Steelhead
Oncorhynchus mykiss
The migratory form of rainbow trout, steelhead are the crown jewel of Michigan's tributary fishery. Runs occur in fall, winter, and spring on rivers like the Pere Marquette, Manistee, Muskegon, and St. Joseph.
Seasonal Activity
Jan
Prime
Feb
Prime
Mar
Prime
Apr
Prime
May
Good
Jun
Good
Jul
Slow
Aug
Slow
Sep
Good
Oct
Prime
Nov
Prime
Dec
Prime
Best Techniques
- float/bobber fishing spawn
- fly fishing nymphs and eggs
- plug pulling
- pier casting
Top Baits
- spawn bags
- beads
- yarn flies
- stoneflies
- body baits (Hot-N-Tots)
Michigan state record: 26.5 lbs, Manistee River (Manistee Co.), 2001