Lower D Report - 9/25/26

The Lower Deschutes is moving further into its fall transition, with flows back above 4,000 CFS. Trout fishing has been a little more variable day-to-day, making it worth covering different water and adjusting throughout the day. Riffles and broken current remain good places to focus, but don't overlook shallower edges and softer water where fish can move as conditions change.

The hatch mix continues to broaden with plenty of smaller mayfly activity showing during the mornings. Micro caddis remain abundant, while tan and olive caddis continue to be part of the mix. BWOs should become increasingly relevant with cooler and cloudier weather, and October Caddis are beginning to play a larger role as we move toward October.

Subsurface fishing remains the most consistent approach with Perdigons, Two Bit Hookers, Walt's Worms, caddis pupa, stonefly nymphs, and October Caddis pupa all worth having in the rotation. Leeches, sculpins, and smaller streamers continue to be good options through deeper runs and structure. The river remains closed to steelhead angling, while trout fishing remains open.

Recommended Flies

BWO Film Critic (#18-20)
Purple Haze (#16-18)
Tan X-Caddis (#16-18)
Micro Caddis (#18-20)
October Caddis (#6-8)
October Caddis Pupa (#8-10)
Black Pat's Rubber Legs (#8-10)
Two Bit Hooker (#16-18)
Brown Perdigon (#16-18)
Black Mini Leech (#8-10)