California 2024 Snowpack & Rainfall Update: How will it affect fly fishing this year?

Excitement is in the air for all fly fishing enthusiasts as the Kern River gears up for what's shaping up to be a spectacular 2024 season! Thanks to recent weather patterns, our beloved river is set to offer some great conditions, making it the perfect time to plan your next fly fishing adventure.

Mother Nature has truly smiled upon us, delivering above-normal precipitation across California. Over the past 30 days, rainfall over California-Nevada has been above normal, with the exception of portions of the northern Sierra Nevada. Very little drought is present! For those of us who cherish the Kern River, this news couldn't be more welcome.

The key player in this turnaround? An atmospheric river event early in February washed away any concerns of a water deficit, ensuring our river will be vibrant and flowing strongly.

Prior to the event about 77% of the region was below normal water precipitation and after it was only 44% of the region. While some areas are still catching up, the overall impact has been great for our aquatic ecosystems.

Our snowpack in the Sierra Nevada, the lifeline of the Kern River, has seen significant improvements. Although it's still below what we'd wish for, the current levels promise to sustain our river flows beautifully, creating a paradise for trout and, consequently, for us anglers.

Let’s talk about soil moisture — it's through the roof! Thanks to the wet conditions carried over from last year and bolstered by our recent rains, the ground is holding more water. This means our river ecosystem is getting all the support it needs to thrive, ensuring that our finned friends are happy, healthy, and ready to put up a good fight.

In 2024 you can expect the Kern River to be teeming with life, offering abundant opportunities for both seasoned anglers and those new to the sport. With the river in such great shape, it's the perfect time to dive into the world of fly fishing or to dust off your gear and get back out there.

Our top-rated guides are more excited than ever to share this incredible season with you. Their expertise and passion make every trip not just a fishing expedition, but a memorable adventure. With Mother Nature providing us with such a fantastic setup, it's an invitation that can’t be refused!

Gear up, get excited, and join us for what promises to be an epic season of fly fishing. The Kern River is calling, and it's time to answer with your rod and reel in hand. Let's make some unforgettable memories on the water together!