This past fall nothing of the sort happened. We had continued moderate temps and no big rain events to speak of. This kept the Deschutes flowing with perfect water temps, at average summer levels, all the way through December. The fish seemed to be enjoying the extended season, grabbing flies with authority when given the chance. Floating lines and even dry flies continued to bring fish up to the surface well past the time when it would normally would be considered sink-tip only fishing.
Best part of all, crowds were non-existent and wildlife was abundant. I love fishing a river full of bright fish with nobody around…nothing beats it! Rested steelhead means grabby steelhead, and this past November and December that is what they were on the lower Deschutes.
This time of the year the days are very short and light in the canyon is low, I like to be on the water this time of the year from sun up to sun down. With the low sun angle and the steep canyon walls, you can be fishing in the shade the majority of the day. These conditions call for a very lightly tinted sunglass lens like Sightfisher. This lens is the best low light conditions!
Looking forward to some fun fishing adventures in the coming months. Stay tuned for more trip reports.
Until then....
Jeff
