Trophy Trout Stillwater Fly Fishing in the Lost Sierra!

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

Lake Almanor Fly Fishing Page

Lake Davis and Frenchman Lakes

Lake Almanor is a premier fly fishing destination in Northern California, known for its trophy-sized rainbow and brown trout. The average size of trout in Lake Almanor typically ranges between 2 and 5 pounds, with fish measuring 16 to 22 inches being common. However, the lake is known for producing trophy-sized rainbow and brown trout, with some exceeding 10 pounds and over 25 inches.

The lake’s diverse ecosystem, fueled by nutrient-rich waters, supports prolific insect hatches, including the famous “Hexe” mayfly hatch in early summer, which brings large trout to the surface during evening feeding frenzies. We fish and guide this lake year-round, with spring and fall being prime seasons for trout near the shoreline. Whether casting from a boat, floating in our float tubes, or wading along the shore, fly fishing at Lake Almanor offers an exciting challenge for anglers seeking big fish in a stunning mountain setting. Fly fishing at Lake Almanor is an exhilarating experience, combining stunning mountain scenery with the opportunity to catch trophy-sized trout. The combination of technical fly fishing, breathtaking landscapes, and the chance to land a truly big fish makes Lake Almanor a must-visit destination for any fly angler.

Lake Davis, located in the Sierra Nevada of Northern California, is a renowned fly fishing destination, especially famous for its hard-fighting rainbow trout. The average size of trout in Lake Davis typically ranges between 16 to 20 inches, with most fish weighing 2 to 4 pounds. However, the lake is known for producing larger rainbow trout, with some exceeding 5 to 7 pounds. Thanks to the lake’s rich food sources, including Chironomids, damselflies, and other aquatic insects, trout in Lake Davis grow quickly and fight hard. During peak seasons, especially in the spring and fall, anglers have a good chance of hooking into quality fish while fishing from the shore, float tubes, or small boats.

The lake’s rich aquatic ecosystem supports abundant insect hatches, including midges, damselflies, and mayflies, making it an ideal spot for dry fly and nymph fishing. Spring and fall are the prime seasons, with trout actively feeding in the shallows, while summer provides great opportunities for fishing deeper waters with streamers and leeches. We guide Lake Davis from ice-off in March to late Fall. We guide Lake Davis from ice-off in March to late Fall, targeting big trophy trout in shallower waters on float tubes, rafts and from the shore. Fly fishing at Lake Davis is an unforgettable experience, offering anglers the chance to catch powerful rainbow trout in a breathtaking alpine setting. The lake’s calm, clear waters reflect the surrounding pine-covered mountains, creating a peaceful yet exciting atmosphere for fishing… the crisp mountain air and the occasional sighting of bald eagles or deer along the shore make for a truly immersive outdoor adventure.

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!

Guide Lake Fly Fishing 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!