August 13---DIAMONDS IN THE RUFF (Trinity Alps Lakes)

Even with the growing popularity of the Trinity River and its legendary salmon-steelhead runs it is amazing just how many people do not know where it comes from.

Where does the Trinity River originate? No, not Trinity Lake. No, not Lewiston Lake; even though both of these popular lakes/fisheries are Trinity Counties largest bodies of water. Yes they are a major source and feed the lower Trinity River but they are only a fraction of a very large, complex and diverse watershed.

Headwaters of the Trinity River originate deep within the Salmon-Trinity Alps wilderness. A remote rugged mountain range whose majestic granite pinnacles and deep crevasses, formed by glaciations, closely resemble the Swiss Alps and are often referred to as their counterparts. Comprised of over 53 high mountain lakes and 1,600 miles of streams, the greater majority of these waters are spring fed and freestone compositions. They are annually replenished and nurtured by winter rains and snowpack’s. Activated by spring’s warming temperatures, runoff cascades down steep terrains and carves its way through deep granite formations, filling a variety of pristine granite, seep, fertile and even sterile lakes. Peak runoff, outlets overflow and spill, often creating stunningly beautiful waterfalls before flows subside and quietly meander through lush, rich and colorful high mountain meadows. Intercepting and converging with others, tributaries gain volume and velocity and slowly bleed the Alps and foot hills of their vast liquid richness; ultimately creating the headwaters of the Trinity watershed. At the same time, as these waters flow into the man made impoundments of Trinity and Lewiston Lakes the entire watershed dynamics and compositions are drastically altered. Forever changed, at least until the Dams are removed. What? It could happen. The once wild free flowing upper Trinity headwaters are now separated and isolated from the regulated lower Trinity River tailwaters; the current boundary for all anadromous fish.

Lakes and streams of the Trinity Alps are home to colorful resident rainbows, browns and brookies. Remarkably they are able to withstand the harsh high mountain elements and short growing seasons. Stream fish are generally small but colorful, often reflecting the beauty of the Alps themselves and quite eager. The lakes support larger quarry however fishing is more demanding. Forget the fairy tales about wilderness lake trout literally jumping on the hook. Timing is critical. Ice out and the first few weeks of the melt is always prime time to target early season squaretails. Fish are congregated, hungry and often eager. Keep in mind south facing lakes thaw first and offer early options. (My own personal Alps trophy measured 17”---from the butt section of the glass fly rod to the distant Fenwick Eagle wing below the first stripping guide. The high mountain treasure reflected a buffed- up body profile that displayed a color collage of brilliant orange, olive, red and blues; highlighted with a gator head and jaws---reminding you the brookie is truly a saber-tooth char). I have personally seen fish, and photos, that are simply off the chart and well worth keeping tight lipped. As summertime temperatures soar, concentrate efforts early mornings, late evenings.  When fishing slows, simply go day tripping. The scenic beauty, relief from the summer heat, wildlife and sweet smell of the high mountain Jeffrey Pines all blend together for a natural high and great escape.

Seasons are short and for the eager backcountry angler this means monitoring snowpack’s and current weather patterns before heading in. (Depending upon the winter generally June through October are great windows of opportunity). U.S. Forest Service offices provide wilderness permits and on top with updated trail conditions. Two great publications that will broaden your knowledge of the Alps and Trinity watershed as well as give great direction to some very promising fishing prospects are; THE TRINITY ALPS COMPANION  By Wane F. Moss…  THE TRINITY ALPS by Luther Linkhart … (both publications a must & always available at T.F.S.).

