The main river that most anglers will be fishing during the Oregon DIY Event will be the Deschutes River. The Deschutes River provides fishing opportunities for native wild Redband trout. We chose this time as Salmonflies, Golden Stones, PMDs and Yellow Sallies should be on the menu. Read more about the Lower Deschutes Wild and Scenic River.
We have two main locations for the weekend, and you’ll find the addresses listed below. Be sure to enter them into your GPS while you still have cell service, as coverage can be spotty in this area.
- Maupin City Park – 206 Bakeoven Rd, Maupin, OR 97037
- Social Fish Pin – Click HERE
- Troutfest Location – Oasis Riverview Campground, 622 US-197 Maupin, OR 97037
DIY Fishing
These events require advance preparation and proactive engagement. Please note that our DIY Fishing events are truly do-it-yourself. Each angler is responsible for their own planning and preparation before arrival. While iFishiBelong and our event co-hosts provide helpful resources, links, and key information, it is the registrant’s responsibility to carefully review all emails and thoroughly explore the event website.
The more prepared you are, the better your experience will be. Familiarizing yourself with the area, understanding the logistics, and reviewing all provided materials in advance will help ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and successful event.
Live Q&A Session
Our goal is to equip each participant with knowledge of the area, how to fish it, and suggested fishing locations. Shared through the event webpages and reinforced during the Live Q&A session.
Please mark your calendars for the Live Q&A Session on April 8th, 2026, at 6 pm PT. Register HERE.
Fishing License
All anglers over 18 years old must purchase a fishing license. Purchase HERE. Older anglers may be eligible for a Pioneer or Senior License. Veterans and Active members of the armed services may also be eligible for license benefits.
- Columbia River Basin Endorsement is not needed if you are only fishing for trout on the Deschutes River.
- Tribal Fishing Permits –
- A tribal fishing permit is required for fishing or boating access for the waters of the Warm Springs Reservation. Read More HERE.
Fish Species
These are the fish species tha you might encounter while fishing the Deschutes River.
Wild and Native Redband Trout
DIY Fishing Blogs/Books
- Deschutes Angler Fishing Report
- Deschutes Angler River FAQ
- Fly Fishers Place Deschutes River info
- Fin and Fire Lower Deschutes Report
- Fly and Field Lower Deschutes
- Deschutes River Flows * Current Conditions
- Destination Fly Fishing Guide – Lower Deschutes River Oregon
- Hatch Guide for the Lower Deschutes River
Need to Borrow Equipment?
Each angler is expected to bring their own equipment and flies. We have rod/reel setups, boots and waders available for borrowing on a first-come, first-served basis. Please fill out the “Borrowed Equipment” form by May 15th, 2026 if you wish to borrow equipment.
Hire a Guide
We recognize that not everyone wants to DIY Fish and may prefer the expertise of a fishing guide. In our commitment to showcasing local businesses and guides, we’re pleased to provide a list of area guides who have registered on the Fish and Hang website, demonstrating their support and alignment with the iFishiBelong mission.
- Matt Mendes – Spin the Handle
- Mia and Marty Sheppard – Little Creek Outfitters
- Sequoia Hoffstetter – The Fly Fishers Place
There are several great guides on the Deschutes River. Click HERE to learn more.
Bend Fly Shops
Lower Deschutes River maps
Click HERE to view Bureau of Land Management (BLM) river maps.
Other Fishing Locations
There are several fisheries that you can try on your way into Maupin Oregon.
- Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
- Fall River – Deschutes National Forest
- Metolius River – Camp Sherman Oregon
- John Day River
May and June signify the runoff season, potentially leading to elevated water levels during the event. Checking the Madras Oregon water gauge station can be helpful. We will also provide ongoing updates on the conditions to ensure everyone’s safety. Regardless of the weather, this event will proceed as planned.
The Lower Deschutes River is big water. It’s important to be aware of conditions as they can change daily. A few things to remain conscious of:
- Slippery rocks and uneven footing, use a wading staff.
- Fast, deep water in sections, use a wading staff.
- Poison Oak – Leaves of three, let them be!
- You are in rattlesnake territory so a wading staff can be helpful to warn critters of your presence.
- During the spring and summer, we do see ticks in the area.
- Wear your bug spray, waders and protective clothing. Always check clothing after fishing to ensure you’re not bringing anything back to camp with you.
Clothing
- Waders are recommended for safety.
- Studded felt or studded rubber boots are best as rocks can be very slippery and uneven.
- There is not a lot of shade in the Deschutes Canyon so sun-protective clothing and sunscreen are a must, along with a good hat.
- It can be windy on the Lower Deschutes so be prepared to tighten your hat down or use a cord to keep it in place.
- Everyone should have a pair of polarized sunglasses for eye protection and to see fish and your obstacles under water.
- It’s always recommended to bring a rain jacket.
- Fly Rods – 5wt – 6wt.
- Rod Length – Average 9’.
- Fly Lines – Typical Floating Fly Lines
- Leader – 9’ 2x – 5x
- Tippet Spools – 3x – 5x
Deschutes River Flies
- Stoneflies
- Golden Stones (Dry and Nymph)
- Yellow Sallies
- Salmon Flies in Various Sizes and Patterns
- Chubby Chernobyls in Various Sizes and Colors (Black and Purple, Tan and Brown)
- Mayflies
- Pale Morning Dun (PMD) Light Yellow Bodies, Size #16
- Pale Evening Dun (PED) Born on Top, Pale Yellow Bellies, Size 12
- Green Drakes
- Dark Brownish Green, Dark Grey Wings, Size 10
- Caddis
- Nymphs
- Green Rock Worms
- Olive and Tan Caddis Pupa
- Dries
- Elk Hair Caddis
- Nymphs
Deschutes River Hatch Chart
Leader Examples
