From the legendary Owens River to alpine lakes tucked beneath the Eastern Sierra, Inyo County offers some of California’s most rewarding fly fishing. Whether you’re targeting wild trout on a freestone creek, casting to rising fish on a quiet reservoir, or hiking into the high country in search of brook and golden trout, local fly fishing guides can help you make the most of your time on the water.
Hiring a guide is one of the best ways to experience the region, whether you’re picking up a fly rod for the first time or looking to refine your techniques on unfamiliar waters. Local guides understand seasonal hatches, water conditions, access points, regulations, and the subtle changes that can make the difference between a good day and a great one.
Fly Fishing Guides
The following guide services operate throughout Inyo County and the Eastern Sierra:
- Sierra Bright Dot Fly Fishing
- STM Fly Shop (Sierra Trout Magnet)
- All Mountain Outfitters
- Jaeger Fly Fishing
- Sierra Drifters
- Golden Trout Guiding Co.
- Eastern Sierra Sport Fishing
- Sierra Trout Outdoorsman
- Sierra Mountain Trout Guide Service
- Upstream Guide Service
(Guide listings are provided as a visitor resource and do not constitute an endorsement. If you’d like your guide service included or your information updated, please contact Visit Inyo.)
Popular Fly Fishing Waters
Fly fishing guides commonly guide trips on a variety of waters throughout Inyo County, including:
- Owens River
- Bishop Creek
- Pleasant Valley Reservoir
- Lower Owens River
- Tinemaha Reservoir
- High-country lakes and streams
- Alpine creeks throughout the Eastern Sierra
Fishing conditions vary throughout the year depending on snowpack, runoff, water temperatures, weather, and reservoir releases, making local knowledge especially valuable.
Why Hire a Fly Fishing Guide?
A professional guide can help you:
- Learn fly casting and presentation techniques
- Match seasonal hatches and select effective flies
- Navigate local regulations and access points
- Discover productive waters based on current conditions
- Improve wading safety and river awareness
- Spend more time fishing and less time searching
Whether you’re planning a half-day outing, a full-day adventure, or a multi-day fishing trip, local guides can tailor the experience to your interests and skill level.
Know Before You Go
Fishing regulations and conditions can change throughout the year. Before heading out, purchase a valid California fishing license and review the latest California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for the waters you plan to fish.
Please help protect Inyo County’s fisheries by practicing responsible recreation. Pack out all trash and discarded fishing line, respect seasonal closures and private property, clean gear between waters to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, and follow Leave No Trace principles so these fisheries remain healthy for future generations.
