The Metamorphosis of Steelhead Fisherman

I've always considered myself an avid fisherman.  Growing up in a place like Pulaski, it is hard not to be.  The spectacular fishing opportunities afforded by Lake Ontario and it's tributaries are seemingly endless throughout any given calendar year.  That being said, an entirely different breed of fisherman makes their way outdoors during the frigid winter months. And I'm not talking about the warm confines of an ice shanty. 

Throughout most of my life, fishing was confined to the pursuit small stream trout in the spring, bass, northern pike and other warm water species in the summer and salmon in the fall.  I was lucky enough to grow up with a quality salmon fishing stream no more than a short walk from my house.  Many an autumn afternoon was spent chasing the mud sharks up and down Grindstone Creek.  I would begin watching the water levels as summer transitioned into fall, in hopes that some rain would be the trigger for the Chinook salmon to begin their final chapter of life, the migratory journey from Lake Ontario into Grindstone Creek to spawn.  It is amazing to see these monster fish, some exceeding 30 lbs., swimming around in such a small stream. 

Historically, I was done fishing until trout season opened on April 1st once the salmon run waned in late fall.  I would spend the winter months on a snowmobile, skis or snowshoes.  However, in the winter of 2009 I began to chase the elusive chrome bullet, the steelhead.  Why had I not gotten into this sooner?  A partial answer to that question could be cost of quality steelhead fishing gear.  Having some disposable income is a necessity in order to fund steelhead pursuits.  Although, as my family and friends can attest to, I do not mind the added expense!

Soon enough I found myself spending nearly every weekend standing in waist deep, 33 degree water in 20 degree temperatures trying to convince once of these magnificent fish to take my offering.  The fresh white snow, ice formations on the banks, eagles flying overhead and the possibility of a big steelhead on the end of the line make for an activity of unrivaled serene beauty and pulse pounding excitement.  What could be better than this?

Sure, there are times when it does get a bit cold with the wind whipping around and the frigid water sucking the warmth out of your toes.  But, all you need to do is got for a quick warm up hike through the woods to a new spot and you are good as new.  And, I'll tell you that once you hook into one of these bruisers, the cold seems to disappear immediately! 

It takes a rare breed (some say a strange breed) to enjoy such conditions.  It is now my favorite time of the year to fish.  The fishing pressure is low, the fish are harder to catch and the beauty of the backdrop is second to none.  I think you all would agree with me if you gave it a shot!