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The Metolius River is unique in many ways, but it is especially
unique in that it supports healthy populations of two native
trout species. The Metolius is one of the last remaining habitats
for the threatened Bull trout, which grow large (up to 15 pounds)
in this pristine watershed. In fact, recent population surveys
indicate that the Bull trout population is increasing in the
Metolius, a testament to the excellent water quality and habitat
that characterize this river. Fishing for Bull trout is generally
best in late fall, winter, and early spring when the fish feed
aggressively on whatever they can fit in their mouths. Bull trout
will eat anything from the largest streamer patterns to small
nymphs, but subsurface flies are generally the key. Bring a stout
rod and big fish skills if you hope to land one of these brutes!
 The Metolius also supports a healthy population of native redband rainbow trout, some of which are enormous. These fish are beauties--bright pink/red stripes and large spots--and strong. Although not as plentiful as in other streams in Central Oregon there are enough nice rainbows here to draw anglers from all over the Pacific Northwest. Catching them is another matter entirely. Keys to success here include a careful approach, long leaders, good presentation, and a six days dead drift. And we mean dead. Fish can be caught year round on the standard nymph patterns and anglers occasionally find themselves in excellent hatches of blue-winged olives, caddis, green drakes, and March browns.
For more information about fly fishing on the Metolius River, please contact Deep Canyon Outfitters |
