Putah creek Winters, California Fishing report

Putah Creek at highway 128 bridge.

Happy Halloween! If you decide to fish at Putah Creek today, it might be a trick or a treat. Putah Creek is situated about 6 miles west of Winters, accessible via Highway 505 and Highway 128. To reach Putah Creek from Highway 505, take the Highway 128 exit to Winters and continue on 128. You’ll encounter the creek about 5 miles past Winters. The first visible area of the creek is near a campground, and you can follow it to the 128 bridge shown in the header photo, where it crosses Putah Creek. This spot is roughly a quarter mile from Lake Berryessa at Monticello Dam, the creek's water source. The creek maintains temperatures in the 50s year-round because its water comes from the bottom of Lake Berryessa. Putah Creek is a wild trout stream with a zero limit, meaning you cannot keep any fish. Managed by the Putah Creek Conservation Group, it became a fully wild trout stream with no stocking around 15 years ago. Fly fishing and artificial lures with single barbless hooks are required. Always check the regulations before fishing to avoid fines. During this season, larger fish from Lake Solano, located about three or four miles downstream, move toward the dam to spawn. Be cautious of redds, which are gravelly spawning beds, and avoid walking through them to protect the fish.

Flies and nymphs are effective; indicator fishing is excellent. Swinging flies has been successful for me. Flies larger than size 16 aren't necessary; nymphs should be in the 20 to 24 range, and dry flies. Yesterday, I noticed a caddis hatch, with caddis around size 14-16, and a small baetis hatch. The stream can be challenging as it's a blue ribbon stream with heavy fishing pressure. Yesterday saw a record number of fishermen, making it hard to find a fishing spot. Be mindful of the upcoming time change, as it will get dark quickly, but the fishing is excellent now. Use 4 to 6 weight rods and lines, floating lines, or intermediate sink. I prefer a 6-7X tippet. The fish are very smart and the water is clear, so they’re cautious. If wading, wear long johns or similar clothing; the water in the 50s can be chilly. The 128 bridge in the photo is near Canyon Creek Campground, which offers camping and motorhome hookups. Visit Putah Creek; it's a fantastic fishing spot.

Map https://maps.app.goo.gl/qiKPsJXdmLyPR9sw7

Fishing access https://maps.app.goo.gl/riiAb24y4cser2E77