Pacific Coast steelheads are very similar to the rainbow trout. The difference is that the steelheads are anadromous - they are born in rivers, live in the sea and travel back the rivers of their birth to spawn. Rainbow trout don't migrate at all. About 20 streams and rivers along the North Shore of Minnesota have major spring runs of steelheads, although they can be found in about another 40, totaling almost 145 miles. Fly fishing along the rivers begins as soon as they are free of ice, usually sometime in April. Fly fishing for steelheads along the North Shore is not for the faint of heart. Weather conditions are changeable and can be brutal and the landscape combines heavy brush with rushing rivers.

Gear

Bring good, sturdy gear to brave the elements of Minnesota's early spring. Modern waders can keep a fisherman dry and comfortable while fly fishing for steelheads. Recommended are the lightweight breathable type, chest high with a stocking foot featuring a felt sole with built-in gravel guards. They are comfortable for long hikes in weather that may be warm one day and wintry the next. A wading belt is a good idea, too. A comfortable pair of watertight boots is a necessity. They should also have felt. If you're planning to use a new pair, break them in first. For clothing, use synthetics in layers and stay away from cotton. A breathable rain jacket and sunglasses round out the must-haves.

A normal 8' to 10' graphite fishing rod, 8 weight is good for steelheads in fast water. Any reel with a smooth drag that works well when wet is sufficient. Use a floating WF line. You may want to bring along a sink-tip line for use in deep holes. When fly fishing for steelheads, the best type of fly is probably the yarn fly, also called the egg fly or glo-bug. Make sure that you bring plenty in a variety of colors.

Techniques

For fly fishing for steelheads, drift fishing or bottom bouncing is an effective technique. The fly fisher has to get the fly down fast in the wild water of the North Shore. Popular drift rigs include the slinker rig, the in-line shot rig and the drop shot rig. When tying your rig, remember that your knots are very important. Lubricate your line before pulling the knots tight to avoid heat from friction, trim the knots close and neat to make a good presentation and retie often.

When fly fishing for steelheads in Minnesota's North Shore, be prepared for wild water, wild weather, wild landscapes and a really good time.