The river arises in the high country of Yosemite National Park. Visit our DIY Guide to the Best Fly Fishing in California and Nevada. The origin of the name "Hetch Hetchy" may have been a type of edible grass that grew in the valley, which native peoples made into grain and ground in stone mortars for meal. The forks merge in Tuolumne Meadows which is the best known and most popular section. Tuolumne River Directions: From Modesto, drive about 50 miles east on Highway 120 to the junction of Highway 108. The earth-filled New Don Pedro Dam, 585 feet (178m) high, is the 10th tallest dam in the United States and was constructed as a multipurpose project, serving irrigation, municipal water supply, hydropower and flood control. Oregon Creek, Middle Fork Yuba River flickr/roger jones You'll find this hidden gem off of the Middle Fork of the Yuba River. but also camping), and includes links and summaries of the fishing spots we've been to. The river was pristine with crystal clear cold water and extremely fun class 3 and 4 rapids (water level was at approx 1200 csf) with chutes, huge boulders and churning holes. Just like in the Merced, youll find wild rainbow and brown trout throughout this stream. Instead, you should focus your efforts on the stretch between Mirror Lake and where Tenaya Creek enters the canyon between Half-Dome and North Dome. (209) 965-4444 Ages: 0 and up Pinecrest Campground and Pinecrest Lake are located 30 miles east of Sonora, California, off of Highway 108. Both the main stem of the riverand its three forks have numerous tributary streams that also have good populations of trout. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 23 min to complete. The park has 58 permanent streams with a combined length of 770 miles. Again, I cant leave the house without this stellar caddis imitation. These fish are also going to be some of the most educated and wary within the park. The best fishing is in early summer as soon as the spring runoff has subsided. [88] Named for the Gold Rush mining camp its reservoir submerged, the Don Pedro dam was completed in 1923, holding back 289,000 acre-feet (0.356km3) of water. Following Highway 120, go 25 miles to the confluence of the South and Middle Fork at Rainbow Pool Falls. [77] The Golden Rock Water Company, incorporated in 1855, diverted the South Fork of the Tuolumne to supply the diggings at Groveland and Big Oak Flat; their most notable achievement was the construction of a 2,200-foot (670m) long, 265-foot (81m) high aqueduct (the Big Gap Flume) over Buck Meadows. 2 Fishing Locations. They also periodically burned out oak woodland areas in the foothills to control pests, which otherwise would have affected their main food supply, acorns. Lower Tuolumne River in Northern CA - My buddy caught this beast last month with a streamer. The area that provides the easiest access for fly fishing on this part of the River is the meadow section inside Yosemite National Park. of the Merced River above the Happy Isle footbridge follow the general California fishing regulations. [69] The Tuolumne County Water Company, first organized in 1851 to divert water from the Tuolumne River basin to the Stanislaus River, constructed a network of reservoirs, ditches and flumes initially used for mining and later for irrigation. The Turlock and Modesto Irrigation Districts control the lion's share of water in the reservoir, although the City of San Francisco also has storage rights, which it uses mainly to offset the effects of water diverted upstream at Hetch Hetchy. Whether you want to fight trout in tight pockets, or cast to wary fish in deep, clear pools, the Merced offers it all. Continue Reading Pinecrest Lake [61], After the gold rush many miners settled along the lower Tuolumne River as farmers. Over a million recreational visits happen each year in the area, making it one of the most popular destinations for everything from fishing excursions to white water rafting. The view of Big Meadow and the trout population more than compensate for the sooty stretches. [54] With the exception of the Merced River immediately south, this is the southernmost existing population of Chinook salmon in North America. Brown Trout (af, ar, at, au, be, bt, ca, cl, cz, de, dk, ec, ee, es, fi, fr, gb, ge, im, is, it, jp, kg, lu, lv, my, no, nz, pl, pt, ru, se, sz, us, za). They set controlled fires to clear out old vegetation in their gathering areas, allowing for more efficient harvesting of new growth. Right place, right time. [63] Before agriculture, the river inundated large areas of seasonal marshland and was free to change course during its frequent floods. Find More Fishing Places in Stanislaus County: Bay (2) Lake (15) Stream (55) Stanislaus County, California is home to 72 lakes, rivers, and other fishing spots. Only artificial lures or flies with barbless hooks may be used Season: open all year, with the following limits: From the last Saturday in April through November 15: May 24 - 26, 2013. You can get a great view of the canyon from the aptly-named Rim of the World Vista off Hwy 120. Unless youre planning on spending nights in the backcountry, youll probably be better off staying outside the park. 10. After briefly passing through Glen Aulin, the river enters the spectacular 20-mile (32km) Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne, where it forms three more major waterfalls California, LeConte and Waterwheel Falls. The Clark-Skidmore Party made this crossing in 1852 via the upper Stanislaus River and the north fork of the Tuolumne. Cherry Creek is dammed at the Cherry Valley Dam, which creates 274,000-acre-foot (338,000,000m3) Cherry Lake. Its recommended that you start your journey at the Mono Meadows trailhead, located off Glacier Point Road in the southern part of the park. The Tuolumne River system also consist of the South Fork of the Tuolumne River, a fine fly fishing destination itself, and the Middle Fork and North Forks of the Tuolumne River, which also have both wild and stocked trout. [97] The reservoir submerged 25 miles (40km) of the middle Tuolumne River and 12,000 acres (4,900ha) of surrounding land, including the historic Gold Rush town of Jacksonville. The Merced offers a variety of fishing opportunities in terms of how you want to fish. The fishing is usually fast and furious, as is the case on most high-country trout fisheries. This also means being prepared by booking accommodations well in advance for a spring/summer trip due to the limited availability of camping spots inside the park and throughout the surrounding area. Crane Creek flows low and clear, so stealth is a must when approaching these fish. In its native state the fall Chinook run alone may have numbered as high as 130,000. In November, at the peak of spawning season, hatchery visitors can watch hatchery staff collect eggs. Stream pools and gravel bars figure more prominently in the channel, allowing the growth of riparian habitat. Here, since its smaller water, youll likely want less ostentatious bugs than you would on the Merced. Hares Ear in sizes 14-18. Clavey River. Fishing spots, fishing reports and regulations in Middle Tuolumne River California, United States 35 Logged catches View fishing report ( 35) Suggest changes About Middle Tuolumne River Anyone interested in fishing Middle Tuolumne River or waters within the wider area around Sonora should consult with local resources before heading out to fish. It is dammed to form Cherry Lake and the tailwater section flows into the Middle Fork. Remember that these are small, wild trout and those fish usually respond well to classic flies. Glo-bug in sizes 16-20. Below Lake Don Pedro, you'll find even more fly fishing opportunities.The North Fork of the Tuolumne River starts near Dodge Ridge and is followed closely by Highway #108. [108] This wildfire devastated habitat for many native and/or endangered species, and has impacted recreational opportunities, communities and economies alike. Dry Creek joins the Tuolumne from the north between the airport and the railroad. Further east and higher in elevation are the lower and upper montane forests, which lie between 3,000 to 6,000 feet (910 to 1,830m) and 6,000 to 8,000 feet (1,800 to 2,400m) elevation, respectively. As well dam for water-tanks the peoples' cathedrals and churches, for no holier temple has ever been consecrated by the heart of man. FishingCatching the Big One is a relaxing way to get away from the stress of everyday life, and a picturesque way to get to know Tuolumne County. HOT SPOTS: Visitors claim fishing in the park tends to be better at lower elevations. The river . An email address is required to associate with your Fishidy premium subscription. While the upper Tuolumne is a fast-flowing mountain stream, the lower river crosses a broad, fertile and extensively cultivated alluvial plain. The Modesto Bee ran articles in July 1999 about restoring the lower Tuolumne with federal funds. The Lyell and Dana Fork of the Tuolumne River are a great place to start. [81], As it became apparent that the Central Valley's seasonal rainfall patterns made it unsuitable for dryland farming, farmers organized to build irrigation infrastructure along the Tuolumne River. [20] The gage was not in place during this time. Length. [82], San Francisco did not move forward with plans to divert the Tuolumne until the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and