Mono County Fishing Reports

Twin Lakes are offering up some very good fishing right now for rainbows on Powerbait and micetails, but it's the browns that are drawing most of the attention. The last two state records have come out of these lakes... one from the lower, and the current record from the upper (26 lbs. 8 oz.).

Anglers have been hooking into some giant browns over the last week, with reports of an 8 pounder and multiple fish over 6 lbs. Trollers are having success running Thomas Buoyants and Tasmanian Devils in 50–60 feet. Casters are throwing bright-colored crankbaits and Rapalas around shallower water in the early hours.

As one of the most popular spots in the Eastern Sierra, Convict had amazing angler turnout and spectacular fishing during opening week. The resort reported plenty of 4-5 pound rainbows brought in, along with a behemoth 11 pounder. Rapalas, mini jigs, and spoons were all working well for the better quality fish. Bait guys pulled easy smaller fish limits with PowerBait, floated nightcrawlers, and Mice Tails. CDFW stocked the lake just before opening day, but Convict is also known to privately stock giant rainbows throughout the season.

Grant Lake has been hot for browns since the season opener, even with the weather being mostly cold and stormy over the last week. Bank guys are getting some action soaking floated night crawlers or powerbait for smaller rainbows... but hot bite the right now is on Rapalas. 3-4 inch Rapalas in a variety of colors (orange and yellow are notably producing well) are hooking a good number of 2-3 pound brown trout and the occasional rainbow. 10-20 fish days haven't been uncommon (releasing the browns obviously). The bite should remain very good as the weather improves and water temps slowly increase this month.