How to go fish the McKenzie River

The months we list for the McKenzie River are May, June, July, August, September. You are inside that window now, so this brief is written for August.

August

Reading the gauge…

Flies to tie — August

Caddis#14-16
Elk Hair Caddis, CDC Caddis
Hoppers#8-12
Chubby Chernobyl, Dave's Hopper

Access

Paradise Campground
44.150, -122.100parking
Finn Rock Reach
44.183, -122.233parking
Hendricks Bridge (Walterville)
44.083, -122.567parking

Regs — check current rules before you go

Check Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife for current regulations. Bull trout are catch-and-release only. Specific regulations apply to salmon seasons. Barbless hooks required.

Pack list

A current state fishing licence
Waders and boots you have already leak-tested
Net, nippers, forceps
Floatant and desiccant
Tippet in the sizes the chart asks for
Water, sun cover, polarised glasses

Generic gear. Anything specific to this water is above.

Full hatch chart, access map and live gauge on the McKenzie River page →