They all contain Rainbow as well as Brown trout. The lower Stanislaus, below Tulloch Reservoir, flows unimpeded to the San Joaquin River. It is open from Jan.1st through Oct 15th. It contains Rainbow trout along with seasonal Steelhead and King Salmon in the upper stretch along with a healthy population of Smallmouth and Largemouth bass and summer Striped bass in the valley stretch.

From cold high mountain streams to larger, warmer water reaches, the Stanislaus has a wide variety to suit any taste!

Spring

Depending on run-off flows, all or none of the stretches may fish well. Check in with us for the latest Conditions.

Summer

This is a very stable period as most of the flows are controlled by dams and are very constant. Being tailwaters, cold water is released from the bottom of the dams and the valley stretch below Tulloch remains colder than virtually all the higher elevation streams, fishing very well even in the heat of summer! This allows us to fish dry flies even during mid-day with some great caddis activity in the evenings!

This is prime time for all 3 bass species on the lowest stretches, complete solitude as it flows through private property exclusively.

Fall

The lower stretch below Tulloch closes Oct.15th, but fishes very well right up to closing. The upper reaches remain open until mid -November and are nice and low with tremendous dry fly fishing!

Winter

The Tailwater stretch below Tulloch reopens on New Year’s Day! One of the best times of the year with very steady flows and some fantastic Midge fishing. If you like to catch wild trout on tiny flies, this is for you! An occasional Steelhead makes things even more exciting!

Note:
The upper stretch is walk & wade country while the lower stretch calls for power or drift boat. Power boat covers more water.

Stanislaus River Gear & Equipment List

We offer a variety of fishing packages on the Stanislaus River: