When to Plan a Fishing Trip

The general trout season in Mono County runs from the last Saturday in April through November 15. A valid California fishing license is required for residents and non-residents 16 years of age or older on all public and private land. Single, multi-day and annual licenses can be purchased online or through most local outfitters. Kids may fish without a license. 

Popular, easy to access locations include the various stocked lakes in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, from Twin Lakes up to Lake George; and Mammoth Creek, with easy fishing access right off Old Mammoth Road at Mammoth Creek Park. East of town lie long stretches of blue-ribbon fly fishing along Hot Creek—the Eastern Sierra’s most-acclaimed fishery—and the Upper Owens River. If you’re seeking a more rugged wilderness fishing experience, try the San Joaquin River from Devils Postpile upriver beyond Agnew Meadow. 

After the summer season closes and the boats come out of the water, starting November 16, some public fisheries along the Owens River, West Walker River, East Walker River and Hot Creek remain open throughout the winter for catch-and-release fishing with barbless artificial flies and lures.

Regulations vary among waters and are subject to change. Be sure to refer to the most recent version of the “Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations” found at California Department of Fish and Wildlife.