the Old Fly Shop

While this high sierra gem begins its epic journey from Lake Tahoe in California and concludes at Pyramid Lake in Nevada, our concerted efforts take place in the "middle section", from the town of Truckee to Floriston. This section of the river is fairly flat and has an abundance of pocket water, deep pools, long runs and tail-outs. We'll walk 'n' wade this water. The Truckee is home to a growing population of Browns and Rainbows with a few Cutthroats and Brookies thrown into the mix. You'll come across a number of fish in the 15" to 20" range. That being said, fish pushing 30 inches are not unheard of but landing these terrific trout is a challenge unlike any other. Spring As the snow fades and the run-off dissipates, the trout of the Truckee are actively seeking a meal. These majestic marvels of the mountains spend their days scouring the bottom for a properly presented nymph or one of the Truckee's other aquatic creatures. This is the time to get 'em while they're hungry. Summer Funny thing about this time of year - the river drops and the trout rise. Who'd-a-thunk-it? We'll target those regal rainbows and bodacious browns as we match the hatch with a variety of patterns. Whether the fish sip it, slurp it or crash it, you're sure to have the time of your life. Fall This is a great time to be on the Truckee. The crowds have diminished, the temperatures have cooled and the fishing remains hot. Big browns and 'bows continue to gorge themselves before that first snow of the season. This could definitely be the time for that fish of a lifetime. Winter Skiing? I don't think so. Boarding? Not a chance. Snowmobiling? Not gonna happen. Ice skating? Puh-lease. We'll take that monster trout every day of the week, any time of the year. And while the trout's metabolism slows during the winter, they're nevertheless, still eating. And we know how to get them to grab. Truckee & Little Truckee River Gear & Equipment List We offer a variety of fishing packages on the Truckee River: Full Day Premium for $425 Full Day Basic for $395 Half Day Premium for $325 All rates based on 2 anglersAdditional anglers where possible $75Specify requested guide date below.

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The Calaveras River has been a well kept secret for valley anglers in-the-know for decades. Although it begins at about 5000 ft. in the Sierras, it's the tail-water stretch flowing from the base of New Hogan Reservoir that we focus on. The native Rainbows in this stretch are among some of the purest strains found anywhere! With a very gentle stretch immediately below the dam, to a steep canyon downstream, we can match the water to your physical demands. Not being navigable, this is a walk-in only stream. If it's solitude you're looking for, we can show you the access points. At only about 30 miles east of Stockton, this gorgeous fishery is right in our backyards! Spring The river is closed from March 31st until the last Sat. in May. This is a Steelhead spawning closure. Summer When the river re-opens it's full on action! The cold flows are very steady and the river fishes well even during mid-day. Pocket water nymphing at it's finest; it's not unusual to catch several trout without moving your feet! For the dry-fly fisherman, evenings are peek times with a flurry of wildly rising fish, just at sunset! Fall Thanks to the deep reservoir and bottom released flows, the river remains cold and the action remains hot right through to fall! With shortening days and cooler weather it's a beautiful time to be on-stream. Winter This is a favorite time for many regulars. Cool weather for longer hikes and an ever present chance for Steelhead make this a must-do winter destination!Calaveras River Gear & Equipment List We offer a variety of fishing packages on the Calaveras River:Basic Walk & Wade for $365Premium Walk & Wade for $415All rates based on 2 anglersSpecify requested guide date below.

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The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta is a vast maze of rivers, sloughs and backwaters encompassing over 1200 miles of shoreline. All of the Western slope rivers in California eventually flow from the Sierras, through the valley and eventually gather to form this huge estuary. This is the highway that all the anadromous fish that enter our valley rivers must navigate to return to their feeding and spawning grounds. These include King Salmon, Steelhead, Striped Bass and Shad. These species, along with resident Large and Smallmouth bass, are the ones that we fly fisherman target. Centrally located, the Delta is just a short trip away! If you haven't experienced this wonderful fishery, let us at American Fly Fishing Co. be your guide! Spring With warming water temps. and higher river flows, the spring migration of Stripers begins! March through May is the peak of the run, with fish heading up the valley rivers, some to summer over in the cooler flows. This is also time for some of the best Large and Smallmouth fishing as they also spawn and feed heavily after the cold winter. Summer From June through August, it's primarily the resident bass that get most of the attention with some great top-water action on hand. Large numbers of smaller Striped Bass are still around with some larger ones in the mix. There is an overlap of spring fish moving out after the spawn, along with some that seem to stay in fresh water all year. This varies each season and we at American Fly Fishing Co. are always up to date on local trends! Fall The fall run of Stripers usually starts around the end of August with cooling water temps. The fish move in to feed heavily on the large schools of bait fish that have been growing all summer. The resident Large and Smallmouth bass are also fattening up to prepare for the colder winter temps. This period through Dec. is the most consistent of the year... It's not unusual to see schools of Stripers chasing bait to the surface where all you have to do is get your fly there and WHAM, you're hooked up again! This is not a time to miss and must be booked early in order to assure first pick of best tides. Don't wait! Winter This is basically a continuation of the fall. Depending on water temps. and clarity, we've seen the good fishing continue nearly non-stop until spring! Some of the biggest fish of the year are often caught in Dec. and Jan. Again, this is dependent on water temp. and visibility. We know what's happening on a daily basis so just ask. California Delta Gear & Equipment List We offer a variety of fishing packages on the California Delta:Premium Power Boat for $475All rates based on 2 anglers1/2 day Premium is 4 hours on water(no food)Additional anglers where possible $50Specify requested guide date below.

