In Oregon, fly fishing the Crooked River is a must. Our guide will help you know before you go.

Why Fly Fish the Crooked River?

It carves scenic canyons through central Oregon and is one of its best small trout streams, with the average size trout running around 10 inches.

The easy access and camping seven miles below Bowman Dam make this a great place to fine-tune your fly fishing skills or to teach a novice. Success is more likely with the fish count at approximately 4000 to 7000 trout per mile. Sounds like fun, yes?

The Crooked River is a tailwater river, which means the water released from the bottom of the dam has the lower temperature that trout need.

It has a tint to the water color, but don't let that fool you. The trout can see your fly even if you can't.

Best Time to Fish the Crooked River

You can fish the Crooked River year round. That said, the best fishing conditions will be in the fall or early spring. Winter may also be good with the fish count and size at its highest. Late spring will bring the melting snow and high muddy water levels.

Wading is safe and easy when the water flows are below 400 cubic feet below the dam. Be sure to check Crooked River Water Flow Chart before you decide to go.

Be careful when wading, the cloudy water makes it hard to see the bottom.

In the summertime be aware that this is rattlesnake country. You will most likely encounter them in the early evening.

My last trip there was in the summer and I had a great time.

Always remember, the best time to go fishing is when you can!

Where to Go on the Crooked River

Most productive fly fishing on the Crooked River is done on the seven miles below Bowman Dam.

If you feel like exploring you can also try the last ten miles before the Crooked River empties into Lake Billy Chinook. Be sure to ask for permission if it looks like private land.

You might also want to check out Smith Rock State Park. Expect a lot of hikers and climbers but very much worth the stop.

Bowman Dam

Best Fly Patterns for Crooked River

Scuds seem to be the fly of choice with the locals. The river is loaded with them. Olive and orange in sizes 12 to 16.

You will also have luck with a variety of caddis from February through September.

Terrestrials like ants and beetles are productive in later summer months.

See below for seasonal recommendations.

Be sure to check with the local fly shop for hatch conditions, and imitation recommendations.

Year Round

Midge patterns and scuds work great anytime.

  • Griffith’s Gnat
  • Serendipity
  • Brassie
  • Zebra Midge (red, green or black)
  • Midge Winkler
  • Olive, tan and orange scuds

February to March

From late January into May you will have Blue Winged Olives hatching.

  • Flashback Pheasant Tail
  • Sparkle Dun

April to September

  • Elk Hair Caddis
  • Soft Hackle
  • Green Rock Worm
  • Sparkle Pupa

Stock Up on Essential Flies for The Crooked River

Building a fly collection can be daunting. Until you understand there are a few key patterns for each type of insect. Our Essential Fly Boxes feature those key patterns specifically for Mayflies, Caddisflies, and Stoneflies. With multiple common sizes, and several of each size your Essential Fly Box will get you out on the water easily.

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Best Methods for Crooked River Oregon Fly Fishing

Oregon fly fishing will be most successful on the Crooked River drifting a nymph under an indicator or high-sticking one in pocket water. Focus on getting a good natural drift. Don't overlook the water near the bank.

If you find there is a lot of pressure from other fly fishers try going with a small scud or midge.

Once you have some success try swinging a streamer. You will catch fewer trout but they will be larger on the average.

Appropriate Gear for the Crooked River

• 3 to 6 weight fly rod setup with floating line

• Waders and wading staff

• Wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen

If you are just starting out in fly fishing check out our gear guides below to learn the important features, what to avoid, and some product recommendations.

Fly Rod Guide Fly Line Guide Fly Fishing Supply Guide

Campgrounds and Lodging

There are ten campgrounds below the Bowman dam. Some are small enough that RVs don't usually try them. This is a big plus for me as I don't enjoy the sound of the neighbor's generator.

There are paths along the river at many campgrounds and plenty of room for your back cast.
You might also want to check out Smith Rock State Park. The Crooked River runs right through it.

Prineville, Redmond and Bend are the major towns in the area. All can be reached within an hour's drive.

Fly Fishing Shops Near Crooked River

The Fly Fisher's Place Sisters, Oregon

Fly & Field Outfitters Bend, Oregon

The Hook Fly Shop Sun River, Oregon

Summary

Always check Oregon Fish and Game Regulations for the latest information.

Whitefish sometimes will outnumber the trout. It is all part of fly fishing Oregon's Crooked River. Release them so they can fight another day.

Did I already mention the rattlesnakes? I didn't come across any but be careful, especially in the evening.