A brief series of recent wet weather patterns have brought much relief to northern California drought stricken rivers and activated fall salmon-steelhead runs in most all watersheds. I have been enjoying the past several weeks guiding the Trinity, attempting to second guess runs that appear to be scattered, head to tail, throughout the system while appreciating and, at the same time, accepting October 2014 will be my 32 year guiding the Trinity River. Cool and not so cool to ponder, I just may be the oldest guide on local Trinity waters. However, easing the pain, I fully realize I have also been one of the most fortunate. Believe me, the opportunity and experience has been nothing short of a lifetime of ultimate fulfillment in every way imaginable. I thank you ALL. Anyway, highlighting river work, I have also been jazzed working the Trinity Fly Shop; engaged in retail sales, listening to amped up fishing stories, delivering reports and helping challenged anglers score or as the late Bill Schaadt would say “Figure it out.” I’m totally stoked and you should be as well. It’s fall steelhead season; fish are in and the air is buzzing with angling hype and eager anticipation. Regardless what river you fish this is a time of year to engage, celebrate, and appreciate one of the most magnificent anadromous creatures that swim. STEELHEAD, the World Series and Super Bowl of west coast fly fishing.

What does steelheading mean to you? Is it the lore and mystique of a legendary fish; the haunting beauty of a steelhead’s world; a time to be thankful for those who pioneered the way/waters and showed many how; a time to be thankful for those who devote their precious time fighting for rivers and anadromous fisheries so future generations can experience and enjoy; the hidden intensity and deep anticipation of fishing a run in search of the sweet spot/bucket; a time to tie countless colorful and creative flies that broadcast a heavy “come-get-me” vibe; the ultimate fly fishing challenge; a time and valid excuse to call into work sick; a fish to shy away from—ghost of the coast that some (generally Whiners) swear don’t exist; the desire of an arm wrenching wet fly grab–a surface eruption on a skater– indicator hesitation/take-down; feeling full throttle bursting power thrusts and determined heart throbbing runs; witnessing cartwheeling aerial displays, hearing the sound of a high-pitched screaming reel spooling line/backing in a single burst; pushing the limits, wading in with under-gunned equipment, knowing you’re going to get your ask kicked yet giddy accepting the challenge; the gratification of catching, admiring, photographing, touching, feeling and releasing a fresh arrival unharmed; entering a successful tally on the steelhead punch card; learning and willing to accept the harsh reality sometimes you don’t know shit about steelhead and their behavior; rekindling angling fellowship and or sharing the love/experience with a best friend; simply appreciating the moment, opportunity and God’s gift of beauty, sweet waters and cherished rewards.

Charles Bucaria and Ben Taylor, two (80 yr. young) well honed steelhead veterans and river warriors sharing the stoke

Father/son Bill-John McMillan steelhead publication sure to fuel the stoke, on and off rivers. (available Trinity Fly Shop)

Not to be fooled by shear beauty and innocence-totally able to kick anyone’s ass royally

You already know how we feel. Let us know what steelhead fishing means to you and your friends. Share the Stoke—NOW Get Out There!!!