The Lower Deschutes River is on right now and the salmonfly hatch has continued pushing upriver over the last several days. Our guides are seeing strong big bug activity across both tribal and public sections, more consistent topwater eats, and aggressive fish tight to the banks. Golden stones are mixing in heavily now and the next warm stretch should keep things moving through early June.

Fish are looking up for extended periods and are holding tight to grassy banks, rock walls, ledges, and softer shoreline structure where adult bugs are getting pushed into the water. There are legit opportunities to move fish on large foam dries throughout the day.

Subsurface rigs continue to produce consistently, especially during the mornings before the hatch really gets going. Stonefly nymphs, caddis pupa, jigged mayfly patterns, and attractor nymphs are all finding fish in softer seams, transition water, and walking-speed buckets.

Bugs are everywhere, fish are aggressive, and it has been a banner salmonfly hatch so far!

Recommended Dries:
March Brown #12-14, Chubby Chernobyl #8-12, Clark’s Stone #8-10, Hackle Stacker PMD #14-18, Parachute PMD #14-18, Elk Hair Caddis #14-16

Recommended Nymphs:
Jimmy Legs #8 (Black or Brown), Jigged Hare’s Ear #14-16, Jigged Pheasant Tail #14-16, Psycho Prince #14-16, Duracell Jig #14-18, Copper John #14-18, Sparkle Pupa #16-18, Stonefly Nymphs #6-10