Water Conditions:GOOD
The river is lower than usual for this time of year. This is due to the fact that LADWP is not pumping any water out of Grant Lake into the tunnel diversion above East Portal (on the Arcularius Ranch). Water is remaining cold and clear. More water in the river if you stay below the confluence of Hot Creek.

Fishing Conditions and Hatches:GOOD
Fishing (catching) conditions remain good-to-great depending on crowds and your ability (luck) in finding the less pressured water. The Upper Owens has been VERY crowded lately and it appears the river is being loved to death. Please be respectful and mindful of good fishing etiquette?Ķgive fellow anglers some space to roam a little. There are access/parking areas every 100 yards or so along the river. If there are cars already parked at one spot?Ķkeep driving and locate the gates where nobody is parked. Every bend and pool from the lake to the private ranches is holding fish right now.
Trico mayflies are still hatching/egg laying in the early a.m. Small caddis flurry in the early afternoon/late morning. Evening caddis hatch into dark has been very good. This is the best dry fly opportunity.

Recommended Flies:
Dry Flies: Elk Hair Caddis #18, EC Caddis #18-20, #14 Hoppers, any small attractor patterns with a good drift?Ķ
Nymphs: #16 Copper Johns, #14 Royal Coachmen style wet flies, #14 Aquatic Moth soft hackles, #18-20 tan/brown CDC Caddis emergers, #22 Barr's Trico Emergers, #20-#22 Zebra Midges.
Streamers: Most anything in the evening?Ķkeep streamer smallish #10-14. Small trout fry or chub patterns like #14 PT's or Hare's Ears tied "dropper style" behind something bigger.

Guide's Hint:
Please be aware the Upper Owens is under special regulations. There are 3 sections of this river, all of which fall under different regulations. Consult the DFG Regulations Booklet. There is NO BAIT fishing allowed above Benton Crossing Bridge. Please help advise anglers that you witness violating the law. Most just don't realize it. Our guides have reported picking up tons of trash lately?ĶPlease help out and keep this river pristine and clean!