As I remember, you're up in Aberdeen?  You have some great water there on the peninsula.  The biggest thing is putting time on the water.  If you're bank bound, look for some of the smaller rivers, as they will drop and clear faster once the rain lets up.  They are typically easier to fish as well.  I like fishing bobber and jig/fly for several reasons.  Bites are easier to detect and I like to tie my own jigs and flies.Thill River Master is the bobber of choice with me and my cronies.  Tie on a barrel swivel and 20-30" of leader.  Split shot above the swivel on main line.  Size of shot depends on the weight of you jig or fly.  It will typically be a size 2, 3, or 4.  I carry all of these along with 5 and 7.  You want the bobber to ride straight up and down as it goes down the rver.  If it looks like your bobber is tipping down stream, you are likely dragging bottom.  Adjust it sown on the main line and repeat.  You want to be a foot off the bottom.  The fish can't look down, so you want your offering above them a bit.  Jigs:  There are so many on the market these days and all will work at some time.  Pink, pink and white, cerise are my favorite colors for most water in the winter.  If your water is low and clear, blacks, purple, anything dark will be the ticket.  The Steelhead will prefer water that is 3-6' deep.  They love to hang in tailouts when the water is up, in the head of deeper holes when the water is low.  Look for seams in the current and fish along those currents.  They'll hang behind boulders in pocket water which can be tough to fish.  Hope this helps a bit.  Let me know what else I may be able to help you with.

JustDave 

Hey Dave,

I believe the person you are thinking of is brad(who make jigs too and sales them online. I am right next to the Stilly(one exit away) off I-5. I am heading there this weekend to try my luck. Can't use bait only lures according to the regs. So, I'll start off with a jig and float(the rig you just mentioned) and go from there. I sent you a pm on a few questions about rods and line.

I appreciate the help and info. I'm always looking for more because I can never learn too much...

Sorry Jeremy,

I get long winded some times.  Always try to help.

JustDave

Dave,

Don't be sorry. I enjoy learning from others. I was looking at your photos last night and noticed packaged jigs. Do you sell them and how much?

I was selling them to help cover the cost of Muskygirls trip out here in Dec.  I also sell them to my buddies who've found they work as well as store bought.  I get $2.50 each for them, plus any shipping of course.  I pour, paint(powder with additional urethane dip), and tie.  I use Owner jig hooks in sizes 1, 1/0, and 2/0 in 1/8 and 1/4oz. head sizes.  I mix powders to create custom colors and many have "glow" powder mixed in.  With all the rain we've been getting, it makes for more tying time than fishing time.  Let me know if I can tie you up a few.

JustDave

Dave,

I would like to purchase some from you but I will have to wait till next year. I am deploying soon and my fishing season for Salmon and Steelhead end this weekend. I have one other chance for fishing and it will more than likely be done again at Rufus Woods just before leave for cruise. I will not be back till the winters are running again later this year.

Stay in touch the best you can.  Send a PM with your addy and I see to it you have some waiting for you when you get back.  N/C  I should be able to tie up some before next winter : )

JustDave

Dave,

I will do that. I'll send you my address this week. Thank you for all your help on fishing for steelies. Let me know if you got the PM.

I'll keep in touch when I can while floating out on the water. I'll let you all know where I was and what we did.

Just out of curiosity what is N/C?