Are downer steelhead really…well…”downers?” Lots of folks think so because when you catch them they’re usually skinny, colored up and not the greatest of fighters. Some people even get bummed out when they hook a downer (also known as runbacks, kelts or spent fish) but there’s actually a lot to love about ’em.
Check out my Tips of the Trade column in the March issue of Salmon Trout Steelheader Magazine for the “skinny” on downer steelhead. In the March issue of FISH ALASKA Magazine, I cover how to gear up for river king fishing and in the March issue of Western Outdoors Magazine, I’ve got a story and photos of the Prospect Island (CA Delta) fish rescue that took place back in December.
Don Brier says
Hey JD,
Although somewhat unrelated to the subject above do you have any input regarding a theory that the non-indigenous Stripers may have a contribution to the current downturn in several indigenous species [ i.e. Pacific Coast Salmon, Delta Smelt ] populations ?