New to fly fishing questions about gear.

Meowasaur · Newbie

New to fly fishing questions about gear.

Mike42 · Veteran Member

Hello Meowasaur,

Welcome to the group. In my opinion you could attempt to fish from the bank in shorts and hiking boots but it would limit your access to a few, specific portions of the creek and place you at slightly higher risk should you encounter a rattlesnake, the ubiquitous poison oak or blackberry thorns. The last time I was at Putak Creek two weeks ago the water temperature was 57 degrees and that can get a little uncomfortable pretty quickly if you are wet wading. Also, your footing could be difficult in sandals or rubber soled hiking boots in some of the shallower areas where the boulders are slippery and moss covered. I'd encourage you to contemplate investing in a set of waders with separate wading boots instead of the all-in-one waders. The boots should accommodate removable studs which will give you a little surer footing especially at the current high flow levels. A wading staff (home made or otherwise) would also be recommended.

I don't mean to deter you, by all means give the creek a try with what you've got but be careful. It will give you a chance to explore the variety of water conditions offered by Putah Creek and it's access points. Within the roughly 4.5 miles of water below the dam there are portions that mimic raging white-water Sierra streams, quiet deep water areas that seem like a lake and other areas that remind one of spring fed creeks. Putah Creek is a terrific resource. I hope that you enjoy it and help to preserve it. Also, be sure to clean well what ever footwear you use to avoid spreading the New Zealand mud snail to other waters.

Meowasaur · Newbie

Hello Mike,

Thank you so much for the thorough response. With that water temperature and everything else you mentioned I'm guessing waders and boots will be the way to go especially if I want to spend a decent chunk of time in or near the water. If you have any recommendations those would be much appreciated it. I did see a posting about those little snails and making sure to check under laces and such so i'll make sure to be thorough.

I can't wait to get some time on the creek i've never been before and it seems like a beautiful place. Thanks again.

Fornacino · Senior Member

Hi,

I would second everything that Mike42 has said. In my experience a set of waders and boots make all the difference in catching fish at Putah Creek (and elsewhere.)

I have a pair of Simms G3 waders, which are somewhat pricy, and a set of Caddis waders that I purchased at Big 5 for $108.00. The Caddis set require a more careful look at where you're stepping through as you make your way to the water, but in the water the cheap waders are no different than the expensive ones. I've used them for 2 months (about 2 dozen trips between Putah and Lower Yuba) and not a sign of leakage. You will need to spend another $100 to $150 on a pair of boots. I recommend Patagonia, which is the brand I wear.

A solid staff for wading is not just a recommendation, it's a necessity. I've made one from a broom stick and another from an old ski pole. Or you can buy one for about $50.00 to $90.00.

Good luck with your fishing and let us know if you catch any. I haven't fished Putah since flows went upwards of 250 cfs. Can't wait to go back...

Sandbar · Newbie

as stated, waders, boots and a staff are a must. Quality boots will pay dividends. The most important asset i believe to effectively fish putah is a good roll cast proper mend and enough weight to get it down. There are fish in there and if your not getting bit change it up. Fish small darkish flies 20-18 keep it simple and if you let your flies get gown to them you'll be getting lots of moss and potentially lots of bites too

putah can be super technical and can take some work to crack but once you do you'll become a better fisherman. These flows require caution and respect.

good luck and enjoy

inform any bait fishermen of the regs and report any poaching activities.

Meowasaur · Newbie

Do you happen to know of any quieter areas on the creek? This will be my first time fly fishing so i've just been trying to pick up as much information as possible via youtube. I was given two tenkara rods as a gift so this will be a trial and error sort of thing for me.

Hatethebait · Member

With the water levels where they are, I would recommend near the bridge. A few spots up there that you can use without wading too far into the water. Be careful out there, the water is much higher than I personally like to fish it. Access is a problem under good conditions, and there are many spots that look like you can step, but will be soft mud or reeds you will sink in.

LelandFly · Veteran Member

As a local fly shop, rod company and instructional center I can vouch for the opinions expressed hear. All are valid.

Investing in waders and boots is just that, an investment. You can choose to invest or go with a cheaper pair and you'll likely be happy with the result. We use to carry Simms and Patagonia waders and boots, we no longer carry any outerwear so I suggest going with your gut on price. Cheap waders and boots don't last long but find the best size and plan to keep them a year or two then re-purchase. It's not a bad way to go. Or... Invest in the right size, upper end Patagonia or Simms and you won't be disappointment in the comfort, features, warranty and longevity. Check into Bass Pro Shop or Cabela's for cheaper waders. Maybe Sweeney's in Napa has something as well.

In regards to access, try entering around the bridge that cross the river near the dam. It's not easy fishing but stay in the shallows and work on casting up and down stream parallel to the shoreline to avoid the brush behind. Work on a roll cast as well. We teach a unique way of casting that could help you if you're interested. Just look us up.

Do watch for rattlers, they're around right now near the river with the drought.

Finally, have fun, fish smaller flies and explore the river. It helps to have a friend as a few areas can get a little sketchy. If you're solo wade in the slower water and if you aren't into moving cover the water very systematically. Fish it like a grid. You'll find a fish.

I just noticed you may just have a Tenkara rod? You may be in for a lot casting. I wish it weren't the case but fish don't come easy to the dry fly on Putah. Most are taken on nymphs below the surface. If you need a fly rod to start fishing it we have some very inexpensive outfits starting at just $99. www.lelandfly.com/In-Stock/Rod-Reel-and-Line/1953-590-4-Beginner-Trout-Fly-Fishing-Outfit.html