Lower Owens River Fish Report

Owens River - CA


by The Trout Fitter Staff
8-14-2008
Website

The Trout Fly Fish Report

LOWER OWENS RIVER


Water Conditions:

Water Conditions:

Flows are at 369 cfs as of 8/13 and will stay this way for the time being. This level is low for this time of year due to low levels of water further upstream. These flows are still strong and wading should be done with care! A wading staff is a great idea. Water temps range from low 60's to mid 60's in the afternoons. Air temps are in the 100 + range mid day so bring lot's of water.

Fishing Conditions and Hatches: Good

Fishing is good for those willing to get out early. Stay near the river as it is much cooler. Look for slower water and eddies to find fish. Tricos hatch around 7am and there is an immediate spinner fall. Baetis Mayflys, (BWO's), start in mid morning and this is generally the best fishing of the day. Small Caddis, (and Mosquitos!) will start up around 6pm.

Recommended Flies:
#22 Barr's female trico emerger, #20-22 trico spinnerfall patterns (nymphed or fished dry fly) #16 Mercer's Poxy Back Yellow Stone, #18-22 Barr's P.M.D. Wet Emergers, #22 Surfac e Emergers, #22 Hares Ears or Tan Bird's Nest.

Guides Hint:This is a great time of year to fish from the outside banks. Look for fish behind pieces of collapsed bank material. Stay low and make short drifts with small Midge, Trico and Baetis patterns.