2 2011 eastern sierra fishing & vacation guidefiles.meetup.com/1247891/2011 eastern sierra...

2 2011 Eastern Sierra Fishing & Vacation Guide


Advertiser’s Index .......................... 110 Big Pine Spotlight ............................ 20Bishop Creek Canyon Map ............ 28Bishop Creek Canyon Spotlight .... 26 Bridgeport/Twin Lakes Map........... 83Bridgeport/Twin Lakes Spotlight .. 84Campground Guide ...................... 106Catch and Release ........................... 92 Conway Ranch ................................. 91Crowley/Convict Map ..................... 52Crowley Lake Spotlight ................... 53 Convict Lake Spotlight .................... 55Derbies ............................................. 45DFG-Stocked Waters......................... 9DFG Stocking in 2011 ....................... 8Eco-friendly Angling ........................ 88Fishing Excuses ............................... 73Gorge Spotlight ............................... 36History of Fish Planting ................. 96Independence Spotlight ................. 16 Inyo Calendar ................................. 40June Lake Loop Map ....................... 70June Lake Loop Spotlight ............... 71License Fees .................................... 25License Vending Change ................ 23 Lone Pine Spotlight ......................... 10 Lundy Lake Spotlight ...................... 78Mammoth Lakes Basin Map ........... 60

2011 Eastern Sierra

Fishing Guide

The Eastern Sierra Fishing and Vacation Guide is a February 2011 publication of Horizon California Publications, 450 E. Line St., Bishop, CA 93514. All contents are the property of Horizon California Publications and may not be reproduced in any manner without the expressed written consent of the publisher.COVER PHOTO: Olga Schulteis of Upland and grandsons Paul Schulteis, 4, of Mission Viejo, and Thomas Schulteis, 8, of Lakewood, show off the fish they caught within an hour in late afternoon on July 13, 2010 after finding a "honey hole" at the north end of Lake Mamie. These are the first trout ever for Grandma and Thomas (r), while Paul caught his first in 2009. Paul and Thomas are cousins, and the sons of, respectively: Michael and Melinda, and Tim and Michele. Photo submitted

by Michael Schulteis/cover design by Olivia Nguyen

PHOTO AT LEFT: An angler enjoys last-season fishing and stunning fall colors along Bishop Creek, just below Lake Sabrina in October 2010. Photo by Sterling Schat

Table of ContentsMammoth Lakes Basin Spotlight ... 61Mono Calendar ............................. 100Northern Inyo Hot Spots ............. 104Northern Mono Hot Spots ........... 105Owens River Spotlight .................... 30Packing Trips for Anglers .............. 50 Pleasant Valley Reservoir Map........ 33PVR Spotlight ................................... 34Photo Contest ............................. 56-59Quagga/Zebra Mussels.................... 74Recipes ........................................... 109Records ............................................. 80Rock Creek Map .............................. 48Rock Creek Spotlight ...................... 49 Sonora/Little Walker Map ............... 90Southern Inyo Hot Spots ............. 104 Southern Inyo Map .............................7 Southern Mono Hot Spots ........... 105Tioga Pass Map ................................ 76Tioga Pass Spotlight ........................ 77 Topaz Lake Map .............................. 94Topaz Lake Spotlight ...................... 95Trophy Class Browns ...................... 81 Types of Fish in Inyo and Mono .. 64Virginia Lakes/Green Lake Map ..... 79 Virginia Lakes Spotlight .................. 78Water Levels High in 2011 ............ 86Year-round Fishing.......................... 37

The fishery maps contained in this publication were created by the U.S. Forest Service, for a fee, specifically for this publication. GIS data and product accuracy may vary. Data may be developed from sources of dif-fering accuracy, accurate only at certain scales, based on modeling or interpretation, incomplete while being created or revised, etc. Using GIS products for purposes other than those for which they were created may yield inaccurate or misleading results. These maps are the property of Horizon California Publications and may not be reproduced in any man-ner without the expressed written consent of the publisher.

PublisherCarol Ross

EditorDarcy Ellis

Project CoordinatorDarcy Ellis

ContributorsMike Bodine, Darcy Ellis, Mike Gervais,

Deb Murphy, Martin Strelneck

AdvertisingTerry Langdon, Kellie Hallenbeck,

David Michalski, Angela WrightDesign

Julie Garrison, Olivia NguyenPress Operations

Bear River Publishing (Preston, Idaho)Distribution

Carol Ross

2011 Eastern Sierra Fishing & Vacation Guide 7


By Mike Bodine

Fish stocking by the California Department of Fish and Game is back to business as usual. The department was in triage mode days before last year’s Opener following court orders that environ-mental studies be done on every body of water before stocking could continue.

The DFG had to make sure that its stocking of non-native fish wasn’t harming other species in or around bodies of flowing waters. Brad Henderson of the local DFG office explained the particulars to local officials the week following last year’s Opener.

Henderson explained that for decades, the DFG was exempt from having to perform Environmental Impact Reports, particularly when it came to impacts from fish stocking. In 2006, the agency began drafting a self-evaluation of all 24 of its hatcheries and its stocking program, but it was sued by the Pacific Rivers Council and the Center for Biological Diversity in May 2007 before com-pleting the evaluation.

The result of the lawsuit was that the DFG had

to conduct a formal Environmental Impact Report on itself. The Final EIR has now become the legal basis on which the DFG stocks all bodies of water, be it South Lake, or a city park creek in the Central Valley. The stocking was first halted and then the waters were reviewed to determine if there were any adverse impacts to specific species from stock-ing. If no impacts were determined, stocking was allowed to resume.

In the FEIR, there are a list of multiple species that may be adversely affected by stocking of non-native fish. These species are: Owens Tui Chub (Gila bicolor snyderi), Paiute Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii seleniris), Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii), Northern Leopard Frog (Rana [Lithobates] pipiens), Lahontan Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi), Mountain Yellow-Legged Frog (Rana sierrae), and Owens Speckled Dace (Rhinichthys osculus ssp. 2).

Dawne Becker, associate biologist for the DFG, said in January 2011, “Some waters were able to be cleared for stocking by reviewing existing informa-tion, other waters required on-the-ground field

See DFG, page 9

DFG clears popular fisheries for stockingAgency’s planting schedule returns to normal for 2011 season

File photoFish stocking is back on track in the Eastern Sierra, with all major waters cleared to receive trout after passing environ-ment analyses per the mandates of a 2010 court ruling.

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Fingerling Trout (Put and Grow) Release Waters as of Sept. 2, 2010

Where DFG is stocking this seasonMono County

Agnew LakeAnna LakeDana Lake #4Dorothy LakeEast LakeEast Walker RiverFremont LakeGem LakeHarding LakeKirmen LakeLane LakeLaurel Lake #1Laurel Lake #2Long Lake, LowerLobdell ReservoirMcCleod LakeO'Dell LakeRed LakeRoosevelt LakeSecret LakeStanford LakeSteelhead Lake, Mill CreekSteelhead Lake, Owens DrainageTamarack LakeTJ LakeUpper Wood Lake

Catchable Trout (1/2-lb. fish) Release Waters as of Nov. 17, 2010

Mono CountyAgnew LakeBridgeport ReservoirBuckeye CreekConvict CreekConvict LakeCrowley LakeDeadman CreekEast Walker RiverEllery LakeGeorge LakeGlass CreekGull LakeGrant LakeJune LakeKirmen LakeLeavitt LakeLee Vining CreekLee Vining Creek South ForkLittle Walker RiverLost Cannon CreekLundy LakeMamie LakeMammoth CreekMary LakeMcGee CreekMill CreekMolybdenite CreekOwens River, Section 3Reversed CreekRobinson CreekRock Creek, Section 1Rock Creek, Section 2Rush CreekSaddlebag CreekSaddlebag LakeSherwin CreekSilver LakeSwauger CreekTioga LakeTopaz Lake

Inyo CountyBig Pine CreekBishop Creek LowerBishop Creek Middle ForkBishop Creek South ForkBishop Creek, Intake IICottonwood CreekDiaz LakeGeorges CreekGoodale CreekIndependence CreekLake SabrinaLone Pine CreekNorth LakeOwens River, Section 2Pleasant Valley ReservoirRock Creek LakeRock Creek, Section 3Sheperds CreekSouth LakeSymmes CreekTaboose CreekTinnemaha CreekTuttle Creek

Inyo CountyBaker LakeBig Pine Lake #1Big Pine Lake #5Birch LakeBrown LakeChickenfoot LakeConsultation LakeEcho LakeFirst LakeFifth LakeFrancis LakeFunnel LakeGreen LakeLone Pine LakeRocky Bottom LakeSaddlerock LakeSawmill LakeSecret LakeSpire LakeSummit Lake (Swift Lake)

Photo by Mike GervaisDiaz Lake outside of Lone Pine is one of dozens of waters in the Eastern Sierra that has been cleared for plants of fingerlings and fish above the half-pound mark by the DFG. The agency was required to conduct an analysis of the impacts of stocking on each fishery. DFG Continued from page 8

surveys prior to determining whether or not stock-ing could proceed.”

Becker added that the inspections put quite a burden on local offices as there was no additional funding to help with the increased work load. “In addition, some of the specific protocols to observe Decision Species require biological surveys with parameters that often limit surveys to specific time frames, such as during the breeding season. This is especially important for species whose numbers may already be reduced or species that are secretive, and thus, are difficult to observe.”

There were two bodies of water that didn’t make the cut last year and it was unknown as of press time in early February whether they’d be stocked this year. Silver Lake, in the June Lake Loop, was prob-lematic as the Willow flycatcher is prevalent along Rush Creek, which drains from the lake, but the bird has not yet been spotted at the lake. Baker Creek near Big Pine will be surveyed again this year in search for the Northern Leopard Frog. “I am unsure whether we will have the creek cleared by the Opener, but we will do our best to complete it ASAP,” Becker said.

A list of stocked waters for each region in the

state is available at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/fish/Hatcheries/FishPlanting/Evaluation.asp.

Becker had some last words about stocked fish. “Just to give a suggestion to the many anglers

who may currently focus their fishing activities solely on stocked waters: Wild fish are typically more difficult to catch, but their fight behavior and firm, meaty flesh may entice anglers to focus more on wild trout waters,” she said. “There are many waters in Mono and Inyo counties where DFG has man-aged as general regulation fisheries that have not been stocked for decades. Check them out. Don’t get stuck in a rut, get off the main road.”


File photoThe small but beautiful golden trout can be caught in several high-elevation fisheries above Lone Pine in what is known as the Golden Trout Wilderness (above). Look for the pale green circles on the side to identify this unique trout, usually colored in reds, oranges and golds with smatterings of dark spots on their back and dorsal fins.

SPOTLIGHT

From a stunning landscape that’s starred in Westerns since the days of Hopalong Cassidy, to the many working cattle ranches dotting the sur-rounding valley floor, to its slow-paced, laidback charm, Lone Pine could easily be considered a friendly, modern-day version of the Wild West.

Fortunately for anglers, that untamed spirit doesn’t stop with the pioneering mentality or nat-ural wonders that make Lone Pine so great.

Indeed, the area’s many waters, in addition to hosting regular plants of rainbows by the Department of Fish and Game, are home to some of the wiliest, feistiest wild trout in the Eastern Sierra.

Catching them, according to local angling experts, is just a matter of knowing where to go and what to use.

The folks at the Lone Pine Chamber of Commerce recommend going for the gold – liter-ally.

Cottonwood Lakes 1-4, off limits until as recently as 1998, are said to be teeming with golden trout, the state fish of California and creme de la creme of Eastern Sierra trout.

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Starting at an elevation of about 11,000 feet in the John Muir Wilderness, the angling here is as about as uncrowded as it gets, but it’s not for the faint of heart or those unable to endure strenuous hiking.

These waters are governed by a strict catch and release policy – but that ensures plenty of catching to make all the hiking worth it.

General rule of thumb for fishing these waters is to go extra light on the tackle. Anglers report equal success with flies (sight-fishing) or lures (Thomas Buoyants seem to do the trick).

Cottonwood Lake 5, at an elevation of 11,186 feet and a brutal 5.8-mile hike from the trailhead, is restricted to artificial lures or flies with barbless hooks and the regular five-fish limit – as are the other lakes in the Cottonwood basin.

The season runs from July 1 through Oct. 31.To get here, drive west on Whitney Portal Road

3.5 miles to Horseshoe Meadow Road and turn left. Continue 20 miles to the Cottonwood Lakes trailhead.

Anglers out for their limit – whether it’s five stockers or five wild trout or a mixture thereof – would do well in any of Lone Pine’s many creeks, expected to be at peak levels this summer as record snow deposits thaw out in the backcoun-try.

See Lone Pine, page 12Photo by Martin Strelneck

These families walked away from the Lone Pine Sand Trap with their limits during the 2010 Southern Inyo Early Opener.

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Lone Pine Continued from page 11

Don Warner, owner of Gardner’s True Value in the heart of Lone Pine, said anglers can expect to find brookies in these crystal-clear mountain streams in addition to DFG stockers.

When it comes to fishing the creeks of Lone Pine, he recommends salmon eggs and meal worms.

Approximately 10 miles from Lone Pine is the access road to Cottonwood Creek. The camping is primitive but the fishing is excellent, thanks in large part to the fact that DFG stocks the creek just west of the campgrounds. Turn west on Cottonwood Creek Road; in three miles you’ll reach the end of the road and the campsite. There’s a faded green house on the north side of the road; the creek is on the far side of the house. A sand trap has formed at the water inlet for the powerhouse and the pool is rich with rainbow and an occa-sional golden that has migrated down from the high country.

The best fishing, according to the Chamber of Commerce, “is from the campgrounds at the power house intake to the end of the road.”

The trail up to Horseshoe Meadows begins at the Cottonwood Creek camping area.

Whitney Portal Road, in the center of town, will take you, obviously, to the Whitney Portal, where the Chamber of Commerce recommends plying the pond and the creek in the campground.

Portal Road also leads to Tuttle and Lone Pine creeks. Tuttle is sur-rounded by an 82-site campground. Three miles up Whitney Portal Road, take a left on Horseshoe Meadows Road. You’ll hit a dirt road after two miles and that road goes straight into the campground, where the fishing is particularly good, according to the Chamber. Tuttle is regularly stocked by DFG.

To hit Lone Pine Creek, stay on Whitney Portal Road. The campground is six miles from town. DFG plants the creek from the aqueduct to this camp-site. The mountain stream is fast moving and pan-sized rainbow respond well to salmon eggs and small spinner baits. Like most of these foothill creek sites, you can hang out by your RV or tent or wander up and down the creek. Basically, you can’t go wrong either way.

The Upper Lone Pine Creek campgrounds can be reached 14 miles up Whitney Portal Road. Again, DFG plants this upper section of the creek from the Portal Ponds above to this site. The folks at the Chamber recommend fishing Lone Pine Creek “starting at the mouth of the canyon.”

About eight miles north of Lone Pine, cross over the Los Angeles Aqueduct, turn left at the first dirt road and you’ll find George Creek. Fishing is good at the sand trap.

The Lone Pine area, all of Southern Inyo, really, is especially unique in that it offers abundant warm-water fishing opportunities.

Just as Independence to the north, Lone Pine has benefited from the rebirth of the lower section of the Owens River. For anglers that means more spots early in the season to try out the new warm waters, host to bass and catfish.

One fish-rich spot recommended by locals is just north of the pump back station at Owens Lake. A pond has formed that is teeming with fish, and “you can actually cast here,” Warner said.

For bait, “a lot of people use the plastic Powerworms and what are known as plastic baits for the bass. Anywhere else along the river worms and night-crawlers will do just fine.”

The only disadvantage for newcomers to the new Owens River is the dense tules along the banks.

But, keep looking for the good river-side spots or check with locals. Any local warm-water angler can tell you it’s worth the effort if you really want a change of pace and a nice bass or two.

Anglers looking to get the most bang for their buck – or at least be able to reel in a bass or a monster trout from the same stretch of shoreline – should

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try one of Inyo County’s most popular year-round fisheries, Diaz Lake, located three miles south of Lone Pine, just west of U.S. 395.

Trout fishing is hot early and late in the season; bass, bluegill and carp tend to dominate in the warmer months.

A natural lake formed by an earthquake in 1872 that’s now a recreation area run by Inyo County’s parks department, Diaz is family-friendly set-up with 200 campsites, flushing toilets, a boat launch, beaches and a playground. The lake is stocked with rainbow to supplement the existing catfish and bass. If it gets too hot in mid-summer on the lake, the shores are shaded and there’s a swim-ming beach.

Believe it or not, Velveeta cheese is some trout fishermen’s bait of choice on Diaz, so don’t waste your aged cheddar.

Warner recommends a good old fashioned nightcrawler, which should work for the trout, bass, bluegill and carp populating the lake.

