Steelhead Battle Hi Speed Only
We were fishing in close quarters having blow downs, log jambs and heavy currents in our path. Water clarity was marginal at best. Although there were many obstacles, this particular pool had a good number of fish present. Every once in a while you would see a flash of silver in the bottom of this chest deep pool. The intermittent flashes of silver were enough to keep my interest. I threw everything I had in my fly box, at least a few hundred drifts. Then we figured it out. Streamers, short stripped and the faster the better. After a couple short strikes the rod was nearly ripped from my grasp. Perseverance paid off. The fish tore upstream violently, cleared the water two feet and then swam under a huge log jamb. I was fishing 2x tippet so I was able to keep the pressure on and work her back out into the main channel and beach her. My second fish that day would prove to be the toughest one ever brought to my hand. Three blistering runs, the final one being totally obscene, he shot straight downstream with a full head of steam and me in tow. I worked to hard for this one and I was determined to land him. Shortly after the foot chase began I underestimated the power of the creek and went down hard, face first. My mind was focused on the task at hand so I recovered quickly to finish what I had started. After a few more blistering runs the buck was tired enough to be beached, photographed and revived. High fives from Jeremy and Joey as we headed back to the truck reliving the highlights of the day. I hope my interest in the pursuit of steelhead never wanes. They are an admirable opponent worthy of deep respect.
The most impressive steelhead battle I have ever seen.
Cant get the video to work right now, but GREAT STORY!!
Way to ang with it!
great job whip. looks like a good day all around, My adventure will be penned shortly. Nice!!!
Your buds must have really liked that fall, as they had it in slow motion twice, very funny. On a more serious note, kudos on landing that stellie in such a tight spot, even with the face plant. Few people would have kept an eye on the prize and maintain their composure to close the deal. Thanks for the story and vid.
Nice chase. Nice face plant. Nice recovery.
Happens to everyone at some point. Steelie putting man in his place.
Thanks. It is never an easy task to land fish in there. After losing a few earlier in the day my conviction grew stronger. After watching the video, it was plain to see I had my war face on from the word go.
Thanks Caddis. It is refreshing to be humbled by steel from time to time.
That was crazy, you need one of those “Easy Buttons”
Well Done Whippa 🙂
did you have any idea what you were up against :)…Great fish whip had a blast as usual can’t wait to do it again. The wedge and I made it home safe and sound. See ya soon
j-
Always a pleasure Joey. Hope to have you down to the Delaware soon. The Hendricksons are coming!