Prime walk and wade conditions for upper reaches of Mckenzie and Willamette Rivers

Looking to get out of the valley and fish some small water this summer and fall? Water conditions are perfect and fishing has been good on the North Fork of the Middle Fork of the Willamette, Salt Creek, Salmon Creek and the Middle Fork of the Willamette above Hills Creek Reservoir. All of these streams can be reached easily out of Oakridge, 45 min to the southeast of Eugene. Fish tend to be willing on these smaller, less pressured waters. Favorite patterns include Parachute Madam X #10-14, Parachute Adams #12-16, Parachute Hoppers and Elk Hair Caddis #12-16. Water levels are such that an angler can get in the water and walk upstream as far as you want. Deeper pools tend to hold the larger fish but don’t overlook cut banks and pocket water. -CD