Gorge Fly Shop Blog: Columbia Gorge Fishing Report 8/29/18

Smokey skies and swung flies...

Steelhead: Numbers of steel have increased a little lately over the dams, most likely due to the cooler weather we've been waiting for... As expected the angler numbers on the rivers are a direct correlation from those queued into dam counts. However, numbers are still pretty low in the grand scheme of things. While sometimes I'm apart of the O'Dark 30 Crew that gets to spots before first light, I really dislike competing for water. Thus, I've been bushwhacking through woods and rappelling down cliffsides in order to find untouched water. It's a bit more exploratory and a bit of a gamble, but it sure beats standing in line for the the pool that was rumored to hold fish recently. I have heard fishing has slowed a little on the main rivers, which is again why I like approaching the less attractive water. Though you can certainly grab a guide to get chauffeured from spot to spot in either a sled or a drift boat, and you'll most definitely be put in the right spots (and hopefully at the right time!). Obviously I wouldn't pass up an opportunity to hop on someones boat, but I've always been more of a DIY guy.

This native one-salt fish thought it was much bigger with the fight it displayed. I love wild steel!

I've heard the Klick is in a little better shape and finally getting some better clarity. I haven't been over there recently, but I have also heard the lower flows have made floating more difficult. Be cautions if floating above town as there are a couple spots with log jams or where the current pushes boats into walls.

Trout: Caddis hatches are the main program on the Deschutes right now and flows are about back to the historical average. You still might be finding some fish further off the bank than usual but I would just keep an eye on the foam lines. The majority of fish I find out there are typically along the foam lines. I haven't been up to the little creeks lately, but I've heard some second hand reports that the trout are still gobbling up various dry flies.

Warmwater: Columbia temps and levels have stabilized since the last report. Plenty of smallmouth bass and carp to go around! With a little of this cool weather reprieve, it might be nice to go fish some warmwater without feeling like you're getting roasted out there. The John Day River is all but a trickle right now- Under 14 CFS at McDonald Ferry! While the bass are still there, they are out of their typical lies. A buddy of mine was over there recently and in two half days of fishing landed over 180 bass, with the largest being about 16"- A black gurgler-like fly was his predominant choice.

As always, we are happy to talk fishing anytime. Give us a call if you have any specific questions on local rivers, gear, and tactics, or if you just want some encouragement to get out of the office.