Alysia and Elke Littleleaf, River Guides on the Lower Deschutes River
For Alysia and Elke Littleleaf, fishing on the Lower Deschutes River isn’t simply recreation. It’s a way of life.
The married pair have been guides on the 39-mile stretch along the Warm Springs Reservation since 2011. This section of river has long teemed with rainbow trout, Coho salmon and steelhead, and has sustained Paiute, Wasco and Warm Springs tribes for centuries.
On the river, they say, water is life. “You’re dialed in with Mother Nature, one with the flow,” Alysia said. “Ultimately, it’s our duty to instill a moral compass and empathy as a way to protect the future.”
They guide aspiring anglers of all ages, regardless of experience. “People don’t have to be experienced, but our job is to teach them how to be caretakers,” she explained. “We don’t just teach fly fishing—we teach conservation, about our culture and about how to give back to the land.”
Their approach is rooted in respect, for the land, the river and the fish, and extends into programs for youth and veterans.
Partnering with Love is King and Soul River, Inc., nonprofits founded by activist, veteran and artist Chad Brown, the Littleleafs host multi-day camps focused on learning and healing. “Most of the kids have never fished a day in their life,” Alysia said.
The experience begins with a visit to the Museum at Warm Springs, where participants learn tribal history before heading to camp. Along the river, they build self-reliance—learning to cast, tie flies and live outdoors.
The program concludes with a ceremony. Alysia sings in Wasco, dressed in regalia, while Elke plays traditional instruments—connecting participants to generations past.
For many, especially veterans, the river becomes a place of therapy.
“Our family has sought to protect the river and now it’s our job to pass that on,” Alysia said. “We are not just fishing guides. We are healers of the rivers—as stewards, advocates and conservationists. It’s our way to be protectors of the future.” – Alysia Littleleaf
For a truly authentic Central Oregon experience, follow the experts. Check out littleleafguides.com.
