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The steelhead is one of the most elusive and challenging fish to catch.
The steelhead is sea going trout. Normally a trout does quite well in a land locked lake, but a steelhead is a trout that has found its way out of the lake, into a stream and then followed that stream to the ocean. They swim and eat and play in the ocean for two or three years and then, usually in the winter, they return to the same stream to reproduce.
The story of the steelhead is similar to that of the salmon, but the steelhead makes the story much more exciting. They usually run in the dead of winter. The colder the weather, the better. Fishing for them is an icy proposition. Cold wind, rain and often snow are the steelhead fisherman's best friend. Many fishermen have gone out, year after year; and braved the bitter cold only to return home cold and empty handed. Then others catch two or three a season: their secret is knowing what the fish want (and a large pot of coffee).
There is a short run of steelhead in the summer. These fish are the advance guard and are scouting out the best sites for laying eggs. These fish are even more of a challenge to catch, as they are the early ones and not yet ready for anything but a fight. They will fight with anything. If you are lucky enough to latch on to one of these beauties, you are in for the fight of your life.
Remember that these fish have braved the terrors of the ocean and are now going home with one thing on their mind, the opposite sex. The standard angling techniques are wasted on these wily fish. Many people will tell you that flies are the best for catching a steelhead. This might work for the summer run. The best technique in the summer is to have a nice shiny spoon or tasty looking fly and eight to ten pound line. You may not catch any more fish, they do what they want to; it will make your experience more exciting. Do not forget the sunscreen.
Unfortunately, fly fishing in sub-zero weather is futile at best. The fish know that no self-respecting fly would be out in such weather. Thus, a flashy, wiggly, plug of some sort or a spoon is a better choice. These lures give the illusion of another fish in the area. That will get a steelhead's attention! They are not interested in eating; they are only interested in potential mates and fighting for them. That is the key to catching a steelhead in the winter, something pretty, flashy and wiggly. Also, take plenty of hot coffee; it is going to be a cold, cold trip.
Whether it is winter or summer, and you go steelhead fishing, you will have a good time, despite the weather, hot or cold. If you are lucky or skilled enough catch a steelhead, it will all be worthwhile.
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