FEBRUARY 2012 FISHING REPORT

The slow start to this winter has been perfect or disasterous, depending on who you ask. If the trout had a voice, I think they would vote perfect. If you asked local business owners or winter enthusiasts, they would not agree. I’m somewhere in the middle, as long as it snows a lot and soon. As a fly fishing guide that depends on snowmelt and flowing healthy rivers, the thought of a record low snowfall winter is worrysome. I’m sure when the winter is all said and done, skiers, anglers, and the trout will all be happy. With the slow start to winter and fall like weather, fishing has been stellar. I have been guiding about once a week, mainly on the Upper and Lower Owens. The Upper “O” has fished superb. Because of the mild weather, there are a large number of fat Crowley rainbows in the river. We have hooked a few larger than 22 inches. Most of the big ones have been hooked on streamers. Nymphing the deeper pools with mayfly patterns has also been effective. Make sure and use some stealth so you don’t ruin the oppurtunity to hook on of these beasts. The always reliable Lower “O” has been just that. Everyday I have been down there has been a blast. The baetis have been popping off about 11:30 until 2PM. Even on windy days, the natives are still looking up for adults. Nymphing has been solid all day long with small mayfly patterns and midges. Streamer fishing on The Lower “O” has been quite effective also. I rarely see anyone fishing streamers down there, but it’s tried and true. Hot Creek has not been fishing well. I think the fish are tired and hiding. The flows are low and the water is off color. Please use extreme catch and release methods if you fish The Creek. With the low flows, the oxygen levels are quite low as well. Hoping for an average winter and a long perfect summer! See you on the river, Nathan