The Lower Deschutes has fished consistently over the past weeks. A reminder that Steelhead fishing is closed, check the ODFW emergency regulations for details. Most of the action occurs between late morning and early evening. It’s looking like snow is on the way and frigid temperatures will follow which will likely limit fish activity. Surface activity is scarce besides the blue wing olive hatches. The best hatches tend to be during cold cloudy days and the duns typically range from size 16 - 20. Subsurface fishing is great. Trout love to hold in slower pools during winter but they will also hold in their typical spots. The fish want to conserve energy right now so sometimes they won’t bite unless you get a perfect drift. Having heavy tungsten euro nymphs is super important now that the fish want to sit deeper. Perdigons, Spanish bullets, and panty droppers have been working well. Stoneflies are a consistent performer, as are baetis nymphs. Swinging small sculpin imitations can entice the big Redsides to come out a eat. Happy holidays from the Fly and Field crew and thanks for reading the fishing reports this year, we’ll be back with more in 2022. The day stretch from Warm Springs to Trout Creek closes as of 12/31.

Recommended Dries: Hackle Stacker BWO #18-22, Parachute BWO #16-20

Recommended Nymphs: Black or Brown Jimmy Legs #8, Deep October Caddis Pupa #10-12, Jigged Hares Ear #14-16, Jigged Pheasant Tail #14-16, Psycho Prince #14-16, Duracell Jig #14-18,  Copper John #14-18, Slim Shady Olive #18-20