Fishing Report: Deschutes River – Warm Springs to Trout Creek

Date: June 28, 2023

The Deschutes River from Warm Springs to Trout Creek is in excellent shape for fishing. The current flow rate, measured in cubic feet per second (CFS), is running at 3750, providing good water conditions for anglers. The water temperature is currently around 56 degrees Fahrenheit, which is conducive to active fish behavior.

While the fishing was exceptional during the spring, it has slowed down over the past week or so, transitioning to more normal fishing conditions. However, there’s exciting news as the caddis hatch is ramping up, with hordes of adult caddis insects on the water. The fish are eagerly looking up for the little grey fluffy caddis insects, presenting a great opportunity for dry fly fishing.

To locate fish rising to caddis during midday, focus your attention on areas that provide a combination of trees for shade and deep water. These spots are ideal for laying the dry fly and enticing the fish. Our experienced guides recommend positioning yourself below feeding fish and casting up to the wild trout. This strategy gives you the best chance of landing one of these tricky-to-catch fish.

In addition to the caddis hatch, deep nymphing with caddis and mayfly nymphs has been productive. Recently, we’ve also observed immature stone fly nymphs becoming active, so using Pat’s Rubber Legs stone fly nymphs can be effective in attracting fish.

One advantage of fishing on the Lower Deschutes currently is the thin crowds. Most days, you can expect a peaceful and uncrowded fishing experience, allowing you to enjoy the serenity of the river.

For dry fly fishing, we recommend using a size 14 or size 16 caddis adult pattern with 4x or 5x tippet for optimal presentation and success.

Our fly shop is fully stocked, and our knowledgeable staff is eager to assist both local anglers and travelers with their fishing needs. Whether you require equipment, advice on fly selection, or any other assistance, we are here to ensure you have a great fishing experience.

Furthermore, our camp and fly shop offer convenient amenities for anglers. You can set up a tent or park your RV, providing a comfortable base for your fishing trip. Moreover, to beat the midday heat, our fly shop offers a range of refreshments, including ice-cold beverages, draft beer, and grilled food options or deli sandwiches.

Tight lines and happy fishing on the Deschutes River!