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Steelhead

Steelhead

Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) are the anadromous form of rainbow trout and are among California's most prized game fish.

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus mykiss

Physical Characteristics:
  • Steelhead typically weigh 3-15 pounds and can reach 45 inches in length, living up to 11 years.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In California, steelhead are native to Pacific coast streams from the Santa Maria River to the Oregon border, as well as the Sacramento and San Joaquin river systems.
  • They utilize various habitat types including pools, riffles, runs, and areas with structural complexity like large woody debris, undercut banks, and boulders.

Key Locations

  • Top California steelhead rivers include the Klamath River (excellent for both summer and winter runs), Trinity River (one of the most consistent runs on the West Coast), Smith River (produced the 27.4-pound state record), Eel River and Van Duzen River (winter steelhead havens), Mad River, Mattole River, and Sacramento River system including the American and Feather rivers.
  • The Russian River also supports runs, particularly from the Warm Springs Hatchery.

Specific Spots

  • Target deeper pools, runs with good flow, and areas with cover like boulders, woody debris, and undercut banks.
  • Optimal spawning habitat includes gravel substrates 0.5-6 inches in diameter with good water flow.

Steelhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Steelhead in California?

Use 1/16 ounce jigs in ultra-low clear water, 1/8 ounce jigs for most situations, and 1/4 ounce jigs for high dirty water. Popular lures include Yakima Bait Mag Lips for pulling plugs, Blue Fox Vibrax Spinners, Steelhead Slammer Spinners, P-Line ProSteel spoons, and various drift bobbers including the legendary #3...

What flies work for Steelhead in California?

Effective fly patterns include traditional steelhead flies like Green Butt Skunk, Silver Hilton, Copper Beaded Assassin, Brett's Klamath Intruder, Brett's Klamath Skater, Muddler Minnows, and Bombers.

When is the best time to fish for Steelhead in California?

The best steelhead fishing in California occurs from November through March, with peak seasons often in January and February. Summer-run fishing can begin as early as July on rivers like the Trinity and Klamath, continuing through early fall.

How do you catch Steelhead in California?

Float fishing with bobbers and jigs works well in most conditions. Dr.ift fishing with sinkers allows bait to bounce along bottom structure where steelhead hold. Spinner fishing offers simplicity and effectiveness.

What do Steelhead eat?

Steelhead feed opportunistically on a varied diet. Juveniles consume stream-borne prey including algae, zooplankton, insect larvae (particularly hydropsychid caddisfly larvae, chironomid pupae, and baetid mayfly nymphs), and small invertebrates.

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