The Salmon River: Closing Thoughts

Well, my inaugural Salmon River trip has come to an end.

I don’t have any pretty steelhead pictures to post because I went 0-for-2 each of the past two days, which made my steelhead on Day 1 even more special.

Trust me, I fished hard over many hours each day, barely taking any breaks. Moreover, some experienced anglers each day didn’t land fish.

I can say, however, that I loved the experience. It was extremely challenging and completely different from trout fishing, at least for me.

I met a lot of anglers, and nearly each one was incredibly positive and helpful. I started to learn which fly colors mattered and certain spots that reliably held fish. I learned which rigs and presentation techniques worked best for me. I learned that resting lies for steelhead are not the same as feeding lies for trout. I learned which homemade leaders will work.

I also realized that what they say about steelhead fishing is very true: it is very cold, strikes are few, and you need to be persistent. It is both physically and mentally demanding.

But, when such a big and strong fish is on the line, there is no better feeling. Steelhead are insanely powerful.

There was one instance of drama. A good-sized fish was on. At one point, it whipped around me quickly. My line wrapped around a guide, and when the fish next surged, the rod tip popped off. The fish broke off, but I fortunately got my rod section back.

In summary, I am really excited to have had the chance to try something completely new.

I will be back. I am completely and utterly hooked.

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8 thoughts on “The Salmon River: Closing Thoughts

  1. A wonderful experience for you and you took full advantage of the opportunities. Good. Can’t ask for much more.

  2. Wow, that sounds like a great trip! I’m glad you got some action, though not as much as you wanted. At least you got to feel the power of those steelheads a few times. Good to hear the other anglers shared their knowledge willingly.

  3. thanks for the report.

    yep that sounds about right. almost identical to my trip there last year.

    how were the flows while you were there? how are the fisher folks feeling about the lower fly zone? i heard they’ve made some changes there last summer?

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