Steelheading gear and tackle Steelhead will hit flies, yarn, spawn, spinners, spoons and small wobbling crankbaits. I use both a Lamiglas Pioneer P909 and a St. Croix Legend L9089. I've been happy with a Scientific Anglers Mastery Series 89. Use a floating or sink-tip line with plenty of dacron backing. Insulated waders with felt soles, a wading staff, long underwear, a fleece or wool jacket and a rain jacket or windbreaker are musts.
Fingerless gloves allow knot-tying and other tasks without exposing hands to the cold.
Polarized sunglasses will help you spot fishing during the day. At night, wear a headlamp or lantern with a neck strap. This works best for fish that are spawning or holding in shallow or clear water. The easy part is finding a fish. The maddening part is getting one to bite.