North Fork Sprague River

River Information
Fish Species: | Brown Trout, Brook Trout, Bull Trout, Redband Trout |
The North Fork Sprague River, in Oregon's Klamath County, is a pristine tributary of the Sprague River, celebrated for its exceptional wild trout fishery. It hosts healthy populations of redband trout, brook trout, brown trout, and bull trout (which must be released). The river flows through diverse landscapes, from high-elevation meadows to steep basalt canyons.
Fishing conditions are heavily influenced by flows and temperatures, but it's open year-round. Recent reports highlight excellent opportunities during insect hatches, notably the black drake mayfly, particularly in low-gradient sections. Fly fishing is the predominant method, with dry flies, nymphs, and streamers all proving highly effective for these wary wild trout. Bait fishing may be allowed in specific areas.
Access ranges from accessible Forest Service roads to remote wilderness, requiring preparedness for varying conditions. Conservation is paramount for its wild trout populations. Anglers must strictly adhere to all Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) regulations, including bag limits and gear restrictions (often artificial flies and lures only), and ensure careful handling of released fish, preserving this truly wild and rewarding Eastern Oregon fishery.
Fishing conditions are heavily influenced by flows and temperatures, but it's open year-round. Recent reports highlight excellent opportunities during insect hatches, notably the black drake mayfly, particularly in low-gradient sections. Fly fishing is the predominant method, with dry flies, nymphs, and streamers all proving highly effective for these wary wild trout. Bait fishing may be allowed in specific areas.
Access ranges from accessible Forest Service roads to remote wilderness, requiring preparedness for varying conditions. Conservation is paramount for its wild trout populations. Anglers must strictly adhere to all Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) regulations, including bag limits and gear restrictions (often artificial flies and lures only), and ensure careful handling of released fish, preserving this truly wild and rewarding Eastern Oregon fishery.
Latest Fish Reports
Date | Report | Author |
6-11-2025 | The black drake mayfly hatch is excellent Open year-round. The black drake mayfly hatch is... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
6-5-2025 | North Fork Sprague Updates Open year-round. The black drake mayfly hatch is... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
5-21-2025 | Fishing is still not recommended Fishing is still not recommended. Open year-round. The... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
5-12-2025 | Fishing is still not recommended Fishing is still not recommended. Open year-round. The... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
3-12-2025 | Water temperatures are cold with high flows Open year-round. The area upstream of the Elbow... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
Detailed Map