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Lake Tahoe area are bountiful and you will find there is fishing every month of the year. These guides are the most experienced guides in the area. Mountain stream fly fishing is the name of the game with these guides. Tahoe Fly Fishing Outfitters has been the best of the lot for years. We love fishing with these guys. You will too.We offer a variety of fishing packages on the above waters:Premium Walk & Wade for 2 anglers - $395Walk & Wade for 3 anglers is $500Specify requested river & guide date below.

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Running through the heart of Sacramento, this tail-water fishery is an angler's dream with its long runs, deep holes, shallow rifles and extensive holding pools. The lower American can be fished year 'round. And depending on the season, we'll target shad, striped bass, Chinook salmon and steelhead. There's also a good population of "half-pounders" and resident rainbows. Fishing aside, a float trip down the lower American can also serve as a great wildlife viewing day. Present along the river are deer, coyotes, turkeys, bald eagles, beavers, otters, turtles and a plethora of water fowl. Spring In the immortal words of little Carol Anne from the movie Poltergeist, "They're here." But this is no horror story my friends. But rather, it's the real life drama starring the American shad. Rejoice as the "poor man's tarpon" return to the lower American en masse. So grab your popcorn, and some shad darts, and enjoy the show. After all, you have a supporting role. Summer The shad bite continues in full swing - no pun intended. The hottest action of the day occurs during low light, be it breakfast or dinner. But you better put away that 6 wt. and gear up, as the striped bass have infiltrated the river as well. These behemoths of brute force are sure to test even the best gear as well as your muscles. Fall 'Tis the season for the sultans of the Salmonoid. First to arrive are the mighty Kings. Dime bright and full of energy, these bad boys from the Pacific will stretch the limits on your drag system. Following soon thereafter, are what many consider the top prize of all the anadromous species, the steelhead. Have your track shoes ready 'cuz these hogs like to run. Winter This is prime time for steelhead on the lower American - and not just any steelhead. Fish in excess of 15 pounds are cruising the feeding lanes, hangin' in the redds and scouring the tail outs, ready for whatever comes their way. Once hooked - prepare for battle. Surrender is not an option for these masters of the long line release. Lower American River Gear & Equipment List We offer a variety of fishing packages on the Lower American River: Full Day Premium for $425 Full Day Basic for $395 Half Day Premium for $325 Half Day Basic for $295 All rates based on 2 anglers Additional anglers where possible $75 Specify requested guide date below.

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This tail-water fishery begins its journey to the Sacramento River from the town of Oroville, Ca. Long runs, coble strewn riffles, sharp drop offs and sweet tail outs highlight the fishable water on the lower Feather. The river sees an annual return of Shad and Striped Bass in the lower section of the river but the majority of our efforts are concentrated on the muscle bound Chinook Salmon, some in the 50-pound class, and the rocket powered Steelhead to 10+ pounds. Spring As the cold and starkness of winter fades away, it's replaced by the warmth of the sun and a renewed life to the landscape. It also marks the time when thousands of juvenile Steelhead inhabit the lower Feather - otherwise known as "half pounder" heaven. These majestic missiles of mayhem are typically in the 14" to 18" range. But don't be surprised if a larger adult takes you into your backing. Summer No waders required here. But bring a hat, sunscreen and a rod with plenty of backbone as we do battle with the bulldogs of the depths, the scintillating striped bass. We'll chase these voracious diners from Verona on up, as they look to pack on the pounds. And don't be too surprised if an overly aggressive salmon decides to make mincemeat out of your clouser. This can be big fish time on the lower Feather. So do as the Boy Scouts do and be prepared. Fall/Winter As the morning mist rises from the river's surface, you can't help but notice a commotion off in the distance. Upon further inspection, said commotion reveals itself as a series of King salmon moving through a shallow riffle. These ballistic brutes are sure to spool you if you're not on your game. Need more action you say? No problem. There's a slew of steelhead lined up behind the salmon, gorging themselves on eggs. These reel screaming beauties are typically larger than their Spring run brethren. Lower Feather River Gear & Equipment ListWe offer a variety of fishing packages on the Feather River: Drift Boat Basic for $395Drift Boat Premium for $425All rates based on 2 anglersAdditional anglers where possible $75Specify requested guide date below.

