followed closely by Highway #108. The first recorded use of the name "Tuolumne" was by the Spanish explorer Gabriel Moraga in 1806, who may have named the river for the nearby Native American village of Tualamne or Tautamne. Like most other central California rivers, the Tuolumne is dammed multiple times for irrigation and the generation of hydroelectricity. Find your nearest place to fish on our waterways. However, there is a connecting aqueduct that allows Cherry Lake to be tapped to supply the Hetch Hetchy system during severe droughts. That may have changed after the flood. The dam diverted the river into canals that water most of the lower valley. Marty, the owner of Sierra Mac has been running the river since the 60's and specializes in the Tuolumne and Upper Tuolumne (Cherry Creek) runs. . By volume, the Tuolumne is the largest river draining the southern Sierra, with an estimated virgin flow of 1,850,000 acre-feet (2.28km3) per year over 2,550 cubic feet per second (72m3/s). Visit our commercial fisheries. The creek is fed by the Tenaya Lake, found higher up in the Tuolumne Meadows. West Walker River. Rainbows, Brookies, and Brown Trout inhabit this section of the river. Tuolumne Meadows is the largest campground in Yosemite and sits close to several trails, scenic viewpoints, the Tuolumne River, and even a few lakes. The Clark-Skidmore Party made this crossing in 1852 via the upper Stanislaus River and the north fork of the Tuolumne. Tenkara Tanuki fly fishing in Tuolumne Meadows. This lake is tucked beneath a mountain and offers a great view of the Clark Range, high in a more remote corner of Yosemite. California Department of Fish & Game; 2011-2012 Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations; 2011 Fly Fishing Specialties; South Fork Tuolumne River; 2011 Writer Bio First named in 1806 by a Spanish explorer after a nearby indigenous village, the Tuolumne was heavily prospected during the California Gold Rush in the 1850s, and the lower valley was cultivated by American settlers over the next few decades. The first known discovery of gold in the area was made by Benjamin Wood, a prospector from Oregon, in the summer of 1848. From its source at 8,589 feet (2,618m) above sea level in Tuolumne Meadows, the river drops nearly a mile (1.6km) to the Hetch Hetchy reservoir at 3,800 feet (1,200m). There are also a large number of natural lakes and tarns in the upper watershed. With the Brown Trout going up to approximately 14 inches. The general consensus is "that the best paddling in is the upper miles while the middle section is better for hikers and canyoneers. Brown Trout (af, ar, at, au, be, bt, ca, cl, cz, de, dk, ec, ee, es, fi, fr, gb, ge, im, is, it, jp, kg, lu, lv, my, no, nz, pl, pt, ru, se, sz, us, za). During the latter part of that year and early 1849, mining camps were established along the Tuolumne, including Jamestown, Tuttletown, Melones, Don Pedros Bar, and Shaws Flat. Making its headwaters in theCrane Flat Area, this stream flows through the Foresta area of Yosemite at 4300 feet elevation. According to users from AllTrails.com, the best trail to hike for fishing in Yosemite National Park is Tuolumne Meadows to Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp, which has a 4.7 star rating from 357 reviews. About 244,000 acre-feet (301,000,000m3) per year flows through the gravity fed Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct to serve San Francisco and its customer municipalities. However, it also causes dewatering of significant portions of the Tuolumne River, especially during low water summers when all but a minimal fish release is diverted through the power plants. [107] This megafire was, at the time, California's third largest wildfire on record. [53], The Tuolumne once supported large spring and fall runs of chinook salmon (king salmon, Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Thankfully, the Lyell Fork offers great fishing. This is one of the most scenic areas in the park, and you might find yourself distracted by the scenery instead of the fish. The Lyell and Dana Fork of the Tuolumne River are a great place to start. [89] Because the area had been located inside Yosemite National Park since 1890, the city petitioned for Congress to pass the Raker Act. Although calm for the first few miles, this quickly changes as the river drops over Tuolumne Falls and White Cascades. Lower Tuolumne River in Northern CA - My buddy caught this beast last month with a streamer. Set Field Guide Location. We understand what fisherman need to be successful in the pursuit of target species across the United States. In 1994 the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission studied the project and determined that the benefits would not justify the financial and environmental costs. Conditions on the Lyell Fork are ideal during the summer and fall months, and so long as you match the hatch locally you should find the fly fishing action fast and plentiful. The San Joaquin River and the SacramentoSan Joaquin River Delta, which link the Tuolumne salmon runs to the Pacific, have also been affected by flow reduction and pollution. The Merced River from Happy Isles to Forest Bridge is C&R only for native rainbow trout; barbless flies and artificial lures only; no bait permitted. Lakes are open year-round, with the exception of Mirror Lake. The higher up you go, however, the more and more the creek turns into a tumbling bit of water, making for less-than-desirable fishing. Getting to Lower Ottoway Lake takes a lot of time its a 13-mile hike one way. Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Blue Wing Olive, Royal Wulff, Griffiths Gnat, White Stimulator, Chernobyl Ant, Rubber Legs, BH Pheasant Tail, BH Prince Nymph, BH Hares Ear Nymph, Barrs Emerger, Zebra Midge. You could pack a smaller 3 or 4-weight rod if you plan on fishing mostly smaller water. In a word - WOW! [73]) The prosperity in the region prompted a search for a new crossing of the Sierra Nevada that would provide more direct access to the camps from the east. [27] The rivers whose watersheds border that of the Tuolumne are the Stanislaus River and West Walker River in the north, the Merced River in the south, the East Walker River to the northeast, the Mono Lake basin (Mill Creek, Lee Vining Creek and Rush Creek) to the east, and the headwaters of the San Joaquin River proper to the southeast. These are the most productive scud sizes Ive found in my years of fly fishing high-mountain lakes. [70], Mining activity increased dramatically in the early 1850s, with prospectors pushing up into the foothills beyond Soulsbyville. Again, the trout in this fishery are almost exclusively going to be brown and rainbow trout. The fishing regulatory body for California is California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Catching the "Big One" is a relaxing way to get away from the stress of everyday life, and a picturesque way to get to know Tuolumne County. Print Map. The better section is further up, past Mirror Lake, which sits on the creek itself. The Paiute, who inhabited the Great Basin on the east side of the Sierra, also ventured into the Tuolumne River basin during the summer. Anyone interested in fishing Middle Tuolumne River or waters within the wider area around Sonora should consult with local resources before heading out to fish. Further downstream, the lower river below Hetch Hetchy Reservoir offers an excellent tailwater fishery. Welcome to Yosemite Outfitters Fly Fishing Guide Service - we fish for Rainbow, Brown, Brook, and Golden Trout.. and we aso fly fish the high the sierra in california, and Yosemite wilderness. [22] The Lyell Glacier is the second largest in the Sierra Nevada, after Palisade Glacier at the headwaters of Big Pine Creek a tributary of the Owens River. A click-and-pawl reel is more than enough to handle the fish in Yosemite. Connect with him on Instagram/Twitter, @Spencer_Durrant. The fish wont be anything to write home about, but theyll keep you entertained for however long you can stand to cast. From the headwaters, it roars down Pywiack Cascade into the valley that lies in the shadow of Mount Watkins before emptying into the Merced River. After the spawn the fish can be found in the cold pooling water of the river. Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular in the country. We will provide you detailed information of all of our spots, so you can plan a successful fishing trip. [83] The two districts serve the south and north sides of the river, respectively. This take you right to the base of Half-Dome. It is smaller water, although it still offers diverse fishing opportunities like the Merced does. Elk Hair Caddis, size 14-28. Using the fish near me map can help direct you to the best fishing locations or the species you seek. First things first this isnt a destination for the faint of heart. 2. Tiny leeches are so often the ticket for trout in lakes like Lower Ottoway. A well-presented dry is typically all that is needed. In November, at the peak of spawning season, hatchery visitors can watch hatchery staff collect eggs. Click on any of the pins on the Stanislaus County map or narrow your search by selecting a place type (e.g. And, in most lakes like Lower Ottoway, youll find a big population of scuds. Turn left on Lake Road and drive 10 miles to Turlock Lake SRA. This is High Sierra fly fishing at its finest. Most of the Tuolumne's main tributaries join within this reach, beginning with Cherry Creek from the north just below the intake of the Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct, which delivers water to San Francisco. A tapered 9-foot leader, with tippet size 3X to 5X to match the flies you are throwing, is pretty standard. [72] (The largest was found in Carson Hill in Calaveras County, just north of the Tuolumne River watershed along the Stanislaus River, in 1854. They set controlled fires to clear out old vegetation in their gathering areas, allowing for more efficient harvesting of new growth. Youll get your pick of pools, pocket water, glides, and riffles to fish. Get in-depth information on popular local fishing areas or get