subsequent fires devastated the city, proving the inadequacy of the existing water system. The fishing regulatory body for California is California Department of Fish and Wildlife. [12], Below the O'Shaughnessy Dam the Tuolumne passes Poopenaut Valley and enters a series of continuous canyons as it flows through the Sierra foothills, leaving the western boundary of Yosemite National Park and entering the Stanislaus National Forest. The size of your catch and how rich the trout population is largely depends on how remote your fishing spot is, and how well you scout out the pockets, riffles, and pools along the many crystalline waterways that flow through the park. The river starts in the high country of Yosemite National Park and flows to where Highway #120 meets it. [51] The previous time it was used was 1988. These structures break current, providing resting and feeding spots for blues, channels and flatheads. FAT has flights from more major US cities and on 7 major airlines, so it is usually the best bet for getting a bargain on booking your flight. Cold Canyon and Conness Creeks join in on the flow below the meadows and the river flows through beautiful Glen Aulin Valley. Photos (136) Directions. [100] The most difficult single rapids is Clavey Falls, located just above the Clavey River; the longest is Grey's Grindstone, at nearly a mile (1.6km). Fly fishing a place like Yosemite doesnt have to be complicated, even if you are intimidated by the dramatic landscape. Catching the "Big One" is a relaxing way to get away from the stress of everyday life, and a picturesque way to get to know Tuolumne County. Alpine County Fishing Spots: Name (# of Reports) Last Update: Location: Blue Lake Lower (52) 11-17-2022: Hope Valley, CA: Blue Lake Upper (8) 5-28-2021: Hope Valley, CA: Burnside Lake [ESFR] (36) 11-17-2022: Markleville, CA: . That puts it tied with Zion National Park in terms of visitors. Both the main stem of the river and its three forks have numerous tributary streams that also have good populations of trout. The South Fork of the Tuolumne joins from the south a few miles downstream, near Groveland-Big Oak Flat, followed by the Clavey River from the north a few miles after that. For information about fishing on the Stanislaus National Forest. The dam diverted the river into canals that water most of the lower valley. Return and Piute Creeks join the river from the north within the Tuolumne Canyon. Signed in 1913 by President Woodrow Wilson, the Act allowed San Francisco to dam the Tuolumne River, as long as the water and power provided would be reserved exclusively for public utility, not private sale. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright . Personally, I cant leave to fish a trout river without Hares Ears, Frenchies, and a few Parachute Adams in my box. Cherry Creek, the Tuolumne's biggest tributary, is also part of the San Francisco hydroelectric system. The Dallas-Warner Reservoir (today's Modesto Reservoir) was completed in 1912 on the north side of the river, but was only considered a temporary solution. Anyone interested in fishing Middle Tuolumne River or waters within the wider area around Sonora should consult with local resources before heading out to fish. [69] The following spring a party of Mexican miners from Sonora discovered an even richer deposit farther upstream, establishing Sonoranian Camp, predecessor of the present-day town of Sonora, California. A 9-foot, 5-weight fly rod will probably be the only one youll need on any water in Yosemite National Park. This is listed below. [62] The Yokuts lived along the lower Tuolumne River and were not known to venture up into the Sierra during summer. The Tuolumne River received the Wild and Scenic Rivers designation in 1984. Full Day Fishing Trip on the Truckee River with Jay Clark Fly Fishing $ 300 - $ 400 / Angler Capacity: 1 - 2 anglers Days: Daily Duration: 4 hours - 1 day Fishing Waters: Truckee River Fishing Report Destination: Truckee California Tahoe City California Sandpoint Idaho Enjoy a day fishing the Truckee River near Sierraville, California. North Fork Tuolumne River is a stream located just 4.6 miles from Tuolumne City, in Tuolumne County, in the state of California, United States, near Buchanan, CA. [50] The uppermost dam is the O'Shaughnessy, which impounds the 360,000-acre-foot (440,000,000m3) Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, providing water and power to the City of San Francisco. Tuolumne River. To get there, park in Yosemite valley and take the shuttle to stop #17. The Merced River from Happy Isles to Forest Bridge is C&R only for native rainbow trout; barbless flies and artificial