Another Steelhead Season Underway!

This is the sight on many streams currently...with varying levels of clarity!  Streams have been improving over the last couple days and many are starting to clear up and fish well as of today, so get out there while the getting is good!

The Vermilion, Rocky, Chagrin, Grand tribs, Ashtabula, Conneaut and Elk are all either fishing or just starting.  Expect flows to still hold some sediment from the snow melt that is still happening and choose your fly patterns and presentations accordingly.

If you need to get a guide on the books, don't wait!  The phone is ringing off the hook and dates are going fast!  Call us at 1-888-453-5899 or email us at team@steelheadalleyoutfitters.com

The Ashtabula has been dialing in nicely!  Hoping for a good run this spring!

Don't forget that the pressure on the water will be less than desirable this weekend.  That means that this is a perfect opportunity to remember what stream etiquette is all about.  Remember...although you may not realize it, you could be the only teacher of proper stream etiquette some people ever see!  Make all your opportunities count this weekend be it setting the hook on a fish or teaching those around you the finer aspects of the sport!

The Elk is looking good today and although considered more of a fall fishery,
it shouldn't be overlooked when it comes to early spring fish!

A gorgeous spring fish....many more of these to come!

All the best out there this spring!

Grand River On The Endangered Rivers List!

Reading or hearing that a river near you is in danger, would and should start to make anyone think about the future. I will say it is very sad to see how many rivers and streams that are effected by mining, fracking, and the construction of dams. What comes to mind most recently is the pebble mine project in AK.

At the same time I understand the need for resources, but with technology where it is today are we really in need of fossil fuels as our primary energy source? Shouldn't we be progressing say as fast as our iphones? Or is the big business of oil and coal holding us back. Yes, I know it's all about the Benjamin's!

I can tell you first hand I am not any type of tree hugger nor have I been the most environment friendly person with what type of car I drive, how I recycle, and the products I buy.  To see Ohio's Grand River listed as #6 in this countries Most Endangered Rivers List, was to say the least frighting and eye opening. Check out the link below that Brett McCrae just sent over...

Grand River #6 on the Endangered Rivers List   

The Grand River is Ohio's crown jewel steelhead fishery.

The Grand River provides prime habitat for numerous wildlife and recreational opportunities for the public.

  

I Love It When a Plan Comes Together!!! Lake Erie Steelhead Alley Fishing Report

The past couple of days have been busy and a whole lot of fun! I don't know about you, but I absolutely love this time of year on the Alley! Not only do you have hot fish and new clients, but the colors on the stream are out of this world!

FALL COLORS ON THE GRAND RIVER

Yesterday some of our guides were busy on the Grand getting in some scouting for a super busy day with clients today. Waters were lower than we would have liked, but regardless, the boat hit the water and miles of water were covered in the first float of the season.

BRETT MCCRAE TAKES A DAY TO GET SOME STEEL FOR HIMSELF!

ANOTHER RUN ON THE FLOAT

As water was covered, the lines got wet in every hole that looked to hold fish and sure enough the assumptions were right and beautiful fish came to hand.

AND THE FISH COME TO HAND.

BEAUTIFUL CLOSE UP OF A BUCK IN COLOR

Today was a new day and one we were looking forward to. The conditions were up in the air at the end of the day yesterday, but we moved out prepared to meet whatever conditions we were forced to face.

The past week with clients has been tough fishing, and today we thought it would be much the same. However, upon arrival this morning, we found that the waters were starting to come up a bit and holding a better stain than in previous days.......

The title of my blog for today is, "I love it when a plan comes together!" I must admit that there was a day in time where I loved to watch the "A-team" on tv. I absolutely loved watching it and couldn't wait until the end when I would get to hear Hannibal proclaim "I love it when a plan comes together!"

Today I felt like my team was the "A-Team!" The plan definitely came together and for that I am both happy and thankful.....thankful for a group of qualified, competent, professional (in action), get it done, kind of guides. I love being part of a team that works as a team! Today you guys did a GREAT JOB and the clients testimonies will prove it.

Below, Brian gets his day started with a hard charging fish.......

BRIAN FIGHTING A NICE PIECE OF OHIO STEEL

A MUG WE ALL LOVE

Brian came to us all the way from Connecticut and had a banner day. His hookups were off the chart and many came to the net for him throughout the day! Check out these picks of just a few he put in the net.

BRIAN AND HIS GUIDE BEN BARGER SMILE WITH A VERY NICE FISH

John Miller was out today with clients from Illinois, and they did just as well. The fish came to the net in liberal amounts, but plenty of those hot fish earned their right to swim away on their terms as well. As far as I'm concerned, there are certain fish I don't mind losing....especially after the displays they offer us.

Below, Dan and John show their steelheading prowess....

DAN WITH A VERY NICE FISH!

A NICE HOT HEN GAVE UP THE FIGHT AND POSES IN CHROME.

A COLORED UP BUCK

JOHN POSES WITH A THICK FISH!

SAO GUIDES BEN AND JOHN POSE WITH CLIENTS

AS THEY SHARED WATER FOR A

SHORT TIME. NOTHING QUITE LIKE DOUBLES!

Brett was also out with clients today, but we will be looking for a post from him sometime very soon. He did just as well as the rest of the team and left for home with very happy clients. But don't take my word for it.....come back and check out his blog soon.

Until then, get out.....it's getting good!!!

Patrick "Flybum" Robinson

Head Guide

Steelhead Alley Outfitters