Winter steelhead fishing slowed on the Wilson this week and effort has dropped off as a result of the low and clear conditions, and cold weather. That said, a few fish are still getting caught. A little rain predicted for Friday and through the weekend may be enough to improve fishing.

Stealthy tactics, light line and subtle terminal presentations can increase the odds of success is these conditions. Low water is also a good time to use lures that entice a territorial bite. Lastly, concentrate on deep pools and choppy water that provide cover. There are hatchery and wild steelhead (catch and release only for wilds) throughout the system.

The Wilson River is one of the North Coast most popular winter steelhead rivers and gets one of our largest hatchery releases. Hatchery winter steelhead on the Wilson are from wild broodstock; as such they tend to mimic wild steelhead timing and there are hatchery steelhead available December through early April. The Wilson has several good drift boat stretches and some good bank access along Hwy 6.