The hardwoods show a constant progression of color. Greens give way to brilliant hues of yellow, orange and red. . This time of year also brings with it the promise of the first major movement of the true prize to the serious angler, fresh run steelhead. In November most of the leaves have fallen and the river now seems naked . . Good numbers of steelhead can normally be found and temperatures can be quite comfortable.
Winter is a time for solitude on the river.
Finding stretches with little or no fishing pressure becomes easy. Many times you find yourself alone with a pool of steelhead. Spring rains and run-off define the expected conditions in March and April. However, the line between winter and spring is never clearly defined on the Salmon River. Substantial snow storms can be experienced into April.