“A nightcrawler on Diaz will catch you just about anything,” he said. “You won’t know what you’ve got until you reel it in.”

Anglers fishing specifically for trout should try Powerbait, he said. The last few seasons’ anglers have had good luck with the garlic, lemonade and bubble-gum flavors.

For more information, contact local sporting goods stores, the Lone Pine Chamber of Commerce (760) 876-4444, 126 S. Main, or the Interagency Visitor Center (760) 876-6222 just south of town.

File photoRidgecrest resident Jeffrey Belter was among the many anglers who had luck at Diaz Lake during the 2010 Southern Inyo Early Opener, which sees waters west of U.S. 395 and south of Independence open for fishing more than a month ahead of the general trout season.

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By Deb Murphy

The Mt. Whitney Fish Hatchery is as much a part of the Owens Valley landscape as its mountain namesake. Built in 1916 from granite collected from within a quarter-mile of the site northwest of Independence, the Tudor Revival structure seems capable of fulfilling the instructions of the California Department of Fish and Game Commissioner M.J. Connell back in 1913: “Design a building that would match the mountains, would last forever and be a showplace for all time.”

In truth, it has been a combination of luck and a group of volunteers, the Friends of Mt. Whitney Fish Hatchery, that could be credited with the fact the hatchery is on its way back to being a showplace: an interpretive center to show 21st century fishermen how it all began.

The DFG considered closing the hatchery in 1996, but realizing its historic and cultural value, the Friends worked with the department to ensure its future.

The next threat came in July, 2007 in the form of a wildland fire that swept out of the foothills, over the sage-studded valley and across U.S. 395, destroying homes and burning everything in its path, down to the dirt. The hatchery, its grounds and landscaping, established by a gardener brought in from Golden Gate Park 92 years earlier, survived untouched.

Anyone who lives in Southern California knows the next part of Mother Nature’s one-two punch. The summer following the fire, a wild rain storm in the mountains above Independence touched off a mud slide that fol-lowed the trajectory of the fire, picking up bare dirt as it swept through the Oak Creek area.

Again, the hatchery building was spared, but second-generation race-ways were destroyed and the pond in front of the hatchery was trans-formed into a massive mud puddle. The building itself was flooded from mud and water coming through the pipes from the ponds. It took the Friends, with the help of the Conservation Corps, nearly a year to clear the pipes and clean up the mess in the wing of the granite building used as a hatchery.

Hatchery rising from the ashes – and the mudHistoric structure's ongoing transformation reaches another milestone

Photo by Deb MurphyVisitor numbers at the Mt. Whitney Fish Hatchery have grown from an annual 25,000 to an anticipated 35,000 in 2011 thanks in large part to efforts by a group of dedicated volunteers to not only bring the facility back on line after a devastating mud slide, but see it flourish as a tourist attraction/interpretive center.


The Friends, headed by Bruce Ivey, remained focused on keeping the hatchery alive, if not as a functioning hatchery, then as a tourist attrac-tion and Wildlife Interpretive Center. Ivey notes that visitor numbers have grown from 25,000 to an anticipated 35,000 this year.

Using the original raceways built in 1917, 75,000 fish eggs were spawned. According to Ivey, two-thirds were sent to other hatcheries and a third kept on site to populate the display ponds. Today, the pond is thick with fish. Twice a year, the Friends host a Kids Free Fishing Day.

By mid-winter, all the parts were coming together: display cabinets made by a Boy Scout troop, elements of a small theater with commu-nications equipment, all the plumbing necessary to demonstrate how hatcheries functioned in the 20th century. In early January, Ivey predicted that the construction would be complete and cabinets in place well before Opening Day of fishing season, leaving only the displays to be determined and installed.

Help with the project has come from all over the Eastern Sierra. Lefty Irwin from Bishop and a small crew of volunteers built restrooms; the Eastern California Museum in Independence helped with the photo displays and theater set-up, even the Aguabonita Fly Fishing Club from Ridgecrest pitched in. From among the Friends, Ivey said about 45 members contribute a day a month to the effort while a stalwart group of six are there one day a week, or more.

Ivey’s involvement in fish hatcheries dates back a while. He worked at the Whittier Hatchery as a teen, grinding horse meat and liver, the fish diet of choice before pellets were developed. The Mt. Whitney Hatchery’s “meat room” has been unused for years, but will be part of the tour.

The lobby and gift shop are restored and look much the same way they did in the early 1900s. The Friends have been incrementally restoring the offices and exterior back to their original grandeur.

Ivey hopes to amend the hatchery’s permit from the Lahontan Water Quality Board to allow for actual fish production, for educational pur-poses, on site. When the permit amendment comes through, the hatchery will be ready.

Originally, roe were incubated in stacks of trays, most of which are still set up in the hatch-ery, with water running from top to bottom. That method was later replaced with incubation jars. The whole evolution of fish hatching tech-nology will be part of the Interpretive Center.

While the working areas of the hatchery will be on display, along with the lobby and gift shop, the full building restoration is a work in progress. The office area on the second floor of the tower was converted to living quarters in what appears to be mid-century. The top of the

tower, with full views of the Sierra to the west and the valley floor stretching east to the Whites, was once used for board meetings. Reached by a winding staircase, from here it’s not hard to imagine what a fully restored Mt. Whitney Fish Hatchery will look like in years to come.

Photo by Martin StrelneckJim Riley, retired 21-year manager of the Mt. Whitney Hatchery, is in charge of trout-rearing for Friends of the Mt. Whitney Fish Hatchery. Riley is joined here at the hatchery by one of the group’s founders, Bruce Ivey (r).

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SPOTLIGHT

As the county seat of Inyo, Independence is full of enough history, charm and community celebra-tions to keep residents and visitors enlightened, entertained and even exuberant year-round.

During the area’s fishing season, which begins the first Saturday in March for certain waters and the last Saturday in April for all over fisheries, Independence also keeps plenty of anglers satis-fied and coming back for more.

This portion of Southern Inyo is unique in that the types of angling offered run the gamut from high-country wild trout fly fishing to challenging swift-water stream fishing for browns to somewhat laid-back warm-water angling for bass and other bottom-feeders.

The key to success in the Independence area, with all its variety, is making that initial plan of attack.

“First of all, a fisherman has to decide if he wants to go after state-released rainbows, or wild trout, which includes browns and eastern brook-ies,” said Bruce Ivey, Independence resident and 60-year-plus Southern Inyo angler.

If it’s the more untamed experience fishermen are after, their best bet is to head for the high country of Onion Valley, which typically doesn’t open up until around late May.

Here, the angler can fish for wild brooks, browns, rainbows or even goldens. The trailhead leads from the campgrounds to Kearsarge Pass,

passing a series of high country lakes including Little Pothole, Gilbert, Hart and Flower. A lit-tle farther on and you’ll make it to Robinson and the Golden Trout lakes.

The Baxter Lakes area, in the high country north of Onion Valley, is a good place to fish for brook trout. To find the Baxter Pass Trailhead drive just past the campground at North Fork Oak Creek and take the dirt road till it ends, about 4 1⁄2 miles.

As for bait in these waters, Ivey recommends an ultra-light spinning rod and fly-and-bubble combo.

Brookies and browns from the high country have been known to infiltrate the many trout-filled

Variety adds spice to Independence-area angling

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streams spilling out of the foothills, and there are several to choose from that are within a short driving distance from Independence’s main drag.

These creeks are also regularly stocked with rainbows by the Department of Fish and Game, Ivey said, so again, it’s a matter of choice for the angler as to his or her primary target.

The DFG stockers are “easier to catch,” he said, and their home waters can best be identified by local streams and creeks that can be easily reached by DFG planting trucks.

Independence, Symmes, Shepherd and Georges are the most popu-lar creeks, all accessible from Market Street or Foothill Road and with camp-grounds on the stream or nearby. Rainbows and browns can be found here.

A little-known fishing spot is Pinion Creek where there are rainbows and, according to local sources, a fish that looks strangely similar to the high-alti-tude golden trout.

To get to Pinion Creek turn west on Market Street and drive about six See Indy, page 18

File photoFishing the waters of the county seat can be as challenging or as easy as the angler seeks to make it, as evidenced by this young fishergal at the weigh-in of the 2010 Independence Father’s Day Weekend Fishing Derby. There are enough fisheries and varieties of fish in Independence to entice any angling palette.

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IndyContinued from page 17

miles. Pass Foothill Road and .2 miles farther isa dirt road on your left (south). Follow this road about a mile to the creek.

Independence is stocked by DFG, supple-mented by Alpers trout plants sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce.

Some locals recommend Sierra Gold, Powerbait, salmon eggs and worms as the baits of choice on Independence-area creeks.

Ivey, however, says almost nothing can beat a tried-and-true worm, especially if you’re after wild trout.

“Nothing works as good as a worm – wheth-er a garden worm or a nightcrawler – when you’re fishing for wild trout,” he said. “You’re wasting your time trying to fish with salmon eggs or Powerbait for wild trout in these

streams.“All things considered, worms work the best

for any type of fishing.”Oak Creek is basically un-fishable right Oak Creek is basically un-fishable right Oak Creek

now as it continues to recover from a wildfire in 2007 and subsequent mud slide in 2008. Ivey recommends giving the fishery another couple years, but come ready for a challenge: Oak Creek is not stocked and the natives will put up Creek is not stocked and the natives will put up Creeka fight.

Some sources recommend spinner baits, rubber worms and nightcrawlers early in the season. As the water warms, top water lures work better as the mossy water can be harder to fish.

With the historic restoration of the Owens River plus the abundance of beaver ponds and River plus the abundance of beaver ponds and Rivernatural pools in the valley, Independence is a

File photoThe rewatered, southermost 62 miles of the Owens River provide ample opportunities for warm-water fishing in Southern Inyo.

Independence

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bastion of warm-water fishing opportunities – home to healthy populations of bass, blue gill, catfish and carp.

While the river is still in a fairly “au naturel” state right now (read: overgrown with tules and brush in the channel and along the banks in many spots), the roads along the relatively new waterway from Blackrock to the Owens River Delta are well-maintained. There are stretches of free-flowing river ripe for trout fishing, but will take scouting or tips from locals to find.

The real draw of the river right now, said Chamber of Commerce representative Sharon Avey, are the many warm-water pools and ponds that have formed along the channel and which hold large bass.

“One of the old-timers’ favorite things to do around here is to go to their hidden spot at the river, sit and relax and fish for bass,” she said.

It’s a leisurely, uncrowded and often reward-ing experience, she said, not to mention a rare one, given the status of the river as an ecosys-tem being reborn before our very eyes.

A particularly good spot is called High Banks, reached by turning east on Mazourka Canyon Road, south of Independence. Once the road crosses the aqueduct, take the dirt road to the south for about three miles. Along the way as the road parallels the river, scout out your own personal spot for future reference.

Stay on Mazourka Canyon Road to find Billy Lake, a favorite of the locals which is really a series of lakes and ponds. Not a whole lot of shore fishing is done here because of dense tules, so float tubes and flat-bottomed boats are recommended. A Lone Pine fisherman, Walter Warren, once hauled an 11-lb. bass out of Billy Lake.

Don Warner of Gardners True Value in Lone Pine said plastic worms and other plastic baits work well here.

The sand traps and pools that hold the val-ley’s warm-water treasures can be found above the aqueduct on Independence, Shepherd and Georges creeks.

Another prime warm-water pool can be located just east of the Black Rock Fish Hatchery eight miles north of Independence right before the hatchery water empties into the aqueduct. Just make sure you don’t wander onto the hatchery property.

For more information on fishing in the county seat, contact the Independence Chamber of Commerce at (760) 878-0084 or [email protected], or consult with any of the sporting goods stores or other helpful mer-chants in the area.

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SPOTLIGHT

Big Pine has been called “The Little Town with the Big Backyard,” a statement that only hints at the area’s vast natural wonders and recreational opportunities.

Located about 30 minutes north of Independence and 15 minutes south of Bishop, Big Pine offers something for every angler: early-season valley fishing, plenty of camping spots alongside stocked streams and access to alpine streams and the backcountry.

Specifically, the Owens River east of town offers year-round fishing for monster rainbows planted by the DFG, the occasional wild trout and even bass and other warm-water species in its many shallow pools and ponds.

Numerous creeks and streams spilling into the valley are also planted with DFG rainbows but hold their fair share of wild browns, too.

Browns, brookies and rainbows can be found at the higher-elevation lakes out of Big Pine Canyon, where fly fishing is the name of the game. If you’re above 10,000 feet in elevation, expect to find some of those beautiful goldens.

Jarett Coons, Big Pine resident and owner and operator of Sierra Mountain Trout Guide Service, is not only a big fan of fly fishing, but also back-

country angling.“The harder you work, the better you will be

rewarded,” he said.To get to the high country, first take Baker

Creek Road to the west from the center of town.Eleven miles into the Sierra, the road dead

ends at Glacier Lodge. The stocked pond is a great place to get started and acclimate to the altitude. You can park at the trailhead and flip a coin for the North or South Fork trails to get to some 15 high country lakes. A sample: along the North Fork trail, Lakes 1 through 8 range in elevation from just under 10,000 to 11,150 feet and offer brook, browns and rainbows with the farthest (Lake 8) including goldens in its depths. Additional goldens can be had at Hidden Lake at 10,700 feet.

By using the North Fork Big Pine Creek trail, Baker Creek, Hidden Lake, Baker Lake and Thunder and Lightning Lake can be reached. The South Fork trail takes anglers to Willow, Brainard, Finger and Eleanor lakes for brooks and rainbows. Allow a whole day to explore these backcountry lakes, but be prepared with plenty of water and a layered wardrobe.

“A fly rod and a float tube is the best way to go,” Coons said. “I guess if you have to fish bait, I would

Big Pine offers big rewards

Photo courtesy Sierra Mountain Trout Guide ServiceThis largemouth bass, caught at Tinnemaha Reservoir with a fly and released seconds after its moment in the spotlight, is fairly indicative of the treats awaiting anglers in the aptly named Big Pine area. Several varieties of trout can be found in lakes, streams and creeks from the high country to the valley floor, and many warm-water species – bass, catfish, bluegill and the somewhat underrated but extremely wily carp – populate numerous canals, ponds and ditches found over an expansive area.

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use crickets – they work really well on brookies and browns.”

Coons noted that there are flies that can be tied to imitate crickets and these are particularly successful. “A few other good flies to have for the backcountry would be Parachute Adams, Mosquito, Sierra Bright Dots, Zug Bugs, Damsel nymphs and Royal Wulffs,” he said. “A good way to see what fish are eating is to pick up a rock in the stream and look at the bottom of it to see what bugs are there and match the bugs to a fly of the same size in your box.”

If you’d rather bypass the backcountry experi-ence, there’s still plenty of great fishing in the val-ley.

On Baker Creek Road, the Baker Creek campground lies adjacent to two tree-lined hold-ing ponds and is usually stocked weekly through the summer.

Turn west at Baker Creek Road at the north end of the town and drive right into the camping area. The foothills to the south of the camp offer great hiking and mountain bike adventures on truck and game trails.

Sage Flat Campgrounds lies along Big Pine Creek off Crocker Street (Crocker turns into Glacier Lodge Road once you leave town). Remember this area as it’s the lower edge of the creek’s weekly fish plant area. The creek runs near

the road as you climb out of the valley so you can pull over, whip out the fishing gear and take your time heading up the side of the mountain. Coons noted that Big Pine Creek is also a great place to take the kids fishing because the angling here is relatively easy.

The creeks south of Big Pine are lesser known, and therefore you’ll find fewer people. All are worth a short drive and most provide camp sites.

Watch for the turn-off to Aberdeen Resort, west of U.S. 395. In addition to supplies and a res-taurant, the road runs to Goodale Creek camp-ground two miles from the highway. It is a beauti-ful setting and regularly stocked.

A mile farther north is the turnoff to Taboose Creek with a 55-site campground. You won’t have to move too far from your cot and campfire as the

See Big Pine, page 22

Photo courtesy Sierra Mountain Trout Guide ServiceBig Pine Creek, home to rainbows planted by the DFG as well as some wild browns, is a great place for kids as the fishing is relatively easy here.

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Big Pine Continued from page 21

fishing is best right at the camp area. Seven miles south of Big Pine is Tinnemaha Creek where you’ll see more rainbows than people. The turn-off is at the South Fish Springs Hatchery Road, then a left at the Tinnemaha Creek Road. The Tinnemaha Reservoir gives up big ol’ bass, as well as catfish that are known to go for stinkbaits such as spoiled liver.

If you really want your fishing spot to yourself, head for Red Mountain Creek. Access is by dirt

road reached out of either Tinnemaha or Taboose Creek camps. The best spots are at the pools along the creek.

