The trout are definitely hungry down on the Lower Deschutes. A lot of fish are being picked up on nymphs but there have been some decent dry fly days as well. Remember that steelheading is closed, check the MyODFW page for details. Now that we’re in November, the Warm Springs side of the river is also closed. It looks like the canyon will be a bit cooler and wetter than last week. This will probably bring about some good blue wing olive hatches. Having emergers, cripples, and duns in a range of sizes is a good idea. October caddis are scattered around but a hungry fish will still take one off the surface when convenient. Remember that October caddis pupa are often much more productive than adult October caddis. Stonefly nymphs are also good subsurface. The blue wing olive hatch typically happens around midday, fishing baetis nymphs before the hatch is sure to fool some fish. Eggs are all over the river and they’ll be important until the whitefish are done spawning in December. Have an excellent time on the Lower 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, Slim Shady Olive #18-20, Olive or Tan Sparkle Pupa #16-18, Nitro Caddis Pupa #16-18