A river setting incongruous with its surroundings, the Deschutes is framed for much of its length by stark rimrock dropping off precipitously onto a greenbelt of foliage that cradles its fish laden waters. Early Spring on the upper river surrounding Maupin, Oregon finds the stone fly hatch creating a surface chaos inviting resident redside rainbows. This native fish grows thick shouldered in the bug filled waters of the Deschutes. Equally famous is the summer steelhead run that courses up the river starting in July.

Multiple day drifts on the lower fifty miles of the Deschutes provide access to some of the most gorgeous riffles and runs a fly fisher might imagine for the “laying of line.” Steelhead here are anxious risers for skated drys and can initiate takes that will create ample material for work hour daydreaming in months to come.

The Deschutes is a big rambling river which combined with frequent windy conditions dictates rods with backbone. A seven or eight weight with dry line is the standard recipe and the two-handed spey is gaining popularity.

Brian Silvey provides access and supplies for these trips under permit #056-8-576.