Crooked River

Below Bowman Dam

Fully over 120 miles long, the Crooked River is a tributary of the Deschutes. Of particular interest to anglers,
however, is the 8-mile segment flowing downstream from the base of Prineville Reservoir’s, Bowman Dam.
Designated Wild and Scenic by the Bureau of Land Management in 1988, this stretch of the river is responsible for
stunning canyon views, a diverse wildlife population, and an incredible self-sustaining population of wild redband
trout and mountain whitefish!

A manageable 45 min drive northeast of Bend, this section of the Crooked is open year round and is characterized
by long runs, pools, riffles, and pocket water. Although the amazing number of trout per mile make it appropriate
for anglers of all skill levels, this river is regarded as one of the absolute BEST places for beginner fishermen. Our
guides fish it daily and are experts in those fly patterns, equipment, and strategies best designed to fool these wild
fish any month of the year. With so many fish in this river, the Crooked is one of the best on-the-water classrooms
around. Book a half or full day trip with one of our guides, and he or she will demonstrate a host of easy to learn
strategies that will produce fish for even the most novice of anglers.

If visiting the Crooked River for the first time, wade carefully. Wading is possible throughout most of the river,
though sometimes can be difficult; a wading staff is a great tool here. Expect the Crooked to be off-color during
the summer months but clear up substantially during the lower flows of wintertime. Expect winter flows to be low,
but the river continues to fish well between 60-100cfs.  Normal summer flows are around 250cfs, but the river is
considered fishable up to about 500cfs.  Check the levels here on this page before you make the trip and always
allow the river and the fish to stabilize a few days after a significant rise or drop in flow.
Stop by the fly shop for a river map, advice on access, and the staff’s favorite seasonal fly pattern choices.