Trout Source

Introduction

The North Fork of the Mokelumne is a high Sierra freestone with access that can be challenging, but the fishing rewarding.  The river is rather small, but contains some big rainbows, plus some brookies and browns in the upper stretches.   With its high altitude location (7000 to 8000 feet), it gets cold fast when the sun sets.  However, summers are California sunny, with rain extremely rare.  Significant tributaries include Pacific Creek and Deer Creek, both of which also contain rainbows.

River Character and Access

Working upstream, access begins from Railroad Flat road, which can be reached by taking Summit Level Road from Highway 4 (either in White Pines or Camp Connell).  In this area, many roads weave their way around the river, but much of the property is private and the roads tough going.  Next access, just after 8,050 foot Pacific Grade Summit, is Pacific Valley, where Pacific Creek enters, and then Hermit Valley, which offers meadow fishing.  Both valleys have campgrounds.   From Hermit Valley, a trail goes downstream into the Mokelumne Wilderness and eventually to the substantial tributary of Deer Creek.  Finally, just before 8,730 foot Ebbets Pass on Highway 4 is a dirt road with additional access to the North Fork of the Mokelumne and leading eventually to Highland Lakes (the origin of the Upper Mokelumne).  Sections of Highway 4 at these elevations are closed in winter and may not open until learly May or later, depending on the snowfall.  Accessible by trail only is the section running through the Mokelumne Wilderness.  Trails begin in Hermit Valley, Salt Springs Reservoir and Mount Reba.

When and How to Fish

Fishing doesn't begin in earnest until after snowmelt in late spring.  Arrive too early and you'll find high water, cold air, residual snow and possibly closed roads.  Due to the heavy snow at these high elevations, the roads typically do not open until early May, so check in advance wtih fly shops, guides or lodging provdiers to make sure you are not disappointed.

 

Troutsource highly recommends the services of a local fly fishing guide.  We've listed the best ones below, and you can contact all of them at once using our e-mail form.  A guide can be the difference between getting skunked and catching 20 fish.   Remember, getting the right fly is only half the battle.  You need to know exactly where to put it, and how -- and this is where guides earn their money.   A customary tip is 15%.