Free Resource · Updated 2026
The East Walker River below Bridgeport Reservoir is a tailwater fishery in Mono County with exceptional wild brown trout. Cold, consistent flows from the reservoir create stable conditions year-round. The river is remote and holds some of the largest wild brown trout in California.
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East Walker River Hatch Calendar — Quick Reference
The East Walker below Bridgeport Reservoir flows through a high desert sagebrush valley before crossing into Nevada. The California section is the most productive. Wild brown trout dominate and fish in the 18 to 22 inch range are not uncommon.
The tailwater environment keeps water temperatures stable and hatches predictable. Caddis and PMDs are the primary summer hatches. Trico spinner falls in July and August create technical morning fishing. The river also has good midge hatches throughout the year, especially in winter.
The East Walker is a technical fishery. The fish are educated and the clear tailwater makes drag painfully obvious. Long leaders, fine tippet, and careful wading are all necessary. The reward is a shot at very large wild brown trout on dry flies in spectacular high desert country.
See the full California Fly Hatch Chart for hatch timing across all of California's top trout streams.
Check Conditions Near East Walker RiverWhat to Fish
Caddis hatches on the East Walker produce evening rises from May through September. The browns key on adult caddis at dusk and rises can be consistent and predictable. Large brown trout that feed exclusively on nymphs through the day will rise confidently during the Caddis hatch.
Recommended: #14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
PMDs fire mid-morning in June through August. Trico spinner falls in July through September start at first light. Both hatches demand technical presentations on this clear tailwater. 6X tippet is standard and 7X may be needed in the slowest water.
Recommended: #16-26 Comparadun, Trico Spinner
Fall BWO hatches on the East Walker can produce excellent fishing in September and October. Cloudy days trigger heavier hatches. The fish feed selectively on the small olives. An RS2 fished in the film is very effective.
Recommended: #18-22 Sparkle Dun, RS2
FlyFishFinder combines hatch knowledge with live gauge alerts, Prime condition indicators, and real angler intel so you show up on the right day, not the wrong one.
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