Need some ideas

[Slate_Drake_9]

I'm heading up to the Salmon River in New York in late April or early May to fish for the drop back steelhead. I've only fished for them in the fall and winter. What types of flies are most effective that time of year and does anyone have a good pattern they can suggest for me to tie?

Thanks in advance.

[Heritage Angler]

Hi Slate - Aside from the usual stuff like stoneflies, try one of these bad boys out. I started using them many years ago after a fish yacked up a few when I netted it. Probably not a lot of folks chucking these which may contribute to their effectiveness:

https://madriveroutfitters.com/pc-45...furmiskys.aspx

[Slate_Drake_9]

Thanks for the info.

[Jack Hise]

Slate Drake;
Last year a FOTW was a Reverse Spider that was tied for Steelhead. Warren scaled it down to 10's and 12's and it works great in fast water for Trout too.
Basicly a soft hackle with the hackle facing forward. I think it gives a bit more of a swimming/breathing action in faster water.

[Slate_Drake_9]

Hmmm? Never thought about trying them for steelhead. I've used them in some of the faster waters for trout with pretty good results.

Any thoughts on colors for the steel? For trout, I typically use different shades of olive, brown and orange.

[Jack Hise]

Here's one. Colors can be varied.