Deschutes River camping float trips
The best fly fishing on the Deschutes River can be found during a 35 mile camping float trip from Trout Creek to Maupin, Oregon. This is a Wild & Scenic section of the Deschutes river, only accessible to the public by boat. Guarded by class III+ Whitehorse Rapids, the float from Trout Creek to Maupin is best experienced under the guidance of a local outfitter. River Runner Outfitters provides three to five day guided camping float trips through this remarkable section of the Deschutes, including all meals and camping equipment.
Fly fishing pressure is significantly lighter below Trout Creek. The Deschutes River's wild rainbow trout are less spooky and tend to average a larger size. The dry fly fishing is superb and a variety of hatches will challenge angler's presentation and hatch matching skills. The salmonfly hatch in May and June, summer caddis fly hatches, and spring and fall mayfly hatches provide almost constant dry fly action. When the trout aren't visibly rising, searching with attractor flies often will result in bringing trout to the surface.
Steelhead run in the Deschutes River from Trout Creek to Maupin by mid September. A combination trout and steelhead fly fishing trip sets the Deschutes apart from other Western rivers. Indicator nymphing riffles and pocket water will result in some beautiful rainbow trout, some resident and others large migrants from the Pacific Ocean.
Each day you will float a different stretch of river and experience new fly fishing challenges. wildlife is abundant, the scenery is stunning, and many exciting rapids will break up the fishing day. A Deschutes River guided camping float trip is one of America's great down river fly fishing adventures.
camping and dining accommodations
With no lodges along the Lower Deschutes River, camping out becomes part of the experience. Each day you will float and fish in between camping areas, while our chef breaks down camp and transports it by boat to the next site. Camps and meals are completely catered by River Runner Outfitters. A heated steel framed wall tent provides shelter and warmth and serves as the main gathering and dining area. Guest quarters sleep two anglers per tent, on sturdy cots topped with self inflating pads for warmth and comfort. Battery powered LED lanterns provide interior lighting in each tent. When regulations permit, gathering around a campfire completes a perfect day of fly fishing the Deschutes River.
We love great food, and are committed to providing the best dining experience possible on the Deschutes River. Meals are prepared with fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients on the river by our house chef. When the fishing day is over, anglers arrive at camp and are greeted by the warm glow of the wall tent, where appetizers and beverages are ready... read more about Deschutes River camps & food
