Steelhead

Lets get some more big lake discussion going.

Steelhead have to be my favorite fish that swims. A fish that can trip a rigger down 80 and be jumping on the surface 10 seconds after the hit gets my blood pumping.

Anyone have any good articles for open-water trolling for steelies? What are some good baits for them?

For the absolute best in Steelhead fishing, I go to Michigan City, IN in June. Oslo (spelling??) spinners in Orange or Chartreuse is about what I have it all dialed in to use. Live Target Rainbow smelt, Gizzard Shad and others cranks do ok, and have their moments. Generally, you don’t have to go out very far. 1/4 mile to 3 miles at most. The conditions change down there very rapidly, but it also clears up fast. Regardless of just casting, or trolling the spinners behind boards, the Skamanias are the most acrobatic strain of steelhead in the Great Lakes. They have the most dynamic body structure and spend a lot of time in the air!

Ive heard June is the best time to go. We usually wait until July/August to get the big kings also.

I use to fish for steelheads in the Salmon River,Pulaski NY. Had some great times there.
I sure do miss it.

Ever try fishing the run in Feb and March with a fly rod?
The run on the Lake Michigan tribs was great last season.

That looks like a blast Troutbum. What them steelies eating in the tribs?

I found success with Egg Sucking Leech patterns and large streamers. I’ve seen guys have some luck with spawn sacks as well. They don’t lose any of their strength or athleticism when they are in the river. Pretty cool feeling them take 70 yds of line, UP stream.