What an end to the 2022 fishing season in the Sierra this year. If you are like us, then you love chasing trout up and down the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is always bittersweet when the season ends, but we get it and certainly support the idea of letting the fish 'catch' a break and beef up for the next season.
As it states in the title, most places ended the fishing season on November 15th. However, there are plenty of places that stay open year-round in the Sierra. Before we dig into one of our favorite spots, we want to remind everyone, before you go out and toss your line in the water be sure to check the regulations of that fishery. They aren't always black and white so to speak, if need be, make sure you stop into a local fishing store in the area and ask them, they will be happy to help.
With that said, we frequent the Lower Owens River at the Pleasant Valley Campground outside of Bishop every Winter. I won't say that you will be met with warmer temps down there, but we generally do very well in the Winter fishing that stretch of the Owens. In-fact we have had some of our best trips over the past 30 years fishing this stretch. Even though it is cold there is still something about being in Bishop, seeing a snow-covered Mt. Tom, and slaying trout.
If you have fished the Lower O then you know it certainly isn't the easiest river to fish due to the reeds and growth on the banks. We highly recommend fishing every possible angle when working the river plus be sure to pinch your barbs (required), that helps to retrieve your lurer if need be. Although I am good for at least 4 meltdowns on any given fishing trip I still fish aggressively, even with lurers rising in price. What is the point of tossing only a few and being timid? Be in it to win it! If you are using a spinning setup our go to generally is Panther Martins (bumble bee or ladybug). They've have inked their place with us over the years and honestly, they always yield results. For fly fisherman and women, we would recommend stopping in at any of the fly shops in Bishop and check into what is working best during your time there.
Although the season has ended in most of the Sierra, we are still pumped to get to Bishop for our annual fishing trips during the Winter. Plus, a day in Mammoth on the slopes, getting the line wet, and a nice soak in a hot spring will do the body good. Remember, please be sure to check the regulations before getting your line in the water and please be sure to ALWAYS pick-up your trash. The fish appreciate it. We hope to see you guys out there this winter and tight lines!
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