Choosing the Right Fly Fishing Gear for the Tributaries
The tributary streams that feed into Lake Ontario and Lake Erie are home to some of the most diverse and productive fisheries in the region. These waters produce a variety of iconic species such as Coho and Chinook salmon, giant brown trout, some Atlantic salmon, and an abundance of steelhead. These tributaries have become renowned for their trophy fishing opportunities, providing anglers with the chance to reel in world-class catches right in their own backyard. This success is largely due to the successful fish stocking and management programs implemented by the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), which have ensured that the fish populations remain healthy and robust year after year.
Not only do these flowing streams provide an excellent environment for fish to thrive, but they have also sparked the development of specialized fishing gear designed specifically for these waters. Over time, the unique challenges and conditions of fishing these creeks and rivers have inspired a wave of innovative fly fishing equipment that meets the needs of anglers facing tight, brush-filled streams.
Conditions and Fishing Pressure Produce Specialized Gear
One of the driving forces behind the evolution of specialized fly fishing gear for the tributary streams of Lake Ontario and Lake Erie is the fishing pressure these waters experience. These streams draw a large number of anglers year-round, which means that space for casting is often limited. The tight quarters found on many of these rivers, especially those lined with dense brush and trees, make traditional fly fishing techniques difficult, particularly when it comes to backcasting. Anglers often struggle with limited room for their cast, making precision and adaptability critical.
This has led to the development of specialized fly rods, reels, and lines that are tailored to the unique conditions of these streams. The innovation of the “noodle rod,” a soft, flexible fly rod that allows for delicate and accurate casting in cramped spaces, was one of the first breakthroughs in fly fishing gear designed specifically for these waters. Other gear innovations, including specialized reels and lines, have continued to evolve as anglers seek ways to improve their casting and fishing efficiency in these challenging conditions.
Finding the Right Rod for Great Lakes Steelhead Fishing
When it comes to fishing the Great Lakes tributaries for steelhead, selecting the right rod can make a significant difference in both your fishing experience and your success. The conditions on these rivers demand gear that is both durable and capable of handling the challenges posed by the fast, cold waters and powerful fish. Let’s break down the key features to look for in a rod for steelhead fishing on the Great Lakes tributaries.
Rod Length
The length of your fly rod is one of the most important considerations when fishing on the tributary streams of the Great Lakes. While 8 to 9-foot rods are typical for most fly fishing applications, a rod in the range of 10 to 12 feet is a significant advantage for steelhead fishing. Longer rods provide several benefits that are crucial for fishing on the Great Lakes streams.
First, the added length allows for better line control, particularly when it comes to mending the line. Mending is critical for managing drag and achieving a natural drift, especially in fast-moving waters. A longer rod also provides more distance for effective roll casting, allowing anglers to reach fish that are farther out of reach without needing to backcast. This is particularly important in areas with limited casting space due to the dense brush that often lines the rivers.
Additionally, a longer rod offers much better shock absorption when fighting a big fish. Steelhead are known for their powerful runs, and having a rod with enough length to cushion these intense bursts of speed helps reduce the risk of breaking the tippet. The longer rod allows for smoother, more controlled fights, ensuring that you can handle larger fish without putting undue strain on your line and tackle.
For steelhead, a rod with a relatively soft tip and a sturdy butt section is ideal. The soft tip helps with delicate presentations and accurate casting, while the powerful butt section provides the backbone needed to fight big fish effectively.
Rod Styles
There are two primary rod styles to consider for Great Lakes steelhead fishing: traditional one-handed rods and two-handed rods, which include switch rods and full-length Spey rods. Each style has its own advantages, depending on your fishing technique and the conditions you’ll be facing.
- Traditional One-Handed Rods: These rods, typically between 9 and 10 feet in length, are still the go-to choice for many steelhead anglers. They are versatile and easy to handle in most situations, especially in smaller streams where tight casting is necessary. One-handed rods are typically equipped with a fighting butt for added comfort and control during long fights with steelhead.
