Most steelhead in the US spawn sometime between January and April in water temperatures of about 40 to 50ºF. They prefer shallow water of up to 4 feet and build their nests on gravel or cobble beds.
With so many fishing opportunities, finding the right information for your next (or first) Oregon steelhead adventure can be a pretty tricky task, which is why I wrote up this complete angler’s guide.
While the average size of rainbow trout is 15 to 25 inches and 1 to 5lb, this trout species can reach a maximum size of around 40 inches and 35-40lb. Some genetically altered stocks can even produce fish that weigh close to 50lb.
While the average size of steelhead is 20 to 30 inches and 4 to 10lb, this trout species can reach a maximum length of around 45 inches and a maximum weight of about 40lb.
While juvenile steelhead feed primarily on zooplankton and insect larvae, bigger fish add fish eggs, smaller baitfish, larger insects crustaceans, mollusks, and small mammals to their diet. Additionally, cannibalism can occur among both juvenile and adult steelhead.
The best weather for steelhead fishing includes stable temperatures and barometric pressure, an overcast sky, and a light drizzle. These often warmer weather fronts can really turn the fish on and give you plenty of action.