C
ChezJfrey
After losing one of the bigger ones last time in tight quarters, and reading some opinions that steelhead are not as leader shy when tossing spinners/spoons, rather than bait, I thought if I'm gonna try the same spot, I'd tie on 15 lb. test for my leader.
Also, after having a treble bend out once due to their usually flimsier wire, I'd also use some beefier Siwash, single hooks. I know that a few suggested that after I had some hookset issues, but since then, I actually was able to bank a few on trebles; I think it came down to just needing a more authoritative hookset. Instead of the trout-like bend, just lay into it; not quite bass-style, but somewhere in between, ya know?
Anyway, so that was my plan...15 lb. leader, spoon with Siwash, a bit tighter on the drag due to heavier line. Got a hit around 7:00 p.m. and this fish was pretty hot. First some acrobats, then headed downriver, but didn't get very far. Took some line, but not out-of-control-burn-the-reel. Pulled the fish back, it spooks, some more acrobats, then heads out again, taking back the line...confidence is high at this point. I haven't had to chase at all as my feet are still planted in the same spot I hooked this thing.
Pull it back inches at a time thinking it's in the bag. Fish struggles a bit more with some head shakes and I let it fight, just keeping a bit of pressure...then, boing! My spoon jets out of the water and launches into the trees behind me. Argh!
So, that Siwash advice was hogwash! Guess that's what I get for taking advice from the internet!
LOL...just kidding. I totally think it's solid advice and will continue using singles...it's fishin' and fish will spit hooks from time-to-time
Also, after having a treble bend out once due to their usually flimsier wire, I'd also use some beefier Siwash, single hooks. I know that a few suggested that after I had some hookset issues, but since then, I actually was able to bank a few on trebles; I think it came down to just needing a more authoritative hookset. Instead of the trout-like bend, just lay into it; not quite bass-style, but somewhere in between, ya know?
Anyway, so that was my plan...15 lb. leader, spoon with Siwash, a bit tighter on the drag due to heavier line. Got a hit around 7:00 p.m. and this fish was pretty hot. First some acrobats, then headed downriver, but didn't get very far. Took some line, but not out-of-control-burn-the-reel. Pulled the fish back, it spooks, some more acrobats, then heads out again, taking back the line...confidence is high at this point. I haven't had to chase at all as my feet are still planted in the same spot I hooked this thing.
Pull it back inches at a time thinking it's in the bag. Fish struggles a bit more with some head shakes and I let it fight, just keeping a bit of pressure...then, boing! My spoon jets out of the water and launches into the trees behind me. Argh!
So, that Siwash advice was hogwash! Guess that's what I get for taking advice from the internet!
LOL...just kidding. I totally think it's solid advice and will continue using singles...it's fishin' and fish will spit hooks from time-to-time
