The Lower Deschutes continues to fish well, flows are holding steady and temperatures this next week are unseasonably warm. Steelhead fishing is closed, check the ODFW emergency regulations for details. With warm temperatures there may be a decent showing of October caddis, it’s a bit past their prime time but you never know. Blue wing olives will be the major hatch, expect the best hatches on cooler overcast days. Nymphing is the most consistent way to fool fish. There are so many different subsurface food sources in the Deschutes. Stonefly nymphs, mayfly nymphs, caddis larva, aquatic beetles, eggs, the list goes on for a long time. My point is that experimentation is key while winter nymphing, one fish may be interested in a big stonefly nymph while another may only want to snack on small baetis. After 10 - 15 casts in the same water without success, try a different fly combo. Enjoy the great trout fishing on the Deschutes this week.
Recommended Dries: Hackle Stacker BWO #18-22, Parachute BWO #16-20, Black or Tan Elk Hair Caddis #12-20, X-Caddis #12-20
Recommended Nymphs: Black or Brown Jimmy Legs #8, Deep October Caddis Pupa #10-12, Jigged Hares Ear #14-16, Jigged Pheasant Tail #14-16, Psycho Prince #14-16, Duracell Jig #14-18, Copper John #14-18, JuJu Baetis #16-22, Slim Shady Olive #18-20, Olive or Tan Sparkle Pupa #16-18, Nitro Caddis Pupa #16-18