X-Stream Steelheading

LARGE AMOUNTS OF SNOW IN THE WATER

MADE FISHING EXTREME ON THIS DAY!

In the past couple of days, I have heard numerous times, "I can't believe I am fishing in a river just a couple days away from Christmas!" Yeah, it's hard to believe Christmas is almost here, and honestly it is even harder to believe we did as well today as what we did.

The day started early due to a weather system full of freezing rain, snow, and sleet that was forecasted to push through the area in the early morning hours. With clients waiting in the warmth of hotels, I needed to give myself plenty of time in order to make a prompt arrival. With the truck in four wheel drive, I hit the snow covered roads and slowly covered ground to the Alley.

The good news was that upon arriving, the conditions weren't so bad...just snow. However, within an hour, that was all going to change. Soon the heavy snows turned to sleet, and faster than that, it turned to freezing rain. All I can say is that the rain was cold and without my wading jacket, my stocking cap stood no chance long term. Luckily for me, we were able to get the skunk out of the bag in the first hour and shortly after decided to relocate. Once back to the truck, we changed up some clothing and prepared for a rainy day as opposed to snow. One thing was for sure....we were fishing no matter the conditions.

Upon arriving at our second location, we noticed that once again, we were the only souls in sight. We walked through a woods full of fresh snow. Our tracks were joined only by the crowd of God's great creation that stood, scampered and flew around us. Not another human soul was found on this extreme day....not another fisherman....not another guide...not even fools would come out in this weather :) ....but to me, it was a glorious day to be out! So, I don't know what that says about me....crazy, stupid, diehard? I'll take the latter.

From sun up to sun down, the stream was choked with snow. Not ice, but snow! As it snowed early, you could see every flake hit the ice cold water and cling to another near it. No melting flakes today. Below you can see an area of mild congestion while above was an entirely different story.

TODAY YOU PICKED YOUR HOLES, EXECUTED A

TUCK CAST AND OFFERED UP A PRAYER

The cool thing about this x-stream day was the fact that despite such adverse conditions, we were tearing up the fish! Here is an example of the average catch on this awesome day!

TIM SHOWS OFF A LARGE SHOULDERED PENNSYLVANIA

STRAIN HEN ADORNED IN CHROME

All but one fish caught today on two different watersheds was very fresh and somewhat feisty for 33 degree water. But hey, I'm not complaining. All I want for Christmas is chrome....Afterall, I am a redneck :)

Below is that one fish that had been in river for some time. It was a nice little buck that was browned up and kyped for the occasion.

TIM WITH A COLORED UP PENNSYLVANIA STRAIN BUCK

As the day pushed on more fish came to hand including several nice chromers in 24-26" range. Although nothing monstrous was landed today, Tim was happy and blessed to have pulled off his best day to date on steelhead and in the toughest of conditions to boot!

TIM HOLDS A GORGEOUS HEN WITH A SIGNATURE

SHALE WALL OF THE ERIE REGION

DISAPPEARING IN THE DISTANCE

So, here I am sitting in the warmth of my home thinking back over a very productive fall schedule. We had more trips this fall than ever. We got to meet a lot of great people and catch some spectacular fish. With only two days left in the fall season, I will bid farewell for the team and say thank you for an amazing fall!!!

Now, let the X-games begin.....Winter in T minus two days. Are you ready for some x-stream fishing for steelhead on the fly? We are! Give us a shout if you think chrome on snow and ice is an adventure you desire to experience.

In the meantime, we hope all of you have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Tight Lines,

Patrick "Flybum" Robinson

Head Guide

Steelhead Alley Outfitters