The McCloud River runs between 250 to 280 cfs. It definitely has a higher volume of water compared to the Pit River, but one of the most notable differences is the color of the water. The Pit River is basically shallow water and can have a greenish tint to it due to the growth on the rocks caused by the penetrating sunlight. The McCloud has a deep emerald color to it, most likely from glacial silt. It is one of the most beautiful rivers up here. Its long deep pools make great habitat for brown trout coming up from Lake Shasta. With plenty of oxygenated water and more then ample bug life it can be a haven for large rainbows. The method of take can be anything from sinking lines with streamers to dry fly dropper set ups.
Yarn indicators work well in the long deep runs or pools, and it has also been know to turn a fish or two out with short line nymphing. The McCloud River runs west from McCloud Reservoir through a deep canyon where the Pacific Crest Trail crosses it and then stretching on to Lake Shasta. The Nature Conservancy has a three mile stretch of river that has a ten rod limit on it. This is a first-come-first-serve area; you can either get a reservation to fish it or simply be the first to get a spot! No Matter if you are fishing on Conservancy water or on Public access it will be worth the time and effort to make the trip.
