FALL: August to November

This can be the most challenging season in Ohio for steelhead. We have a spring run fish, temperatures can be warm and unpredictable, and the biggest factor : WATER!! It doesn't matter. If the rivers don't get rain, the fish will not run up them with any consistency. Many a steelheader will wait and stare at local forecast for the first signs of rain. The rivers are at summer levels and need to be filled with periods of rain to encourage good fishing. The good thing is once rain hits, you know a run of fish is right behind. Also, steelies are very aggressive due to water temps and sexual immaturity so strikes are hard and fights are air borne.

WINTER: December to February

This is the time that separates the men from the boys. The rivers have plenty of flow and fish. Temperatures can be brutal or pleasant. Rivers can be iced over and roads can be dangerous. Fishing can be great or bust. This is were your gear will be tested and your patience thin. Experience is key so one knows the best holes are because time and sunshine are short. There is nothing like being in a snow storm off the lake, guides icing up, and  pod of fish that nibble all day. Eat a big breakfast and pack water because burning calories is inevitable. Steelhead aren't aggressive so strikes are subtle and fights are a slugfest.