Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass fishing near Madras isn't as widely known as trout fishing, but it can be surprisingly good. The Deschutes River, particularly the sections downstream from the dams, offers decent smallmouth habitat. Look for rocky areas, submerged structure, and current breaks where smallmouth like to ambush prey. The warmer months, from late spring through early fall, are typically the most productive. Smallmouth are aggressive and readily take a variety of lures and flies. A local tip: focus on areas with basalt rock formations, as these provide excellent cover. Access to the Deschutes River can be found at several points along Highway 97 and through various recreation areas. Smallmouth in this section of the Deschutes tend to be relatively small, but what they lack in size, they make up for in fight. Be prepared for some challenging wading conditions in certain areas, and always check river flows before heading out.