Fall River
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Importance by half-month Super
Major
Minor
Slight
None
Hatches are matched from Westfly's database of "standard" fly patterns.
Nymph

Emerger

Flats, runs, backeddies: standard dry fly
Dun

Flats, runs, backeddies: standard dry fly
Egg-layer

Bankwater, slow-moderate runs: standard dry fly
Pupa

Adult

Trout
► Small worm imitations, such as a tan San Juan Worm, may pick up fish if drifted near the bottom--especially if there's an angler wading upstream from you.
► If you don't see rising fish, forget the dry fly and use a small nymph, such as a size-18 Copper John or Pheasant Tail, drifted near the bottom.
► Small black stoneflies (winter stones) may be available near the end of the month.
► Small worm imitations, such a tan San Juan Worm, may pick up fish if drifted near the bottom--especially if there's an angler wading upstream from you.
► Be prepared for fussy fish. They see lots of anglers all year, so you may need a 6X or 7X tippet, a 50-foot cast, and a downstream presentation when fishing a dry fly.
► Most trout will have migrated up the river, making the headwaters section the best place to seek them because the water is warmer there.
► When you come here for winter fly fishing, set your expectations: if you can get in three hours of good dry fly fishing, you're lucky.
General
► When checking the weather for Fall River, remember that it's 1,200 feet higher than Bend.
► Fall River is open from its source to above the falls (about four miles).
► The hatchery and springs areas offer the best access, especially once there is snow on the ground. There are some turn-outs on the road between those two points, and you can hike down to the river from these (it might be a hard slog coming back, however).
► A major snowstorm can put a couple of feet along the banks, and that makes access tricky; be prepared. With snowy banks, you need to watch your step near the river. Getting in can be dicey, and getting out can be even more problematic because of the steep, soft snow along the bank. Felt soles are a problem when hiking on snow; The white stuff sticks to the felt, and you soon have shoes that have added six inches to your height--and greatly diminished your stability.
Confluence Fly Shop 541-678-5351
Fly and Field Outfitters 541-318-1616
The Fly Fisher's Place 541-549-3474
The Hook 541-593-2358
Sunriver Fly Shop 541-593-8814