Deschutes Stonefly Hatch Update & Guide Report

A quick report and a few photos from the Lower Deschutes...

We've been guiding a mix of day trips out of Bend (Warm Springs to Trout Creek) and in the Maupin area, and consistent three and four day camping floats from Warm Springs to Maupin.

Where are the big bugs now? Most of the salmonflies and golden stoneflies are between Pelton Dam and Whitehorse, although there were some sputtering around just upstream from Maupin yesterday. Down stream from Maupin trout have been eating Yellow Sallies and Caddis. Last week the White River was messing up the lower river, FYI.

With the calm 80 to 90 degree days we have had the past week or so I have seen some of the best trout fishing ever. Right now the action is fast and furious between Warm Springs and Whiskey Dick.

Of course Chubby Chernobyls catch trout, but at this phase of the hatch the trout are pretty wise to the popular pattern. Old classics like the Clark Stone have worked better lately.

The hatch will likely continue for another week up high, and the trout should respond to stoneflies in the Warm Springs area through at least mid month. Be safe and have fun.

Chris