East Walker River
The East Walker River is arguably the finest
moving water trout fishery we have in the Eastern Sierra. The prime
section is located below the dam of Bridgeport Reservoir making it a
tailwater fishery. The EW has posted ridiculous trout growth rates and
has special angling restrictions to allow prolonged growth and keep the
population of wild fish in good numbers. It is currently open year
round. The EW can be more “technical” than other local waters and most
guides do not suggest taking novice fly fishers here.
The East Walker experiences problems during low
snow pack seasons due to the shallow depth of Bridgeport Reservoir. Low
flows and high water temperatures put lethal stresses on the trout and
there have been some fish kills in past recent years due to this fact.
Aquatic insects abound and you will find a healthy
population of midges, caddis flies, and several species of mayflies.
There is also a significant stone fly hatch along with a plethora of
terrestrial insects including a large migration of hoppers along the
grassy banks during the summer and fall. Another unique feature of the EW
is a substantial population of Sacramento Perch, Carp, Mountain Whitefish,
and Tui Chubs. These forage bait fish supply larger sources of protein
for the huge predatory browns that lurk in the large bends and pools that
are plentiful on this classic tailwater. The EW has a well earned
reputation for huge browns.
The “miracle mile” is a slower moving section
located immediately below the dam and is the most consistent area for
numbers and large fish. There are several more miles of river below this
section in California that are far less fished and at times can be as good
or better. This river is heavily guided and fished and some exploration
will pay-off.
Flows can vary here depending on the season and
this will dictate how your day will go. Ideal releases are around
175-225cfs. You can see flows as high as 1000cfs and as low as 15cfs
during the winter. The river is not safe to cross or deep wade at flows
above 350cfs but skilled nymphers and steamer fisherman can still have a
fine day at these releases.
Dry dropper bead head combos are excellent choices
for the lower flows. You will need several BB shot and a long leader to
get down when the flows get high. There will be great opportunities to
fish caddis and may fly patterns all year. The EW runs along the base of
a canyon and when the sun gets below the rim the “hogs” come out to play!
To get to the EW head to Bridgeport CA on Hwy 395
and take the Hwy 182 exit immediately east of town and head towards
Hawthorne Nevada. You will drive along Bridgeport Reservoir eventually
seeing the obvious dam. After passing the dam look for the numerous
turnouts that take you to the rivers edge. The EW runs along Hwy 182 and
access is very good with few spots you can’t get into under ideal flow
rates.
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