two people wade in the upper Owens River near mammoth lakes California after a recent snowfall

Upper Owens River Fly Fishing Report : Mammoth Lakes CA – 10.17.25

October 17, 2025
, , , , , Fishing Reports

Upper Owens River Fishing Report – Mid October

It’s starting to feel like fall for real on the Upper Owens, and everything is lining up for a stellar season. Flows have bumped up to 99 CFS, adding depth and energy to the river, and the first snowfall of the season dropped about 6 inches across the Long Valley meadow. While most of it will melt off in the coming days, it’s a sign that winter is knocking—and with it, the highly anticipated run of Crowley Lake’s trophy trout.

The water is running clear both above and below the Hot Creek confluence, offering excellent visibility—but that also means the fish are on high alert. In these conditions, a stealthy approach is critical. Anglers need to move slowly, keep a low profile, and make precise casts to avoid spooking both resident trout and early-arriving migratory fish. The payoff is worth it—these are prime sight-fishing conditions that reward patience and finesse.

Fishing Overview
Resident and migratory rainbows and a few browns are active and holding in deeper pools, undercut banks, and along soft dark edges—especially in lower light parts of the day. While the first wave of lake-run fish is trickling in we can see them settling into any deep and dark area the river offers. It’s a possible slow start compared to stronger years, but the rise in flows and cold weather could trigger additional movement.

What’s Working Now

  • Nymphs and Streamers: Pheasant Tails variations, San Juan Worms, midges, Soft Hackles (#12–18) Peridons, lightning bugs, ect. Attractor nymphs of any kind are worth trying.
  • Techniques: Indicator nymphing and tight-line nymphing are the most consistent producers. Streamers? Always
  • Surface action: Sporadic, but small Blue-Winged Olives and caddis are starting to show throughout the day with only small fish responding

With clear water and light pressure, now is the perfect time to plan your next fishing trip to the Eastern Sierra to experience the Owens River system. Both the Lower and Upper Owens are premier fly fishing destinations during the winter.

📞 Need the latest intel or want to book a guided trip? Call or text STM Fly Shop: 760-873-0010
🔗 www.sierratroutmagnet.com
📸 Follow along on Instagram for updates: @stm_fly_fishing

group of fisherman on the lower Owens river outside of bishop California

Lower Owens River Fishing Report : Bishop, CA – 9.22.25

September 22, 2025
, , , Fishing Reports

The Lower Owens River, just outside Bishop, CA, has entered a classic early fall transition, with flows dropping significantly over the past week to around 180 cubic feet per second. This shift has opened up the river in a big way, creating highly wadable conditions and access to prime water that’s been out of reach for much of the summer. The cooler, clearer water has wild trout active and spreading into new lies, while the first signs of fall—crisp mornings, golden cottonwoods, and changing leaf colors—set the scene for some of the most scenic and productive fishing of the year. Anglers are now able to cover much more water on foot, with excellent opportunities using classic nymphing setups as well as tight-line nymphing throughout the day. Fish that spent summer in deeper slots and slower seams are now redistributing across riffles, pockets, and softer edges, offering fresh chances at quality wild trout. With low pressure, beautiful weather, and the river in ideal shape for exploration, this is the window many have been waiting for.

Plan your trip to take advantage of the Lower Owens during this dynamic and rewarding fall season—call or text 760-873-0010, visit www.sierratroutmagnet.com, or follow along on Instagram at @stm_fly_fishing.

large trout head in a rubber net with a wooden frame on the upper Owens river near mammoth lakes ca

Upper Owens Fishing Report : Mammoth Lakes, CA – 9.22.25

September 22, 2025
, , , , , Fishing Reports

The Upper Owens River is entering a transitional phase as late September sets in, with flows holding steady around 65 cubic feet per second and the river winding through golden meadows under crisp morning skies. Water clarity remains best above the Hot Creek confluence, offering great sight-fishing opportunities, while the water below is more stained but still productive for anglers using flashier patterns and a stealthy approach. Resident fish are holding in undercut banks, deeper pools, and riffles, especially during the early morning and evening hours. Subsurface flies like midges, Pheasant Tails, San Juan Worms, Soft Hackles, and Parachute Adams in sizes #12–18 continue to be effective, with dry-dropper setups and tight-line nymphing producing the most consistent results. Surface action is still slowly picking up during low-light periods with Blue-Winged Olives and caddis beginning to appear. Most notably, anticipation is high as the first signs of Crowley Lake’s migratory rainbows and browns have started to show, with a few early arrivals moving into the system. These trophy fish will continue to push upstream in greater numbers with each passing cold front, marking the beginning of one of the most exciting times of year for Eastern Sierra fly fishing. Now is an ideal time to scout water, fine-tune your approach, and enjoy the last quiet days on the river before the fall run kicks into full gear.

