Deschutes River › Fishing Report

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

The Lower Deschutes is in prime late-June form, with the classic summer hatch sequence kicking into gear around the Maupin corridor. Flows are running at 3,690 CFS (USGS gauge 14103000 at Moody, as of this morning), which is on the higher side but still very fishable for experienced waders who know the river. Above Sherars Falls and throughout the Maupin section, water clarity is clear to lightly stained — ideal dry fly conditions during the morning and early evening windows.

A note of caution for anglers heading below the White River confluence: a recent surge pushed the White River from ~370 CFS to over 3,700 CFS, sending a pulse of off-color water into the lower Deschutes from that confluence down toward the Columbia. This section will remain turbid for a day or two. Stick to the Maupin corridor — Harpham Flat, Beavertail, Oak Springs, and the water above Sherars Falls — for the best clarity and fish activity.

Hatch Activity

Late June on the Deschutes means the salmonfly parade is winding down (the last bugs have moved upriver past Maupin), and the spotlight is shifting to Pale Morning Duns (PMDs) and Yellow Sallies. Look for PMD activity starting around 9–10 AM and running through early afternoon, with fish rising consistently in flatter riffles and tailouts. Yellow Sallies become most active mid-afternoon, drawing aggressive surface strikes along pocket water and broken riffles. Caddis remain active at dusk — the classic Deschutes evening rise is alive and well.

Top Fly Recommendations

• Stimulator (#8–10, yellow/orange) — doubles as a Yellow Sally and general attractor; deadly in choppy riffles all afternoon
• Elk Hair Caddis (#14–16, tan/olive) — essential for the evening rise; fish it with a gentle skitter across current seams
• Parachute Adams (#14–16) — versatile and visible during PMD hatches; works anywhere fish are rising
• Chubby Chernobyl (#8–10) — run it as a high-vis indicator fly with a Pheasant Tail dropper during midday lulls
• Pheasant Tail Nymph (#14–16) — subsurface workhorse between hatches; dead-drift near the bottom in deeper slots
• Copper John (#14–16, red/gold) — heavy enough to get down fast in the current; pairs well as a dropper off a Chubby

Best Access Points

The BLM corridor along the lower canyon offers excellent access. Top spots include Harpham Flat (above Maupin — good wading, reliable PMD rises), Oak Springs (below Maupin, walk-in access, productive tailouts), and the Beavertail/Locked Gate area. Maupin City Park provides easy river access right in town. Float trips between Harpham and Sandy Beach are a popular option at current flows.

Hazards & Conditions

At 3,690 CFS, wading requires felt-soled wading boots, a wading staff, and confidence in moving water — this is not a river for beginners at these flows. Always wear a wading belt. The lower section below the White River confluence is off-color and should be avoided for 24–48 hours. No current closures reported. Oregon fishing license required; check ODFW regulations for current catch-and-release rules on the upper section.

Flow data: USGS gauge 14103000 (Deschutes River at Moody, near Biggs, OR) — 3,690 CFS, 63.9°F, as of 5:45 AM PDT June 24, 2026. Provisional data subject to revision.

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