Steelhead Fishing Tips

With the Northwest experiencing the best Steelhead runs in years, the staff here at Hungryhook decided it would be a great idea to give you tips on how to catch these giant Rainbows. Whether you are brand new to Steelhead fishing, or a seasoned vet, we're sure you will be happy to use these tips.

1) The Rig: We like to use 12 lb test Stren Extra-Stength Mono on a 7 1/2 ft fishing rod. You need to ensure you have a longer fishing rod in order to have enough action and play to fight through the current. We then use an 1/8 out pink or black jig hooked with frozen shrimp. Make sure you hook the shrimp on like you would a grub on a jig. Then attach a bobber-stop and bead on to your line, and use a weighted bobber to keep it straight in the water.

2) Depth: We like to test the bobber-stop. On your first cast, you want to be able to hit the bottom of the river so that you can then raise the bobber-stop incrementally until you are 1-2 feet off the bottom. If the fish are rising, you can obviously lower the bobber-stop to allow less leader. If it is your first time out, find the bottom, and then lift the bobber-stop up your line about a foot. You do NOT want your lure dragging on the river floor, or you will be cutting your line all day.

3) Landing the Steelhead: Make sure that you have crimped down all of your barbs, as most waters will not allow you to fish for Steelhead with a barbed hook. Due to the loss of the barb, it is crucial that you have your drag set loose enough to let the fish run in the current without snapping your line, but tight enough to allow no slack in your line. I like to tighten down drag as far as possible, and then loosed it about 3 turns. Also, do not allow your fish to run with the bait without landing the hook. The moment you feel a hit, reel down the slack, and HAMMER it! Then hold on, fight the fish out of the current, and bag a lunker.

4) Fishing Area: Here in Idaho, we love to fish the Snake River, and the Dam in Orofino. These are both hot spots, and capable of producing a great day of fishing. Watch for the currents that drop into deep pools. These pools will hold the most fish. Finally, ensure that your Steelhead has a clipped fin. This is a sign that they are a planter fish, and ok to take.

Now get out on the river, get your rig set up, and land a lunker. When you are done, submit a pic here at www.hungryhook.com and we will get you up on the wall of fame. While you are there, learn about the plethera of other tips and techniques you can use while on the water.

Happy fishing, and as always, respect the lake....