The Lower Owens River, just outside of Bishop, CA, continues to offer some of the best spring fly fishing in the Eastern Sierra. Recent snowmelt and runoff have pushed the river up to a healthy 280 cubic feet per second, creating vibrant flows that are still very fishable and are opening up fresh water and new holding areas for trout. The slightly stained water provides excellent cover, allowing anglers to get closer to fish without spooking them — a real advantage in this transitional season.

As the water rises, so does the bug activity. Caddisflies are now moving throughout the river, and the river is alive with insects in the evenings. Anglers are seeing explosive surface feeding right at dark. Dry fly action has been intense during this window, but does not last long. With trout aggressively keying in on caddis and mayfly patterns. A well-presented Elk Hair Caddis or CDC Caddis right at dusk can lead to some thrilling takes. Earlier in the day, nymphing remains productive, particularly in deeper runs and soft edges where trout are holding to conserve energy.

Despite the increase in flow, the river remains very accessible to both wading and floating anglers. These healthy conditions are breathing new life into the Lower Owens and spreading fish out across the system, offering a variety of productive water. With active wild brown trout with a few rainbows mixed in, strong insect activity, and dynamic evening dry fly fishing, it’s an exciting time to be on the river.

For those looking to experience the best of the Lower Owens this spring, now is the time. The combination of rising water, caddis hatches, and aggressive feeding behavior is setting up for one of the most memorable fishing windows of the year. We will monitor the flows closely from here on out to determine if and when they get out of control.

For more information or to book a guided trip, call or text the STM Fly Shop at 760-873-0010, visit www.sierratroutmagnet.com, or follow along on Instagram at @stm_fly_fishing.