Metolius - Below Lower Bridge Question

[Hare's Ear]

I'm headed over the weekend after next. I've never fished below the lower bridge. Is it worth the hike? Or, is the only difference that there would be fewer fisherpersons?

[Steelie28]

I assume you are talking about Bridge 99, if not, disregard this info. I have fished down there a handfull of times as my woman likes to throw spinners. We hiked down the east bank from Bridge 99 campground pretty far on one occasion. If I remember correctly, access to the river is pretty good until just after the big slide. You will know the slide I'm talking about once you get there. After the slide, the bank is pretty overgrown and the river turns into whitewater for as far as I could see. I've always thought the hole below the bridge is a great spot to fish, but I have yet to pull anything out of there.

Steelie28

[Hare's Ear]

Sorry, I couldn't remember the name of the bridge. Yes, I meant Bridge 99.

[Pete]

There's a lot of water down there, much of it very nice, but different than above the bridge. It was a real shame they closed the road to everyone but the couple of home owners down there. Dry flies along the edges, nymphs deep and dries at dusk work really well. The fishing can be magnificent down there. About 6 or 8 miles in was a very nice camp ground with good river access at about a half-dozen spots. In the evening, the setting sun would illuminate a huge, craggy outcropping of snow white rocks at the north end of Green Ridge and it looked like the castles of Heaven on high. At the very end of the road is the remains of an old pioneer settlement. The log cabin, marked on the USGS maps, is long gone. But the apple trees they must have planted in two rows along their entry path are still there. It's magical. Grab a mountain bike and go for the adventure!

[scoutfish]

I think like Pete on this one. Take a bike ride, you'll also need a good roll cast. Lots of pocket water. One more thing, bring your black ants. ( flys what is) :grin:

[TillamookChinook]

Great reply, Pete!

It's nice of you to share a place you are obviously very fond of. That's the spirit of IFish.

:cheers:
TC

[Hare's Ear]

Thanks for all of the input. Pete, I really enjoyed your post. I won't have a bike with me on this trip. I'll be going again in late June and I'll take my bike for that trip.