Lower Owens Fishing Report

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

Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Troutfitter

by The Trout Fitter Staff
2-7-2020
Website

Flow Rates and Water Conditions:

Water Conditions: Good

Flows are at 147 cfs as of  2/6

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

Fishing Conditions and Hatches: Good

As the days get longer  and the temperatures warm up the Baetis hatch is picking up. The usual pattern, same as the March Caddis emergence, starts downstream east of Bishop and works upstream to P.V.R.. Like everywhere else, this time of year midges are the primary hatch going but the mayflies are coming off, not heavy but the fish are definitely paying attention. 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 mid afternoon. The mayfly hatches are not consistent so don't just hammer one spot, keep moving until you find where they're at. 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

NYMPH:  Pheasant Tail #14-22 | Hares Ear #16-22 | Zebra Midge #18-22

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





More Reports

The Trout Fitter Reports
for Friday, February 7th, 2020

Hot Creek: Flows Have Been Down But Are on The Rise
Owens River - Section 3 - Upper (above Crowley): Upper Owens River Fishing Report

The Trout Fitter Reports
for Friday, January 31st, 2020

Hot Creek: Hot Creek Report
Owens River - Section 3 - Upper (above Crowley): Upper Owens Report
Pyramid Lake: Pyramid is in Great Shape
Owens River - Lower: Lower Owens Report
East Walker River (CA): East Walker River Report