For 85 years, Crowley Lake has been a beloved destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. There is something magical about time spent on the lake and its surrounding rivers, and once you visit, it has a way of calling you back.
The Crowley Fish Foundation (CFF) was established in 2024 by a group of volunteers dedicated to ensuring the lake and its tributaries remain world-class fishing destinations for future generations. Through fishing events, fly-casting and fly-tying classes, many young people from Inyo and Mono counties are learning about fishing and getting hooked on the sport.
Enter Reed Magan, a 11-year-old who attended both a fly-casting and fly-tying clinic hosted by CFF last year. Since then, he has earned the nickname “Turbo” because he learns so quickly. Seeing that special something in him led to an invitation to attend a euro nymphing class hosted by Mark Rosen from Upstream Guide Service and Beryl Rea from the Trout Scout.
Both Mark and Beryl agree Reed has a gift. “He is focused and has an incredible amount of concentration regardless of what he’s doing,” says Rosen. “As we were walking to the river, Reed was next to me and was full of questions. He is constantly wanting to learn.”
“I just love fishing. It’s my passion,” Reed says. “When I’m on the water, life isn’t chaotic; it’s soothing.” Reed said he is learning about more than fishing from CFF, including the importance of keeping the water and surrounding areas clean. “I would never throw trash or litter anywhere, and I will only fish by following the rules and regulations during the season.”
Reed’s mom, Tracy, a schoolteacher, has enjoyed watching his journey and seeing him develop this interest on his own. “He stumbled into it entirely of his own accord, and it is beautiful to watch him do what he loves,” she says. “I can see that he has found his people, and it is fun to witness him be in harmony with others. Everyone he fishes with is passionate about it, and he loves that.”
Reed also tries to share his interest with others. Not many kids have sleepovers and show their friends how to tie flies, but Reed does — between breaks from throwing a baseball around. He doesn’t stop there: he also teaches fly-tying classes for Bishop elementary school students.
“As a teacher, I know the importance of getting kids outside to play,” Tracy adds. “Without too much parent involvement, they tend to be more eager and willing, and that’s what makes these CFF clinics and programs so appealing. Adults are teaching and making it fun, while also helping kids feel like they are participating independently.”
Crowley Fish Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization run by an all-volunteer team. Donations support events, fish stocking, education and other efforts that advance the foundation’s mission to keep Crowley Lake and its tributaries world-class fishing destinations for future generations. The organization is a finalist for the 2026 Mammoth Lakes Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit of the Year award.
To support Crowley Fish Foundation’s mission and future events, visit crowleyfishfoundation.org to learn more or make a donation.
