Holy Waters

The "Holy waters" section of the upper Rogue river is 1/2 mile stretch just below the dam at Lost creek reservoir. Though it is short on length it more than makes up for it in character and fish to go with great hatches and year round fishing opportunities. A trail follows the west side of the river from the big pool at the outflow past midge island where it forms the riffle which is the only found on of this stretch, from here on you'll find wide run with some smaller pools before reaching one of the best runs at McCauley hole where some rather large fish are caught but not easily. A large park is than encountered an one can find parking, restrooms, picnic, and family bbq areas that are very nice for a day trip. The next section is the flats which run for a few hundred yards before breaking up at Prince's midge rocks, the end of the holy waters opens up to a large expanse before it falls into the main river channel and fish ladder. Most of the fishing pressure is found here but it's not only because you see this stretch first as your driving in, it's also because nice beginners holes like the kindergarten, nursery, and buoy's, and good nymphing and streamer water through big slot and the plank. Midges can be found year round allowing a chance for fish on a dry fly at any time. Bwo's hatch in good numbers during winter and caddis hatches dominate the summer but two other hatches get all the attention here, the October caddis and the salmonfly hatch cause fishing hysteria and bring up some of the rivers biggest and baddest residents. But it also brings out everybody's fishing buddy and their brother and their uncle. The word is definitely out so you won't find solitude here however if your willing to put in the time and learn this finicky fishery, you'll find great fishing year round. Favorite flies here are mating midges,elk hair caddis, bwo's, hares ears, october caddis,and mac salmon. 4-6 wt rods are preferred for fighting some of the larger fish and for casting the distances needed here. All forms of lines can be used full sinks and sink tips for nymphing or fishing a streamer through deep holes, and a floating line to cast at risers. Indicator tactics can be very effective so show up with a full assortment and don't be afraid to try something new here.