SPRINGTIME STEELHEAD INSANITY

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Once again, as Easter celebrations came to an end, and many outdoorsmen and women found themselves thinking very much of harvesting a turkey (myself included), I found myself heading to the Lake Michigan tributaries in search of that beautiful and powerful trout…looking for that all encompassing sensation of being on the verge of insanity! That, is the battle with a Steelhead on ultra-light tackle, wanting to test my skills, and those of the very lightweight equipment that we use.

Yes, my wife cast me that "you're seriously insane" look as I headed to the door and the car, knowing the weather forecast of 38 degrees and rain showers in the Lake Michigan region was what we were headed toward. I, too, had to agree, it sounded pretty insane! However, I learned many years ago that I lose all reason when it comes to Steelhead… and that is just fine by me (my wife is learning to accept my momentary insanity each spring)!

So, with an "I love you" and a hug and kiss, I was off to pick up my fishing partner, Mark, and make the annual pilgrimage to the streams that harbor these beautiful fish each year. Mark had never caught one of these intense fighters, and was pining to do so, though the forecast was casting a very dark cloud over what would turn out to be a fantastic trip. We packed our 5'0" ultra-light rods and Trilene XL 4 and 6 lb test line, and the diminutive inline spinners, and hoped for the best!

Upon arrival, we found the air temperature to be a "less than comfortable" 36 degrees, with a very light mist falling. Still, with much anticipation, we hurriedly slipped on our Hodgman hip waders and "walked" (more like ran!) to the streams edge. We began scanning the streambed using polarized sunglasses, and immediately spotted the first target. It was a nice buck steelhead of about 25 inches, but he had no intentions of getting hooked. We moved on. Some 50 yards downstream we found the second of what would be the best day we have ever had in our attempts to catch steelhead. After but one cast, the hen steelhead hit my tiny spinner, and the battle was on! After the 5 minute battle came to a close, we held and photographed a gorgeous 28 inch hen steelhead, which proved to my partner that it can be done, and just what mayhem can ensue when it does! To say he was excited would be an understatement. It was now his turn!

Mark soon learned how difficult it truly is, even when you can see the fish first. Just as he was making his attempt on his 3rd steelhead (notice, attempt…it is NOT easy!), they spooked out, and we had to regroup and try a different area. This time, Mark was successful, and after his battle, he proudly displayed his magnificent 30 inch buck steelhead for a picture. That was all it took. Mark is now completely insane for steelhead…just like someone else I know!

Now, for anyone that is thinking that they would like to become momentarily insane, just follow these simple steps: 1) find a moderate action fishing rod in a light power with a length from 4'6" to 6'0", preferably a one piece rod, 2) find a small spinning reel that will accommodate fishing line in the size of 6 lb test, with about a 120 yd capacity, roughly, and a very good drag system, 3) invest in a good pair of canvas hip waders (I prefer Hodgman). Canvas is very durable, and will stand up to years of abuse in a trout stream, and, 4) enlist the aide of a guide to get into the steelhead where they are running.

It is good to have friends who live along the Lake Michigan shoreline, but if you don't, hiring a guide is a great option and is well worth the money. You may need to be flexible to make the most of what is a rather small window of opportunity. Another great resource is a website, www.lake-link.com . This site is dedicated to helping the outdoorsperson gain knowledge to help them find where the action is best through a group of sportsmen and women who contribute their findings to forums on a daily basis. Also, you can ask questions on specific bodies of water (and tributaries) to get the most up to date information available. Check it out, I believe you will be very pleased with what you find! If you are interested in my help in becoming momentarily insane, you may contact me via the internet at www.classiccastoutfitters.com , or by phone at (715)479-4542 and (715)891-0568.

Incidentally, as I mentioned at the beginning of this story, we had our best trip ever this April 2008. We saw more than 25 steelhead and brought to hand 11 that were between 23 and 34 inches, all within just 3 hours of fishing. The overall average length of these fish was 29 inches, which when all is considered, is absolutely fantastic! Catching one of these fish on light tackle is a feat, and will keep you coming back for more! However, catching more than one on a single trip…well, that is beyond priceless, and will make you become "springtime steelhead insane"!

Until our next springtime steelhead insanity trip, set the hook hard and keep your line tight!

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