Educational Series on the Crooked River
First of all a huge shout out of gratitude to the wonderful crew we had on the Crooked last week for the first ever Educational Series On The Water! It was a beautiful evening, the fishing was good and one of our lucky guides got to hang out with a bunch of super cool, funny, interested and fishy gals. Next time we’ll get an earlier start and bring wood for a campfire when we’re done. Cheers again to those who signed up early enough to get out there with us. Stay tuned for next month’s plans!
The Changing Season
Today is the first day of autumn! We’ve had some wonderful fall-like weather lately and to see the light changing with each day is a sign of more changes to come. Along with the impending run of anadromous fish into the Lower Deschutes, there are other important events going on.
The Water Master on the Upper Deschutes and associated lakes has made a bold move to maintain water levels in Crane Prairie Reservoir until the end of the season. The lake level is 48% as of today. As many of you are probably aware we’ve had dramatic drawdown in most of the lakes, so this is a wonderful gesture meant to keep Crane fishing good.
Wickiup has basically become a river, which has offered up some “interesting” opportunities. People are still down there, deep in the ditch, chasing large fish is confined areas. But there is really no lake to speak of. Below Wickiup we have the schedule for the ramp down of releases beginning in October.
Between now and October 3rd we will see occasional and gradual lowering of the flows at Wickiup. Then on the 3rd the proper ramp down will begin. Up until the 12th the flows will drop daily, eventually hitting a mere 22.8cfs. Sometime around the 9th we will see the channel adjacent Lava Island begin drying up. If you are interested in helping with any fish salvage effort we will be glad to put you in touch with those arranging it. We will have a more detailed schedule for you next week so stay tuned.
Meanwhile on the Lakes
Our guides have been busy chasing the big fish around up on the lakes lately. Some amazing days have produced truly large fish. Here are some pictures.
Never hesitate to call or stop by the shop for the latest intel!
On the Lower Deschutes
We’ve been working the upper 40 miles a lot lately. From amazing and challenging trout fishing on the “Day Stretch” to running into a wall of steelhead lower down, our guides are putting in the time.
Feel free to get in touch any time for updates on the river. Or get out with a guide while they last!!!
New Swag Around the Shop
We have some slick new winter gear in the shop. If you’re looking for a wading jacket, cozy fleece, gloves and hats, or a genuine Fly and Field hoodie, stop in and get prepared. The real cold stuff can’t be far off.