Vehicle access is now very limited on the UO due to recent storms. You will find 1-2 feet along the banks and roads, with some drifts at waist level. Fishing is EXCELLENT and the numbers of large rainbows migrating up from frozen Crowley Lake have increased significantly in the last week. These "snow bows" hold in the deeper pools almost exclusively with the frigid air temps, and redundant drifts through the slots or close to the undercut banks will get you into 20 inch models if you have patience. We have also been getting into a few nice browns, but they are decreasing in numbers as the winter progresses. There are good numbers of smaller rainbows hanging in the larger pools and in the late afternoons you will see them sipping midges in the eddies. Nymphing with bead head pheasant tails, broken back tiger midges, or birds nest patterns have been very effective when the fish are active. Unlike most spawning fish these rainbows can be observed feeding and will move to take a well presented nymph. SJ worms and imitation egg patterns will also work on the days when the fish are less active. I suggest rubber soled wading boots and snow shoes if you wish to hike up from the Benton Bridge. Prepare for extremely cold air temps-it will be below zero in the mornings at times here with the inversion layer very strong towards the New Years period.

Above Photo: Sierra Drifters uses snow mobiles and a sled to bring clients in safely and easily on the Upper Owens.