Raised in Central Oregon, Cory is entering his second decade of leading river adventures on local waterways such as the Deschutes, Owyhee, and John Day rivers. Now based in Bend, Oregon, he spends much of the winter season fishing and contributing to steelhead habitat restoration through his work with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Trout Creek Project. Cory, who proudly calls himself a “dry-fly enthusiast,” has an exceptional talent for spotting rising fish and uncovering hidden trout hotspots where a carefully presented fly can make all the difference. When the Deschutes fishing season slows down, Cory seamlessly transitions to his role with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. During spring and winter, he manages the smolt and adult steelhead traps on Trout Creek and assists with counts of Red Band Rainbow Trout. This hands-on conservation work plays a vital role in sustaining the future fish populations of the Deschutes and complements Cory’s ongoing passion for steelhead research and knowledge. Your guide can accommodate flexible starting points for your trip. An incredible experience that you’ll want to relive! Without a doubt, one of the finest guided fishing journeys you’ll ever enjoy.
All deposits made for this tour are non-refundable unless the booking is cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. If a cancellation occurs on the day of the trip or if the participant does not show up, the entire cost of the trip will be charged to the provided payment method.
Lunch will be served.
Join Cory, your knowledgeable and entertaining guide, for an unforgettable day on the water. Drift along the breathtaking high desert canyon, where you’ll encounter fierce rainbows and stunning scenery on the renowned Deschutes River of Oregon. Cory’s drift boat accommodates up to three anglers comfortably, and if your group includes a fourth person, he is happy to provide an additional guide from his exceptional team of experts.
Fly fishing on the Deschutes is unique—while typically a delicate sport requiring finesse, here Cory prefers a more aggressive approach. He enthusiastically casts large flies onto the water’s surface, eagerly anticipating the exciting topwater strikes. The famous Salmon fly hatch, which occurs from mid-May to early June, is a highlight, but don’t feel limited to these dates. There are numerous other productive hatches throughout the season that offer excellent fishing opportunities.
The Deschutes River flows northward through the high desert starting at Pelton Dam, creating a classic tailwater fishery. Its consistently cold and swift waters support a rich variety of insect life, providing abundant food for native trout year-round. The iconic Salmon fly hatch is the river’s most celebrated event—these impressive insects can grow up to two inches long, attracting the largest trout who simply cannot resist feeding on them when they appear.
