Sliding out of the winter funk. Cool and crisp mornings, warmer and longer days, and some sunshine. More pleasant times on the water. Steelhead remain, and continue to arrive well into the spring. Animals are much more active, and the fish more aggressive with the warming temperatures. This time of year there is a mix of fresh fish, both wild and hatchery broodstock fish, run backs, and an occasional early summer run. River pressure is not as heavy, and the weather is often very pleasant. Warmer temperatures, and the river not as cold. Typically the fish bite baits better and seem to fight harder. Even though each fish is an individual, we often encounter more “angry” fish. Resulting in sporty chases down river and chaos, making things interesting. Sizes vary widely. From little 2 and 3 pound jacks, to mack daddy larger fish, approaching 20 pounds or more. We usually get just a handful of chances at 20 plus pound fish, but they are here, and we do catch them. Beautiful fish when we do get them. So, you never know what your next bite will be. A wonderful time of year. Being on the river after a long winter slump can be amazing. Sprouts on the trees, new grass and growing bushes. Good warm sun, new fresh smells, and active animals abound. We continue to side drift, float fish, drift fish, and even throw flies on occasion. Longer days, good fishing, and spectacular scenery, make for amazing days on the river…