California Fishing Reports ยท Lakes ยท Sierra Region
Lake Davis near Portola is a shallow, weedy lake known for big rainbows on damsels, callibaetis and chironomids.
Looking for the latest Lake Davis river report? This page is updated by the AvidMax fly shop team with live flows, current conditions, hatches and the flies working now on the Lake Davis.
Water level
There is no public daily water level gauge for Lake Davis that we can show here. Check with the managing agency or a local shop for the latest.
Wind forecast
Lake Davis fishing report
Updated November 7, 2026.
Fall trout cruise the weed edges.
Leeches and chironomids along Mallard Cove and the shoreline.
Stocking report
See the CDFW fish planting schedule for the latest stocking at Lake Davis and other California waters.
Load your fly box
Before you head to Lake Davis, bring: Mini Leech #8-10, Zebra Midge #14-18, Woolly Bugger #6-10, Kaufmann', s Scud #14-16, Balanced Leech #10-12, Balanced Bou Leech #10-12, Slump Buster #6-8, Egg #12-14, Scud Bomb #12-16.
Flies working right now
The flies above that we have in stock right now.
Lake Davis lake details
| Access | Ramps and shoreline around the lake. |
|---|---|
| Elevation | About 5,800 ft |
| Nearest town | Portola, California |
| Best season | Spring and fall |
| Fish | Rainbows and browns |
| Regulations | Check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for the current rules. A California sport fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. |
| Leaders and tippet | 9 to 12 ft leaders, 4X to 5X tippet |
| Ice fishing | Ice fishing in cold winters. |
| Camping | Plumas National Forest campgrounds |
| Kids | Yes. |
| Good to know | Windy afternoons. |
Fishing by season
Winter
Ice.
Spring
Ice-off.
Summer
Damsels and callibaetis.
Fall
Cruising trout.
How to get there
From Portola, take Grizzly Road north to Lake Davis.