Calm overcast conditions had the lower McKenzie and Middle Fork of the Willamette fishing well the past few days. The McKenzie is still running a bit high but still at a very nice level. The lower river is maintaining the best water temperatures and nymphing remains the most productive strategy. Use Mega Princes, Possie Buggers, Bead Head Princes, Bead Head Pheasant Tails and Bead Head Poxy Backed Hares Ear nymphs under an indicator for all day success. The March Brown hatch is still hanging on. The bugs tend to get smaller and lighter in color as the hatch winds down use March Brown extended body to match this “slighter” may fly.
The Middle Fork of the Willamette’s water level has bounced around a bit but is now at an excellent level. Similar tactics as the McKenzie will work well. Both rivers continue to experience large numbers of small caddis adults in various stages of development. Look for bank feeders and fish moving into shallow riffles as evening approaches.–CD
