Basecamp on the Tuolumne: A Two- or Three-Day Fly Fishing Immersion
Two or three days on the Tuolumne—learn the craft, fish the runs, sleep beside the river.
The river arrives not as a suggestion but as a presence—cold, fast, and insisting. It threads through granite like a seam of liquid light, riffles and shallow seams breaking against boulders that have been sculpted by a thousand melt seasons. At dawn, steam lifts where water meets cold air and the basecamp coffee goes from hot to holy. You lace waders at the edge of a riffle, rod in one hand, the day's rhythm ahead of you: walk, read water, cast, mend, tighten.
Trail Wisdom
Get Your California Fishing License
A state license is required for anyone 16 or older; buy it online ahead of time to avoid delays at the trailhead.
Layer for Sharp Mornings
Early starts can be cold; wear a warm base layer under breathable waders and bring a fleece for standing on cold banks.
Wading Safety First
Use a wading staff on slick rocks and scout new channels from shore before stepping in—currents can be deceptively strong.
Pack Light, Fish Long
Basecamp sleeping is provided; carry only what you need for day hikes (rod, water, snacks, rain shell).
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk upstream at dusk for quieter pools and better chance at sight fishing
- •Short scramble to granite outcrops yields expansive river views and good photography angles
Wildlife
Mule Deer, American Dipper
Conservation Note
Visitors are asked to follow Leave No Trace; the area is sensitive to bank erosion and angling pressure—use designated trails and pack out all waste.
The Tuolumne River flows from high Sierra meadows and was central to debates over Hetch Hetchy, a valley flooded to provide water to San Francisco.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Early-season nymphing, Watching runoff patterns
Challenges: High flows from snowmelt, Tioga Road closures early in season
Spring brings high, cold flows—good for learning heavy nymph rigs but check road openings and expect faster water.
summer
Best for: Dry-fly fishing, Stable access to Tioga Road
Challenges: Warmer afternoons and higher day use, Variable insect hatches
Summer is the most reliable time for access and varied techniques: mornings for nymphs, afternoons for dries.
fall
Best for: Quiet fishing, Clear cool days
Challenges: Shorter daylight hours, Cooling water temperatures
Fall can deliver excellent hatches and fewer crowds; plan for cold mornings and early sunsets.
winter
Best for: Off-season planning, Lower elevation scouting
Challenges: Snowbound roads and closed access, Dangerous winter flows
Winter generally shuts down high-country access; travel only if your itinerary specifies low-elevation river sections.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
9' 5-6wt Fly RodEssential
A versatile rod for nymphs and dry flies in Sierra runs.
Wading Boots with Felt/Sticky SolesEssential
Stability on granite and river cobble while wading.
Layered Clothing SystemEssential
Base layer, fleece, and waterproof shell for variable alpine conditions.
Daypack with HydrationEssential
Carry water, snacks, sunscreen, and spare flies for long days on the river.
Common Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes—California law requires a valid fishing license for anglers 16 and older. Purchase one online in advance.
What level of experience do I need?
Trips accommodate beginners through experienced anglers; guides tailor instruction from casting basics to advanced nymphing.
Are meals and camping gear provided?
Yes—meals are included (breakfasts, lunches, dinners), and basecamp lodging/comforts are part of the package; ask provider for specifics.
How remote is the basecamp?
Basecamp is riverside but accessible by short hikes—the program balances remote fishing access with comfortable camp amenities.
When is Tioga Road open?
Tioga Road typically opens late spring to early summer depending on snowpack; check Yosemite National Park updates for exact dates.
Are children allowed?
Policies vary—contact the operator to confirm minimum age and whether family-friendly arrangements are available.
What to Pack
Wading boots (stability), layered clothing (temperature swings), California fishing license (legal requirement), polarized sunglasses (see fish and protect eyes)
Did You Know
The Tuolumne River flows into Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, which supplies drinking water to San Francisco—Hetch Hetchy was dammed after a controversial early-20th-century debate that reshaped American conservation policy.
Quick Travel Tips
Buy a California fishing license online; check Tioga Road status before travel; bring cash/card for park entrance fees; expect limited cell service in high-country areas
Local Flavor
After a day on the river, drive east to Lee Vining for a pro‑style sandwich at the Whoa Nellie Deli and a coffee while watching Mono Lake’s tufa towers—if staying on the west side, Groveland offers rustic taverns and local pizza to swap stories with your guide.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) or Reno-Tahoe (RNO); Driving from Lee Vining to Tuolumne Meadows ~45 miles / 1–1.5 hours; Cell service intermittent—plan logistics beforehand; Required: Yosemite entrance fee and California fishing license.
Sustainability Note
This area is ecologically sensitive—pack out all trash, avoid bank-side trampling, and follow guide instructions to protect spawning and holding areas.