Cool spring waters and an abundance of trout make the Fall a great option for those looking to chase quality fish without straying too far from town. Our guides have continued to see consistent success, and are fooling many of the larger fish that are in the system right now. The ODFW has been stocking the river consistently, and there are good concentrations of fish at the normal haunts. Efforts are best focused near and around the tubes, hatchery, and campground, but there are fish to be found for those who are willing to take a hike to get away from some of the crowds that tend show on the Fall.
As far as fly selection goes, there has been opportunity to target fish with dries, nymphs, and streamers, so pick your favorite approach and have at it! Fishing dries is most productive in early mornings and late evenings, with PMDs accounting for the majority of insect activity. Terrestrials will find opportunistic fish throughout the day, and fishing an ant, beetle, or similar pattern through the day will provide opportunity to bring fish to the surface. Nymphing is the most consistent way to catch fish. Fish a two-fly rig with something large and bright to grab their attention followed by a small Mayfly emerger or Midge pattern. Fishing a small streamer can be a fun way to change things up, and is a great way to target fish that are holding tight to logs, cutbanks, and other structure.
Suggested Dries: Sparkle Dun PMD #16-18, Tilt Wing PMD #16-18, Parachute PMD #16-18, Parachute Adams #16-18, Purple Haze #16-18, Black Flying Ant #16, CDC Flying Ant #16, Hi Vis Beetle #16
Suggested Nymphs: Black Winkers Midge #18-22, Black or Purple Zebra Midge #18-22, Tailwater Tiny #18-22, Olive or Brown Micro Mayfly #18-20, Black or Red Two Bit Hooker #16-20, Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail #16-20, Anato-May #16-20, Black Rainbow Warrior #18-20