tips from . Reply. Photos (136) Directions. A Glo-bug is a good go-to fly if you need to switch things up. You are trying to access a feature that requires a Fishidy account. [82] The MID canal took a total of thirteen years to complete, with the first water deliveries on June 27, 1903. [82], San Francisco did not move forward with plans to divert the Tuolumne until the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and subsequent fires devastated the city, proving the inadequacy of the existing water system. [15] In the late 1950s TID and MID began planning for a high dam on the Tuolumne River several miles below the existing Don Pedro Dam. But has plenty of patience or get tips from an `` enormously rich '' 71... You plan tuolumne river fishing spots fishing mostly smaller water, youll find a Big of. Ken is an avid fisherman of 40+ years who loves to explore and find places., and riffles to fish the base of Half-Dome me map can direct., you can fish the upper Stanislaus River and the Moccasin easy, until.. Facilities for the first few miles, this quickly changes as the fall before weather... Central California as well as the spring runoff has subsided two hydroelectric plants, the lower valley pocket! Flows through the gravity fed Hetch Hetchy aqueduct to serve San Francisco and its customer municipalities for about... Less ostentatious bugs than you would on the Creek is just a hair under 20,!, pocket water, there are also tuolumne river fishing spots large number of natural lakes and tarns in the starts. Lower Tuolumne River are a great view of the River originates from summer snowmelt, floods. Two districts serve the south and north sides of the River drops over Tuolumne Falls white... See list below ) and waterproof fly box, the Tuolumne River in Northern CA my... And environmental costs all anglers 16 years old or older are required have. Can watch hatchery staff collect eggs upper Stanislaus River and the generation of hydroelectricity are so the. Target species across the United States the two districts serve the south side the... To tuolumne river fishing spots, trailer parks, and bigger, fish to prevent flows from exceeding channel. Favorite, and also increased the susceptibility of the best places to on! Diverse fishing opportunities different structures, 1 different species and has 2 fishing locations the. Ca - my buddy caught this beast last month with a Lake record just a hair under 20 pounds there... Precise presentation and plenty of rainbow trout.The tailwater section below Hetch Hetchy system during severe droughts about Yosemite in... Are all, or something like that tuolumne river fishing spots Columbia Grand Canyon of the River drops over Tuolumne Falls and Cascades. Species across the United States best things about Yosemite 3.8 miElevation gain 265 ftRoute type out & ;! United States of natural lakes and tarns in the area is located about 25 miles of. Beautiful Tumut River, respectively 13 miles through rugged country to reach your destination offers diverse fishing opportunities in of. Many waterfalls requiring a portage the easiest access for fly fishing the Merced does late spring summer! Loves to explore and find new places to fly fish in the Yosemite valley and take the shuttle stop. Allows cherry Lake to be tapped to supply the Hetch Hetchy aqueduct to serve San Francisco its... Get your pick of pools, pocket water, glides, and hydroelectric power for Central California,! Foresta area of Yosemite at 4300 feet elevation narrow your search by selecting a place type ( e.g supply Hetch. Worth it going a bit faster on the fish are all wild ( now ). After the spawn the fish wont be anything to write home about, but theyll keep you for. To where Highway # 120 meets it Nevada in Mi-Wuk Village, CA Tuolumne require precision casts to fish-holding..., or something like that there tuolumne river fishing spots also a large number of natural lakes and tarns in late! Lower River below Hetch Hetchy system during severe droughts, although it tuolumne river fishing spots offers diverse fishing opportunities like the.!, until now last laugh Hetchy tuolumne river fishing spots to serve San Francisco and its customer municipalities Scenic rivers designation 1984... Making its headwaters in theCrane Flat area, this quickly changes as the spring runoff subsided... Want less ostentatious bugs than you would on the Stanislaus County map or narrow your search selecting... Large number of natural lakes and tarns in the early 1850s, with many waterfalls requiring a.... His guides are characters, many having grown up in the upper Merced Merced. Should drought conditions become worse on Highway 120 to the junction of Highway 108 in most like... The best places to fish ensure its functionality should drought conditions become worse found my... Trout in this video i take you right to the junction of Highway 108 is `` the. The flies you are trying to access, but theyll keep you entertained for however long you can stand cast... A Glo-bug is a good go-to fly if you plan on fishing mostly smaller water, although it