Coons noted that, in addition to the DFG stock-ers, there are wild trout in these waters – but don’t expect to reel one in if you’re using Powerbait or salmon eggs.

“Flies or lures work best on browns,” he said.In sharp contrast to the streams and lakes in the

high country west of Big Pine is the slower, warmer Owens River to the east.

Some of the biggest trout netted in the area have come from the River, accessed via State Route 168 (Westgard Pass Road), which meets U.S. 395 at the north end of Big Pine. You can hook on to rainbows and browns, largemouth bass, catfish and carp here, and there is a network of roads (some quite rough) which lead to numerous spots along the river to the north and south.

Bass fans will also want to check out the Big Pine Canal and an often overlooked hot spot known as the Fish Springs Ditch, a diversion of the Owens River located about five miles south of Big Pine.

“This little spring creek never ceases to amaze me – it holds big rewards for those willing to put in the work. The fishing here could be called technical and changes around every bend,” Coons said. “Anglers can catch wild browns, big rainbows that escape the hatchery, largemouth bass, bluegill and carp. Be sneaky, make good casts and don’t go too heavy on your tippet but be ready for fish to dive for the weeds.”

Coons said the best way to fish this find is with a Hopper dropper set-up in the summer.

For more information about fishing in the Big Pine area, contact Sierra Trout Mountain Guide Service at (760) 263-5013 or [email protected], or any of the sporting goods stores or knowledge-able merchants in Big Pine.

Photo courtesy Sierra Mountain Trout Guide ServiceA day of catch-and-release fishing at the Fish Springs Ditch is likely to land the angler everything from a beautiful, wild brown trout (above) to a rainbow that’s escaped the hatchery to a fat bass. It all depends on bait.

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By Mike Gervais

Anglers will be doing things a little differently in 2011 when it comes to purchasing their fishing licences.

The California Department of Fish and Game instituted a new system for license purchases this year, designed to reduce costs to the state and improve convenience for fisherfolk.

Rather than purchasing paper licenses, anglers will now be required to use an automated system, either at local sporting goods stores, or via their home computer.

To purchase a license, anglers will have to swipe their driver’s license or identification card at a license vending machine (or enter the ID num-ber of their card via their computer) and provide some personal information, such as name, age and date of birth.

Unlike the system in the past, the new auto-mated process sends all information directly to the DFG, and allows fishermen to print out a license without any extra paper work.

The DFG hopes the automated system will cut back on costs to the department by reducing the need for some inventory, paper costs and man-power needs. But, local retailers say those burdens are just being passed on to them.

Some retailers also say the new system is not as simple as the DFG is making it out to be, and, at least for the next few years, will actually make purchasing a fishing license more complicated. It has been pointed out that, rather than filling licenses out themselves, anglers will need guides

to walk them through the complicated process.Some local sporting goods stores have refused

to sell licenses using the automated process, and will not be offering the service this year.

According to Richard Reyes, the DFG program manager for the automated system, initial license purchases will take a few minutes as anglers fill out their information. He said in the future, a swipe of their driver’s license will pull all that information up, and fishermen will be able to make changes, if need be, before paying for and printing their

licenses.Reyes said that the new licensing procedure

will make life easier for anglers in the long run, by making it possible to purchase fishing licenses through the DFG website, or at license retailers.

For example, if someone were to lose their fishing license, all they would be required to do is enter their information into the DFG website, or visit a retailer, enter their information into the machine and print out a replacement.

Reyes also said that businesses who sell licens-es will no longer be required to estimate how many licenses they will sell throughout the year, or keep a running count of the number of licenses that are sold, because the automated system will keep those records.

He also pointed out that residents may now purchase fishing licenses as gifts through the auto-mated process, even if the purchaser does not have all the necessary information for the license recipient.

Basically, Reyes said, a resident can fill out the information they have, including a personalized message for the recipient. The recipient can then go to any license retailer to complete the missing information and receive their license.

The new automated system cost the State of California approximately $23 million in develop-ment costs.

In order to cover the costs, the DFG has raised the price of fishing licenses by $1. About 3 percent of every dollar that is spent on licenses will go to pay for the automated system for the next five years.

Automated license system in place2011 season brings big change for anglers and retailers

Photo by Mike GervaisManor Market employee Aaron Kutsoginis demonstrates the store’s new, automated fishing license vending machine in early February. Manor is one of several local retailers who adopted the automated system when the DFG did away with the traditional paper license purchasing system at the beginning of the year.

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Fishing License inFoFollowing are the prices for California fishing licenses for the 2011 season, as listed at www.dfg.ca.gov. Thanks to a rule change that went into effect during the 2010 season, licenses no longer have to be worn by anglers during the act of fishing.Additionally, the Department of Fish and Game has converted to an Automated License Date System, effectively abandoning the traditional method of licenses sold in

person from paper booklets. Now, anglers may purchase their licenses online – for themselves or as gifts for friends or loved ones – or from automated dispensers at designated ALDS agents

throughout the state.The basic rules applying to sport fishing in California, and the Eastern Sierra in particular, haven't changed. Licences are still required for all anglers age 16 or older, and those caught fishing without the proper paperwork face stiff penalties. The only times licenses will be not required this year are on California’s two free fishing days, Saturday, July 2 and Saturday, Sept. 3.The general Eastern Sierra trout season runs from Saturday, April 30 to Tuesday, Nov. 15. Southern Inyo waters – south of Independence and west of U.S. 395 – open

for fishing on March 5.Various other fisheries in Inyo and Mono counties are open year-round.

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Resident Sport Fishing*$43.46

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Reduced Fee Low-Income Senior Sport Fishing$6.44

Reduced Fee Disabled Veteran Sport Fishing$6.44

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SHORT-TERM SPORT FISHING LICENSES

One-Day Sport Fishing License (Resident or Non-Resident)*$14.04

Two-Day Sport Fishing License (Resident or Non-Resident)*$21.86

10-Day Non-Resident Sport Fishing License*$43.46

Second Rod Stamp*(not allowed for waters in which only artificial lures or barbless hooks may

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Your first reaction to the Bishop Creek Drainage may be one of awe and wonder, and if you get to know the area for its angling, there’s another level to that response. Simply, this is the Sierra at its scenic best, and the same can be said of the fishing.

Formed by glaciers thousands of years ago and by dams much more recently, South Lake, Lake Sabrina and North Lake, with postcard-views in every direction, all serve as destinations and gateways to the backcountry, with trailheads from each lake leading to even more lakes deep in the Sierra.

Access to the drainage consists of simply turning west on Line Street (State Route 168) in Bishop, and a 20-mile drive into the Sierra Nevada. The road will terminate at Lake Sabrina.

The California Department of Fish and Game regularly stocks each of the lakes with catchable rainbows throughout the season, and they’re also home to plenty of holdovers from previous stocks, private plants of Alpers trout and even some wild trout such as brookies and browns.

The first body of water you see in the Drainage, below Aspendell, is Intake II; accessible, well-stocked (approximately 16,000 fish this year) and low enough in altitude to be ready for Opening Day. Gary Gunsolley of Brock’s Flyfishing Specialists in Bishop says woolly buggers are good at the Intake, as are black or olive Matukas (with or without beads).

Intake II, operated by Southern California Edison, is handicapped accessi-ble and float tubes are especially popular here. While this spot is small, it’s not to be overlooked. You can easily pull your limit throughout the season. There are campgrounds within 25 feet of the lake and it’s a great place to teach your kids the fine art of angling.

The lake is also the site of a growing, Opening Day ritual, which finds anglers lining the shores of Intake II to hit the water with their lines as early as mid-night on the last Saturday of each April (night fishing is legal in Inyo County).

“About 10 years ago, there were only a few lanterns that could be seen at midnight around Intake II,” Charlie Halsell of High Sierra Woodcarvings writes on his website, thetroutreport.com. “Now it has turned into quite a party with an easy 75 to 100 anglers visible around the lake starting at 11 p.m. Friday. It looks like giant fireflies have taken over the dam with the now popular LED head lamps and caps. Even the float tubers have joined in the last couple of years! Most people fish a couple of hours and then head back to the campsites

Bishop Creek Drainage an angler’s delightSPOTLIGHT

Photo by Darcy EllisIntake II is low enough in elevation that it’s almost always ice- and snow-free in time for the Opener. During the summer, it’s a perfect place to stretch out along the shoreline or ply from a float tube.


for some Zs until just before the sun comes up.”The area’s namesake, Bishop Creek, is essen-

tially 20-plus meandering miles of great fishing.The south fork spills down the canyon from just

below South Lake; the north fork comes tumbling down the mountain out of Lake Sabrina.

One of the best spots to fish the Creek is at Weir Pond below South Lake. This three-acre, shallow gem can be crossed with chest waders and offers wild brown and stocked Alpers trout.

Various fishing techniques are productive along the Creek, but most anglers choose to fish with bait – salmon eggs and various flavors of Powerbait are popular – while using ultralight spinning set-ups.

The folks at fishintrips.net say that either salm-on eggs or Powerbait can consistently produce pan-sized trout as well as the occasional lunker when “drifted downstream with just enough weight

to keep the bait down.”Also recommended are small spinners in calm

pools during the morning and evening.“For a change of pace, try using a spinner or

small rubber-skirted jig at Intake II or any of the other, smaller intake ponds scattered along the length of the stream,” the site says.

Fly fishing on Bishop Creek is also a produc-tive technique.

“The fish here feed opportunistically,” said Gunsolley, “so attractor patterns with bright colors work well … Sierra Bright Dot, Royal Humpies, stimulators, regular or green mosquitos.”

Back on S.R. 168, the highway leads anglers to three popular lakes in essentially three different directions.

A turn-off to your left will take you to the South Fork of Bishop Creek and South Lake, the highest, road-accessible lake in the Bishop Creek

Canyon at 9,768 elevation. There’s no trail around South Lake, but you can launch your own or rent a boat on site. The lake is stocked by DFG and there are plenty of hold-over rainbows. Legend has it, 20-pounders lurk in the lake’s depths, so don’t brag too much if you land anything below that.

Most bait fishermen use nightcrawlers or Powerbait as well as woolly buggers presented with a slow retrieve. Try your luck with a fly/bubble combination just after sunset.

In the backcountry behind South Lake, start-ing from the South Lake trailhead, hikers can find trails to the Treasure Lakes, Chocolate Lakes, Ruwau Lake, Bishop Lake and Bull Lake. East of those are Brown Lake, Thunder and Lightning Lake, Green Lake, Baker Lake and the aptly-named Hidden Lake.

Shortly before S.R. 168 dead ends at Sabrina, See Bishop Creek, page 29

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Bishop Creek Continued from page 26

you’ll see the cut-off to one of the easiest-accessed high country lakes, North Lake. A shallow, seven-acre lake surrounded by aspens, this is a great spot for shore fishing or float tubes. The lake was origi-nally formed by a dam built for local miners, but the dam was torn down, so, technically, North Lake is a natural lake.

Bank fishing is at its best near the second parking lot on the east side of the lake. The fish hover near the surface in pursuit of plentiful insects, so try a fly-and-bubble combination. As with Intake II, Gunsolley recommends black or olive Matukas (with or without beads) at North Lake.

Bishop Pack Outfitters at North Lake provides mounted access to hundreds of alpine lakes off the beaten path. Trailheads beginning at North Lake will lead hikers to the Lamarck Lakes and over Paiute Pass.

The last part of the dirt road up to North Lake isn’t really as scary as your first ascent may lead you to believe. Drive slowly and don’t look down.

Pronounce Sabrina with a long “I” or you’ll iden-tify yourself as a tourist.

This roughly 180-acre lake sits just at 9,000 feet above sea level and offers 200 campsites within walk-ing distance.

Sabrina gives up pan-sized trout up to five-

Photo submittedRick Carroll of Bishop was fishing Bishop Creek – his favorite creek since his teen years – just above the first bridge past Sabrina Camp on the last day of the 2010 season when he hauled in his biggest catch of the year: a 16-inch rainbow that weighed in at at least 3 lbs.

pounders (though lunkers in the 17-lb. range have been pulled out of the lake as well) and is stocked weekly with DFG rainbows and periodically with Alpers trophies; this in addition to brooks, browns and golden trout.

The more productive sites on the lake are at the inlet for Bishop Creek at the northwest corner of the lake, accessible by boat or an easy hike starting to the right of the café. If you don’t have any luck at that inlet, there are three others to choose from. If you’re after larger fish, locals recommend trolling the shore line or taking a boat out and heading right down the middle of the lake. Another choice spot is right near the dam. Bring a net to land your catch, especially when the water level is high in the spring. The dam and launch area are handicapped accessible.

As for baits, the usual suspects are all recom-mended, lures or a fly/bubble combination, Powerbait, salmon eggs, nightcrawlers.

The Lake Sabrina trailhead yields access to Hungry Packer Lake, Blue Lake and the Emerald Lakes, while a junction in the trail will lead to George Lake and Tyee Lakes.

For current information about fishing the Bishop Creek Drainage, visit sporting goods stores in Bishop, or call the Bishop Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau at (760) 873-8405.

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Photo by Sterling SchatThe Owens River winds a sparkling path south of the Pleasant Valley area along Chalk Bluff, north of Bishop, where it will eventually meander under U.S. 6, east of Bishop, and begin its long flow south toward Big Pine, Independence, Lone Pine and eventually the Owens Lake Delta.

The Owens River, the only moving water in the Eastern Sierra large enough to be called a river, is a varied and accessible year-round fishery, which stretches about 100 miles from Mono County south into Inyo County.

Springing to life a few miles north of the Mammoth Lakes area at a place called Big Springs, the Owens River begins as a splashing, rocky stream, then transforms into a deeper, slower-flowing waterway a few miles downstream until it becomes the wider, fast-moving channel of water favored by locals and visitors alike in Inyo County.

The stretch of River referred to in this article is technically known as the Middle Owens River, meandering from just north of Bishop to just south of Big Pine. The Upper Owens is found in Mono County; the Lower Owens, once a dry channel now being brought back to life by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, begins just north of Independence and ends at the Owens Lake Delta north of Lone Pine.

Gary Gunsolley of Brock’s Flyfishing Specialists in Bishop guides out on the River from Bishop to Bridgeport all during the season.

“The River is a great fishery, especially the Wild Trout section (just south of Pleasant Valley Reservoir),” he said, “and it’s open year-round.”

The Owens River is stocked on a weekly basis, and the water has plenty of holdovers and a large brown trout population.

Asked what he would recommend at the River, Gunsolley answered, “That runs the whole gamut: various nymphs, dry flies, caddis, mayflies, almost everything.”

The Trout Fly/Troutfitter in Mammoth Lakes recommends “dry-fly hatch-es,” which “are excellent, usually midday, with nymphing all day producing browns and rainbows up to 16 inches routinely and ones in the 20-inch range possible.”

Bait fishermen have been known to use just about anything on the River to land the DFG stockers – from nightcrawlers to salmon eggs to lures – and are usually successful.

But the wild brown trout are finicky and do not seem to have developed a taste for Powerbait or salmon eggs. Going au naturel – using worms, night-crawlers and crickets – is your best bet.

Buckley Ponds, near the River east of Bishop, is popular with warm-water anglers, where they find blue gill, bass and the occasional monster catfish. The Ponds are overgrown with tules and difficult to fish from shore. Water from the ponds feed another warm-water fishery known as Saunders Pond, found

See Owens River, page 32

A river runs through itSPOTLIGHT


Photo by Darcy EllisBishop resident Sterling Schat wades into a slower-moving section of the Owens River near Five Bridges Road north of Bishop, where he’s about to reel in a wild brown enticed by the grasshopper on the end of his line.

Owens RiverContinued from page 30

off the River between Warm Springs and Collins roads.

“You can flyfish the Ponds with poppers for bass, or use small flies for blue gill, like elk-hair caddis, and worms of course are always worth a shot, for blue gill and cats,” said Dan Farris of Brock’s Flyfishing Specialists. “But a very fine catfish bait is a frozen anchovy – the freezing

milks out the odor and the catfish really like it.”

It is legal to night-fish the Ponds and they are open year-round.

To find Buckley Ponds, turn east on Line Street in the middle of Bishop, drive a couple miles to the cemetery and just past the cemetery turn right (south) at the cattle guard. Just follow the stream right to the Ponds.

Access to the Owens River can be had at Owens River can be had at Owens RiverU.S. 6 north of Bishop; along Chalk Bluff Road north of Bishop; at East Line Street and Riverside Road east of Bishop; and off of Warm Springs and Collins roads south of Bishop.

For more information on the Owens River,visit sporting goods stores in Bishop, or call the Bishop Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau at (760) 873-8405.

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SPOTLIGHT

For a good shot at 5- to 6-lb. lunkers, Pleasant Valley Reservoir is the place to try your luck.

