Lake Berryessa & Putah Creek Fly Fishing Report
Johnny Feaster Reports on June 27th, 2025
Lake Berryessa and Putah creek Fishing Report - June 2025
By Local Guide Johnny Feaster
Lake Berryessa:
Water Temperature: 73-78
Target Species: Bass
Fishing Method: Float and Fly/Top water/Streamers
Leader Length: 6 to 9 feet
Fishing Overview: with the summer heat starting, the early morning top water action has been really good with some big fish being caught. Switching fly size can get the bigger aggressive fish to eat, so don’t be afraid to go big! After the early morning, switching to Float-n-Fly or streamers has proved to be more productive as the day goes on!
Techniques & Gear:
● The Float and Fly method is my preferred technique on the lake, with summer water temps rising Top water and streamers have been hooking some nice fish!
● For fly selection, the Black Leech and Williams Wagasaki from North Valley Fly Fishing have been producing excellent results, you can buy these flies at flyfishcnv.com.
● A 3 or 5 foot leader is working best to keep your presentation in the strike zone at the proper depth.
Fishing Patterns & Tips:
● The early morning top water has been very productive. Look for trees.
● The second drop-off around 8 to 15 feet is a prime spot for streamers. Look for the flats that drop off when getting into the late morning /afternoon.
Conservation Issues:
Golden mussel awareness continues! Golden mussels have started showing up in California's reservoirs, and local water agencies are taking action. A quarantine has been put in place to try and slow their spread, with decontamination stations set up at Steel Park and Markley Cove. Please remember to clean your boat thoroughly, especially if you're moving between different bodies of water, like from the Delta to any freshwater
lake. It’s crucial to help prevent the spread of these invasive species.
Hot Tip:
● If you find any land bridges make sure to throw some top water around the ledges!
Putah Creek
Target Species: Rainbow Trout
Fishing Method: Nymphs with Indicator
Leader Length: 5 to 9 feet
CFS: 600+
Fishing Overview: Summer flows are here! Fish are still there, but sometimes can be tricky to find in bigger flows! This is the time of year you can get away with some bigger flies!
Techniques & Gear:
● With the bigger flows, using longer leaders with more weight to help you get down to present these fish will immensely help your opportunity of finding the fish
● For fly selection a Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, and midges of all colors.
Fishing Patterns & Tips:
● Dead drift catches fish, presentation is key.
● Make sure to show some stealth when approaching the runs the fish will be holding more shallow then you may think.
● Don’t be afraid to throw some bigger flies to help present to the fish hanging at the bottom.