Info on the Deschutes

[Die_Hard_FishR]

I am looking for some info on camping and/ or places to stay on the Deschutes between Warm Springs and Macks Canyon. We are making the trip for ten days. We have never been on this section of the river. Any hazards or anything that we should look out for? I have always fished on the first 5-7 miles of the river, we know this section. We have been talking about making this trip for a couple of years now, and finally have the time to do it. Any other info would be very helpful.

This will give me a good chance to break my new 4wt in.

Is anyone going to be around Maupin on the 5th, we should be there by then. That gives us 6 days to make it from Warm Springs.

Thanks

Scott

[ZaQ]

Sounds like a good trip. I am sure you are aware of the many rapids you are going to come upon, whiskey dick, white horse, box car, and oak springs. There is lots of camping along the river, stick to the normal sites. Watch for snakes. Bring lots of water. Gee what else,,,,,,,,,,

That 4 wt soudns like it is going to be fun, take some great pictures and share them with us when you get back! :wave:

[Mad Mikey]

Are you floating or car camping???

[Die_Hard_FishR]

We will be floating the river, and camping if possible. If not we will have to pull out for the nights and find a place.

[long_shanks]

You floatin the river? Dont forget your boat! Hehee gimmie a call :jester: I think ill need my boots for this call

[Die_Hard_FishR]

we are going to float it. well only if i dont forget my boat in your garage :laugh: We went up to Wallowa lake yesterday, water was high in the lake, and the rivers were really high and off color, not near as bad as the Umatilla. Remember the places we went, well you could hardly wade it yesterday :depressed: I'll call ya later today after i get more coffee down.

[Blue Tip Spinner]

you might want to know that the section from warm springs to mack's canyon contains the infamous Shears Falls. you might want to pull the boat out above that and put in just below :grin:!!! i'm sure you are aware, but i did want to post that up just in case...

have a good time out there!!!!!!!

[Die_Hard_FishR]

yeah I have heard about Shears. My buddy said oh, dont worry about it and just laughs! So I know i will avoid it. Thanks for the warning though.

[Rusty]

I don't know if you are kidding or not, but in case you really are planning on drifting the Deschutes with no prior experience, I seriously doubt your judgment! The are many rapids in the section you described, some of which require some knowledge of the correct pathway through. Whitehorse comes to mind, followed by Upper Wapinitia, Boxcar, etc. :depressed: :bowdown:

Do not get me wrong, many people do this section and have no problems based on their experience rowing in easier rivers, but if you are a novice boatsman, use EXTREME caution. Can you say, "OH S--- Rock? It is aptly named, and eats many boats each year. Call Mark Angel! :smash: :smash: :bigshock:

Also, your choice of rods should include a 7 or 8 weight. The wind can be fierce, especially in the afternoon and your 4 wt. will not cut it..literally.

And, be sure to buy a Boaters Pass. The fine is expensive and the cadets LOVE to harrass boaters, they have nothing else to do. :dance:

Lastly, even though you will pay $2.00 a day per person, times a gillion people who float the river each weekend, the toilets most likely will NOT have any T.P. (Where does the money go, you may ask?) Great question! No answer!! :shrug:

I have spouted off long enough, but I have OVER 500 trips down the Deschutes since 1972 and I am trying to pass along some of my experience to you in hopes you use good common sense and have a great time! :yay: :dance:

Rusty