Owens River - Gorge - Bishop, CA

River Information

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout

The Owens River Gorge, northeast of Bishop, California, presents an exceptionally demanding yet highly rewarding wild trout fishery. Characterized by steep basaltic canyon walls and swift, cold currents, this section primarily sustains robust, naturally reproducing populations of Brown Trout (Salmo trutta) and Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The challenging access, typically involving strenuous descents and ascents, ensures a low angler footprint, preserving its pristine, remote character.

Angling success in the Gorge is almost exclusively predicated on highly technical fly fishing methodologies. Precision casting and stealthy approaches are paramount due to the confined riparian environment and the wary nature of wild trout. Effective techniques include deep nymphing with heavy, imitative patterns to penetrate strong currents, and strategic dry fly presentations during sporadic but prolific hatches. Streamer fishing can be efficacious for larger Brown Trout in deeper pools. Due to the wild nature of the fishery, barbless hooks and catch-and-release are not only encouraged but often legally mandated. Anglers are unequivocally required to monitor real-time water releases from Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) facilities, as flow fluctuations critically impact safety and fishability. The Owens River Gorge offers a rigorous, wilderness-centric angling experience, highly valued for its unadulterated wild trout resource.



Latest Photos

Ian Webb made it out with Two Bug Doug for some wintery action. He tied into a few of these quality grade rainbows!
Photo Credit: Sierra Drifters
Ian Webb
1-10-2017
Brian’s buddy Mike Jones got into the action too. Here’s a beautiful fall run rainbow for his efforts!
Photo Credit: Sierra Drifters
Mike Jones
1-7-2017
My prior high school classmate Mary Tucker nailed this awesome rooster while nymphing with our crystal eggs. You have not changed a bit Mary, great job!
Photo Credit: Sierra Drifters
Mary Tucker
1-1-2017
15 year old Bjorn Davidson is all smiles and probably a little shocked at what he pulled out of here on a cold morning with Two Bug Doug as his guide. That’s what it’s all about Bjorn!
Photo Credit: Sierra Drifters
Bjorn Davidson
12-28-2016

Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
7-12-2024 Lower Owens River Fishing Report
lows & Water Conditions- Fair Clarity- Slightly off-color CFS- 558 Click... more »
The Trout Fitter Staff
4-6-2023 Flows have been fluctuating between 75 and several hundred cfs
Owens River Gorge - 4/6/23- Flows at 75... more »
Jim Elias
8-25-2022 Owens River Gorge Closed for Public Access August 29-September 6
PUBLIC ADVISED OF HIGH WATER LEVELS AND POTENTIAL... more »
Bishop Chamber
9-7-2021 The Owens River Gorge is closed September 7-13, 2021
The Owens River Gorge is closed September 7-13,... more »
Bishop Chamber
4-15-2021 Owens River Gorge Fishing Report
Owens River Gorge - 4/15/2021 Flows at 65CFS at Middle... more »
Jim Elias

Detailed Map