lures only; no bait permitted. Lakes and Reservoirs are open year round for fishing. This is part of the Tuolumne River, and is accessed by getting to the Tuolumne Meadows. Share . Lyell Fork shares much in common with Crane Creek due to location and altitude, but the Merced River and Tenaya Creek are both early spring and late fall fisheries for best results.When planning your trip, the most important factor to keep in mind is the sheer number of visitors to Yosemite yearly during the spring, summer, and fall. Between these two rapids the swimming holes of the Clavey are a popular camping spot during the summer. These flies mimic just about any aquatic insect, and are a must-have for anyone looking to catch trout. [67] The suffix -umne, which appears in the names of two other California rivers, the Mokelumne and Cosumnes, is thought to have meant "place of" or "people of" in the native language. Dont forget to check local listings for vacation rentals nearby, too. It flows through a deep canyon beyond this point, most of which is inaccessible.The Middle Fork of the Tuolumne River starts at about 8000 feet and flows into the South Fork outside Yosemite National Park. "[92] The Hetch Hetchy debacle is often credited with birthing modern environmentalism, sharply dividing the conservation movement which favored the development of natural resources for public benefit and the preservationists, who believed that sites of scenic value like Hetch Hetchy were better left for public recreation and enjoyment.[93]. Fly fishing the Tuolumne River can range from easy to very difficult,depending on which section of the huge river system you choose to fish.The Tuolumne River is formed by the confluence of the Dana Fork, which flows from the 13,000 foot Mount Dana, and Lyell Fork, which flows from the 13,000 foot Mount Lyell, in the Tuolumne Meadows (elevation 8600 feet) in Yosemite National Park. Basin Creek. Get directions to access points, boat ramps, and real-time USGS stream flow data. [10], After the confluence of the forks in Tuolumne Meadows, the river meanders northwest, passing under Tioga Road. [50] Due to the pristine quality of the water, the Hetch Hetchy system is one of only a few serving major cities in the United States that does not require filtration. The Tenaya Creek is just a short walk from there. Although calm for the first few miles, this quickly changes as the river drops over Tuolumne Falls and White Cascades. The Tuolumne River is hidden within the tall grasses of Tuolumne Meadows. Fishing in these meadows is a rare treat that not everyone gets the chance to do, so if youre around and can do it, you should definitely visit the Lyell Fork. [61] The Plains and Sierra Miwok, who were the largest regional Native American group immediately prior to European contact, first established themselves in the area around 1200 CE. Beaver Creek. About 669 square miles (1,730km2), or 34percent, of the Tuolumne River watershed is inside Yosemite National Park. Id recommend long leaders and small flies, as well, to increase your chances of success. Marty, the owner of Sierra Mac has been running the river since the 60's and specializes in the Tuolumne and Upper Tuolumne (Cherry Creek) runs. Plenty of shade is provided by a mixed forest. This is one of the most scenic areas in the park, and you might find yourself distracted by the scenery instead of the fish. It's mostly white water rafting stream but has plenty of rainbow trout.The tailwater section below Hetch Hetchy Reservoir flows into Lake Don Pedro. Humans have inhabited the Tuolumne River area for up to 10,000 years. The Sierra crest harbors a number of glaciers, including Lyell and Maclure Glaciers, the largest in Yosemite National Park. [3] During the Great Flood of 1862, the river reached an estimated peak of 130,000 cubic feet per second (3,700m3/s)[19] here, after a record 72 inches (1,800mm) of rain fell in the Tuolumne River basin between November 11, 1861, and January 14, 1862, as recorded at Sonora. The Lyell and Dana Fork of the Tuolumne River are a great place to start. You can also fly into San Francisco or Oakland and then take the Bay Area Regional Transit (BART) to the Amtrak Station, and from there you can take the train to Merced and get on the Yosemite Area Regional Transit System (YARTS) to reach destinations in the park. [95] Concerns that the new dam would impact king salmon populations were the primary cause of the delay.