Lower Deschutes River Fishing Report — May 9, 2026
Stimulator (Orange), Chubby Chernobyl, Elk Hair Caddis, Parachute Adams, Pheasant Tail Nymph, Woolly Bugger
Lower Deschutes River — Maupin Area / Sherars Falls
It does not get much better than this on the lower Deschutes. The Salmonfly hatch is in full swing near Maupin, and with warm weather pushing through Central Oregon this week, the big stoneflies are marching upriver fast. If you have been waiting for the right moment to make the drive to Maupin, that moment is right now — do not wait for next weekend.
Current Conditions
USGS gauge data recorded this morning at the Deschutes at Moody (near Biggs) shows flow at 3,920 cfs with water temperature at 57.9°F (14.4°C). Water temperatures are running notably warmer than average for early May, which is supercharging insect activity throughout the canyon. Flows are moderate for this stretch of river — wading is manageable at most access points and the water is running clear with excellent visibility.
Hatch Activity
May on the lower Deschutes is one of Oregon fly fishing's signature events, and 2026 is delivering. The primary hatches right now include:
- Salmonflies (Pteronarcys californica) — The marquee hatch. Adults are crawling bankside vegetation near Maupin and Sherars Falls. Expect aggressive surface takes near overhanging willows and rocky shorelines during midday and afternoon hours.
- Golden Stoneflies — Right on the heels of the Salmonflies and extending the dry fly window well into June.
- Pale Morning Duns (PMDs) — Beautiful afternoon emergence, particularly in slower side channels and flat tailouts.
- Caddis — Evening caddis activity is picking up steadily as water temps climb through the 50s.
Top Fly Recommendations
- Stimulator (Orange), #4–8 — The go-to adult Salmonfly imitation. Fish tight to the bank in broken water.
- Chubby Chernobyl, #6–8 — Excellent visibility and floatation; works as a stonefly imitation during high-activity periods. Also a great indicator fly with a nymph dropper.
- Elk Hair Caddis, #14–16 — Productive throughout the day as a searching pattern and deadly during evening caddis flights.
- Parachute Adams, #14–16 — A reliable all-around choice when fish are sipping in the flat water between riffles.
- Pheasant Tail Nymph, #14–16 — When fish are not looking up, dead-drift a PT through the seams below boulders and in the soft water edges.
- Woolly Bugger (olive/black), #6–8 — Early morning and late evening streamer swings can produce some of the largest redbands of the season.
Access & Logistics
Primary access points at Harpham Flat, Oak Springs, and the Maupin City Park boat ramp are open and in good shape. The Heritage Landing and Sherars Falls area offers quality wade fishing for those without a drift boat. Crowds will be heavy this weekend — plan to arrive early or fish weekdays if possible. Catch-and-release for wild steelhead; standard trout regulations apply. Tight lines!