Updated October 15, 2026
    Access point

    Hot Creek Interpretive Siteon Hot Creek

    The primary parking area for the catch-and-release section, offering access to the most productive public water.
    Hot Creek reportDirections37.6430°N, 118.8410°W
    Bite report · week of Oct 4

    BWO hatches are a key target

    1. 01BWO hatches are a key target, especially in the afternoons.
    2. 02Subsurface nymphing with midge and mayfly imitations remains productive.
    3. 03Streamers can entice larger, aggressive trout.
    4. 04Scuds are a year-round food source in vegetated areas.
    5. 05Egg patterns are effective below any spawning fish.

    What to tie on at Hot Creek Interpretive Site

    Picked from recent reports for this stretch.

    egg80%

    Glo Bug

    #8#10#12#14

    Fall is spawning season for some fish, and egg patterns are highly effective for opportunistic trout feeding below spawning areas.

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    dry80%

    Mother's Day Caddis

    #14#16#18

    The prolific Mother's Day Caddis hatch is expected in late April through May, making this dry fly a perfect imitation for adult caddis on Hot Creek.

    nymph80%

    Zebra Midge

    #18#20#22#24

    Midges are the lifeblood of Hot Creek in winter. Black and red versions in sizes 20-24 are essential for mimicking the pupae stage in the slow, weedy columns.

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    nymph80%

    Pheasant Tail Nymph

    #14#16#18#20

    This is an excellent all-around mayfly nymph that is effective year-round, especially during spring BWO periods on Hot Creek.

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    nymph80%

    Sow Bug

    #14#16#18

    Sow bugs are critical in weedy spring creeks like Hot Creek, providing a consistent food source for trout year-round.

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    nymph80%

    Zebra Midge

    #18#20#22#24

    Midges are a primary and consistent food source in spring creeks like Hot Creek year-round, making this a staple nymph pattern.

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    nymph80%

    Scud (Pink/Orange)

    #12#14#16#18

    Freshwater shrimp (scuds) are a consistent food source in spring creeks with aquatic vegetation, making this pattern highly effective in Hot Creek.

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    dry80%

    Blue-Winged Olive Comparadun

    #18#20#22

    Blue-Winged Olives are actively hatching in early spring, especially on overcast days, and this low-profile dry fly is excellent for selective trout feeding on emergers and adults on Hot Creek.

    dry80%

    Glo Bug (Orange)

    #14#16

    Resident trout remain keyed into egg patterns year-round, particularly with the upcoming spring rainbow spawn and lingering salmon eggs in Hot Creek.

    California season by season

    What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.

    Mar – MaySpringRead the guideJun – AugSummerRead the guideSep – NovFallRead the guideDec – FebWinterRead the guide

    Fly shops nearby

    Local flies, current advice and guided trips.

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    31MISierra Trout Magnet Fly ShopBishop50MIYosemite Rivers Fly ShopOakhurst