December 16, 2025
Hot Creek
Winter conditions persist at Hot Creek, and after a relatively dry stretch, a new storm is expected to move in soon. Until then, access has remained good, with recent snowfall having little impact on reaching the Interpretive Site. Fishing has been steady, especially during the warmer part of the day.
Midges continue to dominate, with the most consistent activity occurring from late morning through early afternoon. Trout are feeding primarily below the surface, though small midge emergers and occasional Blue-Wing Olives can bring fish up during calm or overcast periods. Nymphing remains the most productive approach, and lighter tippets with precise drifts are key.
In the canyon section, lower weed growth has improved drift quality, and many fish are holding close to the banks and along softer edges. Don’t overlook near-bank water, especially during midday when trout slide shallow to feed.
Effective Flies:
Dry Flies
Blue-Wing Olive Parachute (#18–20)
Adams Parachute (#18–20)
CDC Transitional Midge (#20–22)
Nymphs
Bead Head Flashback Pheasant Tail (#18–20)
Olive Quilldigon (#18)
Black or Olive SOS Nymph (#18–20)
Zebra Midge (#20–22)
Streamers
Woolly Bugger (Olive or Black, #6–12)
Upper Owens River
Trophy rainbow trout continue their upstream migration on the Upper Owens above Benton Crossing, though fishing pressure has increased with easy road access and favorable conditions. Fish are spread out but generally holding in deeper pools, longer runs, and along cutbanks where they can rest. Covering water and focusing on prime holding lies has been the most effective strategy.
Egg patterns, worms, and larger nymphs remain the most consistent producers. Please be mindful of actively spawning fish and avoid targeting or disturbing them to help protect future runs.
Effective Flies:
Dry Flies
Chernobyl Ant (#8–12)
CDC Transitional Midge (#20–22)
Zelon Midge (#20–24)
Nymphs
Bead Head Flashback Pheasant Tail (#14–18)
Chamois Caddis (#16–20)
Olive Quilldigon (#18)
Clown Egg (#14)
Zebra Midge (#16–24)
Streamers
Woolly Bugger (Olive or White, #6–10)
Lower Owens River
Flows on the Lower Owens remain steady around 76 CFS. Fishing continues to improve, though cold water temperatures are keeping trout somewhat sluggish. Nymphing has been the most productive method, but anglers need to stay alert—takes are subtle, and any slight indicator movement should be met with an immediate hook set.
Midges, stoneflies, and Blue-Wing Olives make up the primary food sources. Skwala stonefly nymphs have been a solid option, along with midge pupae in blood, zebra, or tiger colorations. During mid-morning BWO hatches, rising fish can be fooled with small, accurate dry fly presentations.
Effective Flies:
Dry Flies
Blue-Wing Olive Parachute (#18–20)
Adams Parachute (#18–20)
Olive Sparkle Dun (#18)
Nymphs
Stoner Nymph (#12)
Copper John (#14)
Olive Quilldigon (#18)
Hot Spot Pheasant Tail (#16)
Jedi Master Baetis (#18)
Zebra Midge (#20–22)
Streamers
Woolly Bugger (Olive or Natural, #6–10)