So next time you, your family and friends visit Trinity County and or the Trinity River, slow the train down. Take a few moments and reflect on the vast wildness of the Trinity Alps and beauty of the Trinity River. That’s right the emerald beauty whose headwaters are tucked away, well hidden and off the beaten paths while the lower tailwaters flow parallel HWY 299 most all the way to the coast. A magnificent liquid pulse and energy that intercepts the Lower Klamath and flows far into the Pacific. By the time the river hits the Weitchpec junction its purities are somewhat diluted, only trace elements and yet still enticing; a scented flow within a mix, a signal, a beacon, a reminder this way home. Home to remarkable salmon and steelhead cycles that brings wonderment and great stoke to most anyone who stretches a line in her waters. Remove the blinders, pay attention and always give respect…

On top of the world-Trinity Alps Vantage.	Pause and reflect-high mountain solitude.	Early season ice out rewards.
Trinity Alps fire works.	Where is everybody? Soul fishing...	Unspoiled splended beauty-well worth the effort.

Current River Conditions

July 30---Freestone Fun (beat the heat--head to the high country)

E-Yow! It’s been blazing hot this past week. Scorching temps have soared over the century mark, even in our neck of the woods, creating thirst and desire for bountiful numbers of your favorite chilled beverages that seem to go down way to easy. Mild nights, long days, blaring sunlight and prolonged hot temps are simply harsh fishing conditions and quite the norm during peak summertime.  Most all lower elevation fisheries are impacted and during heat up periods fish tend to develop modified feeding habits. Seeking low lighting and cooler temperatures trout are most activate early mornings and late evenings. Mid-day most fisheries downshift into a neutral mode while trout tend to be become lethargic and develop heavy eyelids. To achieve optimum conditions and keep the odds off success in your favor anglers need to target lower elevation waters early and late...

But what about fishing mid-day during the heat?  Get high young man. No, not agriculturally enhanced or intoxicated, although if that’s your bag.   Head to the high country waters of Trinity County where it is much cooler and mid-day fishing can be refreshing and much more forgiving. Trinity County is blessed with a remarkable number of headwater freestone streams that are just now coming into great shape after an extensive runoff.  These sweet water gems include upper Trinity River, East Fork Trinity River, Swift Creek, Coffee Creek, Stuarts Fork, Papoose Creek and many others. (Reference Streamtime Trinity River Map---always available at T.F.S.) Mostly freestone compositions these headwaters streams offer a variety of scenic and challenging pocketwater/pool fishing. Rock hopping and target casting small drys, nymphs and terrestrials with lightweight outfits (2-3wts.) for healthy populations of native rainbows, browns and brookies. Overshadowed by other popular Trinity waters these streams receive moderate to light fishing pressure therefore fish can be quite eager and willing. Multiple hook-ups are common. ( Ok-Ok---number crunchers can apply…) Most trout are small, however on occasion larger lake run trout are available and catch the unsuspecting angler off guard; usually departing fly and tippets and leaving the surprised angler wide eyed and stunned.

The Alps terrains are rugged, remote and no gemmy. While these streams are inviting they are close but far away.  Spirited heart anglers have to invest time and effort for sweet rewards. It is wise to develop a game plan when selecting waters for fishing.  A favorite personal approach is to stash a mountain bike at the lower end of your approach. Target waters above and hike/fish down to your bike. Another option that doesn’t involve a mountain bike is select waters adjacent old logging or secondary roads. Hike/fish downstream and hike back up the road and walk back upstream. Optimally it would be great to have someone pick you up at the end of a stretch of selected water. All these options permit you to thoroughly fish more waters without the hassle of hiking back up stream. Devoted freestone anglers know the drill --- Minimize your hiking efforts to maximize your fishing. Wade wet, it is refreshingly enjoyable and adds to the comfort level from the heat. Go light, a small backpack is ideal. Carry only what is needed. (Handful flys-tippits-hemos-license-bevs/snacks etc.) When fishing the Trinity freestone streams it is all but haunting as the wind blows through the canyons and whispers the tales these waters not long ago supported legendary runs of salmon and steelhead. The spirit and beauty of these colorful natives are cherished remnants of their ancestors and a reminder of Ma Nature and her will to survive and perpetuate. Respect, tred lightly, catch-release, and heat up to cool down.

Native remnant-sporting colors.	Freestone scour & rage.	Brookie ain't no lady.

Current River Conditions