Fly Fishing Central & Southeastern Oregon. Harry Teel

Spinner, Callibaetis, Comparadun, Blue-Winged Olive, Trico, X Caddis, Henryville Special, CDC Caddis, Slow Water Caddis.

      Nymphs: Hare’s Ear, Chironomid Pupa, Zug Bug, Scud, Brassie, Serendipity, and Pheasant Tail.

      Streamers: Leech, Woolly Bugger.

       When to Fish

      It’s best to fish in May and June and September and October. The Ana River fishes best in the early morning and late evening.

       Seasons & Limits

      Generally this river is open year-round. Because regulations are subject to change, consult the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife regulations or a local fly shop before fishing.

       Nearby Fly Fishing

      In a weekend’s time it is possible to fish the Ana River, Ana Reservoir, Lake of the Dunes, and the Chewaucan River (all of which are described in this guide).

       Accommodations & Services

      There is a store, restaurant, motel, and gas at Summer Lake. There are camping facilities near the dam at Ana Reservoir.

       Rating

      Harry’s Opinion: If you happen to hit a good day, you’ll come back for more of the Ana. A soft 4.

       Chewaucan River

      The Chewaucan is not a big river, but it is enjoyable to fish with a fly rod. It’s a pretty river, off the beaten path, and not very crowded. If you are in the area fishing the Ana or Lake of the Dunes and want a more forested setting or a change of location, give the Chewaucan a try.

      The Chewaucan flows out of the mountains and heads for the Great Basin, where it dissipates into the Oregon desert. As you go upstream from Paisley, you enter the Fremont National Forest. Much of the fishable river lies in this pine-studded drainage. The numbers of redband trout have gone down due to recent low-water conditions, but the fly fishing is still pretty good. Don’t forget mosquito repellent. You’ll need it!

      To get to the Chewaucan, drive to the small town of Paisley near Summer Lake, on Highway 31. You’ll need to turn to the south just west of Paisley to access the best part of the river. Paisley is a good rest stop when traveling through this rural area.

      The Chewaucan River provides an uncrowded alternative. Photo by Matt Johnson.

       Types of Fish

      Predominantly planted rainbow trout from 8 to 12 inches. Some nice fish in the 14- to 16-inch range are taken on a regular basis.

       Known Hatches

      Mayflies, midges, and caddis.

       Equipment to Use

      Rods: 3–5 weight, 7–9 feet in length.

      Reels: Palm drag.

      Lines: Match floating and sink tip to rod weight.

      Leaders: 4X and 5X, 9 feet in length.

      Wading: Felt-soled hip boots are OK, but you’re better off with lightweight waders with felt-soled wading shoes.

       Flies to Use

      Dries: Pale Morning Dun, Adams, Renegade, Royal Wulff, Mosquito, Comparadun, Elk Hair Caddis, H&L Variant, X Caddis, Humpy, CDC Caddis and Madam X, Blue-Winged Olive.