Cold and stormy weather has returned to the high country.  February could see our snow pack double in depth, a good thing, as California has been in a drought for the past few years.  The cold weather has slowed the fishing just a little.  The biggest problem has been keeping ice out of the guides.  Long range forecasts are showing a chance for a wet spring so keep your fingers crossed for more precipitation.

EAST WALKER - The flows have remained steady at 20 cfs for the bulk of the season.  Water temps are still low so look for fish to hold in the slower, deeper water.  Nymphing continues to be the most productive method with opportunities for dry flies during mid-day and afternoon. Midges continue to be the main attraction with hatches of BWO's on warmer days.  Look for Skwala stoneflies to begin hatching as we get closer to spring.  Recommended flies include Silver streak 18-20, W.D.'s 16-22, Disco Midge 18-20, Brassies 16-20, Biot midge 18-20, P.T.'s 18-22, Micro mayfly 18-20, Poxyback stone 10-14, San Juan worm 10-12, Sprout midge 18-22, Griffith's gnat 16-20, Para BWO 16-20, Para Adams 16-20, Bivisible dun 18-20.

HOT CREEK - Flows are hovering around around 6-7 cfs with consistent fishing most days. Nymphing has been productive during hatch and non-hatch periods.  During the warmest part of the day expect to see a light BWO hatch with fish rising in slower pools.  Recommended flies are the same as the Walker.

UPPER OWENS RIVER - Access has gotten a little tougher with recent snow but the river continues to fish o.k. for persistent anglers.  Some nice fish have been caught recently as long as the weather cooperates.  Once again, nymphing is the way to go with midges and small mayflies getting grabs as well as eggs and san juan worms.  Try to pick a day with nicer weather and little wind and you may be pleasantly surprised. Recommended flies include Pettis' unreal egg 12-14, Stevie's Panama red 16-18, Zebra midge 16-20, Brassie 18-22, Mercer's midgeling 16-18, Poxyback baetis 18-20, S.J. worm 10-12, P.T.'s 16-20, W.D.'s 16-22.

OWENS RIVER GORGE - Great fishing can be had by the adventurous angler with fish holding in every pocket.  Make sure to wade carefully, it's a long hike out on a twisted ankle.  This is perfect water for a dry-dropper setup, just keep moving and sticking fish.  Recommended flies include Prince nymph 16-20, P.T.'s 16-20, Micro mayfly 16-18, Bird's nest 16-20, Brassie 18-20, Zebra midge 16-20, Biot midge 18-20, Disco midge 18-20, W.D's 16-20, Para Adams 16-20, Bivisible dun 16-20, Para biot bwo 16-20, Elk hair caddis 16-18

LOWER OWENS RIVER - Flows dropped again and were at 109 cfs today in the wild trout section.  The lower elevation of Bishop makes this a great option during cold spells.  A decent hatch of BWO's is coming off mid-day and early afternoon providing some great dry fly action. There is also a heavy hatch of midges with the occasional caddisfly to keep things interesting. Recommended flies are same as above.