Can some one explain the significance of stream flow as it relates to steelhead fishing? Some people talk of rivers being blown out and I take it that means that the flow is too high for successful fishing. So what are the ideal numbers? Are the numbers different on different systems? What are the ideal water temps to target? I’m new at this steelhead stuff and have a lot to learn, thanks for the help.
Rick
This is a link by the State of Wisconsin to stream flow information. Any help in using this information will be appreaciated:
I Know that the steelies like to stay in the main stream in my area columbia river at the mouth or estuary area if there is low water conditions… and will start moving up if it rains or some melt to raise the water level… I have a video by Jim Teeny and the water conditions were high fast and milky and he the expert was catching fish… I know the are alot of great fisherman here that can help you good luck flyfisher121
I believe the fish are catchable more than we care to admit to. We tend to try and find excuses as to why the fish aren’t biting etc.
I should have mentioned in my original post that I am in Wis and last Tuesday the river that I fished had a water temp of 35 F. I got skunked and so did everyone else that I saw on the river that day. Like I said, have a lot to learn.
Hi Clay
I cannot speak to your WI streams, but to Great Lakes tributary flows for steelehead in general.
Steelies do not like skinny, low water. They will wait at the river estuaries for a freshette of rain to raise the water a little before making the river run. They will move in or up river best if water is rising slowly and staying somewhat clear. You do not want a gusher increase with silty water.
When temperatures get below 40F the steelies activity really slows. You have to use slow drifts along the bottom to hit them on the nose as they will not move quickly or far to the fly.
Great Lakes steelie strains for the most part are bottom huggers. If your not ticking the bottom on the drift your not fishing.