McCloud River · Weekly report
McCloud River fishing report
Current conditions in brief
As of November 5, 2026: The McCloud is running high at about 780 CFS, nearly triple last week, with poor clarity after releases from McCloud Reservoir were raised. Water is about 47°F. Fish the slower edges with October Caddis pupae, hot spot nymphs and rubber legs, and wait for the flows to drop for the best fishing.
Conditions
- Flows: About 780 CFS at the gauge above Shasta Lake, up from about 270 a week ago.
- Water temp: About 47°F at the same gauge.
- Clarity: Poor for now because of the higher releases.
- Bugs: October Caddis, BWOs, and other small caddis and mayflies, though hatches have been on the small side.
Read this week's full report: McCloud River Report – High Releases, Preserve Ends Nov 15
McCloud questions this week
Is the McCloud fishing well right now?
As of November 5, 2026: The McCloud changed a lot this week. Releases from McCloud Reservoir started climbing on October 30, and the gauge above Shasta Lake went from about 270 CFS to roughly 780 by November 3, where it's held since. The Fly Shop's reports (11/1 and 11/4) say the flows are high and the clarity has…
What flies are working on the McCloud River right now?
As of November 5, 2026: Fish the edges: At this flow, trout move to the softer water along the banks and behind boulders. Skip the heavy middle of the river. Heavier nymph rigs: October Caddis pupae, olive hot spots, worm patterns and rubber legs, with enough weight to get down in the faster water. Bigger, darker flies: In off-color water, a bigger silhouette is easier for fish to find. Leave the spawning browns alone: and fish the deeper water below the gravel instead.
What are the McCloud River flows right now?
As of November 5, 2026: About 780 CFS at the gauge above Shasta Lake, up from about 270 a week ago. Water temperature: About 47°F at the same gauge. Gauge readings are provisional; see the sources listed in the report.
All McCloud River reports
- McCloud River Report – High Releases, Preserve Ends Nov 15 ()
- 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.