Most river fishermen use a lever-wind rod & reel combo; reels should be loaded with 10 to 15lb line, depending on fishing skills and river conditions. Lighter line is preferred in the Fall and early Winter when water is low and clear: heavier line is used as Spring arrives and the water becomes higher and faster. Other tackle needed depends upon the chosen method of fishing.
Three of the most popular techniques are:

    BACK TROLLING is an effective way to fish diving lures such as Hot Shots and Wigglewarts, as well as baits such as roe and shrimp, behind a diver. This works well in fall and early winter while water is still warmer and fish are more active.
Back trolling is achieved by easing the boat downstream in the current much slower than the river current with the use of motor or oars. The diving lure, on 30 or 40 feet of line, downstream from boat, will be drawn to bottom of river by the faster moving water on the “lip” of the diving lure.

 

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   BOBBER AND JIG technique is a popular method with bank fishermen and boaters alike. Boats are usually anchored, the fishermen cast upstream and let the the bobber drift on downstream past the boat, retrieved and recast. Effective in slower deep water. One of the most important factors in catching steelhead is keeping your lure or bait just above the bottom in most waters. That is why this method works so well. A sliding knot allows you to adjust the depth of your lure from the bobber into the strike-zone in any depth of water. The sinker is suspended, avoiding most snags. Tackle needed (in order of sequence on line) slip-knot, small bead, corky or large styrofoam bead, bobber, egg sinker, swivel, leader, jig.

 

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    BOTTOM DRIFTING with roe or shrimp is probably a more effective way to fish faster water, but the hardest to master. This method requires less types of tackle, but more of it!! All that is needed is a hook, leader, swivel and sinker. Because your sinker is literally on the bottom it is prone to snag-up on rocks and other debris. Currents also cause slack in the line, making it hard to detect bites. A truly exciting way to pick up fish when mastered! Practice, Practice, Practice!!