As the fabled big-bug hatch winds down in the desert, we look ahead to summer days on the local waters of the McKenzie and Willamette.  But before we do that, here’s a look back at the last few weeks of adventure in the incomparable Deschutes Canyon.

Thanks to Scott Blackwell of High Desert Drifters and to Ethan and Kyle of Ethan Nickel Outfitters for black-belt outfitting. And special appreciation to Ty Holloway for his bravery in a moment of mortal peril in a Madras hotel room.

It’s Springtime on the McKenzie, and the fish are jumping!  The Green Caddis are out, and trout are showing their excitement by leaping clear out of the heavy riffles to attack these bouncing bugs.  The first significant annual big-bug hatch makes for some of our favorite fishing of the year!

It’s also the perfect time to bust out the Tenkara Rods, as these big active bugs are best danced on the heavy riffle water near the boat.  A recent pure Tenkara outing with Fred and John was an excellent case in point.

Trout are on the bite!  See you out there!