Owens River
The Owens River near Bishop, California is an Eastern Sierra wading river with big browns and rainbows, from the Upper Owens meadows to Benton Crossing.
- 244 miRiver length
- 2Game fish
- 33Access points
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About the Owens
The Owens River runs through the Eastern Sierra from the meadows above Lake Crowley down past Bishop. It is a small, technical river with big trout in a wide open setting. The Upper Owens is the best known wade water, with meadow stretches and easy shoreline access.
Part of the upper river runs through private ranch land. Below that the public water continues until the river flows into Crowley Lake. Near Bishop, the Benton Crossing area and the Bishop Canal give more access. The lower river below Benton Crossing is open on a different schedule.
The Owens holds brown trout and rainbow trout, and some fish top two feet. Big fish move up from Lake Crowley at certain times of year.
Spring and summer are the classic seasons. Midges, blue-winged olives and caddis keep the dry fly fishing interesting, and streamers pull the big browns.
Seasons and sections here change, and some water closes for part of the year. Check the current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations before you fish.
Fish you'll catch
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Brown Trout
Tips for fishing the Owens
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Read the season map first
Parts of the Owens close for part of the year. Check the current dates before you drive to Bishop.
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Walk the meadows
The Upper Owens is a good river for wading and walking. Take your time and look for fish in the slow bends.
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Stay on public water
Part of the upper river crosses private ranch land. Stay on public sections and follow posted signs.
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Try the Bishop Canal
The canal near Bishop is an easy access spot that is worth a look if the river is crowded.
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Plan for wind
The Eastern Sierra is a windy place. Early and late hours are usually calmer.
Every access point on the Owens, in your pocket.
- 33 mapped access points, with parking and put-ins
- Today's Fishability score, so you fish the day that lines up
- Bite forecast for the days ahead
Rivers near the Owens
Owens River FAQ
When is the best time to fish the Owens River in California?
Spring and summer are the main seasons. Some water opens on a set date in spring and some stays open all year, so check the current rules.
Where can I fish the Owens River near Bishop?
The Upper Owens above Crowley Lake is a favorite for wade fishing. Benton Crossing, the Bishop Canal and the lower river near Bishop are other popular areas.
Can you wade the Owens River?
Yes. The Upper Owens is a great wading river with wide open meadows and easy walking.
What flies work on the Owens River?
Pheasant Tails, Woolly Buggers, midge patterns and Parachute Adams are all reliable. Streamers work for the big browns. The FlyFishFinder app shows what is hatching and working today.
What fish are in the Owens River?
The river holds brown trout and rainbow trout.
Are there special rules on the Owens River?
Yes. Seasons and gear rules vary by section, and some water closes for part of the year. Check the current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations.
