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Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulator, Copper John, Pheasant Tail Nymph, Woolly Bugger, Zebra Midge

Deschutes River — Lower River Report

Date: September 29, 2026  |  Gauge: USGS 14103000 (Deschutes at Moody)  |  Flow: 4,260 cfs  |  Water Temp: 57.2°F (14.0°C)  |  Clarity: Clear

Fall is firmly in the driver's seat on the lower Deschutes, and conditions are shaping up for one of the best stretches of fishing we see all year. With 4,260 cfs measured at the Moody gauge and crystal-clear water temperatures holding at a comfortable 57°F, trout and steelhead are actively feeding throughout the canyon. Flows at Maupin run somewhat lower than the Moody reading, which incorporates downstream tributaries — expect wader-friendly conditions at most established access points above Sherars Falls.

Hatches & Surface Activity

The Blue-Winged Olive (Baetis) hatch is the headline act right now. On overcast mornings and afternoons — and we've been seeing plenty of those — expect clouds of #18–22 BWOs riding the slicks from roughly 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Fish are keyed in tight, so match the hatch with a Parachute Adams #18–20 or a trailing CDC emerger. Don't leave home without a handful of these.

Mahogany Duns are also making their signature September appearance, with #14–16 patterns working well in the slower runs and backeddies after midday. As we head deeper into fall, watch for the first October Caddis to start showing up — big, orange caddis (#8–10) drifting along the banks in late afternoon are a sure sign the season is turning. A large Elk Hair Caddis or Stimulator in orange/rust will be key as this hatch builds over the coming weeks. Morning anglers should probe the tailouts and flats with Trico spinner patterns before the BWO hatch kicks in.

Nymphing

Between hatches, nymphing is producing consistently. A Copper John #14–16 or Pheasant Tail Nymph #16–18 dropped below an indicator in the deeper pockets and runs along the canyon walls is a reliable producer. Add a Zebra Midge #20 as a dropper in lower, slower water — the fish are actively feeding sub-surface in the mornings.

Fall Steelhead

September marks the opening of the fall steelhead run on the Deschutes, and fish are pushing upriver. The Maupin section — particularly the long pools and tailouts from Harpham Flat upstream — is historically productive this time of year. Swing a Woolly Bugger #4–6 in black or olive with a sink-tip through the prime holding lies at first light and last hour of daylight. Intruder-style patterns and classic greased-line techniques also apply in the slower slots.

Best Access Points

• Above Sherars Falls (Maupin Area): Harpham Flat (raft/drift launch, day-use wading), Oak Springs (excellent wade fishing, #1 nymph spot), Beavertail Campground (long pool, excellent BWO water), Trout Creek (popular launch, good wade access below)
• Below Sherars Falls: Primarily float/raft access — Gordon Ridge, Harris Canyon, and the lower canyon are best reached by drift boat. Wading is limited to rocky ledges. Day-use sites accessible from Hwy 216/Deschutes River Road.

Hazards & Reminders

Rattlesnakes are still active in canyon rocks — watch where you step. River traffic picks up on fall weekends; float anglers should yield to waders where practical. The lower canyon below Sherars Falls has limited vehicle access — plan your shuttle accordingly. Always wear a PFD in rafts; the canyon stretches include Class III water.

Flow data: USGS provisional, gauge 14103000 — Deschutes River at Moody, near Biggs, OR. Readings as of 5:45 AM PDT September 29, 2026.

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