In moving waters, trout tend to hold in one spot and wait for the water current to bring food to them. A primary food source for these fish is aquatic insects adrift in the current. In addition to looking for food and protection from predators, trout in moving waters are also looking for a place to rest from the current. So some likely places to look for trout in rivers and streams include:

• behind rocks or other structure HINT: Look for water where the surface is textured with bumps or riffles, which are often created as water flows over rocks and boulders on the river bed.
• Near steep or undercut banks
• In deeper, slower pools

Most rivers and streams fish best in the spring and fall when water temperatures are cooler. Very few rivers and streams are stocked, so you’ll be fishing for naturally reproducing or wild fish. As the water gets warmer, look for trout in faster riffles where the water gets re-oxygenated at it tumbles over rocks. Some rivers, especially in Central Oregon, are open for trout year round. Fishing can be good in the winter months – for hardy anglers willing to brave the cold and snow – but look for trout in slow, calm waters where they don’t have to fight the current.