McCloud River · Weekly report
McCloud River fishing report
Current conditions in brief
As of October 29, 2026: The McCloud is clear at about 270 CFS, with water cooling to about 46–48°F. October Caddis are hatching strongly, BWOs are increasing, and the browns are spawning. Fish October Caddis pupae under an indicator or big dry, a small hot spot nymph on a dry-dropper, and Stimulators along the edges in the evening.
Conditions
- Flows: About 270 CFS at the gauge above Shasta Lake, steady since a small rain bump on 10/23.
- Water temp: About 46–48°F at the same gauge, down a few degrees from last week.
- Bugs: October Caddis, BWOs, and a mix of small caddis and mayflies.
Read this week's full report: McCloud River Report – Strong Caddis, Colder Water
McCloud questions this week
Is the McCloud fishing well right now?
As of October 29, 2026: The McCloud is fishing well, and it's getting less attention than it deserves while everyone is on the Lower Sac and Trinity. Ted Fay Fly Shop (via the 10/22 regional report) says the October Caddis are coming off strong and BWO hatches are increasing. The Fly Shop's 10/27 report agrees, and adds…
What flies are working on the McCloud River right now?
As of October 29, 2026: October Caddis pupae: Dead-drift and swing them. A heavy pupa needs a big foam dry or an indicator to hold it up. Dry-dropper: A caddis skater or similar dry with a small hot spot nymph, worm pattern or Pheasant Tail-style nymph under it. Evening dries: Stimulators and October Caddis dries along the edges near dark. Browns: Leave the spawning fish alone. Fish the deeper water below the gravel, where other fish wait for loose eggs.
What are the McCloud River flows right now?
As of October 29, 2026: About 270 CFS at the gauge above Shasta Lake, steady since a small rain bump on 10/23. Water temperature: About 46–48°F at the same gauge, down a few degrees from last week. Gauge readings are provisional; see the sources listed in the report.
All McCloud River reports
- McCloud River Report – Strong Caddis, Colder Water ()
- McCloud River Report – Spawning Browns, October Caddis ()
- McCloud River Fishing Report – Cold Water, Pre-Spawn Browns, First October Caddis ()
New reports post every Thursday. McCloud River guide trips and seasons → · All rivers →
Ready to book a trip?
Call or text Travis at (530) 722-8331 for a quick, same-day response, or book through The Fly Shop at 1-800-669-3474.