Deschutes River Salmonfly
A local favorite from the Deschutes River has finally been made available in commercial production.
Developed by Big Y staff member Matt Duce, this fly is designed to ride low in the water, mimicking natural behavior as anglers expect.
Effective both as a salmonfly and during fall seasons when large October caddis are present.
Can be fished on the surface or allowed to sink slightly to create a drowned appearance, depending on fishing conditions.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Origin | Deschutes River, Oregon |
| Developer | Matt Duce, Big Y Fly Co. |
| Flight Pattern | Rides low in water |
| Best Use | Salmonfly imitations; effective in fall with October caddis |
FAQ
Can this fly be used in fall when October caddis are present?
Yes, it works well in the fall when large October caddis are present.
Does the fly sink or stay on the surface?
It can be fished on the surface or allowed to sink slightly to give a drowned look.
Is this fly specifically designed for the Deschutes River?
Yes, it was developed based on observations from the Deschutes River by Matt Duce.

Mary Vaughan –
This fly performs exactly as described. It rides low in the water and mimics the natural behavior of salmonflies. I’ve used it during both spring and fall, and it caught several fish when the October caddis were active. A solid addition to my fly box.
Matt Underwood –
Felt very natural when fished on the surface. The sink rate is just right for the Deschutes conditions. Works well in both early season and late fall when caddis are around.
Stewart Hudson –
Matt Duce’s attention to detail shows in this pattern. It’s a faithful representation of the local river fly and has proven effective in multiple fishing trips.