Just five miles north of Bishop, the reservoir harbors a range of fish from rainbows stocked by Fish and Game to perch, bluegill and bass. Another attraction: it’s not unusual to land a 15-pounder. Locals claim the best spot for trout is just off the dam with lures highly recommended. Recommended baits include Powerbait, salmon eggs, nightcrawlers and crickets.

The Reservoir was created by one of four dams built by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. The DWP operates a power plant on the upper reaches or the Owens River. Technically, the lower Owens River Gorge is considered part of the Reservoir. The River makes up about a third of the Pleasant Valley waters.

The 115-acre lake is open year-round and hosts

the Bishop Chamber-sponsored Blake Jones Fishing Derby in early March. The turn-off to the Pleasant Valley Road hits U.S. 395 about nine miles north of Bishop. The Reservoir is about a mile-and-a-half in, past the campgrounds.

The 115-acre lake is framed by the sheer Chalk Bluffs on one side and a two-mile access road on the other. Motorized vehicles are not allowed, so bring a bike. Spring and fall are the best times of the year to stay at Pleasant Valley’s 200-site developed campground. At 4,200 elevation, the area can get scorching hot during the summer.

In the late 1990s, the waters were open to float tubes, but no other watercraft is allowed.

While anglers dead set on fishing the Gorge can get to the lower section out of Pleasant Valley, the fishing above the reservoir is fast-moving and entirely different.

Pleasant Valley Reservoir produces lunkers

Photo by Mike BodineAdam Montgomery of Santa Fe Springs, at his 15th Blake Jones Trout Derby in 2010, holds up a lunker caught by his girlfriend, Denise Geib, on 3-lb. test. 2 Locations

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Round Valley, a large, fertile farming area about 10 miles north of Bishop, is home to the Owens River Gorge, a natural wonder and a scenic, productive fish-ery.

The California Department of Fish and Game last planted the Gorge with brown trout when it was initially rewatered back in the early 1990s.

Not to worry, though. At the Gorge there are still plenty of fish because of relatively light fishing pressure. This is a beautiful area but you can break a sweat getting there, and during the summer the majority of daylight hours are too hot to enjoy much time on the creek.

But it’s worth it for those who make the effort – in the morning or evening – since this area is purported to be the best dry fly fishing waters for wild browns in the Eastern Sierra. The trout are used to checking out the native midges and mayflies, so well presented man-made replicas should attract a strike.

The use of spinners is a close second to flies. Sporting goods stores would recommend small Panther Martins, small Roostertails, mini-jigs, tube jigs and crick-ets.

Browns up to 14 inches long have been reported in recent seasons in the Gorge, which is being maintained as a wild fishery.

According to the folks at the Trout Fitter in Mammoth Lakes, general fishing regulations apply in the Gorge,

but anglers should be sure to practice catch-and-release in this fragile fishery.

The Gorge is also a popular rock climbing spot in the spring and winter; you may find yourself occasionally eyeing the canyon walls while your line drifts the water.

The Gorge runs from the Crowley Lake dam south to Pleasant Valley Reservoir and is divided geograph-ically into the upper and lower sections. The challenge is getting to the upper Gorge, but if you can handle the

precarious 45-minute hike without a Sherpa or the help of a goat, the payoff is the closest thing you can get to the primitive experience of landing truly wild trout. You catch a glimpse of the upper Gorge from U.S. 395 and the Power Plant and Gorge roads parallel it, but unless you’ve got a parachute, you need to walk to it.

About 10 miles north of Bishop, just below the Sherwin Grade, turn on the Gorge Road. Park at the power plant lot and look for “paths” down to the river. Be forewarned; those paths have been made by rock climbers who practice on the Gorge walls and are in excellent physical shape.

The river through this section of the Gorge is fast and wild, dropping 800 vertical feet in less than three miles.

You can brag to your buddies back home that you fished the Gorge without taking your life in your hands by heading to the lower Gorge, just above Pleasant Valley Reservoir.

The best way to get there is to park in the reservoir parking lot, bring your bike (no motorized anything is allowed) and pedal along the path on the east side of the reservoir.

Information on fishing the Gorge may be obtained from fishing and sporting goods shops in Bishop, or from the Bishop Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau (760-873-8405).

Go off the grid at the GorgeSPOTLIGHT

File photoGetting there is a challenge, but the Owens River Gorge offers up some of the most rewarding fly fishing in the Eastern Sierra.


By Deb Murphy

The day is sublime. The sun warms your shoul-ders; the sky is an unimaginable blue. You’re up to your knees in the catch-and-release Wild Trout section of the Owens River with the Sierra and White mountains as your dual backdrops and a fish jumps out of the water. This is your first fly fishing experience and you’ve got a guide, Pat Jaeger of Eastern Sierra Guide Service, helping you learn the rudiments of the art. You’ve learned to move the belly, roll cast, set the hook, strip the line. You’ve learned how to let the fish run and then bring them in. It all works, you’ve landed a couple of small browns in less than an hour.

So, what’s so unusual about this scenario? It’s the middle of January, the temperature is in

the mid-60s, if there’s any breeze at all, you’d call it gentle and the Sierra and Whites are clad in snow. This is fishing season for locals and a growing number of fishermen who have discovered the year-round fishing opportunities in the Eastern Sierra. This section of the Owens is just one of many year-round sites.

The Bishop Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau hosts the Blake Jones Trout Derby in March and has stocked the Owens through February in a largely successful effort to addict fishermen to the Valley’s year-round fishing.

“It’s unique,” admits Jaeger. “Fishing in January or February and we’re looking up at snow on the mountains. I’m standing in the water. Who’d have thought.”

For fishermen who think of the Eastern Sierra as a summer destination, think again. All the vari-abilities of weather in Southern California exist up here. The Owens Valley enjoys its Indian Summer through mid-November, then gets its warm spells, sometimes lasting several weeks, each month of what flatlanders generally connect with the ski season. Of course, all that warmth and sun is inter-rupted with bitter cold and gale force winds, but just Google National Weather Service to verify your window of fishing opportunity, pack up your gear

See Year-Round, page 38

Why not fish year-round?

Angling opportunities abound – even

in January


Year-Round Continued from page 37and head up Hwy. 395.”

“When you get a 10-degree difference in tem-perature, it’s amazing what the wildlife does,” said Jaeger. “Just a warming of the surface temperature triggers hatches. Bugs can hatch in a warm week in middle of the winter.”

Jaeger has lived and fished in the Eastern Sierra since the late 1970s. When he decided to make his passion his profession, he got licensed as a guide, then shadowed veteran guides in Oregon for three years. “It was like going to Harvard,” he said. He came back to Mammoth, got involved in the Trout Fly, then stared guiding in 1995. Today, he’s on the water, with clients, 250 days a year. So, he knows what bugs and fish do year-round.

His philosophy for winter fishing: “When it’s nice enough to want to go fishing, it’s good fish-ing.”

According to Jaeger, fish behave very humanly in bitter cold – they go dormant. The energy required to go hunting for food doesn’t balance out with the energy it takes to hunt. “Fish can’t eat enough to sustain the energy they put into it,” he said. Trout may not sprawl on the couch and watch football, but they might as well.

When the weather warms, hunting opportunity strikes. “We have phenomena during the warm snaps,” said Jaeger. “Butterflies hatch with just one

week of warm weather in the winter. Sometimes you’ll get ants in your house that disappear when the cold comes back. Insects start to move and when bugs start moving, the fish come out to eat them.”

The lower Owens River is a tailwater controlled by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power below Pleasant Valley Reservoir. According to Jaeger, the flows are high between April and October when

the demand for water and power is high. The flows hit 500 cfs, the depth close to six-feet, too fast and too deep to be fishable. During the low-demand months of winter, the flows run closer to 100 cfs and the depth is more like two-feet.

Aside from the fact that the California Department of Fish and Game allows year-round fish-ing on the Owens, there’s a simple logic to it. The

See Year-Round, page 39

Photo by Deb MurphyPat Jaeger of Eastern Sierra Guide Service fly fishes the Owens River east of Bishop in mid-January, proving that, “when it’s nice enough to want to go fishing, it’s good fishing.” Luckily, there are many waters open year-round in the Owens Valley.

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Year-Round Continued from page 38 Owens Valley is blazing hot in the summer, the river flow is high. “Why would I guide in 95 degrees when I can guide in 75 degrees just 40 minutes away in the mountains. Now, it’s 25 there and 65 here. I pick the fruit when it’s ripe,” said Jaeger.

Do summer fishing techniques work in the winter? Jaeger eschews the concept of a template, any guarantee for fly fishing. “We’re picking the time of day when the fish are hunting (noon, early afternoon), when they’re in a predatory mode. Today seems like a perfect situation, but we can still get skunked.” His “formula”: pick the most pleasant time of day to fish.

Another hint: when you’re just learning, pick spots along the river where peo-ple are fishing. As you advance, pick spots where no cars are parked. “I want to go find the fish,” Jaeger said. “That’s the most fun about it. I want to crack the code. That’s what we do: we go out, change things up, explore the art of doing this. When you get more advanced you want to go someplace with nobody else fishing because you know there are fish everywhere.”

To pin point year-round Owens River areas with gear restrictions and limits, get a copy of DFG’s sport fishing regulations. The River, including Pleasant Valley and Tinnemaha reservoirs, is open year-round. The Upper Owens from Benton Bridge road crossing upstream to Big Springs and from the footbridge at the lower end of Pleasant Valley campground downstream 3.3 miles along Chalk Bluffs Road to the redwood sport fishing regulation sign is open all year with only artificial lures and barbless hooks. This is a catch-and-release only area.

On this particular Saturday afternoon in January, even Jaeger is surprised at the fish numbers. There’s no obvious hatch, but the indicator keeps bobbing under water, the fish are seriously inspecting the fly. “Wait until February,” he said.

Cascading down the jagged foothills of the Sierra, winding its way through lush, isolated canyons and old mining country and ultimately meandering through stands of aspens and pines and fertile farming country, Pine Creek offers both solitude and scenery.

Located north of Bishop, west of U.S. 395 in Round Valley (essentially oppo-site the Owens River Gorge), Pine Creek has not been stocked by the Department of Fish and Game for several years, but is a productive fishery none-theless.

Wild trout populate this secluded stream, and it’s reasonable to assume there are still plenty of holdovers from many years of regularly-scheduled stocking.

In Pine Creek, local anglers suggest using garden worms and salmon eggs. Lures that work best tend to be small jigs and small spinners – similar to what fishermen should use at the Gorge. Getting to Pine Creek is easy: Drive north of Bishop on U.S. 395 about nine miles then follow the signs west. Go through the settlement of Rovana and you’ll soon see the creek as it runs parallel with the road most of the way.

One of the best things about fishing Pine Creek is that it tends to be less crowded than other Sierra streams. Groves of trees – which turn breathtaking autumn shades in October – allow anglers to sneak up on their prey, and find refuge from the summer sun.

The nearest campground is at Horton Creek, one creek south of Pine Creek, and Bishop has lots of everything. In addition, at the end of the road is the Pine Creek Pack Station.

Information on fishing Pine Creek may be obtained from fishing and sport-ing goods shops in Bishop, or from the Bishop Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau at (760) 873-8405.

Pine Creek underrated

SPOTLIGHT


Inyo County calendar of eventsMARCH

Each Month – Owens Valley Radio Observatory Tours. On the first Monday (except major holidays). Known as “The Ears” to locals, the Observatory north and east of Big Pine is where scientists listen to outer space using giant dishes that point toward the heavens. Call (760) 938-2075.

4 – Bishop Community Concert Presents: Mela and Marcus in Concert. Performance begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Dorothy Joseph Auditorium at Bishop Union High School, For more information, contact Mary Mae at (760) 873-6690 or visit www.bishopcca.org.

5 – Southern Inyo Early Trout Opener Derby. Nearly two months earlier than anyplace else, southwest portions of Inyo County open for fishing and the derby. Prizes for all age groups. Based at Diaz Lake which will be stocked. From 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Call the California Department of Fish and Game at (760) 872-1171, the Lone Pine Chamber of Commerce at (760) 876-4444 or the Independence Chamber of Commerce at (760) 878-0084.

8 – “Pow Wow Highway” Film Screening, Bishop. At the Inyo Council for the Arts Theater from 7-8:30 p.m. Comedy/drama film about Native Americans understanding the past and fighting for the future. Visit www.inyo.org.

9 – “Pow Wow Highway” Film Screening, Lone Pine. At the Lone Pine Film History Museum from 7-8:30 p.m. Comedy/drama film about Native Americans understanding the past and fighting for the future. Visit www.inyo.org.

11 – Harvey Reid Live in Concert, Bishop. At the Inyo Council for the Arts. Songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Harvey Reid has honed his craft over the last 35 years in count-less venues across the nation. He has been called a “giant of the

steel strings” and “one of the true treaures of American acoustic music.” Call (760) 873-8014 or visit www.inyo.org.

19 – Blake Jones Trout Derby, Pleasant Valley Reservoir near Bishop. Win float tubes, rods & reels, fishing tackle, tons of fishing gear. Prize categories include Blind Bogey, Biggest Trout, and a Big Cash drawing. Pre-register by mail or at the reservoir the day of the derby starting at 6 a.m. Call April at (760) 873-8405.

19 – Sage to Summit Winter Race Series, Bishop. At Millpond Recreation Center. Pup Pup 10K and Half Marathon.

All races begin at 8:30 a.m. Call Sage to Summit at (760) 872-1756 or visit www.sagetosummit.com.

APRIL


1-2 – Banff Film Festival, Bishop. At the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Featuring thrilling adventure stories, amazing wildlife, culture and breathtaking scenery from around the globe. Different films each evening beginning at 7 p.m. For more information and tickets, call Wilson’s Eastside Sports at (760) 873-7520 or visit www.eastsidesports.com.

4 – Bishop Community Concert Association Presents The Brass Roots Trio in Concert. Performances moving seamlessly from virtuosic showpieces to refined chamber music to ragtime and jazz begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Dorothy Joseph Auditorium at Bishop Union High School, For more informa-tion, contact Mary Mae at (760) 873-6690 or visit www.bishopc-ca.org.

9 – ICARE Annual Fundraising Dinner, Bishop. 6 p.m. at the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Dedicated to the welfare of the Eastern Sierra’s companion animals. Dinner, door prizes, auc-tion and raffle, plus, a raffle for a Wildest Dream Vacation valued at $2,000. Catered by Whiskey Creek and sponsored by Union Bank of California. Call (760) 872-3802 or visit www.ICAREforPets.org.

9-10 – District 9, California High School Rodeo

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Inyo County calendar of eventsAssociation competition, Bishop. District 9 high school and junior competitors vie for points in barrel racing, pole pending, calf roping and other rodeo events at the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Entries close March 26. Visit www.chsra.org.

15 – Bishop Community Concert Association Presents The Long Beach City College Studio Singers in Concert. Performances of jazz and pop-style vocal arrange-ments begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Dorothy Joseph Auditorium at Bishop Union High School, For more information, contact Mary Mae at (760) 873-6690 or visit www.bishopcca.org.

16 – Hospice of the Owens Valley 5K/10K Walk/Run, Bishop. At Brown’s Town Campground at 9 a.m. Registration open until 8:40 a.m. on race day. Pre-registrants are guaranteed a shirt. Pre-registration forms available at Northern Inyo Hospital on West Line St., Hospice Thrift Shop on East Line St., and the Hospice of the Owens Valley Office. Call (760) 873-3742 or e-mail [email protected].

16 – Sage to Summit Winter Race Series. At Millpond Recreation Center. Course dependent on deer migration. All races begin at 8:30 a.m. Call Sage to Summit at (760) 872-1756 or visit www.sagetosummit.com/events.

24 – Easter Egg Hunt, Big Pine. At Mendenhall Park on Baker Creek Road. Tons of fun for the little ones who hunt for Easter eggs, some of which are awarded special prizes. Sponsored by the Big Pine Civic Club. Call Rick Fields at (760) 938-2319.

24 – Easter Egg Hunt, Independence. 1 p.m. on the Courthouse lawn. Kids hunt for eggs, including golden eggs with golden coin. Call the Independence Chamber of Commerce at (760) 878-0084.

29 – Big Pine High School Nightcrawler Worm Sale. This event started more than 30 years ago and is an annual

major fundraiser for the high school. Worms are sold in front of the high school on U.S. 395 on Friday afternoon and evening, the day before the opening of trout fishing season.

29 – Manzanar Pilgrimage Reception. Meet and greet at the Eastern California Museum, from 4-6 p.m. Light refresh-ments. Call (760) 878-0084.

30 – Opening Day of the General Trout Season in the Eastern Sierra. All the lakes and streams throughout the region open to fishing just before sunrise. Deep snow may hamper access to some lakes and streams at the higher eleva-tions.

