Putah Creek remains an incredibly productive wild trout fishery, but it does not often give up its secrets easily. Flows often start increasing in April depending on the weather up to summer flows of 700 cfs and start to decrease after September. Flows above 300 cfs make wading difficult. Many flyfishermen use small flies and fine tippets in 5-7x usually under an indicator with split shot. Dry fly fishing with baetis and small caddis patterns is sometimes productive. Productive flies usually include small mayfly and midge imitations in #16 or smaller. 3 to 6 weight rods are typical. All of the public accesses have productive water. Hiring a guide may be the best way to learn the creek. Artificial lures with barbless hooks are also allowed all year.