Mckenzie

[Grantspastor]

JRR...I haven't fished it regularly for several years, but when I lived in Springfield we used to do very well. Coming up as has been noted is the March Brown hatch. It used to be very prolific and provide outstanding fishing. Later on the olive Caddis hatch is (or was) legendary. I've taken rainbows up to 6 1/2 pounds during that hatch. Check with a local fly shop...they can advise you. I always (years ago) did best for big rainbows from Bellinger's landing down to Armitage Park. It used to be good above Leaburg up to Blue River too. One place I used to fish from the bank while wading is accessed from the end of Game Farm road. You can fish up or down river from there.

The McKenzie should not be ignored for summer Steelhead. I have done particularly well there at times. Usual patterns and techniques. One of my best days fishing took place in early October around the opening of deer season. While everyone else was hunting we were hooking steelehead (16).

[ 03-08-2003, 01:53 PM: Message edited by: Grantspastor ]

[Snap-T]

Have you all heard of the lastest battle on the Mac. Unfortunatly the hatchery steelhead that are so abundent have carried in a disease. This has dramatically affected the trout populations, and decreased the numbers by epic proportions. I have been talking with the President of FFF, and he had an insider line on the damage. Effective today the Mac. harbors 100,000 less trout than a few years ago. WHAT!!!!! I couldn't believe it when I heard it.

Snap-T

[BlackfeetFF]

I was interested in the topic about drifting the Mckenzie. Unfortunately, I dont have a boat and was wondering where a good spot to fish this fishery from the bank. Directions, techniques, and any other info (patterns to use) would be much appreciated. thanks!

[Navigator]

Armitage County Park is an excellent spot for some easy bank access to good fly-fishing water. Both above and below the boat ramp. Follow the fisherman trails. You get to the park off Coburg Road. I like to hit this at dusk - blue-winged olive or small Adams. $3.00 to get in during the summer months. The only drawback is that the gate closes before the end of fishing - trust me, I have been locked behind it :hoboy: .