Expect morning sub-zero air temps through the weekend. You may experience heavy ice on the surface at times. The migratory rainbows we call “Crowley Steelhead” are larger this year on average; but numbers have declined. We are experiencing very cold air temps for a longer duration this winter. When we get an extended period of sub-zero air temps; it forces the LADWP to flush the standing ice out of the Rush Creek Diversion and washes debris, & ice bergs down the channel. Eddies will become solid sheets of ice making the river unfishable. If air temps warm enough, & the flushing is successful-the river can clean up in the afternoon. Overall water clarity has become poor below Hot Creek. The fish are very spread out, & are actively on their redds during warmer periods. They vacillate from the gravel beds into the deeper pools when we experience a duration of colder air temps. I have seen a few honey holes that have multiple fish in them; but this year you can expect one or two bigs per spot for the most part. Most popular attractor patterns will get you looks with solid drifts. SJ worms, crystal Vanderleeches, crystal soft eggs, Assassins, and Agent Orange patterns have got us into them while nymphing below an Under-cator. Please don’t squeeze the egg laden hens near the belly for a quick picture. That will cause the roe to discharge prematurely. Air temperatures below ten degrees can “flash freeze” the gills if you keep the fish out of water for more than a minute. Look for oval depressions that appear brighter, or scraped clean on the riffles below pools. These are active reads and you need to avoid stepping on them. Snowbows here we come! If you want the most unique fly fishing experience the Sierra has to offer; book a winter snowmobile trip with us. It is truly a magical fishing adventure. We pioneered winter time snowmobile access on the Upper Owens, and have the most experienced guides to put you on the fish safely.