Strategies for spring steelhead on Lake Erie tributaries

By the time spring comes around, the fish have spent months with fewer food sources, and most have released a major portion of their energy during the spawning process. Adding to the challenge for anglers is the likelihood that a holdover steelhead has seen dozens of imitations and was likely caught and released several times while in the tributary. Each experience leaves an impression on the fish’s instinct to survive. More finesse, a little luck, and a lot of persistence will be required to catch spring steelhead. Consider these items, which might help.