Fish Master: Stevie Brehm
Contact: stevie_b@comcast.com, 541.521.6765
Overview: The Wild and Scenic Crooked River is a small tailwater know for it's abundant fish and varied bug populations. Just east of Bend, the Crooked flows out of Bowman Dam and through 12 miles of beautiful rimrock canyon. Join us May 3-5 for riverside camping, or stay nearby in Prineville, Redmond or Bend.
The fishing: Open year round, the Crooked follows the Central Zone stream regulations...flies and lures only, no bait. All wade fishing, it's known for having mostly small fish and there are lots of wild redband trout and mountain whitefish in the 6-12 inch range. The river is also known for it's turbidity, often looking cloudy as it's nutrient rich water flows from Prineville Reservoir usually around 250 cfs. Close to Bend, the Crooked can get crowded so expect to see other flyfishers.
This is a great river for newer flyfishers. Easy to read the water, not many bushes in your back-cast and safe wading...though a wading staff is recommended due to slippery footing. Shallow indicator nymphing and euro techniques produce the most hook-ups, and dry fly hatches are varied and profuse. A list of recommended flies will be provided later but small midge, mayfly, caddis and scud patterns are great.
Gear recommendation: A four or five weight rod with a floating line is perfect or bring your light euro set-up. Waders, wading staff and felt-soled boots will be best.
The camping: There are abundant BLM campsites along the river all first come first served with picnic tables, pit toilets, fire rings and no water. Fishmaster Stevie and wife Gail will be at Palisades Campground fifteen miles south of Prineville on Hwy 27.
Directions from Eugene: A 3 hour drive will take you up the McKenzie, over to Sisters, through Redmond to Prineville. Stock up in Prineville for last minute supplies and water. Take Hwy 27 south 15 miles to Palisades Campground. If you stay in Bend it's a 45 minute drive. Note: don't go to "Crooked River Campground" it's not nearby.
Below are some informational links. The is a ton of info about the Crooked online, and our club has had several speakers give presentations on this desert gem.