- Two-Handed Rods: In recent years, two-handed rods, particularly switch rods and full-length Spey rods, have gained popularity among steelhead anglers, especially on larger streams like the Salmon River. These rods allow for longer casts and more efficient line control, particularly in wide, fast-moving rivers where a traditional rod might fall short. The primary benefit of a two-handed rod is the ability to cast longer distances without the need for a backcast, which can be especially useful when space is limited behind you. Additionally, the increased rod length and the leverage provided by two hands allow anglers to handle big fish with greater ease.
Switch rods, which are shorter than full Spey rods, are an excellent choice for steelhead fishing in winter conditions. They offer the perfect balance between power and ease of use, especially in areas where casting space is restricted. A full-length Spey rod, on the other hand, is better suited for larger rivers and experienced anglers who are comfortable with two-handed casting techniques.
Bigger Guides for Better Performance
One often overlooked but important feature of fly rods used for steelhead fishing in the tributaries is the size of the rod guides. During the colder months, when anglers are fishing in icy conditions, rod guides are prone to freezing up, which can greatly hinder your casting and fishing experience. To combat this, look for rods equipped with oversized guides that are a few sizes larger than what would typically be used on a rod of that size.
Larger guides help prevent ice buildup, allowing the line to pass through smoothly even in freezing temperatures. This simple but crucial feature ensures that your casting and retrieves are as smooth as possible, minimizing interruptions and keeping your gear performing at its best. Large guides also reduce the chances of line tangling or catching, which is especially important when you’re dealing with heavy, fast-moving lines and winter conditions.
Reels For The Great Lake Tributaries
When it comes to steelhead fishing in the tributaries of the Great Lakes, selecting the right reel can be just as crucial as choosing the perfect rod. A good reel ensures smooth line retrieval, reliable drag performance, and the durability needed to handle powerful fish in challenging conditions. While high-end reels can be tempting, you don’t need to break the bank to find a reel that will perform exceptionally well in these waters. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for when selecting a reel for fishing the Great Lakes tributaries.
Reel Choices for Every Budget
One of the most reassuring aspects of fishing for steelhead on the Great Lakes tributaries is that you don’t have to spend $600 on a reel to be successful. While premium reels certainly offer some advantages, you can find high-quality reels in the $100 to $200 range that will perform just as well for most anglers. Many of these mid-range reels are capable of consistently handling big fish, which is especially important when you’re chasing steelhead or salmon. These reels are designed to be durable, lightweight, and reliable—qualities that are vital when you’re spending long hours on the water and need gear that won’t fail under pressure.
For anglers on a tighter budget, there are plenty of options that deliver excellent performance without sacrificing quality. Reels in this price range often come with smooth drag systems, sturdy construction, and the ability to withstand the demands of freshwater fishing. Investing in a reliable reel within this price bracket ensures that you have the right tools for the job without having to splurge on premium models.
Picking the Right Color for Your Reel
While it may sound surprising, one often overlooked aspect of reel selection is the color. The fish in the Great Lakes tributaries are often subjected to high fishing pressure, and anything that helps reduce the likelihood of spooking them is a benefit. While color may seem like a minor detail, it can have a significant impact on your fishing success, especially in clear water conditions.
Opting for a reel in a matte or neutral color can make a huge difference. For example, using a reel in a darker shade, such as black, can help reduce glare, which is important when fishing in bright sunlight. The sun’s reflection off a shiny reel can alert fish to your presence, potentially spooking them before you even have a chance to make a cast. The reel I personally use most often is a Ross reel, which is affordable yet durable enough to handle steelhead fishing. Its black color helps ensure that it remains stealthy, preventing unnecessary distractions that could alert wary fish.
Considering the Drag System
Another crucial feature to consider when selecting a reel is the drag system. The drag is the mechanism that controls the tension on the fishing line when a fish makes a run, allowing the angler to slow the fish down without snapping the line. A smooth, adjustable drag system is essential when fishing for steelhead or salmon, especially because these fish are known for their explosive runs and sudden bursts of speed.
