We’ve heard some mixed reports about the Upper Deschutes. Some people have been doing great up there, others say there aren’t many fish in the river, not even the whitefish. There’s definitely fish in the river, maybe just a few less than last year. The brook trout really like to hide in the undercut banks and log jams. Keep an eye out for green drakes, pale morning duns, blue winged olives, terrestrials and caddis. These are the primary dry flies that we see out there. BWOs are likely going to have large hatches this week during cooler weather. Nymphing with small mayfly patterns and midges can be super effective. Small baetis, PMD or pupa patterns are typically my go-to flies for the upper. Small streamers are really great as well. Sometimes the only way to get to the big brookies under the logs is to swing a streamer through. If you head up there this week make sure you bring some layers, it’ll be nice and cool. 

Suggested Dries:  Last Chance Green Drake #10-12, Carnage Drake #10-14, Double Decker Green Drake #10-12, X-Stimulator #12, Black or Tan Elk Hair Caddis #14-18, Black or Tan Foam Caddis #14-18, Purple Haze #14-18, Tilt Wing PMD #14-18, Parachute PMD #14-18, Black Stimulator #14-16, Parachute Adams #14-18, CDC Flying Ant #14-16, Black or Cinnamon Foam Ant #14-16, Hackle Stacker Baetis #16-20, Parachute Baetis #16-20.

Suggested Nymphs: Red or Black Copper John #14-18, Red or Black Lightning Bug #14-18, Red or Black Two Bit Hooker #16-20, Guide’s Choice Hare’s Ear #14-18, FB Pheasant Tail #14-18, Micro Mayfly #16-20, Pearl or Red Rainbow Warrior #16-20.