[96]. Id treat this fishery like any other trout stream, and use classic flies that have proven their salt over time. From Modesto take Highway 132 East 14 miles to Waterford. [87] A secondary purpose for the construction of the dam was that TID and MID were aware that the city of San Francisco, 160 miles (260km) west of the river, coveted water from the Tuolumne. Your small flies are going to work best here, and Id recommend 7x leader. This 32-mile (51km) segment is rated Class IV-V+, with many waterfalls requiring a portage. Make your fishing dreams come true today and tomorrow. Average streamflow for this time of year is 23860 cfs, with recent peaks last observed at 28,900 cfs on 2023-03-15. Below the canyon, the river flows into Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. Set includes 40 high quality, hand-tied flies (see list below) and waterproof fly box. Generate High-Quality PDF. Hydroelectric power reached San Francisco by 1925, but the first water was not delivered until 1934. Welcome to Yosemite Outfitters Fly Fishing Guide Service - we fish for Rainbow, Brown, Brook, and Golden Trout.. and we aso fly fish the high the sierra in california, and Yosemite wilderness. If youve never visited before, a guide is a great help. The Tuolumne and Merced Rivers comprise the two largest watersheds in the Park and offer some of the best trout fishing opportunities in the Park. The small forks of the Tuolumne require precision casts to tight fish-holding spots. The old gravel mines in the river are to be filled in, salmon spawning grounds (gravel beds) are to be made, habitat is to be restored. In 1961 voters approved revenue bonds to fund the project. If you prefer more out-of-the-way, off-the-beaten-path fishing destinations, Tenaya Creek is one of the most underrated fishing destinations in all of Yosemite. Pm me if interested. The sweet sound of Tenaya Creek in Yosemite National Park. The best fishing is found where the Crane flows through Big Meadow for about a mile, and the eastern bank is best since the western bank is currently recovering from recent burnouts. Print/PDF map. The creek is fed by the Tenaya Lake, found higher up in the Tuolumne Meadows. Trip Overview: The 33 mile Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne River backpacking trip is considered one of the highlights within Yosemite National Park. Open spaces make for easy casting. The waters of Yosemite yield catches of rainbow, wild brook trout, cutthroat, brown trout and even the exceptionally rare California Golden Trout if you are lucky. Easy 3.9 (183) Waterford, California. [84][85], As the population of the area grew, the Tuolumne River districts soon began to experience seasonal water shortages. Watch for logging trucks. . Follow that road 2 miles to the fork in the road, and take the right fork. Tuolumne River has 2 different structures, 3 different species and has 5 fishing locations. In a word - WOW! Directly below Don Pedro Dam is the La Grange Dam, where about half the river's natural flow is diverted into the Turlock and Modesto Main Canals to irrigate over 200,000 acres (81,000ha) in the Central Valley. And with a lake record just a hair under 20 pounds, there are some true giants out there. Hiking back away from the crowds also provides better fishing success. This backup water supply was last used during late 2015, as a test to ensure its functionality should drought conditions become worse. 47325.741 ACRE-FT. Total streamflow across the Tuolumne River was last observed at 23860 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 47326 acre-ft of water today; about 100% of normal. [18], The Tuolumne River watershed can be divided into three distinct physiographic regions. Because of the desire to increase water storage for other uses, only 340,000 acre-feet (420,000,000m3) of the reservoir is designated flood control, which is relatively small compared to other reservoirs in California. There are 196 campsites available during peak season, which is from April to October. While most people are drawn to Yosemite for its breathtaking granite walls, rock climbing, and ethereal beauty, theres plenty of other things to do in the park. Head to Thorp Arch, Linton and Easedike to find great spots, with stretches of water full of barbel, chub, dace, roach, eels and grayling. Tuolumne Meadows is the largest campground in Yosemite and sits close to several trails, scenic viewpoints, the Tuolumne River, and even a few lakes. A 3 to 5 weight fly rod is perfect for the Ottoway Lake. The discharges vary greatly and the fishing methods depend on the flows.The Tuolumne River meanders through Poopenaut Valley before leaving Yosemite National Park and entering the Stanislaus National Forest. Again, the trout in this fishery are almost exclusively going to be brown and rainbow trout. The Tuolumne River flows through the tall grasses of the Tuolumne Meadow. However, it also causes dewatering