Lower Deschutes River Report – July 26, 2026: ⚠️ Fire Closure Alert + Evening Caddis in Full Swing
Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulator, Parachute Adams, Pheasant Tail Nymph, Copper John, Woolly Bugger
Current Conditions
The Lower Deschutes is in its classic summer low-and-clear phase as of July 26, 2026. Water is gin-clear, and fish are running selective in the bright July sun. The river is running at 3,920 CFS at the USGS Moody gauge (near Biggs) as of 5:45 AM PDT — a healthy, wadeable summer flow — with a water temperature of 65°F. That is warm but still within the fishable range. Anglers should monitor afternoon temps carefully; if readings push toward 68°F, give the fish a break and come back at dusk.
Active Hatches & Best Fishing Windows
The evening caddis hatch is the main event on the Lower Deschutes right now. Expect it to start building around 3:00–4:00 PM and really hit full stride by 5:00 PM, continuing until last legal light. Don't be put off if early-evening surface activity looks sparse — the trout are there, and they will absolutely commit to a well-presented caddis dry. PMD and stonefly nymph activity is also consistent throughout the day, making daytime nymphing a solid option until the evening hatch ignites.
The classic Lower Deschutes daytime rig still applies: a heavily-weighted stonefly nymph dropped to a caddis or PMD nymph. Work the seams, soft edges, and pocket water along the bank. Early-morning risers can be found in eddies and riffles, but surface action is generally sporadic until the afternoon light drops.
Top Fly Recommendations
- Elk Hair Caddis (#14–16, tan or olive) — The essential evening dry. Keep a good supply; the fish will find it.
- Stimulator (#8–12, orange/yellow) — Doubles beautifully as both caddis and stonefly; excellent in riffled pocket water.
- Parachute Adams (#14–16) — A go-to attractor for selective risers during slower hatch windows.
- Pheasant Tail Nymph (#14–16) — Dead-drift under an indicator through the seams; consistent producer all day.
- Copper John (#14–16, red or black) — Heavy and fast-sinking; ideal as the lead fly in a tandem nymph setup.
- Woolly Bugger (olive, #8–10) — Swing through deep runs and slots at low light for aggressive, memorable takes.
Access Points & Hazards
Due to the active Ten Mile Fire near Trout Creek, access to the stretch from Warm Springs to the Locked Gate (south of Maupin) is currently closed. The section above Sherars Falls may remain open — confirm with local land managers before driving out. Smoke in the canyon may also affect air quality. Always check current ODFW regulations; the Deschutes has year-round fly-and-artificial-lure-only rules with catch-and-release for redside rainbows on designated sections. Stock up on caddis dries and nymphs at Bugs-N-Jugs before you head out.