Steelhead fishing tips for staying ‘legal’
STEELHEAD FISHING -- Catching a steelhead on the Snake or Clearwater rivers is a lot more fun when the experience isn't marred by getting a ticket. Here are some reminders to keep your fishing a memorable experience:
- Make sure you have a valid fishing license and steelhead permit.
- Pinch barbs on hooks.
- Record catch-and-keep on steelhead cards.
- Immediately release steelhead that haven’t had their adipose fin clipped (hatchery steelhead are marked by having their fin clipped).
- Know the difference between a steelhead and a salmon. If the fish you caught has black gum lines and a black tongue, it’s a fall chinook salmon. Check rules carefully about the potential for keeping salmon in limited seasons.
