Lower Owens River Fly Fishing Report – Bishop CA – 3.30.26

March 30, 2026
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Fishing on the Lower Owens River is starting to feel a lot like early spring. Flows have come up recently and are now hovering around 280 CFS, adding some push to the river but still leaving it in very fishable shape. Even with the bump in water, the river is running fairly clear, as 280 CFS is still well under half of the river’s flood-threshold potential, so visibility has remained good. The added current has shifted many trout into softer edges, seams, and slower pockets where they can get out of the heavier flow. Fish are holding along undercut banks, deeper riffles, and inside bends where they can feed comfortably while conserving energy.
The main hatch right now continues to be the Baetis hatch, with activity typically building from late morning into the early afternoon, especially on cooler or overcast days. When fish are looking up, small BWO dries in the #16–18 range can bring some quality trout to the surface. Outside of the hatch window, nymphing has been the most consistent approach. Baetis nymphs, Pheasant Tails, and Hare’s Ears in the #16–18 range have all been producing when fished deep through seams, drop-offs, and softer transition water. A few early caddis hatches are also beginning to show, so keeping a couple caddis pupae in the rotation can pay off.
With California’s snowpack sitting around 20% of normal, it’s unlikely the river will push dramatically higher or sustain elevated flows for a long period this spring. At the moment the river is still very manageable to wade with some caution, and if flows stabilize around this range while temperatures continue to warm, the Lower Owens should keep producing steady Baetis activity and solid midday dry fly opportunities in the coming weeks. 🎣

Lower Owens Fly Fishing Report : Bishop CA – 3.16.26

March 16, 2026
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Lower Owens River Winter Fishing Update

The Lower Owens River outside Bishop continues to fish exceptionally well this winter, with flows holding steady at 100 cubic feet per second and a return to unseasonably warm daytime temperatures making for some of the most comfortable winter fishing conditions of the season. The river remains wide open, highly wadable, and in excellent shape.

Clear, cold water combined with stable releases has trout well distributed throughout the system. Fish are set up in soft edges, shallow riffles, tailouts, and structure that was too fast or too deep earlier in the year. With flows at 100 cfs, anglers can comfortably access water that’s often difficult to reach during higher seasonal releases.

Nymphing continues to be the most consistent approach, with both indicator rigs and tight-line techniques producing steadily throughout the day. Covering water and focusing on softer seams and transitional water has been key to finding fish.

We’re also seeing consistent BWO (blue-winged olive) hatches as well as caddis beginning around noon Depending on where you are positioned on a particular bend or stretch of river, the hatch can last anywhere from 15 minutes to well over an hour. As bugs come off, look for rising fish in foam lanes, back-eddies, and softer seams typical of classic Lower Owens water. Calm conditions paired with the warm temperatures are helping extend the hatch window and improve dry-fly opportunities.

With light winter pressure, steady 100 cfs flows, dependable midday BWO and Caddis activity, and unseasonably warm weather back in the forecast, this remains one of the most rewarding times of year to explore the Lower Owens. Hungry trout, excellent access, and multiple productive techniques make this a prime winter fishing window.

Plan your trip to take advantage of the Lower Owens and the Eastern Sierra this winter — call or text 760-873-0010, visit sierratroutmagnet.com, or follow on Instagram @stm_fly_fishing 🎣

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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

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

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
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@stm_fly_fishing on Instagram

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

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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.

Upper Owens River Fly Fishing

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

March 31, 2025
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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

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

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young angler lands a trout on the upper owens river

Upper Owens Fly Fishing Report : Mammoth Lakes, CA -9.1.24

September 2, 2024
, , , , , Fishing Reports

The Upper Owens fly fishing report continues to be a positive reflection on the fishing in the Eastern SIerra. Flowing around ten minutes from Mammoth Lakes, CA, the Upper Owens has provided consistent fishing throughout the summer. Flows rates and water temperatures have been favorable throughout the season. This is because of the higher elevation, and the water source of the Upper Owens river.

We never really had an unforgettable hopper hatch this year and we can not really explain why. However the nymphing, dry fly fishing, and streamers have been effective pretty much every day. Flows are low, around 75 cubic feet a second.

Small Rainbow and Brown Trout can be caught on a variety of Caddis and Mayfly patterns throughout the river in some of the shallower runs and riffles. However, the deeper and darker holes hold the possibility of a very large unthinkable trout. Brown or Rainbow. Fish for these primarily with nymphs,.streamers are also very successful when presented by a well versed angler who understands the river.

Mornings are cooling off and things are starting to look like the start of fall. Although the temps do rise during the day showing us that the Eastern Sierra is not quite ready to let go of the hot Summer of 2024. https://www.sierratroutmagnet.com

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

Upper Owens River fly fishing !
trout of the Upper Owens RIver
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