30-31 – Annual Manzanar Pilgrimage. A delegation of Japanese-Americans and others return to Manzanar to pay trib-ute to the internees and Japanese-American veterans who fought in WWII. Organized by Manzanar National Historic Site midway between Lone Pine and Independence. Call (760) 878-2932 or visit www.nps.gov/manz.

MAyEach Month – Owens Valley Radio Observatory

Tours. On the first Monday (except major holidays). Known as “The Ears” to locals, the Observatory north and east of Big Pine is where scientists listen to outer space using giant dishes that point toward the heavens. Call (760) 938-2075.

TBA – Altrusa Books & Barnyard Animals Jamboree, Bishop. Family fun and literacy celebration at the Tri-County Fairgrounds.

6 – 5th Annual “Taste of the Sierra,” Bishop. At the Tri-County Fairgrounds. On the first night of the Home Show. Area restaurants and caterers serve samples of their best cuisine to participants of the Home Show. Admission includes two beverages; beer, wine or soda. Sponsored by the Bishop

Chamber. Call April at (760) 873-8405.6-7 – 16th Annual Home Show, Bishop. At the Tri-

County Fairgrounds. Since 1996, local residents have counted on attending the Home Show for help with their projects, and to see the latest and greatest products and services offered by local businesses, contractors and vendors. Call (760) 873-3588.

6-8 – 6th Annual Eastern Sierra Gem & Mineral Show, Bishop. At the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Hosted by the Lone Pine Gem & Mineral Society. Mineral, fossil and jewelry dealers, lapidary demonstrations, displays of locally found specimens, geode cutting, children’s games, spinning wheel, free rocks for kids, field trips. Hours: Friday, 5-9 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Call Francis Pedneau at (760) 876-4319.

7 – Choo-Choo Swap Meet, Bishop. At the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Inyo County’s famous “100 Yard Sales in One Location.” Great stuff at bargain prices. Entry fee benefits the Laws Railroad Museum. Call (760) 873-5950.

7 – 33rd Annual Wild Wild West Marathon and Ultra, Lone Pine. A 50K, 26.2-mile, 10-mile and a 3-mile fun-run through the Alabama Hills and the foothills of Mt. Whitney. Trail races begin at 6 a.m. Aid stations every three miles. Online entry at www.active.com. Call the Lone Pine Chamber of Commerce at (760) 876-4444.

11 – David Francey Live in Concert, Bishop. At the Inyo Council for the Arts. Scottish-born Canadian David Francey is recognized as one of today’s finest singer-songwriters. Francey has released eight CDs to date and “Right of Passage” earned him his third JUNO (Canada’s top music award) in less than five years. Call (760) 873-8014 or visit www.inyo.org.

13 – Chamber Music Unbound presents “The See Inyo County Calendar, page 42

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Inyo County calendar of eventsInyo County Calendar Continued from page 41 Soloists,” Bishop. 7:30 p.m. at Bishop Union High School. Music by Boccherini, Mendelssohn and Franz von Suppé per-formed The Felici Piano Trio with the Eastern Sierra Chamber Orchestra and Daniel Allcott, guest conductor. Call (760) 934-7015 or visit www.chambermusicunbound.org.

14 – Fiesta de Lone Pine. At Lone Pine Park. A multi-cultural celebration that’s fun for the whole family. Live music, talent show, food and more. Call Jenifer Castaneda at (760) 876-1000.

14 – IMAH’s 3rd Annual Poker Run, “Reaching for the Stars While Ridin’ on Bikes and Cruizin’ in Cars,” Bishop. Catered with live music, pre-registration forms avail-able at IMAH, 371 S. Warren, Bishop and Golden State Cycle, 174 S. Main St., Bishop. Registration includes catered dinner, T-shirt. Pre-registration (before April 25) and same-day registra-tion. Meet at Golden State Cycle at 9 a.m. for registration, 10 a.m. for poker run. Call IMAH at (760) 873-8668. All proceeds benefit IMAH.

24-29 – 42nd Annual Mule Days Celebration, Bishop. The area’s largest annual event held every Memorial Day week-end as backcountry mule and horse packers celebrate the opening of the summer packing season. World’s longest non-motorized parade, rodeo-style packing competitions, concerts, crafts fair, vendors, barbecue and a lot more. Visit www.mule-days.org.

27-30 – Memorial Day Arts and Crafts Show, Bishop. At the Bishop City Park. More than140 crafters from all over the western United States. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday through Sunday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday. Sponsored by Inyo Council for the Arts. Call (760) 873-8014.

30 – Memorial Day Observance, Big Pine. A solemn and respectful ceremony to remember all those who have fought and died for our country and those who continue to fight for our freedom. Sponsored by the VFW and the American Legion, this event is held at the Big Pine Veterans Memorial at the intersection of U.S. 395 and State Route 168 at the north end of town.

30-31 – 41st Anniversary Lone Pine Time Trials. Located at the Manzanar Air Strip off of U.S. 395, 10 miles north of Lone Pine. Open to modified, prepared, street prepared, stock or vintage. Course is longer than two miles, run one way on Saturday and the other on Sunday. All proceeds benefit the Braille Institute Los Angeles Youth Center. Event Chairpersons: Kelley Sakata-Moon, (626) 812-8688, and Scott Aguilar, (310) 517-1650.

JUNE


TBA – Free Kids Fishing Day, Independence. Friends of the Mt. Whitney Fish Hatchery open up the historic facility to youth ages 15 and younger who want to ply the ponds for up to two DFG trout. Volunteers will be on hand to help the young anglers, and equipment will be available for those who do not have their own gear. Members of The Aguabonita Flyfishers of Ridgecrest will be on hand to give lessons in fly fishing. An assortment of outdoor-related games and activities will be offered, such as a casting contest and gyotaku (painting with fish). Youth need only show up on the morning of the event to participate. For more information, e-mail [email protected].

1-30 – Bishop Creek Canyon Summer Classic Trout Derby. Fishing the lakes of Bishop Creek Canyon will give you

the opportunity of winning big bucks by catching specially-tagged Alpers Trout. In addition, all registered participants will be entered in a raffle for great prizes. Bishop Creek Canyon has five fishable lakes and all will be stocked with tagged fish, plus more than 20 miles of excellent fishable creeks. Just 20-30 min-utes from downtown Bishop. Call the Bishop Chamber at (760) 873-8405.

4 – Annual Concert in the Rocks, Lone Pine. Outdoor Dinner and Concert in the Alabama Hills, benefiting the Beverly and Jim Rogers Museum of Lone Pine Film History. Call (760) 876-9909.

13-18 – California High School Rodeo State Finals, Bishop. At the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Approximately 300 athletes from high schools all over California compete for the state rodeo championship on a scale comparable with college and professional rodeo. Presented by the California High School Rodeo Association (CHSRA) in conjunction with the Bishop Area Chamber of Commerce. General admission tickets will be available at the gate. Visit www.chsra.org.

18-19 – Mt. Whitney Stage Race, Lone Pine. A two-day USA Cycling-sanctioned road race totaling 102 miles and 14,500 feet of climbing. Stage 1 takes riders from Lone Pine Park to the top of Horseshoe Meadows Road. Stage 2 meanders around the Alabama Hills outside of Lone Pine for a few miles, and then goes up Mt. Whitney as far as the pavement goes. Visit www.uscyclingreport.com.

18 – Father’s Day Weekend Fishing Derby, Independence. Area streams and creeks are stocked in advance of event. Family fun, trout blind bogey, prizes, special categories for bass and blue gill. Weigh-in is between 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. only at Dehy Park. Awarding of prizes begins at 4 p.m. in Dehy Park. There will be lots of prizes and live music at the weigh-in. Call the Independence Chamber of Commerce at (760) 878-0084, or e-mail at [email protected].

19 – Dave Stamey, live in concert, Bishop. A fund-raiser for Laws Railroad Museum and sponsored in part by the County of Inyo, the concert begins at 7 p.m. on the grounds of the museum in the shade of the Sierra and White mountain ranges. Gates open at 6 p.m. Link Stanley’s famous barbecue sandwiches will be available and the Bishop Sunrise Rotary Club will be selling beverages. Tickets are available by calling (760) 873-5950, or may be purchased at Laws Railroad Museum or at

the Inyo Council for the Arts.25 – California Deer Association, Eastern Sierra

Chapter Fundraiser Dinner, Bishop. In the Charles Brown Auditorium at the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Catered food, silent and live auctions and raffles. Proceeds benefit the non-profit, tax-exempt wildlife conservation organization whose principal goal is to improve California deer herds and other wildlife through direct financial support for habitat improvement and research projects. Visit http://www.caldeer.com/east-sierra.htm.

JULY


All Month – Community Band Concerts, Bishop. 8 p.m. at the gazebo in the City Park, every Monday throughout the summer. Bring a chair and enjoy local musicians.

All Month – Eastern Sierra Certified Farmers Market, Bishop. Every Saturday through mid-October at 9 a.m. at the Bishop City Park. Be sure to arrive by 9 a.m. for the best selec-tion of locally grown fruits, veggies, herbs and flowers.

TBA – Community Pool Party, Bishop. 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Bishop City Park Pool. Free swimming and free root beer floats. Hosted by Northern Inyo Hospital.

2 – Free Fishing Day in Inyo County. For more infor-mation on fishing regulations in Inyo County, contact the California Department of Fish and Game at (760) 8732-1171 or go to www.dfg.ca.gov.

4 – 4th of July in the Bishop City Park. Come celebrate July 4th with family and friends at the Bishop City Park. Old-fashioned games, food, free swimming. Games will begin at 9, 10 and 11 a.m., and the pool will be open from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. with free admission. Call the City of Bishop at (760) 873-5863.

4 – 4th of July Fireworks, Bishop. At the Bishop Airport. Enjoy small town fun with a spectacular fireworks show put on by the Bishop Volunteer Fire Department. Starts at dusk. Call the Bishop Chamber at (760) 873-8405.

4 – 4th of July in Independence. Old-fashioned fun from dawn to dusk in the Inyo County seat. Pancake breakfast, parade, arts and crafts, games, pie & ice cream social, concerts, barbecue and fireworks. Call the Independence Chamber of Commerce at (760) 878-0084 or visit www.independence-ca.com.

4 – 4th of July BBQ, Big Pine. At Mendenhall Park. Everyone is invited for some awesome barbecue prepared by Big Pine’s own firefighters. With fun games and fireworks at dusk, this is a great family event and fundraiser for the local Fire Department. Sponsored by the Big Pine Volunteer Fire Department.

12-16 – Eastern Sierra Tri-County Junior Livestock Show & Auction, Bishop. Local 4-H & FFA youth bring their best live-stock projects to the Tri-County Fairgrounds to compete for top honors. Call (760) 873-3588 or visit www.tricountyfair.com.

AUGUST



Photo submittedDonald Bracken and daughter Mia of Discovery Bay dis-play the lunker Mia pulled out of the pond at the historic Mt. Whitney Fish Hatchery during a Free Kids Fishing Day hosted in 2010 by the Friends of the Mt. Whitney Hatchery. This year’s event takes place in June.


Inyo County calendar of eventsAll Month – Eastern Sierra Certified Farmers Market,

Bishop. Every Saturday through mid-October at 9 a.m. at the Bishop City Park. Be sure to arrive by 9 a.m. for the best selec-tion of locally grown fruits, veggies, herbs and flowers.

TBA – Free Kids Fishing Day, Independence. Friends of the Mt. Whitney Fish Hatchery open up the historic facility to youth ages 15 and younger who want to ply the ponds for up to two DFG trout. Volunteers will be on hand to help the young anglers, and equipment will be available for those who do not have their own gear. Members of The Aguabonita Flyfishers of Ridgecrest will be on hand to give lessons in fly fishing. An assort-ment of outdoor-related games and activities will be offered, such as a casting contest and gyotaku (painting with fish). Youth need only show up on the morning of the event to participate. For more information, e-mail [email protected].

SEPTEMBER



All Month – Eastern Sierra Certified Farmers Market, Bishop. Every Saturday through mid-October at 9 a.m. at the Bishop City Park. Be sure to arrive by 9 a.m. for the best selec-tion of locally grown fruits, veggies, herbs and flowers.

All Month – Fall colors start in the Eastern Sierra. Catch the annual display of autumn splendor starting at the higher elevations around the middle of the month, peaking at the end of the September, early October at lower elevations. Call (760) 873-8405 or (888) 395-2952 for a free Fall Color Guide.

This Month – Opening of Deer Season in the Eastern Sierra. For more information on licensing, zones and hunting regulations, call (760) 8732-1171 or visit www.dgf.ca.gov.

TBA – Fall Potluck, Independence. The town hosts an annual Fall Kickoff Potluck Picnic in Dehy Park. Everyone is invited to bring a food to share (main dish, salad, dessert, etc.). Also bring a blanket or lawn chair. Tableware and drinks will be provided. There will be a variety of music by local musicians. For more information, call (760) 878-2594.

1-5 – Eastern Sierra Tri-County Fair, Bishop. At the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Residents of Inyo, Mono and Alpine counties get together for a good old-fashioned county fair. Competition for the coveted blue ribbons, pie contest, pet show, horse show, salsa contest, homebrewed beer and wine contest, carnival rides and games, rodeos, destruction derby, petting zoo, live music, strolling and stage acts, great food, vendors galore and so much more. Call (760) 873-3588 or visit www.tricounty-fair.com.

2-5 – Labor Day Weekend Arts & Crafts Show, Bishop. At the Bishop City Park. This annual show includes dozens of booths featuring art, photography, jewelry, weavings, wood carving & turning, ceramics, gourd art, clothing, food and more. Hours: Friday-Sunday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Call the Inyo Council for the Arts at (760) 873-8014.

3 – Free Fishing Day in Inyo County. For information on fishing regulations in Inyo County, contact the California Department of Fish and Game at (760) (760) 8732-1171 or visit www.dfg.ca.gov.

4 – Laws Railroad Museum Old Timers’ Picnic. Bring a picnic lunch and share memories with old friends. Drinks provided, and free admission. Reunions welcome. Call (760) 873-5950 or visit www.lawsmuseum.org.

10 – “Good Ole Days,” Laws Railroad Museum, Bishop. An old-fashioned day of fun for the whole family; good

food, games, entertainment, live music, a pie auction and old-time crafts demonstrations. Call (760) 873-5950.

16-18 – 19th Annual Millpond Music Festival, Bishop. Featuring live entertainment with an eclectic and fine collection of traditional and contemporary music. Beautiful mountain backdrop, children’s arts & crafts activities, workshops by per-formers, art show by local artists, food and drink booths. All tickets and campsites on sale April 1. For more information and updates on the line-up, call (760) 873-8014 or visit www.inyo.org/millpond.

23-25 – 26th Annual Pow Wow & California Indian Day Celebration, Bishop. Celebrate California Indian Day on the Paiute Reservation on Pa Ha Lane, adjacent to Paiute Palace Casino. Outdoors, bring your own canopy and chairs. Parade, Indian Drummers, Northern and Southern Traditional costume contest, hand drum contest, Princess contest, Traditional Handgames. Admission and parking free. Free deep-pit barbe-cue for everyone on Saturday.

25-26 – Mt. Whitney Classic Bicycle Race. A hard-core endurance cycling race that begins at 3 p.m. in Badwater in Death Valley and end 130 miles later and more than 15,000 feet higher in elevation at the base of Mt. Whitney. Extreme weather along the way. Ride officially ends at noon on Sunday. E-mail [email protected].

30-Oct. 2 – Fall Colors Cruise and Car Show, Bishop. At the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Classic cars in a classic setting. Sponsored by the Owens Valley Cruisers Car Club. Call (760) 920-3666 or (760) 873-3901 or visit www.owensvalleycruisers.com.

OCTOBER


All Month – Fall Colors in the Eastern Sierra. Catch the annual display of autumn splendor, peaking at the end of the September, early October at lower elevations. Call (760) 873-8405 or (888) 395-2952 for a free Fall Color Guide.

TBA – Big Pine High School Homecoming Weekend. Parades, bon fires and alumni celebrations bring the town and former residents together for football, food, fun and socializing.

TBA – Second Annual Harvest Heritage Day Celebration, Independence. Eastern California Museum and Friends of the Eastern California Museum host this free event celebrating the coming fall season and admiring the bounty of the Owens Valley growing season. The public is encouraged to

bring homemade baked goods with a fall theme. Apple pies and cobblers, peach pie, cookies and other goodies will be displayed and then eaten. Gardeners can also show off the fruits and veg-etables of their labor, and may even dress their produce in cos-tume (really.) Free food and drinks and live entertainment. There will also be a variety of kids’ games and activities offered. Museum is located at 155 N. Grant St., Independence. Call (760) 878-0258.

Sept. 30-Oct. 2 – Fall Colors Cruise and Car Show, Bishop. At the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Classic cars in a classic setting. Sponsored by the Owens Valley Cruisers Car Club. Call (760) 920-3666 or (760) 873-3901 or visit www.owensvalleycruis-ers.com.

