If you spend much time on steelhead rivers, you've probably heard someone make the observation that the fly we choose to fish doesn't really matter. That comment is typically followed up with the idea that you just need to put your time in to find a player and stay confident. While there's no doubt our sport takes a healthy dose of patience, practice and persistence, I happen to fall into the fly does matter camp.
In todays post we're talking about rigging lead or tungsten worm weights on unweighted steelhead or salmon shank flies. This is an extremely useful fishing system that can greatly reduce the number of flies you tie or carry. First, you'll have to know the "saltwater loop knot". The most useful size weights are 3/16 oz and 1/8 oz although I have thrown up to 1/4 oz weights for super deep slots.
In todays post we're talking about rigging lead or tungsten worm weights on unweighted steelhead or salmon shank flies. This is an extremely useful fishing system that can greatly reduce the number of flies you tie or carry. First, you'll have to know the "saltwater loop knot". The most useful size weights are 3/16 oz and 1/8 oz although I have thrown up to 1/4 oz weights for super deep slots.
One in Winter from ryan peterson on Vimeo.
Props to Ryan Peterson and southern Oregon steelhead guide Rich Zellman. This video reminds you why winter steelhead are worth the wait... Nice work fellas.
Many of your questions can be answered in my "Trip Planner & Packing List" (PDF)
What time do we meet, when will we be done?
I will meet you at Heritage Landing at 2:00pm. I recommend having your waders on and fishing gear ready so we can maximize your first afternoon on the water.
How do I get a BLM Boaters Pass?
Your Deschutes adventure will originate at 1:00pm at Heritage Landing, near the confluence of the Deschutes and Columbia River. Heritage is about 95 miles due east of Portland, Oregon. Heritage is beautiful park with clean restrooms and cell coverage.
Driving Directions from Portland, Oregon
Deschutes River Steelhead Camp 2013 Pricing
Three days of fishing, 2 nights in camp $1485.00/per angler (Three anglers minimum/four angler max.)
Five days of fishing, 4 nights in camp $2475.00/per angler (Three anglers minimum/four anglers max.)
If you are a single or double… I often times have other anglers looking to share camp, please give me a call and we’ll get you on the water!
What is included with your camp trip?
Spey rods are extremely effective for steelhead fishing on the Deschutes River. The ability to cast with limited back casting room is a huge advantage. In addition, the length of two-handed rods allows the angler to control the speed of the fly, which is critical for success with steelhead.
Deschutes River Spey Fishing Equipment
Rods: 11’9 to 13’6' for a #6 to #8 weight Spey rods.
Reels: Large Arbor with 150 yards of 30lb. backing.
Running Line: 30lb. Airflo RidgeLine, Miracle Braid or Mono
June
Early steelhead start showing up in June though we typically don’t see good numbers until July. However, June is primetime for Deschutes trout fishing. Expect great trout fishing with the possibility of a steelhead.
July
The majority of Deschutes steelhead returning in July are wild. These chrome missiles are by far the hottest fish of the season and take the fly extremely well. July is a wonderful month to be on the Deschutes if you don’t like crowds. The trout fishing remains strong.
Deschutes steelhead start showing up in good numbers by mid-July. The run continues through November. Resident rainbows, called “Redsides” for their distinct markings, are present year round.