Steelhead
Oncorhynchus mykiss
The migratory form of rainbow trout, steelhead are among the most sought-after freshwater game fish in North America. Found in Great Lakes tributaries and Pacific coast rivers from California to Alaska, they run upstream from fall through spring, offering anglers world-class fly fishing and drift fishing opportunities.
Seasonal Activity
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)
Fishing Regulations
Season dates and limits for Steelhead, by state. This list may not cover every state yet — always confirm current rules with your state's wildlife agency before you fish.
Alaska 1 zone
Steelhead are anadromous rainbow trout. Limits vary by area. Southeast Alaska has the best steelhead fisheries.
Effective 2025 · Source: adfg.alaska.gov
Idaho 1 zone
Hatchery steelhead only (adipose fin clipped). Clearwater and Salmon river systems. Seasons vary.
Effective 2025 · Source: idfg.idaho.gov
Michigan 1 zone
No more than 3 steelhead or lake trout combined in the 5-fish daily salmon/trout limit.
Effective 2026 · Source: michigan.gov
Ohio 1 zone
Open year-round in Lake Erie tributaries. Minimum size 12 inches. Ohio has an excellent steelhead fishery in northeastern tributaries. Peak fishing is fall through spring.
Effective 2025 · Source: ohiodnr.gov
Oregon 1 zone
Hatchery steelhead only (adipose fin clipped). Wild steelhead must be released. River-specific seasons apply.
Effective 2025 · Source: myodfw.com
Pennsylvania 1 zone
Open year-round in Lake Erie and tributaries. Minimum size 15 inches. Erie tributaries like Elk Creek, Walnut Creek, and Twenty Mile Creek offer excellent steelhead fishing from fall through spring. Combined with trout bag on tributary waters.
Effective 2025 · Source: fishandboat.com
Washington 1 zone
Hatchery steelhead only (adipose fin clipped). Wild steelhead must be released. River-specific seasons.
Effective 2025 · Source: wdfw.wa.gov
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