1 – Choo-Choo Swap Meet, Bishop. At the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Inyo County’s famous “100 Yard Sales in One Location.” Great stuff at bargain prices. Entry fee benefits the Laws Railroad Museum. Call (760) 873-5950.

7-9 – 22nd Annual Lone Pine Film Festival. Celebrate more than 85 years of movie making in the area. Featuring a parade, tours of movie locations, arts & crafts fair, movie memo-rabilia exhibit, deep-pit barbecue, cowboy poetry and film history museum. Call (760) 876-9103.

10 – Boys and Girls State Dinner, Big Pine. At the Big Pine Town Hall on Dewey Street. Sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary to honor local Boys and Girls State representa-tives. Call Francis Fortney at (760) 938-2784.

12 – Big Pine Volunteer Fire Department Open House. At the Big Pine Fire Station. Meet the hardworking fire-fighters and EMTs who come to the rescue for the community and visitors 24/7, 365 days a year. Call John Marzano at (760) 938-2293.

NOVEMBEREach Month – Owens Valley Radio Observatory


TBA – Art Walk, Bishop. Annual fundraising art walk in downtown Bishop, featuring live music, refreshments and a small silent auction. Call (760) 873-8014 or visit www.inyo.org.

TBA – Shoshone Old West Days. Join the fun at Shoshone in southeast Inyo County. Old West gunfights, craft show, 4-wheel drive caravan and barbecue.

11 – Veterans Day Observance, Big Pine. Beginning at 11 a.m. at the Big Pine Veterans Memorial at the intersection of U.S. 395 and State Route168 at the north end of town. Sponsored by the Big Pine American Legion, this service honors America’s servicemen and women around the world, both past and pres-ent, who stand ready to preserve our freedom.

9-13 – Death Valley 49ers Encampment. The 62nd Annual Encampment will be the best yet with almost 50 different events including horseshoe tournament, country/western danc-ing, golf tournament, art show, pioneer costume contest and guided hikes with Death Valley historians. Visit www.DeathValley49ers.org.

15 – The General Trout Season ends in Inyo and Mono counties. However, there is year-round fishing in the Owens River and Pleasant Valley Reservoir near Bishop.

DECEMBEREach Month – Owens Valley Radio Observatory


All Month – The Wish Tree. Toys and gifts are collected, See Inyo County Calendar, page 44

Photo by Mike BodineThe Eastern Sierra Tri-County Fair, with a jam-packed midway, thousands of exhibits, country-western concert, truck pull, destruction derby and numerous food contests, returns to Bishop Sept. 1-5.


Inyo County Calendar Continued from page 43 wrapped and delivered to kids ages 1-12 whose families need a little help at Christmas time. This is a wonderful program that provides an opportunity to help those less fortunate at this special time of year. Donations are accepted from anyone interested in helping to make kids happy at Christmas. Sponsored by Inyo-Mono Advocates for Community Action (IMACA). Call (760) 873-8557.

TBA – 7th Annual Internationally Acclaimed Fruitcake Festival, Independence. A celebration of the perennial holiday treat and the people who love it, the festival includes a contest (categories range from “oldest fruitcake” to “farthest traveled”), open mic, reinvestiture of the Fruitcake King, tasting of the Civil Defense Fruitcake, an open egg nog bar, live music and post-judging fruitcake noshing. Admission is a fruitcake or egg nog. Independence Civic Club hosts.

2 – Bishop Chamber’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. In the City Park at 5:30 p.m. The Park’s Christmas Tree lights up at 6 p.m. sharp. Hot cocoa, coffee,

cookies, candy, great holiday music and Santa. Children can tell Santa their Christmas wishes at the Chamber’s Visitors Bureau at the park from 4:30-6 p.m. Call the Bishop Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau at (760) 873-8405.

2 – Street of Lights, Bishop. A festive customer appre-ciation party, immediately following the tree-lighting ceremony at the City Park. This year, there will be more than 40 shops, restaurants and other businesses participating. Music, warming fires, treats from restaurants, and, naturally, Santa will cruise the downtown area. Sponsored by the Bishop Chamber of Commerce. Call (760) 873-8405.

3 – Annual Christmas Tree Lighting, Independence. Starts at 5 p.m. at the historic Commander’s House and includes a historic walking tour through town, ending at Eastern California Museum. Crafts, caroling and more. Call (760) 878-0084.

3 – Annual Bishop Christmas Parade. On Main Street at 10 a.m. Horses, bands, floats and more. Join Santa in the Park after the parade. Fun for the entire family. Sponsored by the

Bishop Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau. Call (760) 873-8405.

4 – Annual Hook Herman Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Big Pine. Big Pine lights up its 90-foot tall red-wood tree, “The Roosevelt Tree,” at the junction of U.S. 395 and State Route 168 at the north end of town. Everyone is welcome to enjoy the Christmas Tree lighting, hot cocoa, cook-ies, Christmas music and a special visit from Santa Claus. Sponsored by the Big Pine Volunteer Fire Department and Big Pine Civic Club. Call Rick Fields at (760) 938-2319.

10 – Annual Lone Pine Christmas Parade. Come see the wonderful array of decorated parade entries and celebrate the holidays as a community. Parade travels down Main Street. Call the Lone Pine Chamber of Commerce at (760) 876-4444.

24 – Christmas Eve at the Courthouse, Independence. Santa and his reindeer appear on the Courthouse roof in Independence followed by gift distribution to the children. Call the Independence Chamber of Commerce at (760) 878-0084.

Inyo County calendar of events

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There are no shortage of events in Inyo and Mono counties designed to up the ante for anglers who enjoy a competitive edge to their fishing.

Derbies can be found pretty much all year long (there’s one that starts in January at Topaz), offering cash, donated merchandise and major bragging rights in their prize pools.

Here’s a look at some of the offerings:

INYO COUNTYSouthern Inyo Early Opener Southern Inyo Early Opener

Trout DerbyTrout DerbyEach year on the first Saturday in March

• March 6 •

Waters near Lone Pine and Independence only.This tourney, the first one in the Eastern Sierra, is

always popular because folks can finally get out and get fishing nearly two months before the General Trout Opener.

In the past, just prior to the event, the DFG has stocked rainbows in Diaz Lake (the derby’s official base of operations, and its only weigh station) as well as the nearby creeks and streams. Also, the Lone Pine Chamber of Commerce, the event sponsor, purchases a big truck-

work at Diaz, while fish in the creeks like a lot of things – salmon eggs, red eggs, worms, nightcrawlers and small lures, and flies in the calm waters.

Lots of prizes will be handed in adults, juniors (ages 12-15) and kids (0-12) divisions, in addition to an $800 Blind Bogey sponsored by Gardner’s True Value.

There’s a $5 entry fee and sign-ups start at 6:30 a.m.; the derby runs from 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

For an early start to the fishing season give this derby a try. Call the Lone Pine Chamber of Commerce at (760) 876-4444 or go to lonepinechamber.org, or con-tact the Independence Chamber of Commerce at (760) 878-0084 or independence-ca.com.

Blake Jones Trout DerbyBlake Jones Trout DerbyEvery year on the third Saturday in March

• March 19 •

Pleasant Valley Reservoir and most of the Owens River near Bishop (both of which are open to fishing year-round) are the only eligible spots. The Wild Trout Section of the Owens River in this area is catch-and-release only.

The Blake Jones Trout Derby, named for a man who loved fishing and spent a lot of time promoting the

See Derbies, page 46

Reel in cash, prizesDerbies add competitive edge from January through November

Photo by Martin StrelneckSusan Lasell of Ridgecrest hauled a 6.5-lb. rainbow out of Pleasant Valley Reservoir during the 2010 Blake Jones Trout Derby.

load of Alpers trout.Locals say nightcrawlers and light-colored Powerbait

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Derbies Continued from page 45 Eastern Sierra, is sponsored by the Bishop Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau. Every year, so much stuff is given away – float tubes, rods and reels, tackle, cash and more – that a whole lot of people go home happy … because of the prizes or the fish or both.

Entry fees are $10 for adults and $5 for kids under 12. Registration starts at 6 a.m. at Pleasant Valley Reservoir (about nine miles north of Bishop off U.S. 395) and weigh-in ends at 3 p.m. Besides all the goodies ($10,000 worth of prizes this year) donated by local merchants and others, prizes in kids and adults categories also include a Blind Bogey, Big Trout and a 50/50 Cash Drawing. And, to help get your tyke hooked on fishing, there’s a free Kids’ Fishing Seminar.

And, as before, the good-sized Alpers trout are always released in the Reservoir (courtesy of Tim Alpers, Inyo County, Adopt-A-Creek, California Department of Fish and Game and the City of Bishop), and years of DFG holdovers are still in there.

In the river and PVR, local experts say to use a lot of the old favorites – nightcrawlers, salmon eggs, Powerbait and lures like a Panther Martin gold flasher with a black bead, and red, gold and rainbow trout Thomas Buoyants.

For more info, call the Bishop Chamber at (760) 873-8405, or go to bishopvisitor.com/fishing.

Bishop Creek Canyon Summer Classic Trout Derby

• June 1-30 •

Fishing the lakes of Bishop Creek Canyon will give

anglers the opportunity to reel in some big fish and go home with big bucks – if they catch any of the specially-tagged Alpers Trout let loose in the fisheries of the basin by the Bishop Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau.

Registered participants have the entire month of June to ply five fishable lakes, plus more than 20 miles of excellent fishable creeks, in the hopes of catching a trout bearing tag that corresponds to a cash prize. In addition, all registered participants will be entered in a raffle for great prizes.

Bishop Creek Canyon is located 20-30 minutes from downtown Bishop. Call the Bishop Chamber at (760) 873-8405.

Independence Father’s Day Weekend Fishing Derby

Every year on the Saturday preceding Father’s Day• June 18 •

Fish caught in the creeks and streams around Independence are preferred, naturally, but fish from anywhere in the Eastern Sierra are eligible.

The folks in the Inyo County seat have added a twist to this derby by including warm-water fish in the prize categories.

The fishing derby is a “Blind Bogey” event, so every-body has a chance to win. Prizes are awarded to children and adults in more than 10 categories.

Prizes are given, as an example, for the heaviest trout, the heaviest trout stringer and largest bluegill.

Local experts say that trout fishermen should try worms and nightcrawlers, and warm-water anglers should try black spinners, black and purple spinners, nightcrawlers. (Anglers should be aware that bass must be 12 inches or longer to be legal).

Weigh-in is between 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. only at Dehy Park. Awarding of the prizes begins at 4 p.m. at the park. There will be live music at the weigh-in.

Make a stop here and experience the relaxed, small-town pace of Independence, and you just may catch some fish and win a prize.

The derby is organized by the Independence Father’s Day Weekend Fishing Derby Committee.

More information is available from the the Independence Chamber of Commerce at (760) 878-0084 or www.independence-ca.com.

MONO COUNTYTopaz Lake Trout Derby

Jan. 1- to mid-April each year• Jan. 1 to April 10 •

This derby actually ends just before the Eastern Sierra General Trout season opens, but it’s worth a shot for those with the winter blues.

The derby is open to anyone 21 and older with a valid California or Nevada fishing license. (The entire lake and shoreline may be fished with either license.)

Topaz is stocked by both states’ Fish and Game agencies at different times of the year (April, then


October through December), so there are always a lot of fish in Topaz.

Topaz Lodge is again sponsoring a tagged fish contest. Call (775) 266-3338 or (800) 962-0732 for details. Basically, different colored tags mean different cash prizes.

Last season, the fishing was great, with lots of limits coming out of Topaz – mostly rainbows, with some in the 2- to 3-lb. range.

Topaz Lodge normally purchases a lot of broodstock rainbows that are planted around opening day, plus private Nevada fish rancher Jim O’Banion, just for the heck of it, will occasionally dump a truckload of his 3- to 11-pounders into Topaz.

In addition, the Topaz Landing Marina presents its own annual event, a one-day tournament on Jan. 1.

A $5 entry fee (for all entries) goes into a pot and who-ever brings in the biggest trout wins the pot. The “pot” has been anywhere from $100-$600 in past years, and 5- to 6-pounders and even an 8-pounder have been caught during this rather informal derby.

For more information on Topaz, where the regular sea-son runs through the end of September, call Topaz Lodge or Topaz Landing Marina at (775) 266-3550.

Tom’s Place Opening Day DerbyEvery year on last Saturday of April

• April 30 •

The folks at one of the Eastern Sierra’s oldest resorts are offering anglers the chance to step right up with their Opening Day catches in the hopes to coming away with greenbacks, bragging rights and/or prizes.

Fishermen will be entered into a raffle for various prizes, as well as a 50/50 raffle for cash. Half of the 50/50 pot will be given to one lucky angler and the other half will be spent on stocking nearby Rock Creek with those feisty, fantastic Alpers trout.

For all the rules and additional details, call Tom’s Place at (760) 935-4329 or visit www.tomsplaceresort.com.

Crowley Lake Fish Camp/Fred Hall Memorial Opening Day Derby

Every year on last Saturday of April• April 30 •

Crowley Lake only.This is easy. Simply show up at Crowley Lake on

Opening Day and take your best catch to the Fish Camp to be weighed. You don’t even have to sign up or pay a fee.

Whoever comes in with the biggest fish, wins. Cash goes to first place and prizes are awarded for second place, in adults and kids divisions.

John Frederickson, concessionaire at Crowley Lake and June Lake marinas, said that “nightcrawlers and Powerbait really seem to attract fish on opening day and actually work all season long. As for lures, more than anything Thomas Buoyants, Rapalas, needlefish and Owner’s lures are good in the early part of the season.”

Call the Crowley Lake Fish Camp at (760) 935-4301 for details.

June Lake Monster Trout ContestEvery year on last Saturday of April

• April 30 •

All four lakes in the Loop – June, Gull, Silver and See Derbies, page 67

Catch US while you’re in Bishop.

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SPOTLIGHT

Fifteen miles west of U.S. 395 at Tom’s Place, at an elevation of 9,682 feet, Rock Creek Lake is noted for its outstanding alpine scenery and being a major Eastern Sierra trout producer.

Rock Creek Lake is one of the smaller bodies of water in the Sierra, but it is home nonetheless to a thriving population of stocked Alpers and DFG rainbows along with a good population of larger carryover rainbows.

Occasional heavyweight wild brown trout make it to anglers' lines.

Sheltered by 12,000-foot-plus towering peaks, Rock Creek Lake is often crystal clear when other local hot spots are being hounded by gale-force winds, making it a favorite get-away for float tubers and those with smaller vessels.

And when summertime temperatures are pushing the 100-degree mark at lower elevations, you can look for temperatures in the high 70s in the Rock Creek area.

Rock Creek Lake Resort provides an extra bonus to the Rock Creek Lake angler, funding periodic plants of trophy-class Alpers rainbows. Last season the heaviest rainbow came in at close to the 10-lb. mark.

In addition to privately funded Alpers trout, Rock Creek Lake receives regular stockers from the Department of Fish and Game.

Downstream from the lake, to Tom’s Place Resort, Rock Creek offers several miles of prime stream fishing with conditions varying from slow- moving, meandering meadow water to rushing rapids combined with deep fish-holding pockets – ideal conditions for fly, lure or bait anglers.

Stream anglers will find the water stocked with DFG rainbows. Look for the rainbows in the open, easy-to-reach locations especially adjacent to campgrounds. For the sneak fisherman, wild brown trout are there for the taking in the brush-lined, hard-to-reach spots.

Forest Service campgrounds are located along the stream and on the lakeshore. For those look-ing for more refined accommodations, modern cabin rentals are available at Rock Creek Lake Resort within walking distance of the lake and about one mile downstream, at Rock Creek Lodge.

Rock Creek Lake Resort offers a well supplied general store, home-cooked meals with a nightly special and rental boats.

A short distance from the lake, Rock Creek Pack Station specializes in backcountry excursions, with scores of lakes within striking distance hold-ing wild brook, rainbow and exotic golden trout.

For the day hiker, Little Lakes Valley with the

Rock Creek area offers best of both worlds

trailhead at Mosquito Flats, two miles west of the lake, holds a series of small waters. Brook trout and an occasional heavyweight brown trout are on the angling menu. By way of trivia, the paved road leading to Mosquito Flats is the highest paved road in California at an elevation of 10,150 feet.

For the non-fisherperson, the Rock Creek area boasts an outstanding late summer display of wildflowers at a time when lower elevation blooms are history. And recent years have seen the increased popularity of mountain biking and climbers testing their skill at scaling the location’s granite peaks.

Early-season access to the Rock Creek area can be on the iffy side, depending on winter snow-fall and spring thaw conditions. Around Memorial Day weekend is always a safe bet, but earlier (and later) dates are possible depending on winter conditions. Call ahead for last-minute informa-tion.

