beautiful brown trout held above the flowing water of the Owens River outside of Bishop California

Lower Owens River Fly Fishing Report : Bishop, CA – 10.11.26

October 11, 2026
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Fall Fishing Is Here!

As promised, the Lower Owens River outside Bishop is finally down to wading levels, and the river is in great shape for the rest of the year! After months of sustained high flows out of Pleasant Valley Reservoir, the drop has opened up miles of fishable water, giving anglers the opportunity to get back on the river and enjoy some outstanding fall fishing.

The fishing is great, and the river is in amazing condition! The trout have had months of high water and abundant food, and now that flows have dropped, anglers can once again access the productive seams, riffles, deep pools, and classic willow-lined runs that make the Lower Owens such a special fishery. Wild brown and rainbow trout are feeding well, and there are plenty of opportunities to connect with quality fish throughout the river.

Expect productive subsurface fishing with nymphs imitating midges, Baetis, and other aquatic insects. Streamers are also worth having in the rotation, especially around deeper pools and current seams. As cooler fall weather settles in, keep an eye out for Baetis and midge activity that can provide some excellent dry-fly opportunities.

From the Wild Trout Section below Pleasant Valley Campground down through the valley, this is a fantastic time to get back out on the water. With manageable flows and excellent fishing conditions, the Lower Owens is set up for a great fall and winter season.

The wait is over—grab your waders, dial in your fly boxes, and get out there! The Lower Owens is fishing great, and we look forward to seeing you on the water.

Call or text STM Fly Shop in Bishop, CA, for more details or to book a guided trip for individuals, couples, or groups.

760-873-0010

WWW.SIERRATROUTMAGNET.COM

lower owens river brown trout held up by a lucky young angler out of Bishop California.

Lower Owens River Fly Fishing Report – Bishop CA , 9.22.26

September 22, 2026
, , , , , Fishing Reports

A massive shift is right around the corner for the Lower Owens outside Bishop, and the stage is set for what should be an exceptional fall and winter season. Throughout the sweltering summer months, the river has been roaring at a sustained 500 cfs out of Pleasant Valley Reservoir. While flows at that volume make wading impossible and bank access exceptionally tough, it was precisely the silver bullet the fishery needed during the peak high-desert heat. That heavy, continuous volume kept bottom water temperatures cold, oxygen-rich, and well out of the danger zone, insulating the wild brown and rainbow populations while surrounding low-elevation waters felt the summer strain.

Even better, running 500 cfs meant the Lower Owens saw virtually zero fishing pressure for months. With unhindered access to an endless conveyor belt of drifting midges, caddis, and aquatic biomass across flooded gravel bars, the trout have had uninterrupted months to gorge, pack on shoulders, and grow noticeably larger and stouter without ever seeing a fake bug. These fish haven’t been educated, hooked, or pressured since spring, leaving a healthy, thriving population that has quietly flourished in high water.

The big news now is that the summer release schedule is winding down, with the river slated to drop within the week. Once the flows drop out of the 500 cfs bracket into manageable wading territory, an incredible amount of prime water will instantly open up—from the Wild Trout Section below Pleasant Valley Campground all the way down through the classic willow-lined bends and tules of the valley. As the water recedes and concentrates those well-fed, undisturbed trout back into primary seams, deep pools, and defined riffles, expect explosive streamer bites and eager subsurface feeding, followed by dependable midday Baetis and midge hatches as cooler autumn weather settles in. Get your boxes dialed and your waders ready—this drop is going to kick off some of the most anticipated, productive fishing of the year.

Call or text the STM Fly Shop in Bishop CA for more details or to book a guided tour for individuals, couples, or groups.

(760) 873-0010

Large Upper Owens Rainbow in the water of the river - STM Fly Fishing BIshop CA

Upper Owens River Fly Fishing Report for Mammoth Lakes CA – 9.22.26

September 22, 2026
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Autumn has firmly settled across Long Valley, bringing crisp Eastern Sierra mornings, bright bluebird skies, and textbook transitional conditions to the Upper Owens just below Mammoth Lakes. Flows throughout the meandering meadow sections are running skinny, low, and clear. We are officially in the waiting window for the first substantial push of Crowley Lake’s trophy migratory browns and rainbows. While a few eager scouts may begin nosing their way past the monument as overnight temperatures plunge into the thirties and forties, the primary run is still on deck. For now, the game demands stealth and technical presentations, focusing on the river’s spirited resident population tucked tight against sod cutbanks, deep corner pools, and darker runs.