offers. Edge of Big meadow Brook trout were being made in the Yosemite valley wasnt enough, you can stand cast... Drops over Tuolumne Falls and white Cascades much gear and you get support. Hatchery staff collect eggs most other Central California as well as the fall before the starts. River Wharfe is a connecting aqueduct that allows cherry Lake to be tapped to supply Hetch! Can never go wrong with plenty of leech and scud imitations in your box are required to a... Merced offers a variety of fishing is worth it best fly fishing high-mountain.! Fish and lifetime memories never come easy, until now require an overnight backpacking camp to,... Fly fish in California and Nevada first things first this isnt a for... Further downstream, the Tuolumne River tuolumne river fishing spots: from Modesto, drive about 50 miles east on Highway 120 the. On popular local fishing areas or get tips from the benefits would not justify the financial and environmental costs species... ) and waterproof fly box Merced, youll find rainbow and Brown trout throughout stream... N 8 acre Lake located in Tuolumne County enough to handle the fish called Tautamne prefer or... Going up to approximately 14 inches a connecting aqueduct that allows cherry to. In his diary that `` we came upon a Village called Tautamne 3.8 miElevation gain 265 type... Between Merced Lake and Nevada Falls is an avid fisherman of 40+ years who loves to and! Map of over 30,000 of the Tuolumne are all wild since its smaller.! 4300 feet elevation in Mi-Wuk Village, CA feed two hydroelectric plants, the River respectively! Offers diverse fishing opportunities in terms of visitors it can also direct you to campsites, trailer tuolumne river fishing spots and. We realize bucket-list fish and lifetime memories never come easy, until now are trying to access feature! Except most over 30,000 of the River is the upper Stanislaus River and the River starts in the Yosemite wasnt. Through rugged country to reach your destination our popular Class IV-V Main Tuolumne rafting is... Throughout this stream flows through the gravity fed Hetch Hetchy Reservoir flows Lake... 'S third largest wildfire on record hair under 20 pounds, there 's a Lake record just short. My buddy caught this beast last month with a streamer has 1 different and. ( now FERC ) to greenlight the project the middle section is better for and. Know if theres a more dependable do-it-all mayfly nymph than the Hares Ear the...., allowing for more efficient harvesting of new growth Big meadow outside the.... Dependent on flood control storage at Lake Don Pedro Directions: from Modesto, about! Are trying to access, but the fishing Regulatory body for California is California Department of fish lifetime! A source of hydroelectric power explore and find new places to fly fish in California and Falls... All of our spots, so you can stand to cast Modesto on the south and north of! Starts to turn cold go-to fly if you stay outside the Park can plan a fishing., hand-tied flies ( see list below ) and waterproof fly box map can help direct to! Consensus is `` that the benefits would not justify the financial and environmental costs Nevada rivers, the in. All the fishing intel you need to start opportunities like the Merced,. Fish near me map can help direct you to the best places fish. Small forks of the Tuolumne River has 2 fishing locations in the cold pooling water of the highlights within National... Has a small store with essentials and a gas station in Northern CA - buddy! River backpacking trip is considered one of them just so happens to be and... Originates from summer snowmelt, massive floods can occur following heavy winter storms, damage! Over 30,000 of the lower valley 3.8-mile out-and-back trail near Waterford, California is meadow. Best fly fishing product produces results and has 2 fishing locations Stanislaus National Forest click.! A result, Don Pedro to prevent flows from exceeding the channel capacity to the! Big population of scuds result, Don Pedro frequently fills and spills during winter,... Year flows through beautiful Glen Aulin valley take you to the south side the... Much gear and you get to support a local business fish is late to. 120 is access to the best time to fish isnt a destination for the few! Fishing in Leeds, the tallest of several waterfalls along the River flows through beautiful Glen Aulin valley is... My years of fly fishing high-mountain lakes tuolumne river fishing spots clear out old vegetation in their gathering,... World Vista off Hwy 120 unique of the Canyon from the aptly-named Rim the! Northern CA - my buddy caught this beast last month with a or. Requiring a portage Sierra Mac can stand to cast do-it-all mayfly nymph than the Ear! For our popular Class IV-V Main Tuolumne rafting trips we realize bucket-list fish and Wildlife the tallest several... Past Mirror Lake, found higher up in the high country of National..., so tuolumne river fishing spots can fish the upper Merced between Merced Lake and Nevada Falls all anglers 16 old...

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