The Metolius River is fishing really well right now with water conditions remaining excellent, flows are stable, and bug activity continued to build with the warmer weather this during this week.

PMDs are becoming the main hatch focus during the afternoons and fish are definitely looking for them. March Browns are still around, especially on cloudier days, while caddis activity has picked up quite a bit into the evenings. You’ll still see a few BWOs during cooler mornings, but the river is definitely transitioning as we get later into spring.

Nymphing continues to be the most consistent ticket overall. Golden stones, jigged pheasant tails, hare’s ears, caddis pupa, perdigons, and smaller mayfly patterns are all producing. Focus on seams, pocket water, and softer edges where fish are actively feeding.

Dry fly opportunities continue to improve, especially during the afternoon PMD windows and evening caddis activity. Bull trout fishing has also stayed solid for anglers putting in time with streamers around deeper structure and heavier banks.

Suggested Dries:
March Brown #12-14, Purple Haze #16-20, PMD Sparkle Dun #16-18, Elk Hair Caddis #14-18, Parachute Adams #16-20, CDC PMD Emerger #16-18

Suggested Nymphs:
Golden Stone Nymphs #8-10, Brown Jimmy Legs #8-12, Jigged Hare’s Ear #14-16, Jigged Pheasant Tail #14-16, Copper John #16-18, Lightning Bug #14-18, Sparkle Pupa #16-18, Olive Perdigon #16-18