Owens River - Section 3 - Upper (above Crowley) - Eastern Sierra, CA

The Upper Owens River, specifically designated as Section 3 above Crowley Lake in California's Eastern Sierra, is an internationally recognized trophy trout fishery. Its unique meadow hydrology, characterized by slow, meandering currents and extensive weed beds, sustains exceptional populations of large, wild Brown Trout (Salmo trutta) and migratory Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), including significant "redband" strains. This section is particularly renowned for its seasonal migrations of substantial trout from Crowley Lake, notably during the autumn spawning aggregations of brown trout and vernal rainbow runs.

Fly fishing is the exclusive and highly specialized angling methodology. Success is predicated on stealth, extended leaders, and precise presentations of imitative nymph patterns (e.g., midge, Baetis, Callibaetis) to wary, often selective, fish in clear, slow currents. Opportunistic dry fly fishing during prolific hatches demands exacting drag-free drifts. Streamer patterns are highly efficacious for enticing large, predatory brown trout. Anglers are unequivocally mandated to consult current California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) regulations, which frequently impose "artificial lures and flies only," "barbless hooks," and stringent "catch and release" protocols to conserve this invaluable wild trout resource. Optimal fishing periods align with seasonal migrations and active hatches in spring and fall.