Lower Owens River Fishing Report

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

Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Trout Fitter Staff

by The Trout Fitter Staff
2-28-2020
Website

Flow Rates and Water Conditions:

Water Conditions: Good

Flows are at 150 cfs as of  2/27

I talked to our drift guide (Pat Jaeger)  and he said that not only are the Baetis hatches stronger downstream but the flows are perfect for drifting.

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. If you see aggressive swirls  try a big (#8-10) terrestrial . The best fishing still seems to be the slower deeper holes and they seem to be concentrated so keep moving until you find the concentrations. 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

NYMPH:  Pheasant Tail #14-22 | Hares Ear #16-22 | Zebra Midge #18-22 | Olive Hot Spot Jig #18 |Barr's Flashback BWO #16-18

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





More Reports

The Trout Fitter Reports
for Friday, February 28th, 2020

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

The Trout Fitter Reports
for Thursday, February 20th, 2020

Hot Creek: Conditions in The Canyon Are Tough
Owens River - Section 3 - Upper (above Crowley): Upper Owens River Fishing Report
Pyramid Lake: Lake in Perfect Shape For Action Packed Spring Season
Owens River - Lower: Water Conditions Are Good on The Lower Owens
East Walker River (CA): East Walker River Report