Steelhead

LOCATION

BODIES OF WATER

Steelhead, prized for their acrobatic leaps and powerful runs, can be found in various bodies of water across the Central/Mountain region of the United States. Anglers are drawn to these waters to target steelhead for their challenging fights and remarkable beauty. The following bodies of water are popular for steelhead fishing in this region:
Colorado: Gunnison River, Roaring Fork River, South Platte River.
Idaho: Clearwater River, Salmon River, Snake River.
Utah: Green River, Provo River, Weber River.
Wyoming: North Platte River, Snake River, Shoshone River.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Steelhead prefer cold, clear rivers with swift currents and gravel or rocky bottoms. They require well-oxygenated water and are often found in deeper pools, runs, and riffles. Look for steelhead near areas with structure such as submerged logs, boulders, and undercut banks. They are also known to congregate near tributaries, deep holes, and the mouths of rivers.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, steelhead migrate upstream from the ocean to spawn. They can be found in larger rivers and their tributaries. Focus on deeper pools, runs, and tailouts. Use nymph patterns such as Stoneflies, Egg Patterns, or Caddis Larvae to imitate their natural food sources. Swing streamers or fish with indicator rigs to present your flies at different depths.

SUMMER

In the summer, steelhead seek cooler waters and may hold in deeper pools or runs. Early mornings and late evenings are productive times to fish for steelhead. Try swinging larger, brightly-colored streamers such as Woolly Buggers, Intruders, or Leech patterns to entice aggressive strikes. You can also use skating dry flies or skating skaters to trigger surface takes during hatch activity.

FALL

As fall arrives, steelhead become more active and aggressive, preparing for their spawning season. They can be found in the same areas as spring and summer. Focus on deeper pools, tailouts, and areas with structure. Use egg patterns, such as Glo Bugs or Sucker Spawn, to imitate the eggs of spawning fish. Swing or strip streamers, such as Sculpzillas or Egg-Sucking Leeches, to trigger territorial strikes.

WINTER

During the winter months, steelhead seek slower-moving sections of the river and may hold in deep pools or areas with less current. They become more lethargic in colder water temperatures. Fish with larger nymph patterns, such as Stoneflies or Buggers, using weighted rigs to get your flies near the bottom. Present your flies slowly and methodically, as steelhead's feeding activity decreases.

Steelhead are known to strike a variety of baits and lures. Effective bait options for steelhead fishing include roe bags, yarn flies, spawn sacs, and imitation eggs. Drift fishing with bait under a float or using a controlled drift technique can be productive. When using lures, consider using spoons, spinners, or small crankbaits in bright or natural colors to attract the attention of steelhead.