The Caddis Fly: Oregon Fly Fishing Blog

Last weekend we drifted from Olallie to McKenzie Bridge on the Upper McKenzie River. The water was high, running around 1600 cfs and water temperatures were still under 50 degrees by midday. Chris and guide George Recker ran the class IV rapid Fish Ladder twice to scout it out for 2008. The high water made these drift boat runs less technical than usual, but much faster.

Lots of bug activity on the upper river, including golden stones and the first green drakes of the year (monsters!!! Size 8). Possie Buggers fished below an indicator with split shot worked really well, but a golden stone dry fly or large parachute Adams pulled several fish as well.

The fish in the Upper McKenzie were super fat and healthy. We pulled several fish in the 16-18 inch range.