March 2017 report for Putah Creek

Hey everyone so it seems the rain has stopped for now and flows are on the decline. Current flows are at 1450 cfs(cubic feet per second). Last week I spoke with Chris from Solano Irrigation and he told me that at the height of the storms he estimated between 7 and 8 thousand cfs overall moving down the creek. We talked for a while and from what I understand the nozzel at the base of the dam can discharge between 700 and 1000cfs and another 700 to 1000 running the hydro turbines discharging below the water level and the rest comming down the glory hole. My guess is he is right; at the height of these last few storms we where looking at around 8000 per second  Wow! I am looking forward to seeing whats changed and whats not but we're still a few weeks to a month from anything resembling a fishable creek.  Me and a friend hiked up to the glory hole a few weeks ago and here is one of the videos I shot:

I know it'll be at least a couple more weeks before the creek is really fishable again. Once you get back out there, remember proper leader length, flies, and trial and error are essential to finding fish in the new re-designed Putah Creek. Depending on what happens, we may need to use big-water techniques and possibly bigger flies as well. As a safety side-note: dont forget that rafting on the creek is extremely dangerous at ALL times and especially at this time! Last weekend, I came upon three young people and their dog, blowing up a small rubber raft at Access #3, wearing jeans and t-shirts, about to make a huge mistake. I talked with them and was able to talk them out of getting into the river, which was flowing at 2400cfs. I've been on the creek a couple times a week throughout the season and I'm starting to see areas that I'm sure are holding fish; but getting to them is still a problem. I will continue to do exploratory fishing and keep you guys posted as the flows come down and as soon as I know anything big, you'll know it too. Until then, make a visit to Loast Coast Outfitters, Sweeney's Sports, or your local fly shop; tie your flys, watch your favorite fly-fishing videos, and get ready for Spring. For more information about Richard Loft and booking a day on the creek, check out www.napavalleyflyguides.com or call 707-294-4738.