Tips for Steelhead Fishing the Lower Deschutes

A Checklist for Late Summer Steelheading near Portland, Oregon

Aug 26, 2009

From July into December, summer steelhead pour into the lower Deschutes River 2 hours from Portland. Proper preparation will insure a safe and rewarding experience.

Hundreds of fly and spin fishermen descend on the lower 15 miles of the Deschutes River during late summer to chase returning steelhead. This is one of the most beautiful river stretches in the northwest, but it can also be risky for unprepared fishermen.

The Lower Deschutes River in Oregon

The Deschutes River meets the larger Columbia River just east of The Dalles, about a hundred miles from Portland, Oregon. The river originates in central Oregon's mountains, and draws white water enthusiasts and fishermen along its entire length. The lower 15 miles are particularly accessible to metropolitan Portland fishermen, and the summer steelhead run, which starts in July, provides some of the state's most exciting fishing.

There is a campground on the east side of the river's mouth, and trails lead back upriver from the mouth on both sides. The trail on the east side is suitable for bicycling, and fishermen with bikes can easily fish nearly 15 miles of the river from that side. Hikers can also fish the lower few miles from either side, and guides provide fishing along the entire stretch, either from drift boats 25 miles upriver, or jet boats from the mouth.

Fly fishing is popular along this stretch of river, as is fishing with spinners and plugs. This part of summer is generally hot and sunny, and the cold clear water inviting. The swift water can be dangerous, however, and the rocky slopes to the river can be treacherous. Rattlesnakes are common in the area during this part of the year as well. Fishermen should be well prepared before fishing the lower river.

A Checklist for Fishing the Lower Deschutes River

Because late summer can be brutally hot along the river, fishermen should bring extra water and energy snacks. The heat, often near 100 degrees, will superheat a bottle of water, so insulated water containers are preferred. Clothing should be cool and sturdy felt-soled fishing boots are necessary. Fishermen should be careful not to wade too deeply in the strong current, and should be aware that the river is full of slippery rocks and sudden deep holes. The following checklist is a basic guideline. Fishermen should add to this as might seem personally desirable:

Rattlesnakes Along the Lower Deschutes River

In late summer, a fisherman is likely to see one or more rattlesnakes. Normally, these snakes will avoid confrontation, but accidentally stepping on or near one can trigger a strike. From the bicycle trail along the east side of the river, occasional trails lead down the rocky slope to the river's edge. Snakes are more commonly found under the sage brush than on the rocks, so special care should be taken walking through the brush.

One of the most effective ways to avoid snakes while walking down the slope through brush, is to use your wading staff to probe the path ahead of you. Sticking to cleared trails is preferred to walking cross-country, as well. Rattlesnakes are a second reason to wear waders and sturdy fishing boots.

Late Summer Fishing for Steelhead on Oregon's Deschutes River

Fishing for summer steelhead on the lower Deschutes can be a thrilling experience in an incredibly beautiful setting. Proper lure and color selection will make the trip more productive. Proper planning and preparation will make the trip more safe and enjoyable.

The copyright of the article Tips for Steelhead Fishing the Lower Deschutes in Freshwater Fishing is owned by Bob Bowers. Permission to republish Tips for Steelhead Fishing the Lower Deschutes in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.