Beginning at the base of Benham Falls, this section of the Deschutes travels north through the town of Bend, through Redmond, Terrebonne, and then all the way to Lake Billy Chinook. Anglers can expect to encounter everything from smooth meandering flows over sandy bottom, to rolling whitewater characteristic of steep elevation drops in this year ‘round fishery. Increased irrigation needs and reduced flows make the summer months the most preferred time of year to fish the Middle Deschutes. Outside of the city limits, most river access requires a walk or hike into a small canyon. However, a little exploring will generally reward you with wildlife, scenery, and hungry trout.
The middle is a fun fishery that is open all year. Although you might have to work hard to find larger fish, there are plenty of medium sized trout willing to eat. Nymphing continues to be productive, as does a dry dropper rig. This time of year, some nymphs we use include: stoneflies, pheasant tails, two-bit hookers, batman, and zebra midges. Fishing streamers can entice a brown trout to eat. Small woolly buggers (or crystal buggers) have been working. We like them in white, black, and olive. Dry fly fishing has slowed down a bit, with the big stoneflies now behind us. PMDs, BWOs, and caddis are the most likely adults to be around.
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