The Lower Deschutes is rolling right now and the Salmonfly season is officially underway.

Warm weather over the last week has accelerated big bug activity, and we’re seeing it first hand throughout float trips between Warm Springs and Maupin. There are adult Salmonflies around, golden stones are mixing in, and fish are starting to key in.

We are getting legit topwater eats right now, especially when the canyon warms up producing windows where fish are aggressively looking up and willing to move for big foam patterns tight to the banks and structure.

Subsurface fishing is still producing really well. Stonefly nymphs, caddis pupa, jigged mayfly patterns, and attractor nymphs are all moving fish consistently, especially in softer seams, transition water, and walking-speed buckets.

The river feels like is hitting that perfect seasonal window right now, while a little early, it's a magical time in the canyon. Things are changing fast day to day, and temps the next few days are variable but look to stabilize early next week.

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