THE OREGON SPORTSMAN 75 



Each of these fish commands our respect for its different 

 fighting qualities. The lordly surges and spectacular leaps of 

 the trout excite keenest admiration. The vigorous power and 

 sullen rer stance of the char compel us to respect this voracious 

 fish and ause us some uneasiness for the safety of our tackle. 

 As to the whitefish, his skillful dodges and quick turns in white, 

 foamy water give us many a thrill, while his ability to grab, in 

 swift current, a spoon hook three times the size of his tiny square 

 mouth is a source of constant wonder. 



From the first of April till well into the winter fish can be 

 taken from the Deschutes, and I have no doubt bait fishermen 

 can get them even during the winter and early spring when the 

 stream is swollen and cloudy. The very cream of the season, 

 however, extends from about the' first of May, when the caddis- 

 flies hatch, till the last one disappears toward the end of June. 

 At this time the merest novice can get fish, and they are in the 

 pink of condition. 



These flies emerge from the pebbled shell where they have 

 spent the larval stage of their brief career, and hang in great num- 

 bers upon the willows and brush along the* banks of the stream. 

 It is then that the fish lie close under the banks, waiting for the 

 flies to drop. And it is then that the fishing is at its easiest 

 and best. 



Start your day's work with plenty of No. 4 and No. 6 caddis- 

 flies, tied especially in imitation of this insect, and don't forget 

 to soak up a half dozen six-foot leaders for immediate use. The 

 fish are large and powerful, and your tackle is bound to suffer. 

 I have learned to pin my faith on the big hooks at this season of 

 the year. Nothing smaller than No. 6. 



Approach the stream with caution. Although the fish are 

 close in, they are by no means as bold as this might seem to indi- 

 cate. They are close to shore because the flies are there, but for 

 this very reason they are even more shy than usual. Do not 

 expect too much of the big, fine-looking pools. The fish are not 

 there in May. Leave them for the September fishing. 



Cast your fly lightly into the comparatively still water above 

 some low-hanging willow or on the river side of a half-submerged 



