Deschutes steelhead trip

[drifter24]

I just got a Willie's drift boat last fall and I wanted to take it on a multi-day trip down the Deschutes and fish for steelhead. I'm a good oarsman and was wondering if any of you knew a good stretch to fish. Also, what is the best time of year to hit it and maybe some good flies. This will be my first year fly fishing for summers. Thanks.

Jeff McEnroe

[greenbuttskunk]

late july (lower) -august -sept on up river. Green Butt Skunk's of course! Standard skunk, freight train, that type of pattern. Dark patterns, purple also works good. I don't float it some I'm a bad source on that on.

[Flatfish]

You may want to follow someone down on your first trip. Things are different on the D than the coast. It is big water that is exciting to run. But not forgiving. So learn from someone else in a drifter( rafts can do things that drifters can't. Sometimes the raft captain forgets this detail)and enjoy. 1st of July is my sorta traditional opener.

Or you could wait a couple months and do up by Beavertail. Easier to row than Rattlesnake and Colorado. Especially with a heavily loaded boat.

Mark and the dog.

[Mad Mikey]

Flatfish gave good advice. Don't get too worried about patterns, just get it in front of them.
Floating lines when the sun is off the water or in some cases, BEHIND the fish. Type III or IV sink tips with leech patterns during mid day.
When the fish are in, Beavertail to Macks' will get a lot of pressure from guides and drive in fishermen. Expect company and land on your evening drift early or you will just be on a scenic float. It gets reeeal competitive down there during steelhead season.
If you choose to drift to the mouth the main rapids are all in the last 8 miles. They are fairly easy if you are a good oarsman but worth a scout if it is your first time. The biggest drawback can be the wind. From the Greenlight stretch to Washout, miles 10 to 8 are very slow water and the windiest spots on the river. I've seen rafts get flipped just from the wind. Driftboats do not fair well in wind either. Best bet is to get your morning fishing in and move fast to your next camp.
If you'd like more details on the rapids feel free to e-mail me. I run the lower river constantly during steelhead season.