Olympic National Forest Steelhead

Lael Johnson

Fly Fisher, Guide, Instructor, Writer

Lael, a professional guide in Washington, lives and breathes steelhead fishing in the Olympic National Forest. A steelhead catch is something that will change you as a person during and for sure after the fight, whether you win or lose the first battle. Join us to learn Lael’s secrets to success for steelhead!

Just a few of the questions asked and answered during the interview:

• What makes the Olympic National Forest so special?
• What differences are there between wild and hatchery steelhead?
• What is the best time of year to fish for steelhead?
• What are the differences between the types of rivers in the area?
• What are the differences between fishing with a single-handed rod and spey rod?
• What type of line do you use and what types of tips do you use?
• What are the ideal types of flies and what makes them stand out to the fish?
• What method works best for steelhead nymphing or swing flies?
• How is the take different between nymphs and streamers that you swing?
• What do you recommend for clothing when fishing in the winter?
• Do the moon phases and weather affect the steelhead bite?
• What is the health and status of Olympic National Forest steelhead?