In the cold weather conditions that often accompany Great Lakes tributary fishing, being able to adjust your drag on the fly can make all the difference. One of the challenges anglers face in winter is the difficulty of adjusting the drag when wearing gloves or with cold fingers. That’s why having a drag system with a large, easy-to-grip knob is important. A bigger knob allows you to fine-tune the drag quickly and easily, even when you’re dressed for the cold. When a big steelhead or salmon takes off on a fast run, being able to adjust the drag without fumbling can prevent unnecessary breakoffs and give you the control you need to land the fish.
The Advantages of Large Arbor Reels
When fishing the tributaries, large arbor reels offer distinct advantages. Large arbor reels are designed with a larger spool diameter, which allows them to retrieve line more quickly than traditional reels. This is particularly useful when you’re fishing for steelhead or other species that make powerful, long runs.
Fish in the Great Lakes tributaries can often run downstream before realizing that the pressure on their line eases when they turn back upstream. When this happens, you need a reel that can quickly retrieve slack line and re-engage the fish. A large arbor reel makes this much easier, as it helps you take up line faster, which is crucial for staying in control during the fight. This is especially important when you’re targeting fish that have a lot of fight in them, such as steelhead or king salmon, as they are known for their unpredictable movements and ability to make quick, powerful runs.
Additionally, large arbor reels are often lighter and more comfortable to use for extended periods. Their design provides better balance and efficiency, reducing fatigue during long days on the water.
Specialized Fly Lines
When it comes to fishing the tributaries of Lake Ontario and other Great Lakes streams, having the right fly line is essential to your success. The varying conditions—ranging from fast-moving waters to deep runs—demand a line that is versatile and able to handle everything from surface feeding to deep-water fishing. Specialized fly lines, particularly sink-tip lines, have proven to be an invaluable tool for targeting steelhead, salmon, and other species that frequent these waters. While these lines have evolved over time, a rich history of DIY solutions has paved the way for more sophisticated, commercially available options.
A Long History of DIY Multi-Tip Lines
Before companies started manufacturing multi-tip lines, anglers in the Great Lakes region were already ahead of the curve, experimenting with homemade solutions to tackle the unique challenges of fly fishing in these tributaries. One of the earliest and most popular innovations was the creation of DIY multi-tip lines, with anglers often modifying their existing fly lines to incorporate interchangeable sink tips.
What makes these early multi-tip lines unique is their adaptability. Anglers would use a variety of sink-tip sections made of different weights to customize their setup for different depths and fishing conditions. The key difference between these DIY multi-tip lines and modern sink-tip fly lines is the use of ultra-fast sinking tips. Many anglers in the Great Lakes area preferred sinking lines that sink at rates of 13 inches per second or faster—significantly faster than the standard sink-tip lines available at the time. This allowed for more precise control over the fly’s depth and presentation, which is crucial when fishing in fast-moving water or targeting fish at varying depths.
For those who prefer to make their own lines, it’s still possible to create your own multi-tip setup. Using a pair of nail knots made of monofilament, anglers can easily attach loops to their fly lines and switch between various sinking tips. This gives anglers full control over their fishing setup without the need to invest in expensive specialized lines.
Multi-Tip Lines: The Modern Solution
Today, companies offer high-quality multi-tip lines designed specifically for the type of fishing found in the Great Lakes tributaries. These lines come with a range of interchangeable tips, allowing anglers to switch between floating, sink-tip, and full-sink configurations based on the water conditions they encounter. While these lines are a bit of an investment, they are highly efficient and save time by offering versatility and convenience that DIY setups may lack.
For those looking to step up their fly fishing game, a modern multi-tip line provides an advantage in both performance and ease of use. The ability to quickly adjust your line setup without the need for on-the-fly modifications means you can focus on your fishing, not your gear. These lines come in varying sink rates, including ultra-fast sinking tips, so anglers can adapt to different fishing conditions on the fly, from shallow riffles to deep pools.
