Fishin' Magician: Dave Graybill

Steelhead fishing on the main stem upper Columbia has taken a turn for the better as water temperatures continue to drop.

Steelhead fishing on the main stem upper Columbia has taken a turn for the better as water temperatures continue to drop. On a recent outing in Pateros we found the estuary ice-free and just had to run up to the top end to see if we could find a fish. We drifted bobbers along the shore off the points up here and were dodging ice floes. The water temperature here was just 38 degrees, and when it freezes up again it will push the steelhead that have entered the Methow River back out into the Columbia.

Fishing will be good below the bridges, where ice doesn't form and bait is allowed. The last three times I have fished the Rocks and the point across from here I have caught fish, and the water temperature was still in the mid-50s.

I have had incredible days here in December and January, and am looking forward to what the winter season brings. I am also learning that this is a year for big fish, with many in the 12-pound class being landed and even one that was confirmed at 15 pounds. These are very nice fish for our area.