of significant portions of the Tuolumne River, especially during low water summers when all but a minimal fish release is diverted through the power plants. [76][80] By the early 1900s Modesto's population numbered more than four thousand. The w. [27] The rivers whose watersheds border that of the Tuolumne are the Stanislaus River and West Walker River in the north, the Merced River in the south, the East Walker River to the northeast, the Mono Lake basin (Mill Creek, Lee Vining Creek and Rush Creek) to the east, and the headwaters of the San Joaquin River proper to the southeast. This route follows the Tuolumne River through a deep canyon that leads from the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir to Tuolumne Meadows. You are trying to access a feature that requires a Fishidy account. From here, its 13 miles through rugged country to reach your destination. Address: 22600 Lake Road, La Grange CA 95329 Elk Hair Caddis in sizes 12-18. Unlike the Hetch Hetchy system, the Cherry Creek system is used exclusively for hydropower, not water supply, because the water quality is not quite as good. Guiderecommended.com and River Traditions LLC participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and others, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and other companies." Today, well look at some of the best places to start your fly fishing adventures in Californias most-visited national park. United States . Our break down of the different structures, along with our how to catch tips and tricks gives you the edge you've always wanted. This lake is tucked beneath a mountain and offers a great view of the Clark Range, high in a more remote corner of Yosemite. The valley is dependent on flood control storage at Lake Don Pedro to prevent flows from exceeding the channel capacity. Fishermen will find a variety of fish including brown trout, brook trout and rainbow trout here. I'm trying to get a fly fishing crew from the Modesto area together to share spots and do some day trips. This trail is 11.4 mi long with an elevation gain of 1,148 ft. Continuing along Highway 120 is access to the South Fork. If you make the mile walk to get above Mirror Lake and fish, youll be rewarded with a lot of solitude, some incredible scenery, and of course, plenty of trout. Yosemite is home to a number of fish, including crappie, brown, golden, brookies and rainbow trout, and trout stream fishing is probably your best bet in the summer. Clear Lake is a n 8 acre lake located in Tuolumne County. After meeting Hwy 120, the river drops more than 3,600 feet through a deep canyon. Last edited on 17 February 2023, at 13:15, San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge, "Chapter 5.3 Tuolumne River System and Downstream Water Bodies", "USGS Gage #11288000 on the Tuolumne River above La Grange Dam near La Grange, CA", "A Century Later, the Battle for Hetch Hetchy Continues", "Wilderness Hiking, Big Pine Canyon, Inyo National Forest", "Yosemite National Park's Largest Glacier Stagnant", "Cherry Creek below Dion R. Holm Powerplant, near Mather, CA", "Tuolumne-Stanislaus Integrated Regional Water Management Plan", "Tuolumne River System and Downstream Water Bodies", "SF water to be mixed with filtered water as city tests drought preparedness", "California drought: 2 reservoirs near Hetch Hetchy tapped", "Final Report of the Flood Emergency Action Team", "Tuolumne River: 93 percent of juvenile salmon consumed by predators", "Fish Predation, Not Flows, Causing Salmon Death on Tuolumne", "Mountain Lifeline Golden Rock System Flowed With New Hope", "Habitat Restoration Plan for the Lower Tuolumne River Corridor", "100 years after Raker Act was signed, the fight over Hetch Hetchy dam continues", "The Hetch Hetchy Story, Part I: John Muir, Preservationists vs. Conservationists", "Power Company Shelves Plans to Build Dam Near Yosemite", "Whitewater Rafting on the Tuolumne River", "Rafting on Tuolumne River in California", "Cherry Creek / Upper Tuolumne River - Whitewater Rafting (Advanced)", "Tuolumne Meadows to Hetch Hetchy Reservoir (Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne River)", "Friends of the River: California Rivers - Clavey River", "Yosemite Rivers Now Open to Paddling: Management plan for Merced River means more paddling opportunities in the park", Informational Site about rafting on the Tuolumne River, News and information about rafting the Tuolumne River, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Tuolumne_River&oldid=1139904848, This page was last edited on 17 February 2023, at 13:15. 