Middle Owens River Fishing Report

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


by Tom Loe
12-8-2016
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The river flows are holding at around 75 cfs currently. Temperatures are nicer here with mild temps and fall conditions. Nighttime lows reach the freezing level, but daytime temps are about 10 degrees warmer compared to the upper river above Crowley. We are looking at highs in low 60’s here. There are some great hatches taking place in the afternoons, which provide for some great opportunities to break out that 3 weight rod and experience some classic dry fly fishing. Baetis patterns in #18-20 will get solid takes when the fish are aggressively feeding on the naturals. It’s important to keep those flies floating high and dry to properly match the hatch. There are many dry fly floatants on the market to choose from. Personally, I like using a dry fly primer and then finishing it off with some dry shake. Try not to let your fly touch the water until you are ready to lay it down for your drift. You must lead the fish with your presentation at least 10′ as they are looking up and gently sipping the naturals as they drift into their holding area. Spruce-a-bu’s, Loebergs, Punk Perch, and Seal Buggers are still great flies to target the bigger fish holding in the deep pools, and as we transition into winter this month we can look forward to some great fishing ahead.

This fishery remains open year around. Special regs from the footbridge at Pleasant Valley campground to the fishing monument 4.7 miles downstream.


The section upstream from the Benton Bridge is open year around with special regulations. Seasonal closures, and angling restrictions apply downstream from the bridge, check regulations before fishing in this section.


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