Jim Stimson, Jim Stimson Fly Fishing
Upper Owens River
The fishing has slowed a little with most of the big bruisers heading back
down to the lake (Crowley). Keep in mind that the upper Owens River is
open year round above (upstream) the Benton Crossing Bridge. The
river is low and clear but fish are lurking throughout the system, just
not as many. Most of the fish are hanging out in the slow, deep, dark
pools. With the low water, 50 cfs, use a little caution approaching the
water. If you stomp up to river’s edge, the trout will feel those
vibrations and dive for cover. Use some stealth and walk with light
feet. Nymphing tends to be the best and most consistent tactic. With the
cooler water the fish tend to be a little more lethargic. So, it may
take many casts and the perfect drift to get a fish to make a
commitment. Keep at it, they’re in there. Pink San Juans, Copper Johns,
PT’s and roe patterns have been working well.
Lower Owens River
This
particular section of the river has been fishing particularly well,
mornings to afternoons. Nymphing has been very productive using midges,
loop winged emergers, Barr emergers, PT’s, drowned spinners, etc….
just about anything baetis will work if presented well. There have been
stoneflies and caddis cruising through as well. Try using a golden stone
as an attractor then drop a mayfly emerger off the hook bend. Before
you wander back to your car for lunch, you might want to stick around
and check out the BWO hatch. It occurs around noon,
you can almost set your watch to it. First the flurry of mayflies, then
the rise forms. The trout start looking up and getting in on the
surface action. If you enjoy fishing with dries, the time is now. The
hatch lasts approximately an hour. Postpone your lunch….. you will be
glad you did. Small baetis patterns work well (#18-20) such as an Adams,
hackle stackers, etc. And keep your eyes peeled for trico hatches.
Griffiths Gnats work well for these tiny little guys. Nice fish are
coming up to enjoy the feast. Enjoy.
Read more
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