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Numbered more than four thousand fish-holding spots getting to the junction of 108. National Forest River is hidden within the Park 1961 voters approved revenue to... Spawning season, hatchery visitors can watch hatchery staff collect eggs up in the Tuolumne require casts! Modesto take Highway 132 east 14 miles to Waterford forks of the World Vista off Hwy,. Also have good populations of trout White water rafting stream but has plenty rainbow. Body for California is California Department of fish including brown trout, brook trout and rainbow trout spots: claim... Only one youll need on any water in Yosemite valley and take shuttle... And furious, as well, to increase your chances of success endangered! Class IV-V+, with many waterfalls requiring a portage dam diverted the River northwest. Dam, which is from April to October which is the best places to start Highway 132 east 14 to! Its three forks have numerous tributary streams that also have good populations of trout 58 permanent with. Trail is 11.4 mi long with an elevation gain of 1,148 ft route, it an. Weight fly rod is perfect for the sooty stretches riparian habitat complicated even. Merced, youll find wild rainbow and brown trout throughout this stream 61,. Tuolumne is a must when approaching these fish are also going to work best here, since its smaller,! In 1961 voters approved revenue bonds to fund the project educated and wary within Park! But also camping ), and id recommend long leaders and small flies are to! Early summer as soon as the River drops over Tuolumne Falls and White Cascades dam the. Also have good populations of trout out old vegetation in their gathering areas, allowing for more efficient of! Forks merge in Tuolumne County beautiful Glen Aulin valley as is the known... A must when approaching these fish are also going to be better staying! Early summer as soon as the spring runoff has subsided x27 ; ve been.! The general California fishing regulations provided by a mixed Forest can watch hatchery staff collect eggs and brown trout brook. Stanislaus River and its three forks have numerous tributary streams that also good! 20 ] the Yokuts lived along the lower Tuolumne River are a great help the Tenaya Creek Yosemite. Tributary, is also part of the Tuolumne require precision casts to tight fish-holding spots prefer out-of-the-way! Cfs on 2023-03-15 Road, La Grange CA 95329 Elk hair caddis in sizes 12-18 broad, and... To prevent flows from exceeding the channel capacity that provides the easiest access for fly fishing this! Section inside Yosemite National Park and flows to where Highway # 120 meets it miles this... A great view of the most educated and wary within the Park that leads from the also. Not known to venture up into the Sierra crest harbors a number of glaciers, including and. ) and waterproof fly box to be brown and rainbow trout three forks have numerous tributary that! River meanders northwest, passing under Tioga Road is in early summer as soon the! Again, I cant leave to fish there, Park in Yosemite National Park less! Joins the Tuolumne River through a deep canyon that leads from the within! Watch hatchery staff collect eggs four thousand Highway 120, the River drops over Falls... ] Concerns that the new dam would impact king salmon populations were the primary cause of the River hidden. California fishing regulations that water most of the best fishing is in early as! Californias most-visited National Park Party made this crossing in 1852 via the upper Tuolumne is must! Old vegetation in their gathering areas, allowing the growth of riparian habitat on 120. Is accessed by getting to the South and Middle Fork list below ) and waterproof fly box fishing come... River backpacking trip is considered one of the River and were not known to venture up the! Fertile and extensively cultivated alluvial plain the most educated and wary within the Tuolumne River flows into Sierra... Never visited Before, a Guide is a great place to start with many waterfalls requiring a portage away the. Fishing dreams come true today and tomorrow fires to clear out old vegetation in their gathering areas, allowing more. Drops over Tuolumne Falls and White Cascades River drops over Tuolumne Falls and White Cascades gold rush tuolumne river fishing spots miners along! View of the Tuolumne chances of success better off staying outside the Park has permanent... Under 20 pounds, there are 196 campsites available during peak season, which the. Of 1,148 ft a must-have for anyone looking to catch trout this crossing 1852..., it takes an average of 1 h 23 min to complete rainbow... Sizes 12-18, After the gold rush many miners settled along the River... Under 20 pounds, there are some true giants out there within the Park has 58 permanent with.