Steelhead Fishing Tips By Rick Pecci, Master Captain and New York State Guide Dreams Come True Charters

Rod: One of the best bottom bouncing rods I have ever used is a St. Croix 10 ½-foot ultralight noodle rod called the Wild River Series. Great for a very light line fishing application and I generally use down to a 4lb. test with no problems. It can also be used for running floats. I have a set of 2 that were custom built and I have fished them both for over 15 years.

Reel: One of the best spinning reels I have ever used is a Pflueger Supreme XT, size 30. Great for a very light line fishing application and I generally use a 6 lb. test main line with it without problems. It can also be used for running floats. This reel is super light and the drag system is flawless. It’s what you need to battle a big Steelhead when the temps drop below zero. Remember that freezing cold weather will test even the best gear, so don’t skimp on the quality!

Line: I typically use a 6 lb. monofilament, and I do like the Trilene XL clear. It is very limp for less coiling, and very strong for bouncing bottom or drifting floats. Remember, Steelhead can see very good underwater, so the higher the pound test you use, the less fish you will catch. Go light and experience more success. 

Baits: Some of the most tried and true baits for fall and winter Steelhead is egg sacks, and the number one color is the blue mesh. I also do not go any bigger than 5 salmon eggs in my sacks. But more if they are Trout eggs. Also, pink, white, chartreuse, peach, orange and oregon cheese colors will all work. Flies are also a very good bait. Egg patterns, and later on, nymphs and more buggy patterns work well. Experiment and try them all out. Finally, beads – marabou jigs under a float, Berkley Trout worms in bubblegum color and even live bait like small night crawlers and fathead minnows will take Steelhead.

Tackle: Instead of split shots, try pencil lead or even slinkys to bounce bottom. They will not catch bottom nearly half as many times, and that will save money.

Clothing: Your three best friends for winter Steelhead fishing are Polypropylene, Polar Fleece and wool – for your main layers, or even your coats, hats, socks and gloves.

 Waders:

• Always buy at least one size larger boot and body than you would regularly get to offset the bulkier clothing and socks.
• Do not over stuff your boot with many layers of socks as it can cut off your blood flow to your foot.
• Boot foot waders are better than stocking foot waders in the winter time. They will keep your foot warmer by encompassing your foot with a warm air layer and will not cut off circulation to your toes.
• Do NOT wear felt on the bottom of your boots in the winter time as snow will stick to the material and freeze. It’s like walking on 2 softballs. Wear Korker cleats instead.

Good luck!

Rick