December 18, 2024
Hot Creek
Winter conditions at Hot Creek make access challenging, with snow-covered roads requiring 4WD vehicles and high clearance. A recent storm has worsened road conditions, and the cold water has slightly slowed fish activity. Despite this, fishing remains productive. Nymphing is the most effective method, with dry-and-dropper rigs working well for spookier trout. With fewer weeds, drifting nymphs is easier, and trout are actively feeding on larvae. Midges dominate the hatches now, as tricos are done and caddis hatches are tapering off.
Effective Flies:
Dry Flies: Adams Parachute (#16-18), Stimulator (#14-16), Chernobyl Ant (#8-12).
Nymphs: Bead Head Flash Back Pheasant Tail (#18), Olive Quilldigon (#18), Hot Spot Pheasant Tail (#16-18), Olive Scuds (#14), Zebra Midge (#20).
Streamers: Woolly Bugger Olive & Black (#6-12).
Upper Owens River
The Upper Owens is snowy and cold, with roads in poor condition after the recent storm. Crowds are gathering near the bridge due to easier access. Trout activity has slowed slightly due to the cold water, but warming days should bring them back to feeding more actively. The river holds trophy rainbows resting in deep holes, runs, and cut banks. Lake-run fish are selective, but egg patterns, worms, mop flies, and streamers are productive.
Effective Flies:
Dry Flies: Chernobyl Ant (#8-12), CDC Transition Midge (#20-22), Zelon Midge (#20-24).
Nymphs: Bead Head Flash Back Pheasant Tail (#14-18), Chamois Caddis (#16-20), Olive Quilldigon (#18), Clown Egg (#14), Zebra Midge (#16-24).
Streamers: Woolly Bugger Olive & White (#6-10).
Lower Owens River
Flows on the Lower Owens are steady at 125 CFS, offering great fishing conditions despite recent cold weather. The storm has made the water colder and slightly slowed fish activity, but it’s picking up with warmer afternoons. The river holds plenty of small, healthy wild rainbows (6–8 inches), with some larger fish up to 20 inches and browns in the 8–13 inch range. Focus on nymphing deep runs and riffles, and watch for trout occasionally rising to small dries.
Effective Flies:
Dry Flies: Adams Parachute (#16-20), Blue-Wing Olive Parachute (#18-20), Elk Hair Caddis (#14-20).
Nymphs: Bead Head Flash Back Pheasant Tail (#16-18), Olive Quilldigon (#18), Zebra Midge (#20-22).
Streamers: Woolly Bugger Olive & Natural (#6-10).