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This isn't just a fly fishing trip it's a fly fishing adventure. There are days when we are the only anglers on the river! The day starts off with a three mile decent down a one lane dirt road. You will catch glimpses of this beautiful river peeking through the oak and pine trees as we make the 1500ft drop down to this wild trout stream. The Middle Fork is a tail water fishery located on the east side of the Foresthill Divide. The snow runoff released from the bottom of Oxbow Reservoir keeps the water cold even through the hottest parts of the year. The access to this seven mile stretch of river is limited and difficult which leads to very light fishing pressure. Spring It's finally time to get out on the water! The watershed awakes from its long winter slumber as well as the wild trout. The bright green foliage is a magnificent back drop for an 8-10 hour trip. Egg patterns work behind spawning sucker fish. Little yellow stoneflies nymphs under an indicator can be deadly as well as Yellow Sallies. Summer Streamer Time! The water temps now have warmed up making these wild tout eager to move to slam streamers. Sculpin patterns are a must have in the fly box. Many different techniques will work this time of year. The Middle Fork has a large population of crayfish and swinging them or dead drifting these patterns can entice monster eats. If you like to fish terrestrial patterns the hoppers are on the move and the fish are looking up for an easy meal. Fall With winter just around the corner and the fish trying to fatten up before the inevitable long cold spell it equates to a great time to be on this river. The fish are still willing to chase streamers and the grabs can be amazing. Make sure you have plenty of backing on your reel this time of year! The big browns really go into terminator mode and it's a great chance to land that "Screen Saver" trophy."The best trip I have taken - worth it just for scenery alone. Awesome trip" - Tony Sturgeon We will start bookings for June 1st and end on October 1st. Middle Fork American River Gear & Equipment List We offer just one fishing packages on the Middle Fork of American River:Premium Float for two - $475Specify requested guide date below.

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The Mokelumne river begins as 3 separate forks, from Brookies in some of the highest stretches, to Rainbows and Browns in all 3 forks above Pardee Reservoir. One glance at a map will show the huge area this watershed covers. Miles and miles of rarely fished streams loaded with willing trout.... Below Pardee lies Lake Commanche and it's the tailwater flowing from it's base that recieves our main focus. This stretch flows primarily through private property and is one of the prettiest float trips you'll ever experience. Huge oaks and cottonwoods form a canopy for the entire stretch, sometimes creating long tunnels resembling an exotic jungle adventure. At less than 2 hrs. from the Bay Area and about an hour from Sacramento, you'll never feel so far from home and yet be so close! A very easy day trip, you won't believe what lies in your own backyard.... Spring The river is closed from the end of March until the end of May to protect spawning Steelhead. This is generally run-off time also. Summer Although technically not quite summer, when the river re-opens (last weekend in May), it's non- stop action! Even during mid-day, hatches or not, it's possible to fish dries. We nymph the deeper runs from the boat and wade where possible. Evenings are time for the Caddis and Pale Evening Dun hatches and it seems every fish in the run is up and wildly feeding! Wet wading is the way to go, the river feels perfect... Fall The river closes from Oct.15th until Jan.1st, but fishes great right to the end! Winter What a better way to bring in the New Year!!! Water levels are always good and it's time to catch some Steelhead mixed in with the resident Rainbows. No rafters and usually we have the water all to ourselves.... Mokelumne River Gear & Equipment List We offer a variety of fishing packages on the Mokelumne River:Basic Walk & Wade for $365Premium Walk & Wade for $415Drift Boat Basic for $395Drift Boat Premium for $445All rates based on 2 anglersAdditional anglers where possible $50Specify requested guide date below.

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Putah Creek begins in descent from the coastal mountains but it's the section between Lake Berryessa and Lake Solano near the town of Winters that we find most productive for large rainbows. This portion of the creek consists primarily of deep pools, productive runs and tail-outs. We'll walk 'n' wade during this trip and it's always a good idea to bring a wading staff. Putah Creek is a catch and release fishery and supports a robust population of wild rainbows. Trout to 30 inches roam this small stretch of stream. And to say that these fish are wily is truly an understatement. Our guides know Putah and where the big boys live. Spring/Summer If Teddy Roosevelt had ever fished Putah during the spring and summer, he might have coined the phrase, "Wade slowly and carry a big stick." Flows out of Berryessa peak during this time of year, making wading a challenge. Despite the high water, the lunkers from beneath continue to lay in wait. Fall/Winter It's trophy time! The flows have dropped and the fish have settled in, eager to forage on any number of aquatic insects. Know-how, stealth and proper presentation are essential to entice these benevolent 'bows to drag down your indicator. Now the real test comes as you try and land one of these Putah pugilists. Putah Creek Gear & Equipment ListWe offer a variety of fishing packages on the Putah Creek:Basic Walk & Wade for $365Premium Walk & Wade for $415All rates based on 2 anglersSpecify requested guide date below.

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Want to really learn how to use a spey/switch rod? The best way is to get on the water and fish with qualified guide/instructor. We supply everything!Where & when:We will fish on the Lower American, Yuba or Feather Rivers. The location will be based on what river is producing the best fishing at the time. We will target Rainbows, Steelhead, Shad & Salmon.What you will learn:To begin your day you will learn the following casts: Snap T, Double Spey, Snake Roll & Single Spey. During the day you will practice these and learn the real secret of spey/switch success - THE MEND & SWING! Spey/Switch Gear & Equipment ListWe offer a variety of fishing packages for your spey/switch guided trip:Premium Walk & Wade for $415Drift Boat Premium for $4451/2 day premium is $265All rates based on 2 anglersSpecify requested guide date below.

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