The Steelhead Angler

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I have received a couple of emails in regards to a resent post about Steelhead fishing on the Clearwater River in Idaho. They seemed to be intimidated by the size of river and were asking for more information on just where they should fish.

For those who are new to the sport I can see why they may be confused as it is quite a large river and if you are not use to reading Steelhead water it will be intimidating. So for those wanting to know where to fish let me give you some ideas.

If you want to try fly fishing the section just above and below the US Highway 95 Bridge has produce well for me in the past. If you are going to be wading be aware that the water level can change suddenly as there are two hydro dams up steam, keep this in mind when wading.

Should you want to try some drift fishing I can think of three spots that produce Steelhead regularly.

1. Drive to the Dworshak Dam just West of Orofino There is a good hole about 300 to 400 yards below the Dam.

2. Cross the bridge at Ahsahka and take the first Left hand turn off and follow the road down to river.

3. About 1.5 miles west of Orofino on state highway 12 there is another good hole for drift fishing. Well I should say float fishing as this is the way most of the fisherman fish this hole however you can drift it just use as light of weight as possible.

These four spots should get you stared if you pay attention to the water conditions and drifts you should then be able to find some more of your own Steelhead holes.
Good Luck!