Welcome to the land of volcanic wonders and pristine waters – Mount Shasta, California, where fly fishing enthusiasts can immerse themselves in an angler’s paradise. Join me, Alex Ferber, Fly Fishing Coach and Guide, as we embark on an unforgettable journey through this magnificent region, exploring its remarkable rivers, streams, and alpine lakes that beckon with the promise of thrilling catches and breathtaking scenery.
The Renowned Hat Creek
No fly fishing adventure in Mount Shasta would be complete without venturing to the illustrious Hat Creek. Originating from the snowmelt of Mount Lassen, this exceptional water system meanders through the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, offering anglers a chance to cast their lines in the company of nature’s grandeur. The upper reaches of Hat Creek, within the boundaries of Lassen National Park, harbor smaller yet feisty trout that see relatively little pressure. As we journey downstream, the action intensifies on the famed “Wild Trout Section,” where brown and rainbow trout reign supreme.
From late spring to midsummer, the creek comes alive with hatches of green drakes, salmon flies, and the occasional PMD, challenging even the most seasoned fly fishers. As the season progresses, low-light hatches of caddis and tricos grace the waters, while fall ushers in the delightful October Caddis and a flurry of terrestrial activity. Overcast days in the waning weeks often bring swarms of BWOs to the surface, offering yet another opportunity to test your skills.
The McCloud River: Home of the Redband Trout Nestled in the heart of Mount Shasta’s wilderness lies the renowned McCloud River, a sanctuary for the coveted McCloud Redband Trout, a subspecies of the rainbow trout found exclusively in these waters. Above the majestic Upper Falls, the river’s headwaters beckon with their scenic beauty and healthy populations of these unique fish. While the trout may not reach trophy sizes, the chance to encounter and land a Redband is a prize in itself.
Downstream, the tailwater below Lake McCloud offers an entirely different experience, where rainbow and brown trout grow to impressive proportions in the deep, oxygenated waters. Here, we’ll test our abilities against these formidable adversaries, employing a range of techniques and strategies to coax them into striking.
Alpine Lake Excursions The high country offers pristine alpine lakes amidst the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada. Armed with the indispensable Eastern Sierra Back Country Fishing Guide, we’ll navigate rugged trails and explore these remote bodies of water, each harboring its own unique species of trout.
From the elusive California Golden Trout, the state’s prized subspecies, to the hard-fighting Lahontan Cutthroat and the ever-aggressive brook trout, these alpine lakes offer a true angler’s bounty. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the sport, the thrill of stalking and catching these remarkable fish in such breathtaking surroundings is sure to leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Join me on this unforgettable adventure as we traverse the hallowed waters of Mount Shasta, casting our lines amidst the majesty of nature and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Together, we’ll unlock the secrets of these legendary fisheries, hone our skills, and forge a deeper connection with the great outdoors. So, grab your gear, lace up your wading boots, and let’s embark on an odyssey that will redefine what it means to be a true fly fishing enthusiast.