Call or text the STM Fly Shop for more info or to book a guided trip: 760-873-0010
www.sierratroutmagnet.com
@stm_fly_fishing on Instagram

Rainbow trout of the Lower Owens River near Bishop California. STM Fly Fishing

Lower Owens River Fishing Report : Bishop CA – 9.1.25

August 31, 2025
, , , Fishing Reports

The Lower Owens River, just outside Bishop, CA, has delivered consistent and exciting fly fishing opportunities throughout the summer for those who know the river at these levels. Flows have held steady around 450 cubic feet per second, creating a dynamic and healthy river system. These elevated flows have kept the water cool and clear, ideal conditions for wild trout to remain active and well-distributed across the system. The higher volume has also limited access in certain areas, which has helped reduce pressure and give larger fish a chance to settle into prime holding water.

In the coming weeks, flows are expected to begin dropping, which will open up access to sections of the river that have been difficult to fish during peak runoff. As this happens, anglers will start to encounter water that hasn’t seen much pressure all summer—and with that, the opportunity to connect with some of the river’s larger, more elusive trout. Fish that have been holding in deeper slots and soft seams will begin to slide into new lies, offering fresh opportunities for both nymphing and dry-dropper setups throughout the day.

Wading access will become significantly easier as the water drops, giving anglers on foot much more room to explore. With healthy water conditions, a robust wild trout population, and fish beginning to redistribute as flows recede, this is shaping up to be one of the most rewarding fishing windows of the season.

We’ll continue to monitor conditions closely as fall approaches. For those looking to explore the Lower Owens while the river transitions and reveals some of its best water, now is the time to plan a trip.

Call or text 760-873-0010, visit www.sierratroutmagnet.com, or follow along on Instagram at @stm_fly_fishing.

Large brown trout in the lap of an angler on a riverbank near Mammoth Lake California.

Upper Owens Fly Fishing Report : Mammoth Lakes, CA – 7.1.25

July 1, 2025
, , , , , , , , , , Fishing Reports

The Upper Owens River continues to flow steadily at around 80 cubic feet per second, this fly fishing legend continues winding through a beautiful, open valley just below the town of Mammoth Lakes. With summer settling in, the meadows are green, insect activity is increasing, and water clarity remains good—ideal conditions for those looking to enjoy some peaceful, scenic fly fishing. While the major push of trophy rainbow and cutthroat trout has tapered off since the peak of the spring migration, there are still opportunities to connect with a few of these larger holdovers. Anglers willing to hike and put in the time may find success targeting deeper pools, undercut banks, and faster riffles where these big fish tend to hold as the days warm up.

Fishing remains productive with a balanced mix of attractor patterns and more realistic imitations. Subsurface offerings like midges, San Juan Worms, Pheasant Tails, Soft Hackles, and Parachute Adams in sizes #12–18 are working well. For those looking for surface action, Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs), Caddis, and small attractors are pulling in smaller trout that are starting to rise more regularly with longer daylight hours and warmer afternoons. Early morning and evening remain the best windows for dry fly activity, while midday fishing continues to produce below the surface.

Although the spring run of fresh fish has come and gone, anticipation is already building for the next seasonal movement. Traditionally, late April through May we can find large migratory holdovers, even in early summer, the Upper Owens holds a surprising number of quality fish for those willing to explore and fish methodically. The river’s combination of easy access, solitude, and the chance to hook a true Eastern Sierra trophy makes it a rewarding destination even outside of peak times. Be sure to tread lightly, handle fish with care, and enjoy the serenity this special stretch of water has to offer during the early summer season.

Call or text the STM Fly Shop for more info or to book a guided trip 760-873-0010

www.sierratroutmagnet.com

@stm_fly_fishing on Instagram

Lower Owens River Fly Fishing Report : Bishop, CA – 5.19.25

May 19, 2025
, , , , Fishing Reports

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.

Lower Owens River Fly Fishing

Lower Owens River Fly Fishing Report : Bishop, CA 4.1.25

March 31, 2025
, , , Fishing Reports

The Lower Owens River, just outside of Bishop, CA, continues to live up to its reputation as one of the finest fisheries in the region. Known for producing some of the most beautiful wild brown trout you can find, it’s a must-visit for any serious angler. As April unfolds, it’s shaping up to be an amazing month, with perfect water levels, great hatches, and favorable conditions for fishing.

Currently, the river is flowing at around 125 cubic feet per second, which is typical for this time of year. These flows are ideal for easy wading, making it accessible for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you prefer to wade or fish from a craft, the entire river is open and available for exploration. The clarity of the water is good, though not crystal clear, which is actually a bonus for us anglers at these low flows. The slightly murky water helps to reduce the chances of spooking the fish, allowing for a more stealthy approach and better opportunities to target those wary trout.

As far as fishing goes, the Lower Owens is living up to its reputation for producing incredible wild brown trout. Mid-day anglers will be in for a treat, as the river is experiencing a solid BWO hatch. Baetis flies, sizes #16 – 18, are coming off in great numbers, and the fish are responding eagerly, rising to the surface for a perfect dry fly presentation. This hatch is a key feature of spring fishing on the Lower Owens and is expected to continue through April, making it a prime time for anglers looking for action.

