Putah Creek fly fishing in California is a great destination for fly fishers. This beautiful creek in the Napa Valley offers a wide variety of trout to catch, including rainbow and Brown trout. Putah Creek Fly Fishing offers fly anglers a paradise with its crystal clear water and beautiful scenery.
Putah Creek Fly Fishing Overview
Putah Creek runs through the beautiful Napa Valley, Solano County and is approximately 85 miles in length. The creek begins in the Coastal Mountains and flows into Lake Berryessa. It flows out of northeastern corner and travels through scenic Vaca mountains before reaching the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Putah Creek is divided into two sections: upper and lower. The upper stretches, with their deep pools and fast-moving waters, are considered the most difficult. The lower section is easier to fish, with its slower-moving waters and wider pools.
Fly Fishing Opportunities
Putah Creek is the home of both rainbow and brown trout. Some fish weigh over 10 pounds. The best time to catch both species is late fall to early spring. They are more active in the colder months. Putah Creek is a tailwater fishery that allows fly anglers to fish all year round. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife regularly stocks the creek with fish, so there are always plenty of fish for anglers to catch.
Putah Creek’s Best Fishing Areas
Putah Creek has many great spots to fish. Some of the best are:
The Canyon Stretch
The canyon stretch is approximately one mile long and is known for its deep pool and fast-moving waters. This section is best suited to experienced anglers that are comfortable in challenging conditions.
The Island Section
The island section is popular with fly fishermen because of its large pools and slower moving water. This section is perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers.
The Highway 128 Bridge stretch
The bridge section on highway 128 is located in the lower part of the creek. It is a good spot for beginners. The pools are wider and slower moving, making it easier to fish.
Putah Creek Fly-Fishing Tips
There are a few things you should remember to have a successful fly fishing day on Putah Creek:
Use the Right Equipment
It is important to have the right equipment when fishing in Putah Creek. Bring a rod between 5 and 6 weights, a 9-foot leader, and a floating line. You’ll need some 3x or 4-x tippet as well as different sizes of nymphs, and dry flies.
Be Stealthy
Trout are very skittish and it is important that you approach the water as quietly as possible. Wear earth-toned clothes and move slowly to avoid spooking fish.
Match the Hatch
It is important to “match hatch” when selecting the right fly. This means to select a fly that mimics insects present in the water. If you see a lot of midges in the water, for example, choose a fly with flies that mimic midges.
Practice proper catch-and-release techniques
It is important to release fish into the water gently and with care. Try to avoid touching the fish’s gills and internal organs by wetting your hands. Keep the fish as close to the water as possible, and gently release it back into the water.
Where to Stay Near Putah Creek fly fishing
There are many great accommodations near Putah Creek Fly Fishing. Some of the best choices include:
Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa
This luxury hotel is situated in the heart of Napa Valley. It features a beautiful outdoor pool and spa.
Carneros Spa and Resort
This luxurious resort offers beautiful suites and villas as well as an amazing spa. It is located just a few minutes away from Putah Creek Fly Fishing.
Meadowood Napa Valley
This upscale resort, located on a beautiful estate, features luxury suites and rooms as well as a championship-level golf course.
Conclusion
Putah Creek Fly Fishing offers fly anglers a beautiful, challenging destination. It is a destination that every angler should visit. With its crystal-clear water, stunning scenery and abundance of trout it is a place you must not miss. Putah Creek is a great place to fly fish, whether you are a novice or an expert.