Steelhead Tips

By Rick Carlson-Idaho Department of Fish and Game With winter starting to loosen its icy grip, it's time for spring steelhead fishing. Hardy anglers will brave unpredictable weather-often standing shoulder to shoulder-in search of the elusive steelhead. Everyone has his or her favorite lure, bait or technique. Even avid anglers, however, may forget some of the following tips for legal and enjoyable steelhead fishing:

• To fish for steelhead, anglers must have a valid fishing license and steelhead card, available at Idaho Department of Fish and Game offices or license vendors.
• The person who hooks the steelhead must card the steelhead. If a fish is hooked and the rod passed to another to land, the fish must still be counted on the limit of the person who hooked it. Fish that are released immediately and unharmed back into the water do not need to be carded.
• Once a steelhead is landed and reduced to possession it must be carded immediately. Remove one numbered notch from the permit and write the date and river section in the appropriate places.
• Barbs must be pinched on each hook.
• Steelhead with an adipose fin must be released immediately. Some hatchery raised steelhead still have their adipose fin, but they still must be released immediately and unharmed back into the water.
• Steelhead that are not hooked in either the mouth or jaw must be released immediately.
• Remember: pack it in, pack it out. Leave the river banks better than you found them.

For detailed information on seasons and limits, consult the 2006-2007 fishing rules book, available at Fish and Game offices and license vendors. By paying attention to these simple tips your weekend will be much more enjoyable. To report a wildlife crime, contact Fish and Game, the local sheriff's office, conservation officer, or call the CAP hotline at 1-800-632-5999. Rick Carlson is the senior conservation officer in the Salmon Region.