Steelhead Fishing the Columbia River

Steelhead are anadromous, meaning they are born in freshwater, migrate to the ocean to grow, and return to freshwater to spawn. This incredible life cycle makes them a highly sought-after sport fish. In the Columbia River system, we see both summer-run and winter-run steelhead, each offering unique fishing opportunities. Summer-run steelhead typically arrive from June through October, while winter-run steelhead enter the system from November through April. They are aggressive predators, feeding on smaller fish, crustaceans, and insects. When hooked, they are famous for their blistering runs and spectacular aerial displays, making every catch a memorable event.