Keno Dam to J.C Boyle Reservoir

Catch rates are low due to very cold water temperatures (36.5 F). Access will be challenging due to snowy roads. Flows have increased to 1220 cfs. Redband trout typically eat a varied diet in this reach. This includes eating large numbers of fat head minnows. Flies and lures that mimic minnows and sculpins work best this time of year. Also, this river has very abundant caddisflies and mayflies. Caddis larvae and pupae patterns work well. There are a large number of redband trout in the 12 to 16 inch size class. Eighteen-inch redband trout are also common. Water clarity is unusually clear.

Wading this stretch is very challenging. ODFW highly recommends wading staff, wading belt, and boots with studs. Wearing polarized glasses can also assist with wading and seeing the bottom substrate.

There have been a few reports of brown trout captured in this reach. If you catch a brown trout please take a picture and report to the Klamath Falls ODFW office at 541-883-5732 ext. 24.

J.C. Boyle Dam to J.C Boyle Powerhouse 

Fishing is best below the spring inputs. The springs start to discharge into the river approximately one mile below J.C. Boyle Dam. This section of river requires a hike down steep grade to the river with the exception of the area just above the powerhouse. Fishing is slow for small redband trout for those willing to hike. Water temperatures in this reach are much higher this time of the year due to this reach being dominated by springs.

J.C. Boyle Powerhouse to State Line with California

Open all year but access will be challenging due to muddy and snowy roads. Only 4X4 vehicles with excellent tires are recommended. Fishing is very slow during all daylight hours due to high flows and cold water temperatures. Flow estimates have been discontinued until next spring.

Crayfish, isopods and aquatic annelids were found to be the most common food item along the margins of the river. Large attractor flies such and wooly buggers and rubber leg stoneflies work best. Crayfish imitations are also productive. Black spinners and Panther Martins can also work. Below the JC Boyle Powerhouse the redband-rainbow trout get slightly larger than the aforementioned reach and average 12-inches but rarely exceed 16-inches. Currently, most redband caught are in the 10- to 14-inch range.