Steelhead Drift Fishing Tips

Timing Runs Correctly

It is important for every steelhead angler to know the run times (the return to rivers and streams) of the species. While run times can vary depending on water temperature, generally, steelhead return to freshwater in late fall and remain until late spring. Drift fishing is a preferred method during these times.

Search for Holding Water

Because steelheads are not evenly distributed, it is often necessary to search for suitable areas where the trout are feeding and spawning. Steelhead typically prefer some type of holding water. Holding areas are deeper pools formed at the mouth of fast-moving currents. Drift fishing is most successful in these areas because the bait is bounced downstream toward calm feeding zones.

Mastering the Drift Cast

When drift fishing, it is vital to understand where and when a steelhead will strike. The key is to identify the location of holding areas and lengths of current that precedes them. While some fish will strike in moving water, it is important while drift fishing for anglers to position themselves in front of holding areas. Casts should be made into currents long enough to allow bait to reach the bottom and drift toward holding water. Steelhead are prone to strike bait that flows to them with the rush of the river.

Wading

While some anglers prefer to fish from river banks, the most experienced and successful steelhead anglers stay away from shorelines. When fishing from the banks, it places an angler above the water. Steelhead, especially big, elusive fish, are able to see well above the water line and are easily spooked by humans. If you are drift fishing, you will be fare better by wading in knee-deep water.

Keep Bait Low

When drift fishing, it is common for bait to be pushed against currents. This causes a drift rig to be lifted from the bottom where steelhead will have difficulty seeing it. To alleviate current pushes, it is important to position your body and rod so it's following the direction of the water. This will loosen your line and allow the sinker to ease your leader back toward the bottom.