@Saints&Sailors, thanks for letting me know about the Superfund site. I was aware of the mine, but not its downstream impacts. So sad. That section of the East Fork of the Carson is a designated Wild and Scenic river. If I go, I might hike upstream from where the trial hits the river, which should be toward cleaner water. Here's a description from
Fly Fishing The Sierra:
In 1989, the
East Fork of the Carson River was selected by the State as a "Wild and Scenic River". The East Fork Carson River became a State designated Wild Trout Stream in 1992. Local Guide,
Ralph Cutter and DFG biologist,
Chuck Von Geldern, were instrumental in getting "Wild Trout" recognition to this section of the stream as many thought of the East Carson as being more of a Mountain whitefish habitat. The "trophy trout" sections of the river starts at Hangman's Bridge about 1.5 miles south of Markleeville and continues for 14.5 miles to the CA/NV border. Most of the trout reside below Hangman's Bridge within deep pools. The river is generally flat between Hangman's Bridge and Markleeville Creek but then drops off into canyon water onto the Nevada border. The best access to the river is from a trail at Hangman's Bridge or from the campground at Markleeville Creek. Trophy-size trout include
Browns up to 7 lbs. and
Rainbows, in the 22 inch range, as well as a few
Lahonton Cutthroats that have exceeded 10 lbs. The Mountain Whitefish also frequent the river and can reach up to 20 inches. This is not an abundant trout fishery as it contains the fewest trout of any of the state designated Wild Trout Streams but can be very rewarding for those that fish it. The Rainbows tend to be in the meadow areas of Hangman's Bridge while the Browns tend to inhabit the Canyon waters below Markleeville Creek. Since river rafters use this section of the river during the early summer months, the flyfishing is better during the later summer and fall periods. You can wade most of the river with many cross-over areas less than 2 feet deep. Scattered pools can be over 8 feet deep with runs in between the pools. The season is open year round and is strictly 'Catch and Release' within this section.
