McKenzie and Willamette Steelhead anglers are having mixed results so far this season. Fish counts over Willamette Falls are about one half of last years numbers as of the end of May. Although the numbers are not fantastic there are fresh Summer Steelhead in both the McKenzie and Willamette Rivers. Concentrate on the McKenzie from Leaburg Dam to Hendricks Park. Willamette fish seem to be spread thinly throughout the system from Dexter and on into town.
Water conditions are ideal on both the McKenzie and Willamette Rivers. Looking forward a bit, fish numbers are likely to improve and our local rivers are likely to get lower and lower. While flies like the Moal Leech and Signature Intruders have been solid producers over the years this years lower water will give cause for lighter flies, floating and slow sinking tips and longer lighter leaders. This year smaller and lighter traditional steelhead flies are good to have in the arsenal, along with Living Leeches ( a more slender “snaky” MOAL style leech ).
Good Luck out there!
