Steelhead Hatching

Cal Sportsman ^ | 12/3/2015 | C Cocoles

[w1n1]

Of course, winter is on its way, and for those who live outside California, it actually gets cold in California. But the chilly weather that showed up around the Thanksgiving holiday also means that steelhead anglers will soon be flocking to Northern California rivers. Look for our steelhead preview in the January issue, but for now, check out this fascinating look at a steelie hatch, thanks to our friends at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. See the video of steelhead hatching.

[dainbramaged]

Egg cluster with bright yarn or an okie drifter?

[Revelation 911]

I had the pleasure of working at an old hatchery that dated from the WPA era -I worked there for 2 yrs & we raised browns and rainbows and released to Lake Ontario and the local stream....we raised fry as well. That job, while least paying, was the most gratifying I’ve ever had....I loved it immensely.

[Uncle Miltie]

Just to be clear, Steelhead spawn in the Spring (usually February through June with a peak around late April in most rivers for winter runs), and the eggs are in-gravel for a month or so if recollection serves. So, no steelhead are actually hatching at this time. But later, good luck to them all!

[Uncle Miltie]

Spin n Glo behind a bounced pencil lead in surgical tubing ...

< / 1983 >

[Uncle Miltie]

Here's a buddy of mine working up an Atlantic Salmon fly ....

[dainbramaged]

Spin n Glo
Oh yeah, forgot about those - haven't fished for metalheads since the mid 90's. Last one I caught was on egg clusters I boraxed myself and near the Tlingit village of Kake, Alaska on Kupreanof Island. It was about a 12 pound hen ready to spawn, so I let her go. I think it was called the Harris River, you could drive right up and throw your line in, nobody around for miles. Keep an eye out for bears, though.

[dware]

I would love to have a job like that! Alas, I am just a fly tying hobbyist with a small home setup. Very relaxing hobby, though.