Steelhead Fishing Methods

Fly Fishing

Fly fishing for steelhead can be approached with several methods. Smaller rivers, such as the Trinity in northern California, can be fished with a single-hand rod and trout-fishing techniques. Strike indicators with a double nymph rig and fishing large streamers are both effective techniques. The larger rivers like those on the Olympic Peninsula are best fished with two-handed spey casting rods. The rods cover the entire width of the river in a single cast. Spey rods also keep the line in front of the angler and prevent hooking trees and brush on the bank. Sinking or floating lines can be used for swinging wet flies and streamers.

Spin Fishing

Spin fishing is a way to catch steelhead in large and small rivers. Spin fisherman can use lures to aggravate steelhead into aggressive strikes. Lures are popular for covering large tracts of waters, but spin fisherman are quickly catching on to drift-fishing methods. Drift fishing uses a mainline attached to a lead core sinker. A piece of cork is then attached to the hook to keep your hook off the bottom. This technique is popular for fishing deep water. Buoyant spin fishing lines are also suitable for drifting below a cork floater and precision casting.

Bait Fishing

Bait fishing is one of the original and most effective steelhead fishing techniques. Fishing with worms and various live bait under a sinker allows the angler to access deep water and maintain position until a steelhead decides to strike. Bait fishing is suitable for shore fisherman who have patience and can stay in one position for several hours. Spin fishing and fly fishing are effective from boats and the shore.