Owens River - Below Tinemaha Reservoir - Big Pine, CA

The Owens River below Tinemaha Reservoir, proximate to Big Pine, California, is recognized as a quintessential tailwater fishery, critically sustained by consistent, cold-water releases from the impoundment. This hydrological stability fosters an exceptionally fertile aquatic ecosystem, supporting robust populations of large Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and Brown Trout (Salmo trutta). The fishery is characterized by the presence of both wild, naturally reproducing trout and supplemental hatchery-reared individuals from California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) stocking programs.

Fly fishing is the preeminent and most efficacious angling methodology in this section, driven by prolific and diverse entomological hatches, including midges, caddisflies, and significant Baetis and Trico mayfly emergences. Precision nymphing with imitative patterns is consistently productive, as are selective dry fly presentations during active surface feeding. Streamer fishing can yield substantial Brown Trout. Anglers are unequivocally mandated to consult current CDFW regulations, as "artificial lures and flies only" provisions are frequently applied to conserve this sensitive trout resource. Water flow regimes, dictated by reservoir releases, critically influence fishing conditions; real-time flow data consultation is therefore imperative. Optimal angling typically spans year-round, with spring and fall offering peak hatch activity. The Lower Owens below Tinemaha Reservoir represents a challenging yet supremely rewarding fly fishing destination.