- Trip
Lake Almanor Guided Fly Fishing Trips
Taco Fly Co. offers guided Lake Almanor fly fishing trips in Northern California targeting trophy trout and bass. Based in Plumas County, we specialize in seasonal boat trips and the famous Hex Hatch.
Lake Almanor is one of Northern California’s most productive and unique fisheries, offering a mix of shallow flats, deep water structure, and consistent insect activity that supports strong trout populations year after year.
- Plumas County California
BIG FLIES. BIGGER TROUT. PURE SUMMER STOKE.
almanor
Flight
Closest Airports: Reno-Tahoe International (RNO) – approx. 2 hours
& Sacramento International (SMF) – approx. 3.5 hours
Pro Tip: Reno gets you in fast. The Almanor basin is tucked away in the northern Sierra, so you’ll trade highway traffic for winding roads and mountain lake views.
Hotel
Where to Stay: We recommend staying lakeside in Chester, or nearby in Westwood or around Lake Almanor West. Cabins, lodges, and Airbnbs offer plenty of cozy places close to the action.
Need help booking? Hit us up — we’ve got local favorites and hookups that’ll get you dialed for your Hex Hatch adventure.
Trophy trout lurking below
- Northern Sierra California
Why Fish Lake Almanor
Book
Lake Almanor is a large Sierra Nevada reservoir known for its combination of cold, clear water and diverse fish species. Unlike smaller lakes, Almanor offers both technical and accessible fishing depending on conditions and season.
Anglers target:
- Rainbow trout
- Brown trout
- Smallmouth bass
The lake’s structure and seasonal insect activity create consistent opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers looking for a true Northern California fly fishing experience.
Best Time to Fish Lake Almanor
- Spring: Rainbows and Browns are found in the upper water column, river outlets, and in coves. We can sometimes sight fish or throw streamers for these fish as they patrol water above 25 feet. The smallmouth begin their spawn and large fish can be had while they are in the shallows. If you’re into trying it, long line bobber techniques can get the big browns who are still out in deeper water. Streamer fishing in 35 feet and below can also be very productive.
- Summer (Late May – July): Chironomid hatches dominate during May and July. The famous Hexagenia (Mayfly) hatch is a major draw for our clients this time of year. Thousands of giant yellow mayflies erupt from the lakes surface and the trout gorge on them daily.
- Fall: The trout begin to chase pond smelt this time of the year and the grabs can be very aggressive. We chase the fish on the eastern shoreline and near springs as they bulk up for the upcoming winter.
- Winter: As the water cools, the trout come in very close to shore. This is a very fun time of the year as the fish patrol the shallows looking for food. Large fish on small rods make for a great time when you find the pods.
Guided Lake Almanor Fly Fishing Trips
Our Lake Almanor guide trips are conducted primarily from a boat, allowing access to deeper water and prime feeding zones that are difficult to reach from shore.
Trips are tailored to conditions and may include:
- Indicator fishing in deeper sections of the lake
- Stripping streamers for aggressive trout
- Dry fly fishing during hatch periods
- Sight-style opportunities when conditions allow
We adjust techniques throughout the day based on fish behavior, weather, and seasonal patterns to maximize success.
The Lake Almanor Hex Hatch
The Hex Hatch is one of the most well-known fishing events in California and typically occurs from late June through early July, depending on seasonal conditions.
During this hatch, large Hexagenia mayflies emerge in massive numbers, creating a major feeding opportunity for trout. Most surface activity occurs in the evening hours, when fish move shallow to feed aggressively.
While dry fly fishing is the highlight of the hatch, productive fishing can occur throughout the day using streamers and subsurface presentations.
This short seasonal window consistently produces some of the largest trout of the year on Lake Almanor.
Why Choose Taco Fly Co.
Based in Plumas County, Taco Fly Co. spends extensive time guiding and fishing Lake Almanor and surrounding waters each season. This local experience allows us to adjust quickly to changing conditions, locate active fish, and position anglers in the most productive water available.
We focus on providing a relaxed, instructional experience that works for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Contact us today to book a trip. We can also help you find a place to stay and prepare for your Lake Almanor adventure.
Book Your Lake Almanor Fly Fishing Trip
If you’re looking for a Lake Almanor fly fishing guide, Taco Fly Co. offers seasonal trips designed around current conditions and peak fishing opportunities.
Contact us to book your trip or to learn more about current Lake Almanor fishing conditions.
FAQ’s
- How long are half and full day trips? Half days are 4 hours and full days are 7-8 hours. Lunch is only included on full days.
- Do I need to bring my own gear? No! We have everything for you. We only ask you bring a positive attitude and always pack a rain jacket!
- Can I keep the fish I catch? We usually practice catch and release on our boat but are okay with you keeping a fish. However, we do not provide cleaning services.
- What size rods do I bring? 5 weights and 6 weights are perfect for these fish.
- Hex Hatch? Yes! The last two weeks of June are the best times to enjoy this amazing time of the year.
