Deschutes Fly Fishing Report: Morning Magic & Midday Mayfly Surprises

There’s nothing quite like summer fly fishing on Oregon’s Deschutes River. Between the big canyon views and the top-notch dry fly action, it’s easy to see why this river is a favorite. And if you’re an early riser, you’re in for a real treat—some of the best fishing happens right at first light.

Mornings on the Deschutes are all about spent caddis. After those heavy evening hatches, the river’s surface is often covered with dead or dying caddis that didn’t make it through the night. Trout love these easy meals, and if you’ve got the right pattern—something that sits low in the film and looks lifeless—you can get into some seriously good action. Look for soft seams and tailouts, and watch for those subtle rises.

As the sun gets higher and the temps start to climb, things shift. But that doesn’t mean the fishing slows down. Midday on the Deschutes River, especially from Warm Springs to Trout Creek, you’ll start to see good PMD (Pale Morning Dun) mayfly hatches and new Caddis hatching. These can really get the trout going, but the trout on the Lower Deschutes are known to switch up what they’re eating from hour to hour.

One minute they’re chasing caddis emergers, the next they’re keyed in on adult pmds —or they might suddenly prefer a nymph.
So, come prepared. Bring a mix of nymphs and dry flies in different sizes and colors. Being flexible and paying attention to what the fish are doing will keep you in the game all day.

Don’t rule out the late night evening hatch either.  This can be a very productive time when trout get happy and feed aggessively on emerging caddis.  Look for best hatches near oxygenated riffles with the best fishing right before dark.  See up to date Deschutes River water flows here. 

Top caddis producers are often Elk Hair Caddis or X Caddis in tan size 16 & 18.  Standard PMD’s this time of year are often sz 16 and 18 as well.   Favorite caddis emergers are the PrimeTime Caddis emerger in tan.  Green rock worm patterns imitate the larvae stage of these caddis and a green perdigon fished deep can be an excellent producer all summer long.

If you’re planning a summer day trip, that Warm Springs to Trout Creek section is your best bet through the summer heat. Because this section is closest to the dam, the cooler water there keeps the fish active. Once fall rolls around and the temps drop, the rest of the river will really come alive again.

Whether you’re chasing that early morning rise or adapting to midday hatches, summer on the Lower Deschutes always keeps things interesting.

This summer Deschutes Fly Fishing Report is brought to you by guide Matt Price who lives on the Deschutes River.  If you are looking for a guided fly fishing trip on the Deschutes you can see more info about our trips here:  Deschutes Guided Fly Fishing.

Who is Water Time Outfitters? Water Time Outfitters is a team of guides who offer guided fly fishing and classes on Oregon’s finest waters.  When anglers plan a fishing trip they need to know they’re spending time and money on a great experience.  We aim to surpass their expectations with expert, fun-loving guides and exceptional hospitality, so our guests can focus on their love of fly fishing, maximize their success and take home memories that last a lifetime. See more at: www.Watertimeoutfitters.com

Water Time Outfitters offers other great summer adventures.  Check out our 3-Day Float Trip Summer Special, out guided fly fishing trips in the jet boat for SUMMER BASS just 1 hour from Portland and our fall Steelhead Fishing in either our Deschutes River Steelhead Jet Boat Camp or our Deschutes Fall Steelhead Float Trips.

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