Steelhead & salmon

Switch 11′ or spey 12′6″–13′6″, 7–8 weight (or a 9′6″ single-hand 7–8 wt)

Long casts across big runs, with no room needed behind you.

Sized for the line plus 150+ yd backing

Holds a thick head plus backing and stops strong fish.

Skagit head matched to rod grain window, with sink tips

Skagit heads carry heavy flies and sink tips in winter flows.

Connects the head to backing and shoots for distance.

150 yd, 20–30 lb

Room for long runs.

10–15 lb

Strong, abrasion-resistant tippet for big fish in rocky water.

× 2Intruders, leeches and marabou patterns

Swing flies in dark and bright colors.

Large slots or foam

Room for long, bulky flies.

Room for layers underneath

Winter water is dangerously cold.

Room for layers underneath

Instead of the waders above: the same job, cut for women's proportions. Women's models from Simms, Orvis.

Studs or cleats; check local rules

Big, slick rivers need extra grip.

Wear it every time; often included with waders.

Deep, fast runs in cold water — keep three points of contact.

Long-nose

Remove larger hooks quickly.

Trim heavy tippet.

Rocky bottoms dull hooks.

Rubber mesh

Keep wild fish in the water when you can; a large rubber net helps if you must land one.

Wool or synthetic

Layers under waders keep you fishing in winter.

Winter steelhead means rain and cold.

A women's-fit shell cut to sit over waders. Women's models from Simms, Orvis.

For cold mornings.

Polarized

Read the run and protect your eyes from heavy flies.

Short winter days and early starts.

Cold, remote water; be prepared.

Required; check current emergency closures.

Many states require a tag or catch record card in addition to a license.