Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Deschutes River - Madras - Oregon

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra midge, Emergers
February Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra midge, Emergers
March Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra midge, Emergers
Blue Wing Olives Mid-day 16-20 BWO Patterns
April Blue Wing Olives Mid-day 16-20 BWO Patterns
Salmonflies All Day 6-10 Big Ugly Patterns
May Salmonflies All Day 6-10 Big Ugly Patterns
June Caddis All Day 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
Salmonflies All Day 6-10 Big Ugly Patterns
July Caddis All Day 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
August Caddis All Day 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
September Caddis All Day 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
Blue Wing Olives Mid-day 16-20 BWO Patterns
October Blue Wing Olives Mid-day 16-20 BWO Patterns
November Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra midge, Emergers
December Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra midge, Emergers

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Deschutes River in Madras, Oregon, offers excellent opportunities for fly fishing amidst breathtaking scenery. A few top spots recommended by experienced anglers include:

  • Macks Canyon: This area has a good population of wild trout. It’s less crowded, making it a great spot if you’re looking for solitude.
  • Warms Springs: A productive spot known for outstanding summer steelhead fishing.
  • Maupin: Home to multiple fishing derbies, and proves to be a popular location for catching both trout and steelhead.
  • The Mouth of the Deschutes: This spot is particularly productive in the warmer months when fish travel up the Columbia River and first enter the Deschutes.

Fly fishing on the Deschutes River in Madras allows anglers to relax in the beauty of Oregon’s high desert while waiting for a bite from a steelhead or trout.

Best Access Points

One of the most esteemed fly fishing destinations in Central Oregon is the Deschutes River. Madras, sitting in its heartland, offers remarkable and easy to access fly fishing spots.

Here are the top fly fishing access points:

  • Warm Springs: This is the starting point of the 100-mile trout stretch. You can access the lower Deschutes river here.
  • Maupin: Split into upper and lower accesses, this location offers an abundance of fly fishing spots. Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced angler, the Maupin will cater to your preferences.
  • The Mouth of the Deschutes: This is an unusual spot, offering both trout and steelhead fishing. Best period to fish here is October.
  • Below Sherars Falls: This fishery is accessible right near a rural highway, located downstream of the falls.

All spots can be reached within a short drive from Madras, making them perfect for short day trips and long weekends alike.

Local Fish

  • Steelhead Trout: Between July and November, steelhead trout are a popular target on the Deschutes River. Madras, in particular, sees a lot of fly fishers during this season.
  • Rainbow Trout: This is a year-round species in the river and typically measure between 10 and 15 inches, though larger “trophy” rainbows are also present.
  • Chinook Salmon: The spring run of Chinook salmon along the Deschutes is a must-try for any angler. The run usually occurs from April through early July.
  • Brown Trout: The Deschutes River also supports a healthy population of brown trout, they have a reputation for being a bit more challenging to catch, making them exciting targets for fly fishermen.
  • Mountain Whitefish: These fish may not have the same reputation as trout or salmon, but they are abundant in the Deschutes and can provide a fun challenge for fly fishing.
  • Large-mouth Bass: They cover slower-moving sections of the Deschutes, providing a great option for fly fishers looking for diversity in their catch.
  • Small-mouth Bass: These fish are commonly found in the lower stretches of the river. While they are smaller than their large-mouth counterparts, they can still put up a good fight.
  • Coho Salmon: This salmon species may not be as common as the other species on this list, but they are still targeted by some fly fishermen on the Deschutes, particularly during their fall spawning run.

About The River

The Deschutes River is a splendid natural resource that winds its way through the heart of Madras, Oregon. Dating back millennia, the Deschutes played a crucial role in the lives of Native American tribes, namely the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs.

The river’s name means “river of the falls” in French and was named by early French-Canadian trappers.

With a length of 252 miles, this river is a hotspot for local outdoor activities. The Deschutes offers accessibility for:

  • Fishing – Renowned for its trout and steelhead fishing.
  • White-water rafting – With several challenging rapids.
  • Hiking and camping – Boasting lush riverside trails and campgrounds.

Today, the Deschutes River – Madras also holds ecological significance, as it provides crucial habitat for a diverse range of wildlife.

The Deschutes River is not only an integral part of Madras’ history but also it’s heartbeat, providing both recreational and economical benefits.

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