Rondy: Upper Owens River & Hot Creek Walk & Wade
Dates: August 6-9, 2020
Leader: Paul Kromhout mailto:pkromhout@comcast.net
Number of anglers (including leader): 7
Description: Walk & Wade on the Upper Owens and Hot Creek near Mammoth Lakes, CA. The Upper Owens is a meandering stream running through meadows just south of June Lake Loop, running through the valley east of Mammoth. Hot Creek runs below private waters just east of the Mammoth airport. This is much more walking, rather than wading, as these streams are fished from the bank and at Hot Creek, wading is actually prohibited. This is catch and release fishing only.
The Upper Owens in summer as it flows through cow pastures, may offer grasshopper dry fly fishing, as well as dry-dropper opportunities. Rainbows and browns are resident and migrate back and forth from Crowley Lake to the Upper Owens. 3, 4 and 5 weight rods are suitable. Waders are recommended, but wet wading with boots is okay as muddy, wet sections need to be crossed.
Hot Creek is a small creek fishable below private waters down to the thermal springs below. Dry fly and nymph droppers work well on this water. The creek is small and relatively shallow, but holds some excellent fish. Again, rainbows and browns.
These waters do not require long casts. Precision is rewarded as streamside vegetation is present and with the very clear waters, spooking fish is a concern. Stealthy approaches and sometimes casting from a crouch are helpful. At both Upper Owens and Hot Creek one needs to be able to do some hiking over rough terrain and through sometimes marshy meadows.
We plan on camping in semi-primitive campgrounds on Upper Owens Road off Highway 395 near Mammoth Lakes. This location is a significant drive from the SF Bay Area. You should consult your regular sources for the routes and driving times that best suit your needs. Allow most of a day for a drive from San Francisco over Donner-Hwy 80, Echo- Hwy 50, Sonora Hwy 108 or Tioga- Hwy 120 passes.
While we plan to camp, there are many lodging options including motels and condos available in nearby Mammoth Lakes and possibly, June Lake. For those who prefer restaurants to camping food, Mammoth offers many choices. For campers, you will need to provide your own tents, food and supplies. There are places in Mammoth to secure any provisions you may need.
Suggested Gear:
3, 4 or 5 wt rods, floating lines, tippet and flies. Wading staff unlikely to be needed on these waters. There are some fine fly shops in Mammoth for any required supplies.
Cost: The fee for this Rondy is $25
Other expenses will include transportation, camping fees, meals/food, fishing licenses.
Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds. In the event that a member is, for any reason, unable to attend, he may resell his slot (rod) to another GGACC member (by first pulling from the waitlist if one exists). It is the sole responsibility of the member to manage this transaction. This is not the responsibility of the leader or club.