Kick-off for winter steelhead season?

[David Johnson]

Thanksgiving is the traditional kick-off for the winter steelhead season but who would of thought it would be a droubt?

Normally the major hatchery rivers are the places to start. I've heard of of fish in the Clackamas, Nestucca, NF Nehalem and Wilson. We even caught them last week in the Wilson backbouncing for chinook.

But with rivers running at near summer levels right now fishing is prbably going to be a bit spotty. Consider low water techniques and fishing low in the systems and you might pick one up.

Another option is to head east and fishing for some late summer runs. The Deschutes, John Day and Grande Ronde are good choices.

Don't forget to dress warm....