As promised, the Lower Owens River outside Bishop, CA has dropped even further for our current fishing report, with actual flows now around 175 CFS. Despite the river gauge not accurately reflecting the current conditions the entire river is now accessible, and conditions are about as good as we could hope for heading into the heart of fall.

The Lower Owens is in amazing condition, and the fishing continues to improve! After months of sustained high flows out of Pleasant Valley Reservoir, the river has finally settled into a more manageable level, opening up miles of fishable water from the Wild Trout Section below Pleasant Valley Campground all the way down through the valley.

The trout have had months of high water and abundant food, and they are now taking full advantage of the improving conditions. Wild brown and rainbow trout are feeding well, with productive seams, riffles, deeper pools, and classic willow-lined runs all fishing well.

Nymphing remains a reliable way to find fish, with patterns imitating midges, Baetis, and other aquatic insects producing throughout the river. Streamers are also worth having in the rotation, particularly around deeper pools and drop offs.

We are also beginning to see limited dry-fly activity on mayflies in certain sections of the river. As nighttime temperatures in the Bishop Valley are now approaching freezing, expect the cooler weather to continue bringing more seasonal insect activity. Keep those mayfly and midge patterns close—you never know when the river is going to come alive on the surface.

With flows around 175 CFS, the entire Lower Owens is accessible and wadeable, opening up countless opportunities to explore new water and find fish that have seen relatively little pressure during the higher flows.

The river is in exceptional shape, and everything is lining up for an excellent fall and winter season.

The Lower Owens is ready. Grab your waders, get your flies dialed in, and come enjoy one of the best times of year on the river!

Call or text the Fly Shop in Bishop, CA for more details or to book a guided tour for an individual, a couple, or a group.

760-873-0010

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