Crooked River Fishing Report – September 19, 2026

Crooked River Fishing Report – September 19, 2026

Flow: 1,280 cfs (USGS Gauge 14087400 – Below Opal Springs, near Culver, 5:00 AM PDT)  |  Water Temp: 55°F (12.8°C)  |  Clarity: Clear  |  Conditions: Good

Current Conditions

The Crooked River below Bowman Dam is in good shape heading into the weekend. Flows at 1,280 cfs (recorded at the USGS gauge below Opal Springs, which includes the substantial spring contribution) reflect an autumn level that spreads fish into productive lies throughout the canyon. Water temperature at 55°F is textbook for fall fishing on this tailwater — cool enough to keep trout active and feeding aggressively through the entire day, unlike the heat-shutdown conditions of midsummer.

Clarity is excellent, as is typical for this spring-fed system. The Crooked runs green and gin-clear almost regardless of season, making it one of Central Oregon's most reliable and visually rewarding fly fishing destinations. With upward of 4,000 trout per mile in the Chimney Rock section, you're never far from a fish — the challenge is being subtle enough to fool them in that crystal water.

Hatches & What's Working

September on the Crooked means transitional hatch activity — the big summer PMD push is winding down, but autumn midges and early BWOs are beginning to take over the menu. Midges are the year-round backbone of this fishery, and right now they're delivering. A size 20–22 Zebra Midge (black, red, or wine) is the single most reliable fly in your box on any given day. Fish it tight-line nymphing with a strike indicator or as a dropper under a dry, and expect takes throughout the day — not just during visible hatch activity.

Watch for Blue Winged Olive activity on overcast stretches, particularly in the morning and late afternoon. When you see fish rising consistently in the flat water, reach for a Parachute Adams (size 18–20) or a Sparkle Dun. Use a long, fine leader — 12–14 ft of fluorocarbon tippet in 5X to 6X — and approach carefully. These fish have seen everything.

Pheasant Tail Nymphs in size 16–18 continue to be a workhorse, especially when drifted along the bottom in moderate current seams. A Copper John in size 16–18 provides added flash and weight — useful for getting down quickly in the deeper runs near Chimney Rock without adding split shot that spooks pressured fish. Pair it with a Zebra Midge dropper for a two-fly rig that covers multiple feeding levels.

Dry Fly Opportunity

Don't put the dry rods away just because fall is here. The Crooked regularly produces dry fly action on calm autumn mornings. A size 14 Elk Hair Caddis or Chubby Chernobyl used as an indicator/attractor can draw fish up from depth — and it's an unbeatable way to cover water when you're looking for active fish. Work the flats methodically and be ready for subtle sips rather than splashy rises.

Best Access Points

• Chimney Rock Trailhead (Lower Canyon): The crown jewel — walk the canyon trail along the river for miles of prime pocket water and runs. Park at the Chimney Rock TH off Hwy 27.
• Smith Rock State Park area: Upper Crooked River access near the confluence with the North Fork; excellent for beginner-friendly water.
• Crooked River Back Country Byway (Hwy 27 corridor): Multiple pull-outs provide walk-in access to the Chimney Rock segment — ideal for hopping runs and covering new water.
• Terrebonne / Crooked River Ranch: Lower canyon access points; note that some sections along the Ranch are private — respect all posted boundaries.

Hazards & Notes

• Oregon fishing license required. The Crooked River below Bowman Dam is catch-and-release for rainbow trout — all trout must be released unharmed. Barbless hooks strongly recommended.
• This tailwater can see sudden flow changes from Bowman Dam operations — always be aware of rising water and never wade in rising conditions.
• The canyon walls and basalt ledges are slippery — felt soles or studded wading boots strongly advised. The Crooked's polished river rock will put you on your backside without good traction.
• No fires in the canyon during fire season (typically through October). Pack out all trash.

Top Flies This Week

Nymphs: Zebra Midge (20–22), Pheasant Tail Nymph (16–18), Copper John (16–18)
Dry Flies: Parachute Adams (18–20), Elk Hair Caddis (14), Chubby Chernobyl (attractor/indicator)
Pro Tip: Tie on a Zebra Midge dropper 12 inches below any dry or indicator setup — it's almost always the fly the fish want.

All flies available at BugsNJugs.com. Flow data from USGS gauge 14087400 (Crooked River below Opal Springs, near Culver, OR). Provisional data subject to revision.