Mono County Newsletter – April 2026
Greetings from Mono County,
Spring is arriving in the Eastern Sierra. Snow is melting, high-elevation lake ice is beginning to break up, trees are budding, and wildflowers are starting to bloom. This time of year can bring everything from sunny t-shirt weather to a surprise snow flurry—so be sure to check conditions before your visit.
With the season shift comes the opening of fishing season on April 25, just around the corner. A new mandatory watercraft inspection law is now in effect to help protect our lakes and streams from invasive species. Be sure to plan ahead and learn what’s required before heading out.
If you have any questions or need help planning your trip, please e-mail us at [email protected] or call 800-845-7922. Visitor guides, fishing maps, and more are available online or by mail.
Wishing you a beautiful start to spring,
Liz, Emily & Amanda
Before you launch: Inspection now required
To protect Eastern Sierra waters from invasive golden mussels, Mono and Inyo Counties now require inspections for all trailered watercraft before launching.
What: Mandatory inspections (FREE) for trailered watercraft at local WID stations
Why: Golden mussels can permanently damage ecosystems, harm fish by depleting their food source, clog boats and water systems, and increase costs for water and power impacting recreation and local economies.
How: Stop, get inspected, receive your Eastern Sierra Mussel Sticker, then launch!
Visit EasternSierraWID.com.com for FAQs, WID station details, and everything you need to know before you launch.
Thank you!
Please note: Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, float tubes, and rafts are generally not required to be inspected. However, all gear (including waders) should follow Clean, Drain, Dry practices, and inspections or decontamination are encouraged if you have any concerns.
Spring Update: Roads, Lakes & What to Know Before You Go
Spring conditions are changing fast across Mono County. From road reopenings and lake conditions to key updates like Reds Meadow construction, golden mussel prevention, and Yosemite travel tips—get the latest before you head out.
Spring Updates & Current Conditions
Fishing Opener is Almost Here!
Opening Day is just around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be a great season on Mono County waters.
Get the details, what to expect, and important updates before you cast your first line.
Whether you hike, camp, fish, or just soak in the views — Inyo, Mono, and Alpine Counties are all ears!
Outdoor recreation is the beating heart of the Eastern Sierra, and your experiences help shape its future. Take a few minutes to fill out this survey and help us keep this incredible region thriving for years to come.
Visiting Yosemite National Park just got easier—no vehicle entry reservations will be required for Summer 2026.
With higher visitation expected, plan ahead, arrive early or late, and explore beyond Yosemite Valley for the best experience.
- Fishing Events – begins Apr 24 – Oct
- Opening Day of Regular Fishing Season – Apr 25
- “A Good Read” with The Felici Piano Trio – Apr 25
- Basket Weaving – Apr 31, Mar 21
- Mammoth Lakes Film Festival – May 20-24
- Mono Basin Museum Opening Day – May 22
- Mono County Museum Opening Day – May 30
- Mono Basin Bird Chautauqua – June 18-21
- Bodie Ghost Walks– June 27, Aug 22, Sep 2 & 26
United Airlines summer flights through October are available to book now from the Eastern Sierra Regional Airport (BIH) in Bishop, just 45 minutes south of Mammoth Lakes.
Winter service on Advanced Airlines from Hawthorne-LA and Carlsbad to Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) runs four days a week through April 27.
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