Trout & Salmon
Steelhead Fishing in Indiana
Migratory rainbow trout that run up coastal rivers from the ocean, and up Great Lakes tributaries from the lakes, to spawn. Winter runs make steelhead a cold-weather obsession.
Best Months: Oct to Apr
Plan by Month
Best Flies, Lures & Bait for Steelhead
6 picks for October.
Pat's Rubber Legs #4-10
FlyNymph
Shop This FlyEgg Pattern #8-16
FlyNymph · Indicator rig.
Shop This FlyIntruder 2 to 4 in
FlyStreamer · Swung on a spey rod.
Shop This FlyEgg-Sucking Leech #2-6
FlyStreamer
Shop This FlyInline Spinner 1/16 to 1/4 oz
LureSpinner
Shop This LureCured Salmon Eggs Single or cluster
BaitNatural Bait · Where bait is legal.
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Rod & Reel
Steelhead Setup
Steelhead
Fly 11 to 13 ft 7 or 8 wt spey or switch rod with a Skagit head and sink tips, or a 10 ft 8 wt single hand rod with an indicator rig.
Spin / Cast 8.5 to 10.5 ft medium-light rod, 3000 spinning reel, 8 to 12 lb line. Float and jig or drift rigs.
Indiana
Where to Catch Steelhead
Indiana
Shops to Stock Up
Recommended
Gear for Steelhead
Fly Rods
Echo Spey Rod
A two-handed rod for swinging flies across big steelhead and salmon runs.
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Redington Behemoth Fly Reel
A strong, sealed drag at a modest price, made in sizes from trout to saltwater.
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Scientific Anglers Sink-Tip Fly Line
Gets streamers down to fish holding deep in current.
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RIO Fluorocarbon Tippet
Low-visibility tippet for nymphs and wary fish in clear water.
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Simms Freestone Stockingfoot Waders
Durable, breathable waders that hold up to seasons of wading.
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Simms Freestone Wading Boots
Supportive boots with good grip on slick rock.
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Steelhead Fly Assortment
Egg patterns, leeches, and swing flies for winter runs.
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