When is the best time to fish for Steelhead?

We all want to be on the river when rainbow trout fishing is at its best, however knowing when that will be depends on many factors. The run time for each river will be different, and the best way to get information on a particular section of the river is to check with a local sports store. The owners of these sports shops make a living selling rainbow trout fishing gear, and they know that by providing accurate and up-to-date information, they will build trust with anglers, and this trust can lead to a sale. Also, many of these shop owners are rainbow trout fishermen and they know how important good information is to someone planning a fishing trip, they will also give you very good ideas on what type of bait and tactics are working.

Once you have a general idea of ​​when the rainbow trout will be in the section of the river you’d like to fish, it’s important to keep an eye on the weather reports. Weather is one of the most important aspects when it comes to rainbow trout fishing, or any type of fishing. Not only do you want to be prepared for the weather, but fish activity is greatly influenced by the weather. Knowing how rainbow trout or fish react to weather changes will definitely let you know in advance what chances you have of hooking a rainbow trout.

Here are some general rules regarding weather and fishing that will help you choose the best times to fish for rainbow trout.

High Pressure – Usually gives you those bright sunny days and while this is great weather for fishing, it is generally not the best weather for fishing, especially if you are fishing for rainbow trout. Fishing in general tends to slow down during high pressure. Steelhead are easily scared and this is truer than ever now, with the sun out and the shadows cast, it’s hard to present your presentation in front of them without scaring them. Deep pools and shaded areas will give you the best chance of success in these conditions. Try to slow down whatever type of presentation you are using and use pale colors for the best results.

Low pressure: This usually means you’ll be facing rainy or snowy conditions, so make sure you’re wearing the right clothing. You’ll find that generally the fish are much less active during these times, although a good rain usually signals the rainbow trout to start moving again, they usually don’t hit well with torrential rain. If it’s a big storm, river conditions can suddenly change from crystal clear to that of a milk chocolate shake. In these conditions, fishing will now be more difficult. If you are fishing some of the smaller rivers and steamers try to fish close to the banks as this offers the rainbow trout some protection from floating debris and is also where the current is not as strong. If you are fishing larger rivers, try to find some deeper holes as well. Darker colored lures work best now.

Increased Pressure When the pressure begins to increase, usually after a storm moves in, the fishing will begin to improve as the fish become active again. At this time, rainbow trout will typically continue to be found in the slower moving deeper pools or near the banks off the main river currents. While you won’t find them charging up the river just yet, they are more likely to be tempted to attack than during the storm. Bright colors fished along the edges of the main stream should work well, as would fishing them in the deeper pools where the fish were retained during the storm.

Constant pressure/normal pressure:

This is typically found on those days when there is a hazy sun or it is cloudy, but no precipitation is forecast. Fishing should be fair to good these days. You will find rainbow trout across the river and they will be active enough to make them interested in what you have to offer. Most standard steel head gear will now work, so try your favorites.

drop pressure:

As a storm approaches and the pressure begins to drop, you will want to be in the river. This is the best time to fish as the fish are now in their most active state. Steelhead will turn aggressive when the pressure drops and seem to hit just about anything that comes their way. If you can time your rainbow trout fishing trip to hit the river the day before a storm moves in, your chances of success will improve considerably.

While it’s true that you can catch rainbow trout in almost any weather, if you want to take a trip that gives you the best chance of success then it’s important to consider what the weather will be like. Planning a trip where the weather works for you instead of against you is always something to do before setting out after that often finicky rainbow trout. Being in the water at the right time will improve your fishing success.

Trevor Kugler has written a short eBook called How the Weather and the Moon Really Impact Fishing. I believe this ebook is still available for free if you sign up for timely fishing information twice a month.