Tuolumne River
The lower Tuolumne River near Modesto, California is known for smallmouth bass, carp and steelhead in the Central Valley.
- 166 miRiver length
- 3Game fish
- 25Access points
In the FlyFishFinder appAbout the Tuolumne
The Tuolumne River rises in Yosemite National Park and runs down the western Sierra Nevada to the San Joaquin Valley. The stretch most anglers hit is the lower river below La Grange Dam. It runs through Modesto, with parks like Legion Park and Fox Grove Park giving public access.
This is a warm, slow-moving Central Valley river. Smallmouth bass and common carp are the main fly rod targets. Steelhead also use the river. It is a good option for anglers who want a close-to-town river without much travel.
Smallmouth fishing is often best when water warms up. Streamers, crayfish patterns and poppers can work. Carp anglers sight fish in shallow flats and runs. Flows are managed, so they can change.
Check California rules for steelhead and any special closures before you fish.
Tuolumne River below Early Intake near Mather, CA
Flow, last 24 hours
USGS readings, provisionalIs the Tuolumne fishing today?
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Nearby gages
- Cherry Creek below Dion River Holm Ph near Mather, CA4.5 mi away 15 cfs Below normal 49°F · 5.80 ft USGS 11278400
- Cherry Creek near Early Intake, CA4.9 mi away 13 cfs Normal 48°F · 1.44 ft USGS 11278300
- Cherry Creek below Valley Dam near Hetch Hetchy, CA10.5 mi away 6 cfs Normal 45°F · 5.23 ft USGS 11277300
- Modesto Canal near La Grange, CA28.1 mi away 0 cfs Normal 1.15 ft USGS 11289000
- Black Creek near Copperopolis, CA34.6 mi away 0 cfs Below normal 1.78 ft USGS 11299600
- Robinson Creek at Twin Lks outlet near Bridgeport, CA43.8 mi away 11 cfs Normal 1.36 ft USGS 10290500
- Green Creek near Bridgeport, CA48.1 mi away 5 cfs Normal 1.98 ft USGS 10289500
- Virginia Creek near Bridgeport, CA49.8 mi away 5 cfs Below normal 1.47 ft USGS 10289000
No gages that close. Try a wider radius.
See every gage on the map and today's top 10 rivers in the free appData from the U.S. Geological Survey. Recent readings are provisional and may be revised.
Fish you'll catch
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Tips for fishing the Tuolumne
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Start at the parks
Legion Park and Fox Grove Park have public river access without a long hike.
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Fish for smallmouth when it warms up
Smallmouth are more active in warmer months. Slow streamers near structure are a solid plan.
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Try sight fishing for carp
Carp feed on flats and near banks. Quiet approaches and small flies can work.
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Watch the flow releases
Flow changes can alter water depth and clarity quickly. Look at the gage before you drive out.
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Release steelhead carefully
Steelhead have special rules. Know what is legal before you fish.
Every access point on the Tuolumne, in your pocket.
- 25 mapped access points, with parking and put-ins
- Today's Fishability score, so you fish the day that lines up
- 7-day flow and water-temp trends for every gauge on the river
Rivers near the Tuolumne
Tuolumne River FAQ
Where can you fly fish the Tuolumne River near Modesto?
Legion Park and Fox Grove Park are two public places to start on the lower river.
Can you wade the Tuolumne River?
Yes in many places along the lower river. Flows are managed, so check flow before you wade.
What fish are in the Tuolumne River?
The Tuolumne holds steelhead, smallmouth bass and common carp.
What flies work on the Tuolumne River?
Woolly Buggers, crayfish patterns and poppers work for smallmouth. Carp flies like small nymphs can work on flats. For what is hatching and working today, check the FlyFishFinder app.
Is the Tuolumne River good for smallmouth bass?
Yes. The lower river is known for smallmouth, especially around the Modesto area.
Are there special rules on the Tuolumne River?
Steelhead and some river sections have special rules. Check current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations.
