Ted Fay Report : July 3, 2024

Just got a report from the caretaker at the Preserve that a guide got bit by a rattler yesterday. Fortunately the caretaker was nearby and he was able to escort the guide back to his truck and drive him to the emergency room in Mt. Shasta where the guide received the antivenom shot. I was told by the caretaker that for whatever reason the rattlers are very aggressive this year and he said he was chased by one for about 10 feet. Be careful where you set and be safe on the McCloud River.

Ted Fay Report : June 28, 2024

USac brown caught by Fred the fish Gordon Photo by Fred Gordon

June has been spectacular still for dry fly fishing on both the McCloud and USac rivers. The McCloud fortunately has cleared from the visibility scare and is fishing good. Spoke to the caretaker and he told me the fishing is good to great for those who know how to fish this difficult river. Crowds at the Conservancy have been light but with Ash Camp more easy to access it is likely more crowded. Took me about 5 years to figure the McCloud out but once you are cocky and think you have it figured it will turn around and kick you in the teeth. It’s a challenge for what I think is the most beautiful river around so get on it and solve the riddle. Nymphing, dries and streamers are still working but beware of rattlers and poison oak, I was told they are thick this year so be cautious where you are walking. The buzz of those rattlers will give you a heart attack. The USac has still been fishing good for dries in the evenings from Sims up to the dam. Again I would recommend using Adams, Humps and any of your favorite attractors. Below Conant its a nymphing game on the lower river but reports are coming in that folks are catching fish on streamers low down. Remember the shop is open 7 days a week so if you are up here stop in and say hello.

Cheers

Rick Cox

USac definitely in shape

Buster fishing

Buster running streamers

USac bow Photo by Chris Devine

Flows on USac great Photo by Chris Devine

McCloud brown Photo by Jason Kash

October caddis starting to do their thing

Donuts are necessary for fishing

Ted Fay Report : June 19, 2024

Unfortunately, as predicted, the McCloud River is suffering the effects of the mud from the reservoir. Visibility in the river is now about 1-2 feet. Hopefully those who know the river can still wade it but it will be a dangerous proposition for those who don’t know the river intimately. Fingers crossed that it won’t get worse.

On the other hand the USac is having one of its best years of dry fly fishing. Went out with Buster yesterday and we caught fish midday but the prime time is 6-8:30pm.

Cheers

Rick Cox