Re: {Tidal Potomac Fly Rodders} Re: Spring steelhead

I fished Salmon River both Fall and Spring runs of 2024 and 2025. Earlier years I've only fish the Fall runs. 2025 fish are on the larger side when I had more fish broken me off and also landed my pb.    Fall runs have stronger fish for obvious reasons, but also much crowded in public sections, DSR was better with extra cost of course. Spring runs were fun if looking for grabby fish, warmer weather, and less crowd. Although not as strong as chromers in the Fall, the drop backs can still drag you 100 yards down stream. I think mid April to early May might be a good window. May is interesting since you can target both steelhead and small mouth at the same time. 

On Friday, March 13, 2026 at 3:07:46 PM UTC-4 Ben wrote:

I will also add that Salmon River fish seem to be running on the large size this year. Here are a few fish from the past couple of weekends.

On Friday, March 13, 2026 at 2:52:37 PM UTC-4 Ben wrote:

For the Salmon River, Whitaker's has ok info, and talking with folks in the shop always helps. Water is high right now but clarity is good around Altmar and above. Trick is to find spots where fish hold or move through that also allow for an effective drift. 3-6ft deep, flowing at walking speed is usually a good rule of thumb for steelhead everywhere. Being in a boat will open up many more spots. As the water warms into April and May, more dropbacks will show up. They're super grabby but don't fight much. Best chance at swinging up a steelhead though. Many folks snag or accidentally "line" fish, but fish will eat flies. 

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