Lower Owens Fishing Report

Owens River - Lower - Bishop, CA (Inyo County)

Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Troutfitter

by The Trout Fitter Staff
3-20-2020
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Flow Rates and Water Conditions

Water Conditions: Good

Flows have dropped to 125 cfs as of 3/19

Fishing Conditions and Hatches: Good - Very Good

Not only is the fishing good but the average fish size has gone up considerably in the last couple of years, we're seeing a lot more fish in the 13"-15" range. As the days get longer and the temperatures warm up the Baetis hatch is picking up and the surface activity early morning on midges is getting better. Like everywhere else, this time of year midges are the primary hatch going but the mayflies are coming on stronger and we are actually starting to see the bigger stoneflies. Both the stoneflies and mayflies are not a uniform hatch so move around until you find them, there are places we are seeing much greater numbers of stoneflies than we've ever seen before. If you see aggressive swirls try a big (#8-10) terrestrial. The best fishing still seems to be the slower deeper holes but the fish are starting to get more active especially in the tailouts. Mornings have been more productive, but the afternoons are getting better with the mayflies coming off early afternoon. The mayfly hatches are getting stronger and more consistent but still late starting, 12-3. As far as where to fish the rule of thumb is, the colder the night before the further upstream you start fishing.

Recommended Flies

DRIES: Large dry with #22-26 midge emergers and adults | Hi Vis Baetis #16-20 | Stimulator #6-10

NYMPH:  Pheasant Tail #14-22 | Hares Ear #16-22 | Zebra Midge #18-22 | Olive Hot Spot Jig #18 |Barr's Flashback BWO #16-18 | Jigged hares ear #12 | B/H Prince #10-14

STREAMERS: Wooly Bugger Olive & Black #10-12 | Mini Sculpin Olive & Black #10-12




More Reports

The Trout Fitter Reports
for Friday, March 20th, 2020

Hot Creek: Hot Creek Report
Owens River - Section 3 - Upper (above Crowley): Upper Owens River Fishing Report

The Trout Fitter Reports
for Friday, March 13th, 2020

East Walker River (CA): East Walker River Report
Owens River - Lower: Fishing is Good and We're Seeing A Lot More Fish
Pyramid Lake: Primetime Just Around The Corner
Owens River - Section 3 - Upper (above Crowley): Upper Owens River Fishing Report
Hot Creek: Hot Creek Report