McCloud River fishing report

As of October 22, 2026: This is prime time on the McCloud. The latest shop report (10/20) has the October Caddis hatching and the browns spawning, along with BWOs and other small bugs. The dry fly bite on the big caddis is still early, so most fish are coming on pupae and nymphs.

As of October 22, 2026: October Caddis pupae: Dead-drift and swing them through the riffles and pocket water. Dry-dropper: A big caddis dry with a small hot spot nymph or worm pattern under it. Evening dries: Stimulators and big caddis dries along the edges near dark. Browns: Leave the spawners on the gravel alone. Fish the deeper water below the redds, where other fish are waiting for loose eggs.

As of October 22, 2026: About 260 CFS at the gauge above Shasta Lake, steady all week. Water temperature: 48–51°F at the same gauge. Gauge readings are provisional; see the sources listed in the report.