Trophy Trout Stillwater Fly Fishing in the Lost Sierra!

Lake Davis, and Frenchman Lakes Rank at the Top of California’s Trophy Trout Fisheries!

Fly Fishing Lake Davis

Lake Davis, located in the Sierra Nevada of Northern California, is a renowned fly fishing haven, especially famous for its hard-fighting rainbow trout. The average size of trout in the lake typically ranges from 16 to 20 inches, weighing between 2 to 4 pounds. However, it’s not uncommon to catch larger rainbow trout that exceed 5 to 7 pounds. The lake’s rich food sources, such as Chironomids, damselflies, and other aquatic insects, contribute to the rapid growth and strong fight of the trout. During peak seasons, particularly in the spring and fall, anglers can expect to catch quality fish while fishing from the shore, float tubes, or small boats.

The lake’s diverse aquatic ecosystem supports a range of insect hatches, including midges, damselflies, and mayflies, creating prime conditions for dry fly and nymph fishing. Spring and fall are the prime seasons when trout feed aggressively in the shallows, while summer offers great opportunities to fish in deeper waters with streamers and leeches. Our guided trips at Lake Davis run from ice-off in March through late fall, with a focus on targeting trophy trout in shallower waters from float tubes, rafts, and the shore. Fly fishing at Lake Davis offers an unforgettable experience in a stunning alpine setting, where clear, calm waters reflect the surrounding pine-covered mountains. The crisp mountain air, coupled with the occasional sighting of bald eagles or deer along the shore, creates a truly immersive outdoor adventure.

Fly fishing at Lake Davis is best experienced during specific seasons, with the prime fishing months being spring and fall.

Spring (March to May): This is one of the best times for fishing at Lake Davis. As the ice melts and the waters warm, trout become more active, particularly in the shallows, making them easier to target. Spring offers excellent opportunities for both dry fly and nymph fishing, as the trout feed aggressively after the winter months.
Summer (June to August): While fishing can still be productive during the summer, the fish often move to deeper waters as the surface temperatures rise. During this season, anglers typically use streamers and leech patterns to target fish in deeper areas. It’s a great time for those who enjoy fishing from boats or float tubes.
Fall (September to November): Fall is another peak season for fly fishing at Lake Davis. As the weather cools, trout are once again active in the shallows, feeding aggressively in preparation for winter. This is another ideal time for both dry fly and nymph fishing, with the added bonus of stunning autumn scenery.
Winter (December to February): Fishing slows down in the winter months, but dedicated anglers can still find some success with deeper water fishing techniques. However, access to the lake can be more challenging due to cold temperatures and potential ice coverage, so fishing opportunities are more limited.

Guided trips at Lake Davis typically run from March (ice-off) to late fall, providing access to the best fishing conditions during the most active times for the trout.

Fly Fishing Frenchman Lake

Frenchman Lake, nestled in the Sierra Nevada near the California-Nevada border, is a prime fly fishing destination known for its healthy population of rainbow trout. The average size of trout in Frenchman Lake typically ranges between 12 to 18 inches, with most fish weighing 1 to 3 pounds. However, larger rainbow trout exceeding 20 inches and 4+ pounds are not uncommon, especially in the spring and fall when fish are actively feeding. The lake’s abundant food sources, including midges, damselflies, and minnows, contribute to steady trout growth. Anglers fishing from shore, float tubes, or boats often encounter strong, hard-fighting rainbows that make Frenchman Lake a rewarding fly-fishing destination.

The lake’s cold, clear waters support abundant insect hatches, including midges, damselflies, and mayflies, making it an excellent spot for both dry fly and nymph fishing. Spring and fall are the best seasons, as trout move into the shallows to feed aggressively, while summer fishing is productive in deeper waters using streamers and leech patterns. We guide Frenchman Lake from ice-off in March to late Fall, targeting big trophy trout in shallower waters on float tubes and rafts and from the shore. Frenchman Lake offers an exceptional fly-fishing experience in a relaxing, scenic alpine setting!

Fly fishing at Frenchman Lake is also highly seasonal, with the prime fishing periods occurring in spring and fall. Here's a breakdown of the seasons:

Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best times for fly fishing at Frenchman Lake. As the ice melts and the water warms, trout become more active, especially in the shallows. This is when you’ll find the fish feeding aggressively after the winter, making it a prime time for both dry fly and nymph fishing. Spring offers great opportunities to catch larger rainbows as they move into the shallows to feed.
Summer (June to August): During the summer months, the water temperature rises, and the fish tend to move to deeper, cooler waters. Fishing in the summer requires targeting these deeper areas with streamers and leech patterns. While fishing is still possible, it can be a little more challenging as the trout are less likely to be feeding near the surface.
Fall (September to November): Fall is another prime fishing season at Frenchman Lake. As the weather cools down, the trout become more active in the shallows again, feeding aggressively in preparation for the winter months. This is another excellent time for both dry fly and nymph fishing, with anglers able to target fish close to shore.
Winter (December to February): Fishing slows down in the winter months. The fish are less active and typically move to deeper waters. The colder temperatures may make access to the lake more challenging, and the fishing opportunities are limited during this time.

Guided trips at Frenchman Lake typically run from March (ice-off) through late fall, focusing on the best fishing conditions when the trout are most active, particularly during spring and fall.

Our Trips!

Fly Fishing Guide Jordan Chase Meisenheimer is a Stillwater master! Born and raised in Quincy, California, Jordan spent his childhood fishing and exploring the rivers and lakes of Plumas County alongside his father and grandfather. In 2021, he graduated from the Tahoe Fly Fishing Outfitters Guide School, honing his skills and passion for the sport. He specializes in targeting big brown trout, rainbow trout, and smallmouth bass and takes pride in being an advanced stillwater angler and guide.

Our guided trips include using our NRS Boundry Rafts, Fish Cat Float Tubes, or drift boat. We can also target fish from shore, but most anglers prefer to be on or in the water for the best opportunities!
We offer full and half-day trips and can accommodate small or large groups!
Full-Day Trip Fees: 500.00 for 1 angler, 650.00 for 2 anglers, each additional angler is 150.00
Half-day Trip Fees: 375.00 1 angler, 475.00 for 2 anglers and each additional angler is 100.00

Seasons - We guide Stillwater year-round. Lake Alanor is an excellent winter fishery, and Lake Davis and Frenchman Lakes fish well from March into November.
Fish - Trophy Rainbow and Brown Trout - Measured by the pound!
Peak Seasons - Late Spring to Early Summer (May–July) and Fall (September–November)
Dry Fly fishing - Late Spring to Early Summer (May–July): This is the best time to experience the Hexagenia hatch, which occurs in the evenings and brings large rainbow and brown trout to the surface for aggressive feeding
Winter Fishing - on Lake Almanor can be amazing! We find big fish stacked up in shallow water, offering the chance to catch a 10 lb trophy trout on a floating line. It is truly amazing!