The river is settling into great shape for the season. Flows are dropping and wading is becoming more manageable, especially with the gauge hovering around 4300 cfs. The big salmonfly and stonefly hatch is close, and fish are already beginning to key in on the nymphs. Tan or golden Stonefly patterns, 2-Bit Hookers, Micro Mays, Perdigons, Caddis pupae, and Walt’s Worms are all producing. A few anglers have even found success on Trout Spey setups with Crayfish-style patterns. With the hatch almost upon us, now’s a great time to dial in presentations and book a trip before the big bugs get going in earnest probably next week.
Lower Deschutes Update May 16th, 2025
May 16, 2025