Crowley Lake

Crowley Lake is arguably the crown jewel of stillwater fly fishing in the Eastern Sierra. Situated just south of Mammoth Lakes at 6,800 feet elevation, this sprawling reservoir covers over 5,000 acres and is renowned for its prolific chironomid hatches and large trout—rainbows, browns, and cutthroat—that thrive in its rich, nutrient-dense waters. Crowley is a must-fish destination for fly anglers in search of both quantity and quality.

The lake opens to fishing on the last Saturday of April and typically fishes best from opener through mid-June and again in September and October. Early in the season, trout congregate in shallow bays and near creek inlets—Hilton Bay, Crooked Creek, and McGee Bay being top spots. Fishing here is largely done from float tubes or boats, as shoreline access is limited and most fish hold offshore.

Chironomid fishing is king at Crowley. Anglers suspend midge patterns like Zebra Midges, Copper Tigers, and Albinos under indicators at 8–15 feet depth, matching the hatch as it progresses. Balanced leeches and perch fry patterns also shine, especially on windy days or during overcast conditions. Stripping streamers on intermediate lines can draw savage strikes, particularly from browns in fall or during baitfish migrations.

Water clarity and weather significantly influence success. Calm mornings often produce the best chironomid action, while afternoons might require deeper presentations or a shift to streamers. As water warms mid-summer, trout move deeper, making sonar and depth knowledge crucial for consistent success.

Crowley Lake is strictly managed with seasonal closures and barbless regulations to protect its trophy fishery. The lake's robust food web, strong trout populations, and fly-fishing-specific access points (including launch ramps and floating toilets for anglers) make it a world-class destination.