Bend Oregon?

[todd13]

I know this is kinda out there....I am going to central Oregon and spending a few days in or around Bend, Oregon.  Anyone from there or fished in the region?  I am thinking it may be easiest to take my own rod and rent waders (if needed).  How about wading sandals?  Anyone have any recommendations on those?  I am totally new to fishing, so I am learning all this stuff.

thanks - 

[jonbo]

I'd bring my waders. Also, if you can possibly afford the big splurge, hire a guide for at least a day. You'll learn local technique that will make the rest of your fishing a lot more productive and enjoyable.

[dainw]

Bend Oregon huh? Jealous man. Deschutes river is on the bucket list for sure. That' place is legendary. Never been myself but from what I hear, pretty treacherous wading. If that's where you're planning on fishing, probably a good idea to have metal studded boots at the very least and probably waders as well. Always best to get in touch with a local fly shop. Thinks there's lots of water around there besides the deschutes. Good luck.

[todd13]

Thanks. I will start looking for a forum and make some calls. I can swing a guide this time - "anniv trip/gift" should be my golden ticket, right? I am slowly getting my wife interested in fly fishing. She likes to hike, watch me and hang out.

[dainw]

When are you headed out? The Deschutes is famous for the salmonfly hatch in late May early June. I think steelhead start showing up late summer early fall.

[todd13]

I am heading there about June 10th. I will have to do more scouting. Not sure my 5 wt rod would survive a Steelhead. Bend is pretty far inland as well. I found a website to explore - don't think Steelhead are in that region. Looks like it will be a great time of year. Plenty of fishing around there it appears.

[slim]

Todd, I have a friend living at Sisters Oregon and as of last week they have had an enormous amount of snow.

You might call ahead and see if June is doable as well if your favorite choice of rivers will be open for fishing.

Probably get the Oregon fishing regs online.

[dainw]

Yeah there's a late summer steelhead run on the lower Deschutes. Steelhead will go as far inland as Idaho. June 10th should be prime time for the salmonfly hatch though. You'll be there at a great time.

[greenman]

Fishing regs are a definite must for the north west. And an interpreter for them. I fished Longview/Kelso area last year along the Cowlitz and the Kalama rivers. Beautiful country, gorgeous rivers. Tough fishing when I was there. My 6 wt nor I was up to the challenge. A guide is a another must have. Good Luck, and Tight Lines.