Late December Salmon River fishing report

Steelhead fishing this fall has had it's ups and downs, with the water flows that is.  In the last month the flows have ranged from near 3000 cfs to 547 cfs recorded today on the Pineville gauge with a release of 335 cfs.  The water temp taken today in the Altmar to Pineville stretch is 34 degrees F, it don't get much colder.  Water clarity is good.

Winter chrome!

The steelhead fishing since my last post has been average to good depending on all the variables that can affect the fishing from day to day. The last few days out including today's float have been a little slow, however, there are fish to be taken.  I attribute this to the recent rise in water flow and then the rapid drop in water flow.

John Field with a nice chrome Salmon River steelhead.

Working flies on the bottom has been out fishing indies and swinging right now.  Bright flies are bringing the best response and 6 lb. fluorocarbon tippets are getting the job done.
We are picking up a few fresh fish in the past week as seen in the pictures so this is good to see. 

Today was my last float for 2016,  nothing on the schedule now for a few week.  Winter steel heading is upon the Salmon River and it's looking to be a good season.  Get out and enjoy this opportunity.  See you on the river.


Tight lines.