Trinity River Steelhead Fly Fishing Report: 5/14/2012
River flows are ver high. Currently 4,500 CFS. That kind of volume is too tough to fish, except for the select flats that can hold big to very big brown trout. Not for everyone, the Trinity can give up a few big, bad brown trout for the seasoned angler. Worth a try. Flows will come down to a more manageable volume in August.
Hot Flies: #12-14 Red Copper Johns, Shrimp Pink Micro-Spawn, #6-8 Pat’s Brown Rubber Legs, #8 TB Golden Stone, Silver Beaded Crystal Bugger.
Trinity River Winter Steelhead
ABOUT FLY FISHING THE TRINITY RIVER
The Trinity flows from Lewiston California some 130 miles to it’s confluence with the Klamath River. From October through early March, steelhead roam these waters. Much is written about these fish. They are majestic. An experience on this river during the fall and winter months can be cold, rainy and snowy. Not for the light hearted, anglers that dress accordingly and have a strong desire to connect with one of the most prestigious fish to be had on a fly rod will remember only the furry, fight and color of the fish, the conditions, being fair or not, are just the price of admission. I use a drift boat to navigate the Trinity.
Much of the fishing is done from my boat, but the option to wade is available. Suspending nymphs under an indicator is the easiest way to find these fish, but not the only way. Many anglers prefer to connect with these illusive fish on the “swing”. I feel this method is the most exhilarating approach, but also requires the most commitment to the fish and the river. In winter, the days are short. One day is not enough to do this river justice. I recommend spending at least two days fishing it. My favorite month is February, but don’t confuse that with the best month. Anytime from November through February is a good choice.
Equipment: 7 or 8 wt rods in 9 to 9.6 foot lengths are perfect. A floating line is all that is needed. A DC Sink Tip can be handy for swining flies through deep, swift water. I prefer a 2.6-IPS 12′VersiLeader for most of the water on the Trinity above the N. Fork.
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