Line Color: An Often Overlooked Detail
While it may not be the first thing you consider when selecting a fly line, the color of the line can have a significant impact on your fishing success, especially in the clear waters of the Great Lakes tributaries. Brightly colored lines can be more visible to fish, particularly in clear water conditions, which can potentially spook the fish before they even take a look at your fly. As a result, many anglers prefer darker-colored lines, which blend better into the environment and are less likely to catch the eye of a wary steelhead or salmon.
For these waters, dark olive or moss-colored lines are often the best choice. These colors provide just enough visibility for the angler to see the line without drawing too much attention to it. Bright colors like orange or neon green, on the other hand, should be avoided in most situations, as they can be too visible both to the fish and the angler in clear water conditions.
Other Gear to Consider for Great Lakes Tributary Fishing
When it comes to fishing the tributaries of the Great Lakes, having the right gear isn’t just about the rod, reel, and line. The environment, fishing conditions, and the pressure the fish face all play a role in determining the effectiveness of your gear. From camouflage to wading gear, here’s a breakdown of additional equipment considerations that will help you succeed on these unique streams.
Camouflage: Blend In With the Environment
It’s often easy to overlook the importance of blending in with your surroundings, but camouflage is an essential part of fishing on the Great Lakes tributaries. These streams are heavily fished, and fish quickly become wary of any disturbance in their environment. Fish, much like humans, perceive color and are sensitive to bright hues. Wearing brightly colored clothing—like a red hat, neon jacket, or fluorescent vest—can cause fish to spook, even if they’re a fair distance away.
For example, if you stand on the bank while fishing and notice fish swimming away when someone in bright clothing enters the area, it’s clear that bright colors are a deterrent. To avoid this, opt for earth tones that blend with the surroundings—green, brown, and muted gray colors are ideal. Even your accessories, such as a tackle pack, should follow this philosophy. I once purchased a bright orange tackle pack, thinking it was a good deal, only to find that it spooked fish immediately when I wore it. It was a lesson learned the hard way: blending in with your environment is key to staying undetected by fish.
Wading Gear for Safe and Efficient Travel
Fishing the tributaries requires a fair amount of movement in sometimes treacherous conditions. Therefore, it’s crucial to have the right wading gear. A good pair of Korkers, or similar waders with studded cleats, are a must-have. These streams often have moss-covered rocks, which can make wading incredibly slippery. Having cleats on your waders gives you extra grip, making it much easier and safer to navigate these slippery conditions, especially during the winter when ice can be a concern.
In addition to cleats, a wading staff is also invaluable. Many of the streams have swift currents, and wading through them can be challenging, particularly if you’re crossing deeper sections. A wading staff provides stability, helps you maintain balance, and gives you a way to gauge the water depth as you move through unfamiliar areas.
Affordable Gear for Effective Fishing
Getting set up for fishing the Great Lakes tributaries doesn’t require a massive investment. While high-end gear can make the experience more comfortable, you don’t need to break the bank to fish effectively. The key to success is choosing gear that is practical and suited for the unique conditions of these streams.
Start with the basics: a sturdy, well-fitting fly rod and reel setup tailored to the tributaries’ fishing conditions. Consider adding essential fly patterns such as Wooly Buggers, nymphs, and egg patterns in various colors. These simple, effective flies can attract steelhead, salmon, and other species in the region. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to upgrade your existing gear, keep things straightforward and focus on function over flash. The right combination of practical gear and fly patterns will help you tackle the challenges these streams present.
The tributary streams of the Great Lakes, especially those in New York State, offer incredible fishing opportunities but also present unique challenges. The gear you choose plays a crucial role in your success. Blending in with your environment through camouflaged clothing and using the right wading gear to safely navigate these streams will enhance your experience and increase your chances of landing a big fish. With the right equipment, you can effectively fish these waters without needing to invest in high-end gear, proving that practicality and simplicity are often the keys to success on the Great Lakes tributaries.
Original Article By Rob Streeter
About The Author
Rob Streeter enjoys fly fishing for many species, especially trout and salmon in the Lake Ontario tributaries. He is the outdoor columnist for the Albany Times Union and freelances for several publications. He is a member of the NYS Outdoor Writers’ Association and the Outdoor Writers’ Association of America.
