Some of these fish will stay at sea for three or four years and are trophies from 18 to 30 pounds. From 3,000 to 5,000 of these beautiful fish spawn in the watershed. These fish are biters but not risers. Sexual maturity keeps them hugging the bottom, but this same sexual maturity makes these fish very territorial. A big black or red fly fished deep and slow is often the answer.
Polarized glasses are indispensable for spotting and stalking fish.
Spawning fish are most visible. The angler should not bother spawning fish and one should be careful not to wade across redds. Pocket water or slots downstream from spawners may hold bright fish that will serve the sport much better. From Sandy River part of the Steelhead River Journal series, published by Frank Amato Publications. We greatly appreciate use permission.