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Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulator, Chubby Chernobyl, Parachute Adams, Pheasant Tail Nymph, Zebra Midge, Copper John

Deschutes River Fishing Report – July 22, 2026

Lower Deschutes | Maupin Area | Above & Below Sherars Falls

Current Conditions Overview

The lower Deschutes is fishing well this week, though mid-summer heat demands a strategic approach. The good news: wildfire smoke drifting in from fires on the Warm Springs Reservation and near Shaniko is acting like a soft cloud cover, buffering afternoon temperatures and giving trout a brief reprieve from direct sun. There is no fire danger near Maupin and no closures affecting river access — but check Oregon Fish Reports and BLM updates before heading out.

Flow & Water Temperature

USGS Gauge 14103000 (Deschutes at Moody, near the Columbia confluence):

• Flow: 3,860 CFS (as of 6:45 AM PDT, July 22)
• Water Temp: 64.4°F (18.0°C)

Flow is in the normal mid-summer range for the lower canyon — wading is safe and manageable at most access points. Water temperature at 64°F is approaching the upper comfort zone for wild redbands; once it tips above 65–67°F in the afternoon, fish become stressed. Plan to be on the water by 6–7 AM and wrap up by 10–11 AM, then return for the evening hatch from 6 PM until dark.

Water Clarity

Clear. Classic summer Deschutes clarity — you can count the rocks at three feet. Stealth and long leaders (12–14 ft) are rewarded.

Hatches

Summer caddis (Hydropsyche and Brachycentrus) continue to dominate the evening show. Expect clouds of small to medium tan and olive caddis in sizes #14–18 emerging from dusk onward, with trout rising aggressively in the tailouts and soft-water edges. Morning hours can also produce good caddis activity near riffled runs. PMDs (Pale Morning Duns) remain present in lighter numbers through mid-morning. Golden Stonefly adults are still fluttering around exposed boulders — an opportunistic dry-fly chance.

Top Fly Recommendations

Dry Flies:

• Elk Hair Caddis (#14–16, tan or olive) — the Deschutes summer staple. Dead-drift or skitter across the current seam.
• Stimulator (#8–10, golden/yellow) — covers both Golden Stone and attractor patterns; excellent in broken pocket water.
• Chubby Chernobyl (#8–10) — a high-floating foam attractor that doubles as a dropper anchor. Trout that have seen a lot of caddis will smash this on sight.
• Parachute Adams (#16–18) — versatile PMD/caddis match when trout get picky in flat water.

Sub-Surface:

• Pheasant Tail Nymph (#14–16) — dead-drifted tight to the bottom in seams. A go-to when the dry-fly bite is slow.
• Zebra Midge (#18–20) — productive mid-day when trout drop back off the surface and hold in deeper lies.
• Copper John (#14–16, red or green) — excellent attractor nymph for prospecting unfamiliar runs.

Best Access Points

• Harpham Flat / Heritage Landing (above Maupin) — classic entry, easy pull-off, long wadeable riffle.
• Maupin City Park — convenient in-town access; fish the run below the boat ramp.
• Oak Springs Hatchery area — above Sherars Falls, quality pocket water.
• Sherars Falls — watch tribal dip-net fishing platforms on canyon walls; stay clear of active fishing areas out of respect and per regulation.
• Macks Canyon (BLM) — below Sherars Falls, more remote and less pressure. Camp-in access only beyond the day-use area.

Hazards & Notes

• Wildfire smoke in the area — air quality may be moderate. Bring water and check AQI if you have respiratory concerns.
• Water temps will peak mid-afternoon — please practice catch-and-release with care and revive fish in the current before releasing.
• The BLM has published a new Deschutes River Boater Guide (waterproof, spiral-bound) — available at Deschutes Angler fly shop in Maupin.
• Tribal fishing treaty rights are active at Sherars Falls. Respect all signage and give tribal members ample space.

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