Steelhead are prized game fish known for their acrobatic jumps and powerful runs. They can be caught in open water and in the numerous rivers and streams in which they spawn. Steelhead are susceptible to a variety of angling methods. Anglers capable of adapting their approach can expect success throughout the year.
Downrigging and Flat Line Trolling
Trolling is the most effective method used by anglers who fish open water. The key to success in large bodies of water is locating the bait that steelhead are feeding on. Once a food source is found, fishermen must get their lure to the same depth the steelhead are using. In deep water, downriggers are used to keep lures running at a particular depth. When fish are in shallower water, flat line trolling is effective. Lures and spoons produce flash and vibrations that mimic struggling baitfish and entice feeding steelhead to strike. The speed at which these lures are trolled is an important part of the equation. Steelhead prefer a slow presentation, between 1 and 2 miles per hour.
Casting Lures From Shore
Casting plugs and spoons becomes an effective technique early in the fall when water temperatures begin to drop. Steelhead tend to congregate near river mouths in the fall and usually show up just after the salmon arrive. They are aggressive this time of year and feed actively in anticipation of the coming winter. Spring is also a good time to try casting lures from shore. This is when steelhead return to the open water and feed voraciously to regain their strength after spawning.
Back Trolling
Once steelhead have entered a river, back trolling becomes an exciting way to fish. This method is similar to trolling in that lines are dropped into the water and allowed to run behind the boat. Rods are usually placed in rod holders while one angler rows the boat against the current. This slows down the boat, allowing the current to work the lures behind the boat. Skilled oarsmen position their drift boats just above likely holding spots and then slowly work their lines through the area. When a steelhead hits one of these offerings, they often hook themselves immediately.
Bottom Bouncing
Fishermen target steelhead holding in deep pools and runs by bouncing bait or flies along the bottom of the river. This technique is effective in cold water when steelhead refuse to move for a meal. Casting upstream of the target area allows the bait to sink to the proper depth before it reaches holding fish. The ideal amount of weight will get the offering down quickly while allowing it to bounce along the bottom at a natural speed. The weight is usually placed 2 to 4 feet in front of the hook. Both spin fishermen and fly fishermen successfully utilize this technique, although an extra-long leader is needed when using traditional fly fishing gear.
Drift Fishing
Drift fishing allows the angler to drift bait or flies at a set depth below a float or strike indicator. This technique is adaptable to a spinning or fly fishing setup and is also the basic principle used by centerpin fishermen. The idea is to allow your offering to drift naturally at the same speed the water is flowing. Anglers can adjust their float depending on the depth of water they are fishing. As the float drifts downstream, a slight hesitation or drop below the water signals a fish has taken the bait. This technique is useful when steelhead key in on salmon eggs, and a precise presentation is required.
References
- Game & Fish: Back-Trolling for Brusier Steelhead
- "Plug Fishing for Steelhead"; Mike Laverty; 1994
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