Because the water is so low and clear, heavy wading or careless footsteps along the fragile grassy banks will send shockwaves through an entire bend before you even make a cast. Keep your profile low, off the skyline, and approach each pool with deliberate caution. Subsurface tactics remain the most productive way to consistently bend a rod through the middle of the day. Rigging small, dense beadheads—such as #16–18 Perdigons, Flashback Pheasant Tails, and #18–20 Zebra Midges—on long, fine 5X tippets ensures your bugs drop quickly into narrow holding zones without spooking wary fish. An adjustable indicator or a delicate Euro nymphing rig works wonders in picking apart the deeper tail-outs and gravel transitions.

For anglers looking to trigger a violent reaction strike from an early-run lurker or a territorial resident predator, working streamers through the deeper buckets and undercut walls is well worth the effort. Covering water with down-and-across presentations using #6–10 Slumpbusters, Woolly Buggers, or compact sculpin patterns on light sink-tips or long leaders on a floating line can produce some violent takes, especially around dawn and dusk. Meanwhile, surface enthusiasts will find dependable dry-fly sport during the morning to midday window. Hatches of #18 Baetis (BWOs) alongside lingering late-season terrestrial patterns—like low-profile foam ants, beetles, and Parachute Adams—can offer dry-fly action on smaller wild browns and rainbows eager to capitalize on the hatch. Keep a close watch on incoming weather fronts, as the first sustained cold snap or low-pressure cloud cover will likely sound the opening bell for the lake-run trout.

Call or text the STM Fly Shop in Bishop California for more details or to book a guided tour on the scenic Upper Owens River.

760-873-0010

Lower Owens River brown trout held by and angler

Lower Owens Fly Fishing Report : Bishop, CA – 11.29.25

November 29, 2025
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The Lower Owens River outside Bishop, CA has shifted fully into its late-fall mode, with flows continuing to drop and now settling around 90 cubic feet per second. This is classic low-water season on the LO — the river is wide open, extremely wadable, and offering access to water that’s been unreachable for most of the year. With clear, cold flows and steady insect activity, the fishing has been nothing short of excellent.

Wild trout are spreading out across the system, taking advantage of softer edges, shallow riffles, and structure that was too fast or too deep earlier in the season. While nymphing remains the most consistent method — both indicator and tight-line setups are producing all day — anglers are now seeing the first reliable windows of dry-fly action, especially during calm mid-mornings when blue-winged olives begin to trickle off. Expect rising fish in softer seams, back-eddies, and the classic Lower Owens foam lanes.

With crisp late-fall air, and the river in prime shape for exploration, this is one of the most rewarding periods of the year to fish the LO. The combination of light pressure, hungry trout, and a variety of effective techniques makes this an ideal time to get out and cover water.

Plan your trip to take advantage of the Lower Owens and the Eastern Sierra during this late-fall – call or text 760-873-0010, visit sierratroutmagnet.com, or follow on Instagram @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
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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 – 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

Fly fishing the Lower Owens River

Lower Owens River Fly Fishing Update : Bishop, CA – 10.22.24

October 23, 2024
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The Lower Owens River near Bishop, California: A Post-Flood Fishing Paradise

The Lower Owens River, situated near the charming town of Bishop, California, has finally returned to fishable conditions, marking a significant milestone for anglers eager to explore its pristine waters. After months of enduring high water levels, the river’s flow has subsided to a more comfortable 350 cubic feet per second, very close to providing optimal conditions for trout fishing.

This recent drop in water levels has unveiled a fishing paradise that has been largely undisturbed for an extended period. The prolonged high water has effectively shielded the river from fishing pressure, allowing the trout population to flourish in an environment rich with food resources. As a result, the fish have had ample time to grow and mature, resulting in a larger and healthier trout population than in previous years.

Anglers can anticipate encountering a diverse range of trout species, including brown, rainbow, and hybrids. The larger fish, which have benefited from the abundant food supply and lack of fishing pressure, are particularly exciting to catch. Their size and strength make them a formidable challenge for any angler.

Dry fly fishing is a highly effective technique for targeting trout in the lower water levels. The reduced water flow makes it easier to present dry flies to rising fish, offering anglers a more intimate and rewarding fishing experience. Nymph fishing, of course, is another productive method, particularly in deeper pools and runs. Small nymphs that imitate aquatic insects are often effective in enticing trout to strike.

For those seeking a more aggressive challenge, streamer fishing can be a rewarding option. Larger streamers that mimic baitfish can be used to target the larger trout in the river. However, it is important to be patient and present the streamers carefully to avoid spooking the fish.