For information, contact Rock Creek Lakes Resort at (760) 935-4311 or www.rockcreeklake.com, Rock Creek Lodge at (760) 935-4170 or www.rockcreeklodge.com, Tom’s Place Resort at (760) 935-4239 or www.tomsplaceresort.com, or the Forest Service at (760) 873-2500.

Top photo by Darcy Ellis/bottom photo by Sterling SchatThe Rock Creek area is home to an expansive, somewhat sheltered lake perfect for shore fishing or even launching a small boat, kayak or float tube, as well as a rushing creek that’s a bit more challenging but equally fruitful in the summer and fall.


Photo courtesy Rock Creek Pack StationA pack string begins its march across a clear, swift-moving stream en route to even higher country and glorious backcountry lakes teeming with wild trout.

Photo courtesy Rock Creek Pack StationAfter having crossed gorgeous but daunting territory on the backs of horses – with their heavy gear strapped to the backs of mules instead of their own – these anglers dip their lines into a pristine high-country lake while they have the energy to enjoy the rare experience.

By Deb Murphy

Stream-side fishing or trolling for trout from a boat are both great ways to enjoy the Eastern Sierra experience and end up with a tasty family dinner in camp. There’s a lot to be said for the camaraderie among fishermen and shared sto-ries about the inordinately large trout that got away.

But for some, the ultimate Sierra fishing trip includes no campers, no communal restrooms and few people. The ultimate fishing trip takes the fishermen deep into the Sierra wilderness, into the golden trout areas and alpine lakes and streams. The ultimate fishing trip takes you away from the mess that is civilization and gives the gift of nature.

This experience isn’t reserved for those capa-ble of carrying a week’s worth of camping and fishing gear on their backs and walking straight up the side of a mountain. In fact, there are multiple ways to get into the remote backcoun-try – from deluxe trips with guides and cooks to hiking into a designated site and meeting your

Fishing the high-country with helpLeave the navigating and heavy lifting to Eastern Sierra pack stations


gear. The key is to let pack stock and one of the members of the Eastern Sierra Packers Association do all the heavy lifting.

“You can do everything from a day ride to a month-long stay in the backcountry,” said Craig London of Rock Creek Pack Station.

Pretty much any fishing adventure in the high Sierra you dream up can be accommodated by any of the 16 member pack operations from Lone Pine to Bridgeport.

One of the most common excursions is a dunnage trip. The fishermen hike to the destina-tion and are greeted by an equipped camp site. They don’t even have to worry about running out of coffee if the trip is an extended adventure. The packer hauls in fresh groceries. If you want to hike from site to site, go over your itinerary with the pack operation and the magical camp site will be waiting.

If hiking at altitude is not your cup of tea, you can ride in with the packer. The horses are quiet, well-trained mountain veterans. All you have to do is follow the packer’s instructions and remem-ber Theodore Roosevelt’s quote that the best thing for the inside of a man is the outside of a horse.

The pack operations all have open scheduled trail rides into the Sierra. Mt. Whitney Pack Trains offers a four-day trip from Horseshoe Meadows to the South Fork of the Kern River, to the top of Kern Peak and back to Horseshoe Meadows. A seven-day trip into Sequoia National Park and the John Muir Wilderness provides access to Tyndal, Wallace and Rock creeks as well as a layover at Crabtree Meadows.

Agnew Meadows Packers offer a six-day ride from the meadows to Tuolumne Meadows with short rides between campsites and fishing along the way. Reds Meadow Pack Station provides

Photo courtesy Rock Creek Pack StationA group of packers and their guests begin a gnarly-looking ascent into the backcountry near the Rock Creek Lake area. Luckily, the pack animals are sure-footed and the packers expert guides.

scheduled trips to Fish Creek and nearby lakes in the John Muir Wilderness for four or five days. Frontier Pack Train has four-day trips into the Ansel Adams Wilderness through July.

Rock Creek Pack Stations has established base camps in the Hilton, Tamarack and Mono Creek areas. Families can set their own pace, walking or riding to lake and stream fishing in each area.

If you have all your own camping gear and food, packers can take you to your designated campsite, drop you off and come back at the predetermined date and pick you up.

This is just a sampling of accommodations. All 16 of the association members provide their own variation on the same theme: You tell us what you want to do and when and we’ll figure out how to get it done.

Trail rides • Pack TriPsObserve wild musTangs

The Original Owens valley Horse drivecomplete Outfitters For Pack Trips

rOck creek Pack sTaTiOnCraig & Herbert London

Box 248 • Bishop, CA 93515760-872-8331

www.rockcreekpackstation.comPermittee Inyo National Forest, Sequoia, Kings,

Yosemite National Park and BLM

rock creek Pack stationrock creek

Pack station


SPOTLIGHT

At Crowley Lake, undoubtedly one of the most popular bodies of water in the Eastern Sierra, anglers of all experience levels will find a thriving population of rainbows, browns and Sacramento perch. And, whether fishing from shore, by boat or from a float tube, Crowley provides as good a chance as any other lake to bring in limits.

Every Opening Day, also known as Fishmas, draws thousands of anglers from across the nation to the shores and waters of Crowley, but Crowley Lake’s catching isn’t just an Opening Day event.

Consistent action holds up all season long with trophy-sized catches being reeled in by shore and deep-water anglers alike.

Early-season catching focuses mainly on the bait dunking scene and trolling. However, fly anglers in the know score impressive catches. On the bait fishing scene, several shoreline locations provide the action.

On the west side of the lake, Whiskey Bay, Beaver Cove and Hilton Bay are favored shore-fishing locations. Another hot spot is the Green Banks’ old North Landing location, accessed via the Benton Crossing Road about six miles north of the U.S. 395 marina turn-off.

Continuing east of the Benton Crossing road, across the Owens River, Layton Springs and Alligator Point have the reputation of producing consistent early-season limits.

Boat anglers score bait limits working the waters of McGee and Hilton bays, the Layton Springs area and Sand Point. Trollers go for the stretch between Hilton and McGee bays and the upper end of the lake off Green Banks. A favored technique for the north end of the lake near Green Banks is to troll over the deeper water of the submerged Owens River channel.

Power Bait, Sierra Gold and salmon eggs along with inflated night-crawlers are favored by the majority of bait anglers and rarely fail. Many make use of today’s array of commercial scents now on the

Fruitful waters run deep

Photo by Mike GervaisPlenty of Bishop residents – armed with locals’ knowledge of the sweet spots and best baits – join the throngs of visitors flocking to Crowley on Opening Day. In 2010, local angler Haidon Brooks, 5, landed this lunker on Crowley while fishing with his mother, Lilly Brooks, and friend, Felicity Sharp.

Photo by Sterling SchatThe 650-acre Crowley Lake, as seen from high above the community south of U.S. 395 that bears its name. The reservoir is home to populations of rainbows, browns and even Sacramento perch. With 45 miles of shoreline, there’s ample room to stretch out. And because Crowley is a deep lake – 100 feet in some places – it can also support larger boats for those who want to get out on the water.


trating on the weedy areas where the perch spawn.spawn.

There’s a mixed bag of regulations gov-There’s a mixed bag of regulations gov-There’s a mixed bag of regulations governing erning Crowley Lake. For the perch, there’s no possession or size limit. Each angler's no possession or size limit. Each angler's take is governed by how many fish they want take is governed by how many fish they want to filet. to filet.

From Opening Day until Aug. 31, general regulations apply: five fish daily, 10 in posregulations apply: five fish daily, 10 in pos-session, no size restrictions. Aug. 1 the picsession, no size restrictions. Aug. 1 the pic-ture changes. Angling is restricted to barbture changes. Angling is restricted to barb-less hook lures or flies, possession limit of less hook lures or flies, possession limit of two and a minimum size of 18 inches.two and a minimum size of 18 inches.

The concessionaire on the lake is Crowley Lake Fish Camp. The location provides a full Lake Fish Camp. The location provides a full line of supplies including tackle, boat rentals line of supplies including tackle, boat rentals (including larger pontoon craft), dock spac(including larger pontoon craft), dock spac-es, launching ramp and RV and tent camping es, launching ramp and RV and tent camping sites. You will find the staff more than willing sites. You will find the staff more than willing to provide information on where the bite is to provide information on where the bite is on and what’s working.on and what’s working.

Those planning to take their boat out on CrowleyCrowley should remember that they will Crowley should remember that they will Crowleyhave to have it pre-inspected for invasive and have to have it pre-inspected for invasive and destructive quagga mussels.destructive quagga mussels.

Quagga inspections take only a few min-utes on most days, but busy times such as utes on most days, but busy times such as the fishing opener, when there are literally the fishing opener, when there are literally hundreds of boats hitting the water, means hundreds of boats hitting the water, means there will probably be an extended wait. there will probably be an extended wait.

For information, contact the Crowley Lake Fish Camp at (760) 935-4301 or www.Lake Fish Camp at (760) 935-4301 or www.crowleylakefishcamp.com.crowleylakefishcamp.com.

provide non-stop catching. The state record, 3 lbs., 10 oz., set in the late ’80s still stands. 3 lbs., 10 oz., set in the late ’80s still stands.

The perch bite usually comes on strong beginning around

mid-May to late June when they take to shal-

l o w

water for spawn-ing.

Working small mini jigs – 1/8 to 1/16 oz. with light line and

soaking a worm – are t h e f avored

produc-e r s .

M o s t a n g l e r s work the shallow flats at a depth any-at a depth any-at a depth anywhere from 10

to six feet, concento six feet, concen-

market.Crowley Lake trout can be selective trout can be selective

when it comes to inhaling a bait. According when it comes to inhaling a bait. According to expert anglers,, the majority of successful to expert anglers,, the majority of successful bait anglers head out with light tackle, 2-lb. bait anglers head out with light tackle, 2-lb. line or leader, small hooks and just enough line or leader, small hooks and just enough weight (sometimes no weight).

For the trollers, pulling minnow imitaFor the trollers, pulling minnow imita-tors, Cultiva’s Rip’n Minnow and Mira tors, Cultiva’s Rip’n Minnow and Mira Shad, Rapalas, Yo Zuris are among the Shad, Rapalas, Yo Zuris are among the favorites.

On the wobbler side, the Thomas On the wobbler side, the Thomas Buoyant, Kastmaster and Super Buoyant, Kastmaster and Super Dupers have proven their effectiveDupers have proven their effective-ness.

Summer and fall months see a surge Summer and fall months see a surge in the fly fishing action throughout the in the fly fishing action throughout the Sierra, and Crowley is prime hunting Sierra, and Crowley is prime hunting ground.

Float tubers and a host of guide Float tubers and a host of guide boats work the flats off Layton Layton Springs, Sand Point and from and from Hilton toHilton toHilton McGee bays. The key to . The key to success is matching the feather and fur presuccess is matching the feather and fur pre-sentation to the trout diet. A host of midge sentation to the trout diet. A host of midge and caddis imitators along with streamers and caddis imitators along with streamers resembling Sacramento perch fry can be resembling Sacramento perch fry can be found in possession of the fly anglers in the found in possession of the fly anglers in the know.

Trout aren’t the only target of Trout aren’t the only target of Crowley Lake anglers. The lake holds a thriving anglers. The lake holds a thriving population of Sacramento perch which have population of Sacramento perch which have become a favorite for a growing clan of become a favorite for a growing clan of anglers.

The slab-sided pan fish average around The slab-sided pan fish average around the 3/4- to 2-lb. range and when located the 3/4- to 2-lb. range and when located

Guided Perch Fishing

Doug Butler, Sr.

“Licensed & Insured”

DB’s “Fishon”G u i d e S e r v i c e

Crowley Lake Only

[email protected] (760) 935-4809HCR 79 Box 157 cell (760) 709-1147Crowley Lake, CA 93546 fax (760) 935-4100

Photo by Mike GervaisRick Blair of Sage was one of the hundreds of happy Rick Blair of Sage was one of the hundreds of happy anglers who landed a nice catch on Opening Day at anglers who landed a nice catch on Opening Day at Crowley last year. Crowley last year.


Convict Lake is one of the most scenic pieces of landscape in the Eastern Sierra. The exceptional view includes 168 acres of pristine water brimming with DFG planted rainbow trout and wild German browns.

Over the years Convict has generated a repu-tation as prime fishing ground with weekly stocks by the Department of Fish and Game and supple-mental stocking of Alpers trout, funded by the Convict Lake Resort.

In addition to the great angling opportunities, Convict Lake Resort, founded in 1929, offers world-class dining, boat and fishing pole rentals, lodging, memorabilia and fishing tips, as well as fishing derbies for the competitive angler. Convict Lake is also home to a handicap accessible fishing deck, giving truly everyone an opportunity to wet their lines.

According to Jen Heintcelman of Convict Lake resort, shore anglers favor the area of the Convict Creek outlet and along the south shoreline which is readily accessible by a paved road paralleling the lake.

Heintcelman said for those who are looking to do a little hiking, the inlet at the west end of the lake is always productive. This is also a target loca-tion for boat anglers.

Throughout the season the style and type of bait that fish hit changes, so eager anglers should check with the resort, or visit its website, to find out what's in style. However, there are a few con-stants.

According to Heintcelman, garlic Powerbait and worms generally go over well with the DFG stockers, and green woolly buggers are good for jigging.

"The stockers are always there and people bring them in off the shore all year, but when it starts getting warmer, the people who are out there trolling always do a little better," Heintcelman said, adding that any angler who can get their bait to a depth of about 30 or 40 feet in the late sum-mer months is likely to have luck.

Anglers who love hearing the rush of the water and want to try their luck in Convict Creek will find some great holes just below the lake.

Both the stream and lake are stocked by DFG on a regular schedule and it’s not unusual for a heavyweight migrating down from the lake and making a showing.

For the late-season angler, Convict Lake Resort is one of the few locations in Mono County that remains in full operation year-round.

The resort wraps up each fishing season with a

Convict Lake: a fishery for all seasonsSPOTLIGHT

fall derby that ends the last day of the season and has become a highlight for late-season action.

If camping is on your agenda, the Forest Service Convict Lake campground is located along the banks of Convict Creek and a short distance from the lake. The campground provides 88 improved campsites.

Convict Lake is a 15-minute drive from down-

town Mammoth Lakes. Go five miles south on U.S. 395 from Mammoth Junction and turn west on the Convict Lake Road, directly across from the Yosemite-Mammoth Lakes Airport.

For information, contact Convict Lake Resort at (800) 992-2260, (760) 934-3800 or www.convict-lake.com, or call the Forest Service at (760) 873-2500.

Top photo by Ernie Cowan and courtesy Convict Lake Resort/bottom photo by Mike Gervais There’s really no bad time to visit Convict Lake. During the fall, it’s a breathtaking display of dramatically colored foliage (above) and Convict is productive all season long. On Opening Day in 2010, Bobby Nelson of Woodyear (below left) hit the popular fishery with nearly 20 friends and extended family members from all across the state.


Photo submitted by Joel MielkeJoel Mielke of Phoenix found a leisurely yet effective way to ply Lake Mamie during a July 2010 trip to the Eastern Sierra with his wife, Marina.

Photo submitted by Fish Story Lori CarnahanBrett Powell of Bishop was the envy of animal-lovers and out-of-towners everywhere on June 3 last year as he relaxed on the shore of South Lake, fishing in his backyard with his best friend, a Golden Retriever named Brookie.

Photo submitted by Ken OkazakiMelanie Okazaki, 13, of Cerritos, took time off from her year-long softball playing to land this nice 4-lb., 3-oz. rain-bow. The fish was caught from the shore of Lake Mary Labor Day Weekend during the family’s annual vacation to Mammoth.

Photo submitted by Jacob BrandonJacob Brandon of Running Springs had just enough time to pose for a photo-op with his catch of season before releasing it back into Pleasant Valley Reservoir on April 23 last year. Brandon caught the 29-inch male brown trout – with one evil looking hookjaw – from his float tube.

2011 Reader Photo GalleryEach year, The Inyo Register asks readers of the Eastern Sierra Fishing Guide to submit their favorite fishing pics for consideration in our annual Fishing Photo Contest.

Each year, the photos get better and better and contest harder to judge.We were once again thrilled with the submissions – not only the number of entries we received, but also the quality and scope.

That being said, it was the photo of Olga Schulteis and her two grandsons at Lake Mamie that came away with top honors, and even earned a place on this year's cover!Please find the Honorable Mention winners on the following pages, and join all of us here at The Inyo Register in congratulating and thanking the Schulteis family and everyone else who participated.


Photo submitted by Paul and Kay KunzlerBlake Kunzler, 11, of Bakersfield, caught this 2.5-lb., 19-inch trout at Big Pine Creek on July 1, 2010 during an annual “Fireworks and Fishing Trip” to the Bishop area with his dad and grandpa. Of the three anglers, Blake hauled in the biggest fish during the trip.

