World-Class Steelhead Fishing in SW Washington

Full-Day Steelhead Fishing Adventure

Looking for a real steelhead experience? You've found the right guide. I've been working these waters since I was a kid, and there's nothing quite like watching a chrome-bright steelhead explode out of the water after taking your bait. We're talking about some of the best steelhead runs in the Pacific Northwest, and I know exactly where to find them. Whether you're chasing winter fish on the Olympic Peninsula or targeting summer runs in Southwest Washington, this is going to be a day you remember. Fair warning though – once you hook into one of these fish, you're going to be hooked yourself.

What to Expect on the Water

This is a full-day, one-on-one fishing experience that changes with the seasons, and that's what makes it so special. From January through February, we're heading up to the Olympic Peninsula to target winter steelhead on the Chehalis River and its tributaries. These chrome acrobats are fresh from the ocean, and they fight like nothing you've ever felt. Come spring and summer, we shift gears and head to Southwest Washington where we fish the beautiful rivers that feed into the Columbia. These are my home waters – I've been learning every pool, riffle, and holding spot since I was young. You're getting decades of local knowledge packed into one day. The scenery alone is worth the trip, but when you add in the chance to hook into fish that regularly go 8 to 12 pounds, you've got yourself a world-class fishing adventure. I keep groups small – just you and me – so you get personalized instruction and the best shot at success.

Techniques and Gear Setup

We use proven techniques that match the season and conditions. During winter months on the Olympic Peninsula, we're primarily drift fishing and plunking in the deeper holes where these fish like to rest up during their spawning run. The winter steelhead are aggressive and territorial, so we use bright colors and scented baits to trigger strikes. When we switch to the Columbia River tributaries in spring and summer, the approach changes completely. Summer steelhead are more finicky, so we often use lighter tackle and more natural presentations. We might be swinging flies, drifting roe, or working spinners depending on water conditions and what the fish are telling us. I provide all the gear you need – rods matched to the conditions, quality reels with smooth drags (trust me, you'll need them), and a tackle box full of proven baits and lures. I've spent years figuring out what works in these specific waters, so you don't have to guess. Dress in layers and bring rain gear – this is the Pacific Northwest, and weather can change fast. Waterproof boots are a must since we'll be doing some wading.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Steelhead trout are the reason anglers travel from around the world to fish these waters, and once you meet one face-to-face, you'll understand why. These are sea-run rainbow trout that spend years in the ocean bulking up before returning to freshwater to spawn. Winter steelhead typically run from December through March, and these fish are absolute tanks – thick, chrome-bright, and ready to fight. They've just come in from the salt, so they're in peak condition and full of attitude. Summer steelhead arrive from May through September, and while they might be a bit more selective about what they eat, they make up for it with spectacular aerial displays. These fish love to jump, and I mean really jump – sometimes three or four times before you get them to the net. Size-wise, you're looking at fish that typically range from 8 to 12 pounds, but don't let that fool you. Pound for pound, steelhead are some of the strongest fish you'll ever fight. They use the current to their advantage, and they know every snag and boulder in the river. The best part? Every fish is different. Some will make long, powerful runs that strip line off your reel. Others will jump immediately and try to throw the hook. A few will sulk on the bottom and make you work for every inch. That's what keeps this top-rated fishery so exciting – you never know what you're going to get when that rod tip goes down.

Time to Book Your Spot

This is hands-down one of the best steelhead experiences you'll find in the Pacific Northwest, and spots fill up fast during prime season. I've got the local knowledge, the right gear, and the passion to make sure you have an amazing day on the water. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to learn new techniques or someone who's always wanted to try steelhead fishing, I'll make sure you're dialed in and ready to succeed. These fish have been my obsession for decades, and I love sharing that excitement with others. The rivers I fish have incredible runs of wild steelhead, and there's nothing quite like the moment when one of these chrome bullets decides your bait looks like dinner. Don't wait too long to book – the best fishing windows are limited, and word gets around fast when the fish are in. Reach out and let's talk about getting you on the water. I'll go over all the trip details and make sure you know exactly what to expect. Trust me, this is going to be one heck of a day.