Fall Fires Up on the Crooked: Caddis, PMDs, and Early Mahogany Duns — Guides Calling It Incredible

Crooked River — Below Bowman Dam | September 9, 2026

The Crooked River's Wild and Scenic stretch below Bowman Dam is fishing as well as it has all year. Local guide outfitters have been logging "incredible" days through early September, with excellent caddis and PMD hatches and willing fish throughout the canyon. USGS gauge #14087400 (below Opal Springs, near Culver) registers 1,240 cfs — note that Opal Springs contributes substantial spring inflow, so the prime fishing section directly below Bowman Dam sees considerably lower flows (approximately 150–200 cfs, typical for late summer). Water temperature is a crisp 55°F (12.9°C), and clarity is crystal clear.

The Crooked is a year-round fishery, but September may be its finest hour. Overcast skies — which have been frequent this past week — push fish to the surface and extend hatch windows deep into the afternoon. The 10–12 mile Wild and Scenic stretch holds a thriving population of wild redband rainbow trout and mountain whitefish, with fish averaging 12–16 inches and genuine trophy specimens lurking in deeper pools.

What's Hatching

Caddis have been prolific, with tan and olive patterns working throughout the day. PMDs (Pale Morning Duns) are hatching in solid numbers in the early-to-mid afternoon, with overcast days producing excellent dry fly opportunities. The first Mahogany Duns of the fall should be arriving this week — September traditionally marks the beginning of that hatch, and it intensifies through October. If fish aren't rising, don't overthink it: nymphing is consistently the most productive strategy on the Crooked, and the river fishes well below the surface all day long.

Top Fly Recommendations

Dry Flies:
Elk Hair Caddis #14-16 (tan or olive) — proven in current caddis flights. Parachute Adams #14-16 — matches PMDs and early Mahogany Duns beautifully. Chubby Chernobyl #10-12 — excellent attractor and indicator for a dropper rig in broken water.

Nymphs:
Pheasant Tail Nymph #12-18 — the Crooked's most versatile subsurface producer; do not leave home without it. Zebra Midge #18-22 — reliable year-round; fish it as a trailer below a heavier nymph. Copper John #14-16 — effective in faster riffles and at the heads of pools.

Streamers:
Woolly Bugger (olive or brown, #8-10) — swing through deeper pools and undercut banks in the early morning hours for the biggest fish in the canyon.

Best Access Points

• Below Bowman Dam (river mile 0–2): Immediate tailwater access; walk downstream from the dam parking area. Cold, clear water holds fish tight to the banks.
• Palisades Campground (BLM): Accessible fishing platform, great riffles, and excellent wade access. Perfect for anglers of all mobility levels.
• Chimney Rock Campground (BLM): Accessible fishing platform with stunning canyon views; one of the most popular and productive access points on the river.
• Crooked River Ranch area: Public access stretches with a variety of runs and pools; less pressured stretches reward the angler willing to hike a bit.

Hazards and Regulations

The Crooked River below Bowman Dam is fly fishing only and catch-and-release for trout — know the regulations before you go. Prineville Reservoir was reported at approximately 32% capacity in late August; dam releases can fluctuate, so check current flows before wading. The streambed has slippery volcanic rock — felt-soled waders or studded boots are strongly recommended. Stay aware of changing water levels downstream of the dam.

The Crooked River in September is a gift. Accessible, uncrowded compared to summer, and loaded with willing trout. This is Central Oregon fly fishing at its best.