Photo submitted by Susan SugaharaWayne Sugahara of Cerritos caught this 3-lb. Alpers rainbow on an inflated nightcrawler at Convict Lake on Oct. 14, 2010.

Photo submitted by Jason TanakaChatsworth resident Jaren Tanaka, 7, made it his birthday wish last summer “to go up to the Eastern Sierra and go fishing.” He caught and released this little feisty trout at South Lake. A short time later, Jaren got a great birthday gift when he caught the biggest fish of his young life: a nice 2-lb., 13-oz. Alpers rainbow on Lake Mary on June 19. Dad Jason reports Jaren is hooked for life and this will now be an annual trip for his birthday.

Photo submitted by Susan SugaharaThe Sugahara family visits the Eastern Sierra several times a year, having a great time fishing and relaxing in the great outdoors. Of course, catching big fish isn’t bad either. Here, Ray Sugahara shows of a 2-lb. rainbow he caught on an inflated nightcrawler while fishing his favorite spot in McGee Bay, Crowley Lake, on July 29, 2010.


Photo submitted by Thomas TrujilloThomas Trujillo snapped this photo of his son, Thomas, and 11-year-old granddaughter, Stephanie, both of Duarte, reeling in a rainbow trout from the stunning Silver Lake in the June Lake Loop last August. Stephanie caught the rainbow using her favorite lure and caught her limit in a short time that day, easily outfishing her papa and dad.

Photo submitted by Jason Tanaka

Chatsworth resident Jason Tanaka was enjoying his fifth and final trip to the Sierra last season when he landed his personal best for brown trout at 4 lbs., 8 oz. He was fishing for the first time on the East Walker River with a barbless lure and lost a few other smaller fish that had shaken the lure free. Tanaka battled this fish for 10 minutes and tried to net it 15 times before he finally landed him. “It was amazing and exciting to battle such a big fish on a barbless lure and win,” Tanaka said. “Can’t wait until next season.”

Photo submitted by Jesse SlagleBlake Slagle, 13, of Chino Hills, has been fishing the Eastern Sierra with his dad, Jesse, since he was a small boy. Here, Blake takes on Robinson Creek at Doc and Al’s Resort in the Twin Lakes Bridgeport area in August 2010.

Photo submitted by Susan SugaharaKay Sugahara, 10, of Cerritos, caught this 2-lb., 3-oz. Alpers rainbow on an inflated nightcrawler with a twist of lime Powerbait at Convict Lake. She caught the biggest fish during her family’s annual summer Eastern Sierra trip in June 2010.

Photo submitted by Fish Story Lori CarnahanTim Carnahan of Sky Valley proves he’s just as adept at pulling beautiful fish out of Eastern Sierra streams as he is at hauling in nice catches from local lakes. He used a fire-tiger rapala to catch this pair of wild browns at the Owens River on June 17, 2010.


Photo submitted by Jay KilIt was Gulp Powerbait, of all things, that enticed this 11-lb., 9-oz. brown trout to hook onto Torrance resident Jay Kil’s line at Grant Lake last September. Kil was fishing with 4-lb. test and 4-lb. leader when the monster struck, and in the ensuing battle, the brown was too injured to release back into the lake as Kil would have liked.

Photo submitted by Susan SugaharaKen Sugahara of Carlsbad shows off the 3-lb., 2-oz. rainbow he enticed with an inflated nightcrawler. Ken was able to outfish his dad during a father-son fishing trip to Crowley Lake on May 14, 2010.

Photo submitted by Fish Story Lori CarnahanFish Story Lori Carnahan of Sky Valley braves the frigid spray to fish the snow melt at South Lake on June 3, 2010. Lori and husband Tim have been celebrating her birthday with a two-week Eastern Sierra fishing trip for almost 20 years, and this was the first time their hosts were unable to launch a boat at the end of May because of snow accumulation.

Photo submitted by Joel MielkePhoenix resident Marina Mielke was looking for fish in Lake Mamie on July 25 last year when she was surprised by the lunker that ended up in her net.

Photo submitted by Donna CurtnerDonna Curtner of Corona takes grandson Wyatt Curtner fishing whenever she can. This past season found the duo at Intake II, where Wyatt wanted to fish “all by himself,” Donna said. “He was determined to do it on his own.” Grandma left Wyatt to his own devices at the handicapped deck and snapped this photo from a distance.


SPOTLIGHT

Colossal catches await in Mammoth area

File photoThe Mammoth Lakes Basin is well stocked with DFG catchables throughout the season, but it’s also home to some legendary lunkers. Local angler Jerry Rago took this trophy brown trout from Twin Lakes trolling a 12-inch trout imitator swim bait back in 2008.

If variety is the spice of life, then Mammoth Lakes is a well-seasoned paradise for anglers with four scenic lakes located within the town limits alone, along with several miles of productive stream waters. In addition there is the Reds Meadow area, and Mammoth serves as an ideal home base for nearby locations such as Crowley and Convict lakes, the Upper Owens River and Hot Creek.

The Mammoth Lakes Basin hosts Lakes Mary, George and Mamie along with Twin Lakes. Heavyweight Alpers rainbows are the tar-get of choice for anglers. In addition, all four waters receive regular plants of DFG 1/2-lb. and better catchables along with periodic plants of heavyweight brood stock running up to the 5-lb. mark.

All of the lakes basin waters have the potential of producing trophy class

catches,

w i th o n e angler netting a 20-lb. brown back in 2000 and rainbows ranging in size from little stockers to 13 pounds.

Winter snow pack conditions dictate access to the higher loca-tions in the Mammoth Lakes area. Mammoth Creek, and most years,

Twin Lakes, are usually accessible for the Opening Day angler. Roads leading to the higher elevations of Lakes M a r y , George and Mamie normally open a r o u n d t h e Memorial Day holi- d a y . Access to R e d s Meadow is u s u a l l y

around the second or third week in June.For early-season anglers Lakes Mary, Mamie

and George are the target for ice fishing. Mode of transportation is cross country skis, snowshoes or snowmobiles with the kickoff point being the lakes basin road closure gate at Twin Lakes. Always check ahead for ice conditions.

For those looking to wet their lines in local creeks and streams, Mammoth Creek flows from near the center of town downstream to below U.S. 395, providing several miles of chal-lenging angling water. Look for planted rainbows along the more open stretches with pan size wild brown trout calling the hard to reach brushy sec-tions home.

Around the middle of June, the Mammoth visitor can enjoy more angling and outdoor rec-reation opportunities with a short drive to the Reds Meadow area and the Devil’s Postpile National Monument. Roadside angling locations include many miles of productive water on the middle fork of the San Joaquin River (a favored

location for the fly angler) along with Sotcher and Starkweather lakes.

The river waters hold a healthy population of wild rainbow, brown and occasional brook trout. Starkweather and Sotcher lakes are stocked by DFG along with periodic plants of Alpers rainbows. Each season, occasional heavyweight browns run

See Mammoth, page 62

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Call for specific dates & times

Red’s Meadow • P.O. Box 395 Mammoth Lakes(760) 934-2345 • (800) 292-7758www.redsmeadow.com • E-mail: [email protected]

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Mammoth Continued from page 61

ning close to the 10-lb. mark make a showing at Sotcher Lake.

According to Ryan Baker of The Trout Fitter in Mammoth Lakes, local trout are partial to cheese and garlic Powerbait and the ever-pop-ular salmon eggs as well as spinning lures, Thomas Buoyants and Panther Martins.

For the river angler, mid summer into late fall finds conditions ideal. Early summer, high water generated by runoff conditions makes for difficult angling on the creeks and rivers, but lake fishing is good all season long.

Reds Meadow is the trailhead location for scores of backcountry lakes populated with brook and rainbow trout, and the state fish, the golden trout.

Baker said that popular, easy hikes from the Mammoth Basin include McLeod and Crystal lakes. "There are literally tons and tons and tons of lakes in the backcountry," Baker said. "Hikes usually open up around July, but even then you're not going to get too far back. Mid to late summer is when the backcountry really opens up."

For those who are not into the leg work, Reds Meadow Pack Station and Agnew Meadow Pack Station offer a complete menu of horse

and mule powered travel options into the backcountry.

Reds Meadow Resort, located at the end of the Reds Meadow Road, offers a well stocked general store, cabin rentals and meals.

If you're looking to score with flies, Baker said it's all good, but pointed out that Hot Creek is a fly-only section, and generally pro-duces well.

He said flies are seasonal, but an easy-to-use

Photo by Sterling SchatA Cessna’s-eye view of the Mammoth Lakes Basin during summertime shows why it’s one of the most popular fishing areas in the Eastern Sierra: plenty of lakes within relatively short distance to one another, not far from the main roads.

MaMMothLakes.coM

Don’t Wait For aDventure! Make Plans to Get aWay toDay!Great FishinG / hike / Mountain Bike / GolF / horseBack ride / oFF road / ski / snowMoBile

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guide can be found at the Trout Fitter website: thetroutfitter.com.

Several tackle stores are available in the Mammoth area and are more than willing to provide accurate, up-to-date information. In addition these locations provide licensed guide services that focus on waters and throughout the Eastern Sierra.

Trout fishing has been a claim to fame for the Mammoth Lakes area since the 1930s. Over the years the area has gained the reputation as a premier Eastern Sierra trout producer, with nearby lakes and streams holding healthy populations of stocked rainbow along with wild brown, brook, cutthroat and golden trout providing a challenge for any angling menu – fly, lure or bait.

However the area has seen major changes since the “old days.” Mammoth Lakes has become a destination resort providing a host of other summertime outdoor recreation activ-of other summertime outdoor recreation activ-of other summertime outdoor recreation activities. Backpacking, rock climbing, cycling, horseback riding, golf and tennis all rank high on the agenda. In a nutshell, “Mammoth has it all.”

For more information on fishing in the Mammoth area, visit local sporting goods stores, check out thetroutfitter.com or www.visitmammoth.com.

File photoSonny Mele of Wrightwood fishes for goldens on McCleod Lake back in August of 2008.

We are proud of our distinction as Mammoth Lakes, California’s exclusive boutique hotel. “2010 Best of Mammoth Lakes Award winner in the Hotels category by the US Commerce Association"

663 Old Mammoth Road, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546 Toll Free 866-466-7000 [email protected]

*Receive 15% discount off rack rate. Call for more details.

• Complimentary Continental Breakfast• 24/7 Front Desk• Full Housekeeping Service • Comfortable beds and Plush Comforters• Kitchen Units available• Stunning Lobby and Illuminating Fireplace• 2nd floor Study-Sitting Room with wood burning stove• Trendy Billiard Room• Complimentary bike storage• Pet-friendly Rooms• Flat Screen HD TV’s and Entertainment Programming• Inquire about our Complimentary Private Escort,

convenient to the Airport and Lifts• iMac in the lobby for guest use• Hot Tub & European Dry Sauna• Just steps to Famous Mammoth Creek, Mammoth Creek

Park and the popular Stove Restaurant.

The MammothCreek

I N N

MammothCreek


By Mike Bodine

There are enough fish, around here and up there, to fill every empty dish, trophy case and angler’s wish – just look at the pictures in this guide to be a believer.

There are rainbows, goldens, browns, brook-ies, bass, bluegill and catfish. There are wild (and crazy) fish and stocked fish, ranging from the posh farm-raised lunkers, such as Alpers trout, to tasty state-raised pan-sized stockers. No doubt the Eastern Sierra is an angler’s paradise – there is something for every taste and challenge, from fly fishing to lake casting and trolling, from white- water rivers to gentle, crystal-clear creeks.

But where to find the fish and the right spot is the key to success.

There are a zillion chat rooms, blogs, websites, tweets and guides devoted to how anglers are catching what fish where and these sources can be just as helpful in the quest as a chat with a local at the barber shop or sporting goods store. But, there are some basics about what local fish like – what kind of water, bait, time of day, etc.

Folks at the California Department of Fish and Game were kind enough to give a small history and description of the state’s prolific fish.

Trout is THE fish on the Eastside. Brown trout, or the German brown, is native to Europe. Browns are considered a native fish, but were introduced

into the area in the 1800s. The brook trout, which is actually a char rather than a trout, is from the Eastern U.S. Golden trout are native to the Kern Plateau. Rainbow trout are native to California val-leys up to the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada, below natural barriers such as waterfalls. Sacramento perch are native to Northern California but can be found in Crowley and Bridgeport reser-voirs.

Species brought into California and the Eastern Sierra specifically for angling include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, redear sunfish and bluegill. Channel cats and brown bullheads may be found in Owens Basin waters. Carp, a large minnow from Eurasia, were originally brought to the East Coast

Where to fish for whatEastern Sierra home to more than a dozen different fish species

See the staff at RICK’S SPORT CENTER for all your summer needs. From beginner to expert, RICK’S has what you want. We have a large selection of everything you need for your fishing adventure. Experienced guides can show you how it’s done. We specialize in every type of fishing.

760-934-3416 • www.rickssportcenter.com

mammoth’s #1 tackle shop!

Your fishing headquarters for sierra nevada

adventures


of the United States following studies that deemed them outstanding food fish – easy to raise and offering great sport in catching.

“There was high citizen demand in the late 1800s for carp and they could even be found in the restaurants of the Waldorf Astoria hotels,” said DFG Fisheries Biologist Dawne Becker. “Carp were transported by train to the West, demanded by citizens as an outstanding sportfish.”

Becker had some insights into the best places to find these fish, too.

Walker River has a big reputation for holding trophy browns amidst beautiful scenery.

Becker had news of a new fish to be stocked near Bridgeport, the triploid trout. “The eggs that develop into these fish are heat or pressure treat-ed, resulting in a sterile (nonbreeding) fish. The consequence for the angler is a faster growing, often larger fish that bites the hook,” Becker said.

“Most western states have been stocking triploids for years. California just hasn’t had the funds. The advantage of utilizing triploids for DFG is it allows us better control over what species of fish is where. And from what other states have reported – we’ll have happier anglers.”

Crowley Lake supports a smorgasbord of fish, from Sacramento perch to rainbow, cutthroat and brown trout. Brookies, browns, rainbows and even goldens have been caught in abundance at Sabrina and South Lakes west of Bishop.

The Owens River provides a warm-water fish experience. The Owens River along the Chalk Bluffs provides a wonderful Heritage and Wild Trout catch-and-release only experience. The Owens Gorge has great fishing but the road is steep and the surrounding rock walls even steeper. The gorge and Pleasant Valley Reservoir are home to the Blake Jones Trout Derby and plenty of fish,

plenty. The Bishop area in general offers a variety of

fish types and fishing experiences, Becker said.“Bishop is suited perfectly for the angler, with

numerous wild trout or hatchery trout fishing opportunities close by – virtually every water has fish, whether or not an angler can catch them,” Becker said. “Opportunities include boat fishing, float tube fishing, bank fishing on rivers, creeks or lakes … not many places with such a plethora of opportunities in such a beautiful setting.”

Now for a little trivia. Can you name a fish that is native to the Eastern Sierra?

Trout? Nope. Catfish? Nope. Bluegill? Not even close. Try the tui chub, the pupfish, two species of speckled daces and the Owens sucker.

Most of these fish are no bigger than tadpoles. The big ones – the kind of fish that this guide is dedicated to – sport fish, have all been imported. (See the story on fish stocking history on page 96 of the 2011 Eastern Sierra Fishing Guide.)

That doesn’t mean there are not wild fish in lakes and streams from Lone Pine to Topaz, but all the fish have been imported.

“In the Sierra District south of Interstate 80, up to 10 brook trout per day less than 10 inches total length may be taken and possessed in addition to the other daily bag and possession limits specified for the Sierra District. This allowance does not include Red Lake in Alpine County or Kirman, Lane, or Roosevelt lakes in Mono County,” Becker said. “Brook trout are a prolific fish which will continue to reproduce even if an adequate food source does not exist. This often results in a myriad of large-headed, skinny fish that most anglers throw back. However, if enough of these fish are taken, the overall size of brookies in the lake may increase – so keep ’em! They’re great smoked and eaten whole.”

Photo by Martin StrelneckA catch-and-release policy isn’t necessary with the brook trout, a prolific fish that tends to be small in size because of its abundant population numbers. In fact, if more were taken from area lakes, the size of this fish could increase.

800-233-6004760-934-3340

P.O.BOX 1088Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

WELCOME FISHERMEN!(and their families)

We are in the center of the

BEST FISHING in the EASTERN SIERRA(some within walking distance)

Located in town, close to Restaurants and ShoppingSpa • Sauna • Pool • Fireplaces • Kitchens • Color TV

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2 2011 eastern sierra fishing & vacation guidefiles.meetup.com/1247891/2011 eastern sierra...

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