ALL SEASON FISHING IN INYO COUNTY

From Bishop Creek and the Owens River to Diaz Lake and Tinemaha Reservoir, Inyo County offers some of the most iconic fishing in the Eastern Sierra, with everything from family-friendly lakes to wild trout water
and year-round angling opportunities.

MAP & REGULATIONS
FISHING BY REGION

Where to Fish in Inyo County

LONE PINE

From Diaz Lake to the lower Owens River, Lone Pine is home to Southern Inyo’s early opener and year-round fishing opportunities.

LEARN MORE
INDEPENDENCE

Independence offers quiet access to Owens Valley waters, nearby creeks, and a laid-back fishing base between Bishop and Lone Pine.

LEARN MORE
BIG PINE

Big Pine pairs high-country creek access with Owens Valley waters like Tinemaha Reservoir and the Owens River.

LEARN MORE
Fishing In Inyo County
BISHOP

From Bishop Creek lakes to the Owens River, Bishop offers some of Inyo County’s most iconic trout water.

LEARN MORE

EASTERN SIERRA
FLY FISHING REPORT

Local guide Fred Rowe shares the latest Eastern Sierra fly fishing report each week, with current conditions, local insight, and what’s fishing
well across the region.

LEARN MORE
INYO COUNTY

FISHING FAQ’S

Yes. Many lakes, rivers, and streams throughout Inyo County have special regulations that differ from statewide rules. Depending on the waterbody, regulations may include catch-and-release only, barbless hooks, artificial lures or flies only, seasonal closures, or modified bag limits.


Because regulations are updated periodically, always review the current California Department of Fish and Wildlife Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations before fishing. Pay special attention to Regulation 7.50, which lists special regulations for individual waters throughout the state.

Fishing regulations in California changed significantly in 2021, and today most waters in Inyo County are open to fishing year-round. However, seasons, bag limits, gear restrictions, and other regulations vary depending on the lake, river, creek, or reservoir.

Lakes with marinas or concessionaires, such as South Lake and Lake Sabrina, generally open the last Saturday in April and close on November 15. Many other lakes, reservoirs, and lower-elevation waters remain open year-round, while some streams and rivers transition to catch-and-release fishing with artificial lures or flies only during the winter season.

Because regulations vary by waterbody, always review the current California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) regulations before your trip.

The easiest way to purchase a California fishing license is online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) before your trip. Licenses can also be stored digitally using the official CDFW mobile app.

If you prefer to purchase a license in person, many sporting goods stores, tackle shops, and select general stores throughout Bishop, Big Pine, Independence, and Lone Pine are authorized license vendors. Because participating retailers may change, it’s always a good idea to call ahead before making a special trip.

Yes. Most waters in Inyo County now offer year-round fishing opportunities, although regulations differ depending on the location. During the winter months, many anglers focus on the Owens River, Pleasant Valley Reservoir, Diaz Lake, Tinemaha Reservoir, and other lower-elevation waters that remain productive throughout the year.

Always check current regulations for the specific water you plan to fish, as gear restrictions, bag limits, and seasonal rules may apply.

Several sections of the Owens River are open year-round, while others operate under seasonal regulations or special management rules.

Popular year-round opportunities include sections near Pleasant Valley Reservoir and portions of the Lower Owens River, although regulations vary depending on the exact river section. Always verify the regulations for the stretch you intend to fish before heading out.

Every season offers excellent fishing—it simply depends on what you’re hoping to catch.

Spring: Stocked rainbow trout, fishing opener traditions, and popular trout derbies.

Summer: High-country lakes, Bishop Creek, alpine streams, brook trout, and golden trout opportunities.

Fall: Brown trout become more active as water temperatures cool, making autumn a favorite season for many experienced anglers.

Winter: The Owens River, Pleasant Valley Reservoir, Diaz Lake, and other year-round waters continue to provide outstanding fishing with fewer crowds.
No matter when you visit, Inyo County offers outstanding fishing somewhere during every season.

Inyo County offers excellent shore fishing at Pleasant Valley Reservoir, Diaz Lake, Tinemaha Reservoir, and numerous sections of the Owens River.

These waters provide easy access for families, beginning anglers, and anyone without a boat. Tinemaha Reservoir is especially popular for warm-water species like bass and catfish, while Pleasant Valley Reservoir remains one of the area’s premier trout fisheries.

Yes. Anyone 16 years or older must have a valid California sport fishing license when fishing in Inyo County.

The easiest option is to purchase your license online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife before your trip. Licenses can also be stored digitally using the official CDFW mobile app, so there’s no need to carry a paper copy.

Fishing licenses are also available at many sporting goods stores, tackle shops, and select general stores throughout Bishop, Big Pine, Independence, and Lone Pine.

Yes. Float tubes are welcome on many stillwater fisheries throughout Inyo County, including Pleasant Valley Reservoir, Diaz Lake, Tinemaha Reservoir, and numerous other lakes depending on water levels and seasonal conditions.

Many high-country lakes reached by short hikes also provide exceptional float tube opportunities. Before launching, always check local regulations, current water conditions, and any boating or float tube restrictions.

Yes. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife publishes an online fish planting schedule that is updated throughout the season.

Many local anglers also follow Eastern Sierra fishing reports for current conditions, recent stockings, water levels, and successful fishing techniques. Because stocking schedules can change, it’s best to check close to your trip.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) maintains the most up-to-date fishing regulations.

Before your trip, review the current Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations and check for any special regulations that apply to the specific lake, creek, river, or reservoir you plan to fish. Local fishing reports can also provide valuable information on current conditions, water levels, access, and what’s fishing well.

Yes. Inyo County hosts several popular fishing events throughout the year, including the Blake Jones Trout Derby in Bishop and the Southern Inyo Early Opener Trout Derby near Lone Pine. Warm-water anglers can also look for annual spring and fall bass tournaments held on local reservoirs.

Event dates vary from year to year, so check local event calendars before planning your trip.

REGIONAL GUIDES & LOCAL TIPS

Fishing Guides

Watercraft inspection is
MANDATORY

New ordinances in Mono and Inyo Counties require inspections before launching any trailered watercraft, including boats and jet skis, into any body of water.

LEARN MORE

JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST

Sign up to learn about Inyo county events and more.