One of the West’s Most Legendary Trout Destinations
Bishop has long been considered one of the premier fly fishing destinations in the American West.
Surrounded by alpine lakes, high mountain creeks, spring-fed rivers, reservoirs, and the expansive waters of the Owens Valley, the area attracts anglers from around the world looking for wild trout, mountain scenery, and year-round fishing opportunities throughout the Eastern Sierra.
Whether you are an experienced fly angler or picking up a rod for the first time, Bishop offers access to an enormous range of water within a short drive of town.
Owens River
The Owens River remains the heart of fly fishing in Bishop.
Flowing through the Owens Valley beneath the Sierra Nevada, the river offers everything from slow-moving meadow water to deeper channels and classic trout habitat.
The Upper Owens, Lower Owens, and Owens Gorge each provide different fishing experiences and seasonal conditions throughout the year.
For many anglers, fishing the Owens River at sunrise beneath the Eastern Sierra crest is the experience that defines Bishop itself.
Bishop Creek Canyon
Bishop Creek Canyon adds alpine lake and high country fishing to the region’s already massive variety of water.
Lakes including Sabrina, South Lake, North Lake, Intake Two, and countless smaller backcountry lakes provide opportunities for trout fishing surrounded by granite peaks and pine forests.
During summer and fall, the canyon becomes one of the Eastern Sierra’s most popular fishing destinations thanks to cooler temperatures and easy access to mountain water.
Hot Creek & Nearby Waters
Within driving distance of Bishop, anglers also gain access to legendary Eastern Sierra fisheries including Hot Creek, Convict Lake, Crowley Lake, Pleasant Valley Reservoir, and numerous smaller creeks and reservoirs scattered throughout the region.
That concentration of fishable water is part of what makes Bishop one of California’s true fishing hubs.
Guided Fly Fishing Trips
The Bishop area supports several experienced fly fishing guides and outfitters offering half-day, full-day, walk-and-wade, float, and instructional trips throughout the Eastern Sierra.
Guided trips can be especially valuable for visitors unfamiliar with seasonal conditions, river access, hatches, or local regulations.
Best Seasons for Fly Fishing
Fishing opportunities exist year-round around Bishop, though conditions shift dramatically with runoff, snowpack, weather, and seasonal trout movement.
Spring and fall are often considered the strongest overall seasons, while summer provides easier access to high elevation lakes and creeks throughout the Sierra.
Winter fishing can also remain productive on sections of the Owens River thanks to the Owens Valley’s relatively mild climate.
More Than Just Fishing
Part of what makes fly fishing in Bishop unique is the landscape itself.
Anglers spend their days surrounded by granite peaks, desert valleys, cottonwoods, volcanic cliffs, alpine lakes, and enormous open skies that make the Eastern Sierra feel distinctly different from anywhere else in California.
Even people who do not fish often find themselves drawn into the slower pace and scenery surrounding Bishop’s rivers and mountain waterways.
Plan Ahead for Your Trip
Conditions throughout the Eastern Sierra can change quickly depending on snowpack, runoff, weather, fire restrictions, and seasonal access.
Visitors should always check current regulations, river conditions, weather forecasts, and public land access before heading out.
Recreate Responsibly
Help protect Bishop’s rivers, lakes, and fisheries by packing out trash, respecting private property, following fishing regulations, and practicing responsible recreation throughout the Eastern Sierra.
Before your trip, check current conditions and regulations with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and local land managers.
