The Lower Deschutes from Pelton to the boundary opened last week and initial reports we are hearing are good. Nymphing stoneflies has been and will be the best method for picking up fish leading up to the big bugs hatching. These nymphs migrate along the bottom of the river to the banks to hatch so focusing near the shore and behind obstructions in the river will be to your advantage. The adult bugs use things like logs and rocks in the river to crawl out and hatch so fishing around these obstructions near the shore is a good tactic leading up to the hatch. We have been seeing hatches of March Brown and BWO’s as well and the nymph versions of these mayflies can be a great trailer behind a stonefly. We are only about a few weeks from when the big bugs should be hatching so stocking up on big dries is also a good idea. We have lots of good patterns in the shop right now so stop by and stock up!
Recommended Dries: March brown #12-14, Hackle Stacker PMD #14-18, Parachute PMD #14-18, Hackle Stacker Baetis #16-20, Parachute Baetis #16-20.
Recommended Nymphs: Jimmy Legs #8 Black or Brown, Jigged Hares Ear #14-16, Jigged Pheasant Tail #14-16, Psycho Prince #14-16, Duracell Jig #14-18, Copper John #14-18