Getting There: From Prineville, follow Hwy 27 toward Bowman Dam. Do not follow signs toward Prineville Reservoir.

Fisheries: This section of the Crooked River provides native rainbow trout and whitefish fisheries due to cool productive waters in this reach. Whitefish abundance has increased in recent years and offers excellent angling.

Useful Information: Best fishing is in the 7 miles immediately below Bowman Dam because of high trout and whitefish densities in this reach. Trout can average from 9-12 inches with larger fish occasionally taken. There is excellent access from day-use sites and campgrounds, with trails following the river closely in many places. This stretch of the river supports a robust trout population with good fishing year-round, though it’s best from September to mid-May. The river is murky from dam-released sediment, but fish can spot very small artificial flies. This is a good place to learn wading techniques since it isn’t too big or too powerful. Fish are found close to the banks.

Tackle & Techniques: This is a wonderful river to fly fish, with good back-casting room and lots of natural insect life. Blue-winged olive mayflies, midges and scuds are the natural forage in winter. Mahogany dun mayflies and caddis are present in late summer, and nymphs of many species are present year-round. Fishing spinners can be effective, as can bait when regulations permit.

Facilities: Nine campgrounds and three day-use areas with picnic tables, pit toilets; drinking water at Chimney Rock campground only.

Fees: Yes, for overnight use; no, for day use.

Additional Activities: Nearby Prineville Reservoir for boating, waterskiing, swimming, hiking. Nearby state park: Prineville Reservoir State Park.

For More Information:
ODFW Prineville Office — (541) 447-5111
BLM, Prineville Office — (541) 416-6700