The Upper Deschutes remains a great summer option. Recent reports have been especially good for brook trout, with rainbows and whitefish mixed in throughout the system. Fishing pressure has been noticeable in the more popular stretches, so moving away from the obvious access points and focusing on undercut banks, logs, and deeper bends can make a big difference.

Caddis remain the most consistent hatch, with smaller tan and yellow caddis showing alongside PMDs. Ants and beetles continue to be excellent searching patterns, particularly through meadow sections and along grassy banks. Surface activity can be sporadic during the day, but fish have been more willing to look up as evening approaches.

Subsurface fishing has been the most reliable with small Perdigons, PMD nymphs, stonefly nymphs, and jig-style patterns producing throughout the river. Small streamers are also worth working tight to wood and undercut banks, especially when looking for larger brook trout.

Recommended Flies

X-Caddis (#16-18)
Purple Haze (#16-18)
Flying Ant (#14-16)
Foam Beetle (#12-16)
PMD Nymph (#16-18)
Violet-Tail Jig (#16-18)
Black Perdigon (#16-18)
Small Stonefly Nymph (#12-16)
Olive Mini Sculpin (#8-10)