As anglers explore the Lower Owens River, it is essential to respect the river and its resources. Practicing catch-and-release will help to preserve the fishery for future generations.

With the recent drop in water levels and the thriving trout population, the Lower Owens River near Bishop, California, offers an exceptional fishing opportunity. Anglers who are willing to put in the effort can experience the thrill of catching large, healthy trout in a picturesque and unspoiled setting.

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

@stm_fly_fishing on Instagram

www.sierratroutmagnet.com

Brown Trout on the Lower Owens River

Lower Owens River Fly Fishing Report : Bishop, CA – 7.31.24

July 31, 2024
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It’s the beginning!! Just outside of Bishop the fabulous Lower Owens River has been dropped to a beautiful summer flow of around 300 cfs which is a very nice seasonal level to maintain cool sierra waters throughout the summer. At this flow the Lower Owens is still considered somewhat high, yet very wadable for an amazing summertime fly fishing experience. The Lower Owens, the jewel of a river of the Eastern Sierra, will be showing us some amazing trout this season and year.

The combination of the over the top water year last year combined with the healthy flows of 2024 will have the river spewing out nutritious biomass helping to feed our lovely trout a variety of larvae and nymphs forcing them to grow much larger. Dry fly action is noted in various parts of the river where the floating adult mayflies and caddis collect. Fish the usual Mayfly and Caddis patterns normally on 5x tippet in this situation.

Fish the appropriate attractor and imitation nymphs in the summertime as well. The Fly Angler can now fish some bigger patterns as we have larger caddis and stoneflies moving about the system. Soft hackles, Peridons, Pheasant Tail variations and patterns, Caddis Worms and large Midges are the patterns to present with either an indicator or high sticking euro style. Streamers can be attempted at any time in the Lower Owens system. As fishing goes, the trout can be madly aggressive for the streamers or give them little attention in the form of a follow and swipe at your fly. For best results throw your streamer to the opposite bank, toss in a mend upstream, mend up giving the fly time to sink while starting to retrieve when the line has straitened out and the fly had a few seconds to sink.

We expect this to be an amazing fishery from now until our next high water cycle next year as summer rolls on and cool water flows.

Give us a call up in Bishop at the STM Fly Shop for more details or to book a guided tour. 760-873-0010

Lower Owens River Fly Fishing

Lower Owens River Fly Fishing Report : Bishop CA – 9.17.23

September 17, 2023
, , , , , , , Fishing Reports

The Owens fly fishing report on the Lower Owens River just outside the outdoor town has been shaping up very nicely. The high flows this summer have done no damage to the river leaving it in great condition with great fish numbers. The entire system seems to be fishing well even though the water was recently raised back up to around 400 CFS. We don’t look for this to last long as cooler temperatures are coming in the High Country to freeze everything up and subsequently drop the flows to a slightly more comfortable fishing level. More rainbows have been noted near the dam, as you go downriver you find yourself in complete wild brown trout territory with random rainbows coming to the net here and there. As always this river is extremely easy to access and wading is always a pleasure. As usual Dry Fly action is noted here and there but is not river wide or any specific time. Euro style high stick nymphing or good old indicator nymphing absolutely guarantees the extra experienced fly anglers wild fish on the end of the line. We look for this fishery to improve dramatically in a very short time. We will also reap the benefits of the amazing flows that nature granted us this year.

call or text the STM Fly Shop in Bishop at 760.873.0010 for more details or to book a guided tour for individuals or groups.

WWW.SIERRATROUTMAGNET.COM

@stm_fly_fishing on Instagram

Lower Owens River Fishing Report
beautiful brown trout held above the flowing water of the Owens River outside of Bishop California

Lower Owens River Fly Fishing Report : Bishop, CA – 5.23.23

May 23, 2023
, , , , , , Fishing Reports

The Owens River fishing on the Lower Owens River, near Bishop California, is at a standstill as it continues at a flow in between 700-800cfs (cubic feet per second) this is usually what we witness during the height of runoff. We have to expect it to go even higher once we sustain 95-100 degree days in Bishop. It takes very hot weather down low to let us know its melting off in the high country. The Lower Owens could be a totally different river after this is all said and done as it is a natural occurrence in nature that can wipe the river bottom clean of silt and debris. This will expose more riverbed rock which give shelter and life to more insects and in turn a more nutrient river river system to support more and bigger trout! Weather forecast shows this happening within the next few weeks as we are already experiencing 80-90 degree temperatures daily here in the Eastern Sierra.

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