Steelhead

Steelhead fishing is usually done in the winter and summer months. Again, I like to fish the Siletz, Nestucca, Three Rivers, Yaquina, and Salmon Rivers. Like salmon fishing, rugby tends to interfere, but not during the summer months when weather conditions are much better! The winter steelhead are usually larger in size, numbers, and are usually more aggressive than their summer counter parts, which is why I love fishing for them. It is best to fish for this species after a good rain, when the water is a mossy green color. You can check current river levels at the NOAA web site. While many people like to use a bait casting gear, I use spinning gear as a matter because it is easier to use smaller weights (during summer) and I like taking friends who do not fish a lot and could have some trouble fishing with an open faced reel. Below are some images of gear to use and of course the steelhead we love to catch and eat.

A beautiful native winter steelhead. This buck (male) is in the 10-12 lbs range. Notice the color of the water!?!?!?!

This guy is called a corky. This artificial bait floats off the bottom and imitates a salmon egg. These are best used in higher flows, the guy above could have caught his fish using a corky like this.

These are neoprene waders. Like the breathable waders they will keep you warm and dry. Neoprene is a better choice for winter fishing because how cold the water can be.

This is a spinning reel, made by my favorite manufacturer, Shimano. The is the reel that I own and is great for salmon and steelhead alike.

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