UPPER DESCHUTES REPORT - 9/18/26
The Upper Deschutes is settling into its final stretch of the season, with flows continuing to come down as the irrigation season winds down. The Upper Deschutes above Benham Falls closes to angling October 1, making September 30 the final day to get out before the seasonal closure.
The hatch mix continues to broaden with the cooler September weather. PMDs and caddis remain part of the mix, while BWOs, Tricos, and Mahogany Duns are all worth watching for depending on the day. Ants and beetles remain good options through the meadow sections, with hoppers still worth having available during warmer afternoons.
Subsurface fishing remains steady with Perdigons, smaller mayfly nymphs, caddis nymphs, Hare's Ears, and egg patterns all worth having in the rotation. Streamer fishing continues to be a good option as we move further into fall, particularly around deeper bends, banks, and woody structure. Kokanee spawning activity remains underway, so continue to watch carefully for redds and avoid disturbing spawning fish.
Recommended Flies
BWO Sparkle Dun (#18-20)
PMD Film Critic (#16-18)
Trico Spinner (#18-22)
Mahogany Dun (#16)
Flying Ant (#14-16)
Spanish Bullet (#16-18)
Jig Split Case PMD (#16-18)
Hare's Ear (#14-16)
Glo Bug (#10-14)
Olive Sculpzilla (#6-10)
