Following are combined from several sources, GRR Member Dave Larson:
CALENDAR
- December 26: Season "kicks off" on Boxing Day with Steelhead returning to rivers from ocean. Best fishing in Estuaries.
- February: Spawning up river.
- March: Post spawn, those that haven't died are called Kelts and return down rivers to ocean.
- April: Kelts all back in ocean, season ends.
LOCATIONS
- Cowichan Estuary & River: Early in season fish the lower portion of the river, ie the portion of the fishing trail just above the Duncan Fish & Game Club.
- Stamp Estuary & River
METHODS
- Flies: Early in season use large (expensive to make) "Intruder" type flies, so-called as imitate Steelhead's natural food in ocean. Intruder's are either a "Tube Fly", or on a shank with a trailing "stinger hook". The later being probably the best.
- Rig: Use a sinking head and about 30"+/- of 12-15 lb tippet.
- Casting: As large fly, cast normally two handed.
- Catching: Pound for pound best fighting fish vs salmon, catch and release though in BC rivers.
Steelhead "Intruder" Flies at Robinson's Outdoor Store Victoria
HBFFA Barry Stokes Steelhead Flies (as bought by Wingkee Chan)