Brown Trout

While not as famous as some other Oregon trout streams, the Molalla River and its tributaries near Molalla offer surprisingly good brown trout fishing. These fish thrive in the cool, clear waters that flow from the Cascade foothills. The best time to target browns here is during the spring and fall, particularly after a light rain when the fish are more active. Focus on sections of the river with riffles, runs, and pools, paying close attention to areas with overhanging vegetation or submerged structure. A local tip is to access the river from the Dickey Prairie area; there are several Forest Service roads that provide access to less pressured sections. The brown trout in the Molalla River system can be quite selective, so be prepared to experiment with different fly patterns or small spinners. Matching the local aquatic insect hatches is key to success. Be aware of private property along the riverbanks and respect posted boundaries.