Despite the passing storms in the area, the trout fishing remains strong and consistent. The fish are active, and with the perfect water levels and an abundance of hatching insects, the fishing is likely to stay fantastic throughout the month. April’s conditions, with the mix of moderate flows and excellent hatches, are setting up for a productive fishing season. Whether you’re casting dry flies or nymphing, the river is teeming with opportunities.

The Lower Owens is a river that can offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned angler chasing trophy brown trout or a beginner enjoying the abundance of fish, it’s hard to beat what this river offers this time of year. So, if you’re looking for a spring fishing getaway, now is the perfect time to hit the Lower Owens River. With perfect water conditions, plentiful hatches, and active fish, April promises to be a month full of incredible fishing experiences.

Call or text the STM Fly Shop for more details or to book a guided tour. 760 873 0010

www.sierratroutmagnet.com

@stm_fly_fishing on instagram

Upper Owens River Fly Fishing

Upper Owens River Fly Fishing Report : Mammoth Lakes CA – 4.1.25

March 31, 2025
, , , , , Fishing Reports

As spring sets in, the upper Owens River above Benton Crossing Bridge and down the hill from Mammoth Lakes offers some challenging but rewarding fishing conditions. Recent rains and melting snow have left the dirt roads leading to the river in a muddy state once the day warms the frozen roads. For anglers planning to access the river, a 4×4 or all wheel drive vehicle is highly recommended. It’s easy to get stuck in the mud if you’re not mindful of the slippery conditions to come when the sun gets high, so make sure to pay attention to where you end up parking.

While the height of the trophy rainbow trout run has long passed, anglers may still encounter a few giants. To increase your chances, focus on deep holes, cut banks, and fast-moving runs where larger fish tend to linger. We also look forward to the next run of spring fish which swim up the Upper Owens late April on into May.

Fish the usual flies mixing up attractor patterns with more exact imitations: Sizes #12 – 18 in various Midges, San Juan Worm variations, Soft Hackles, P-Tails, and Paradons. For adults on the water fish BWO’s, Caddis and a few small attractor patterns will cover the small fish rising to the surface.

Call or text the STM Fly Shop for more info or to book a guided trip 760-873-0010

www.sierratroutmagnet.com

@stm_fly_fishing on Instagram

Lower Owens River Fly Fishing Report : Bishop, CA – 2.14.25

February 14, 2025
, , , , , , Fishing Reports

As of recent, fly fishing the Lower Owens River near Bishop, California, has seen an increase in activity due to water flow, now rising to 195 cubic feet per second. This increase, thanks to the recent storms, has somewhat revitalized the fishery, making for some excellent fishing conditions.The river’s flow has created perfect opportunities for anglers, especially with the hatch that starts around noon. The BWO (Blue-Winged Olive) hatch is bringing some solid action on some days, with #16-18 BWO’s proving to be the most effective dry flies. If you’re fishing subsurface, the most productive patterns have been Paradons, Soft Hackles, and Midges. These are the go-to flies for anglers looking to target fish beneath the water, as they’re working well in the current.With the recent rise in water and favorable hatches, the fishing has been consistent, and it’s a great time to visit the Lower Owens River for some productive angling.

Call the STM Fly Shop and guide service in Bishop CA for more details or to book a guided trip. 760-873-0010

WWW.SIERRATROUTMAGNET.COM

@stm_fly_fishing on Instagram

Upper Owens River Fly Fishing Report : Mammoth Lakes CA – 1.29.25

January 29, 2025
, , , , , , Fishing Reports

The Upper Owens River is experiencing an unseasonably dry January with no snow on the ground, making access easier than usual for this time of year. Mornings remain cold, but temperatures warm up in the afternoons, keeping water temperatures in the mid-30s to low 40s. Despite the changing conditions, some big migratory trout from Crowley Lake are still holding in the system, particularly in deeper pools and undercut banks. While their numbers are beginning to thin out, the fish that remain are impressive, with some reaching the mid to high 20-inch range. Resident fish are also active, though feeding is sporadic throughout the day.

Anglers are finding success with nymphing techniques, using patterns like gummy San Juan Worms, Prince Nymphs, Zebra Midges, and Soft Hackle Pheasant Tails in sizes 14-18. Streamers such as small Sculpin patterns, Olive or Black Woolly Buggers, and Zonkers fished low and slow are also producing solid results. While dry fly action is minimal, occasional Blue-Winged Olive style hatches can occur during the warmest part of the afternoon.

For the best chances at landing a trophy fish, focus on deep runs and slower-moving water, where migratory fish tend to hold. Euro nymphing and indicator nymphing have been particularly effective. Given the clear water and low flows, a stealthy approach is key to success.

-Call or text the STM Fly Shop and guide service in Bishop CA for more details or to book a guided trip 760-873-0010

WWW.SIERRATROUTMAGNET.COM

@stm_fly_fishing on Instagram

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