🎣 Fish the Crooked River canyon below CRR

The Lower Crooked River runs through the canyon at the foot of CRR's plateau, with no road access — you hike down. The Otter Bench trail system (7.4 miles of trails on the bench above the gorge) is the only way in, with the Otter Bench trailhead inside the ranch. ODFW surveys show 4,000-7,000 redband rainbow trout per mile in the 8-mile tailwater section here. Light fishing pressure because the access is hike-only, so the fish that are here are willing.

Good to know

• Species: Wild redband rainbow trout (the dominant fish here), mountain whitefish, occasional bull trout.
• Access: Otter Bench trailhead, inside Crooked River Ranch. The trail descends into the gorge — steep on the way back out.
• Bring: Sturdy boots, lots of water, sun protection. No shade. Pack out all gear.
• Fly tackle: Standard tailwater patterns work — pheasant tails, copper johns, BWO/PMD mayflies, midges in cooler months. Light setup (3-5 wt) for these fish.
• Spinners: Small Panther Martins, Rooster Tails, Mepps for non-fly anglers.
• Regulations: Bull trout must be released; rainbow trout over 20" must be released. Always verify current ODFW Central Zone regulations.