On a bright note...

[Don Powell]

There are some fish in certain west coast rivers...

Weather patterns have not been conducive to the usual winter fish home river migration patterns with a drier than normal situation in the NW (unlike California).

Much weather has moved into the NW recently (see Rick J's post) but this has done good things for certain rivers and not so good things for others.

When it is all said and done, quintessential steelheading is all about planning as well as you can but after that, just getting out there and doin' it! And feeling damn good about it even after modest success.

Ain't braggin' at all, just trying to encourage my fellow steelheaders...

[Mark Kranhold]

Beautiful chunky hen, Way to F*%#in go! Thats an awsome fish.

[Bill Kiene semi-retired]

Raw sex..................thanks Don.

[nrthcsteel]

Don you can brag to me all you want about those two fish and I wont hold it against yah! Congratulations on a couple of fine specimens. Great photos to. Thanks for sharing. Kevin

[jbird]

WOW!!!

Looks very close to tidewater

[SHigSpeed]

Insane! Chucking chicken at steel!

_SHig

[Rick J]

Don,
Glad you had success!!! Those two fish can certainly make an otherwise great fishing trip into a truly memorable one!!!

[jayclarkflyfishing]

Nice fish!!!!!

[Mr. Striper]

Way to go, awsome fish.

[Don Powell]

And, thanks to Bill, for providing a forum where we can share our triumphs, exasperations, and everything in between!

I am humbled by the replies of so many passionate fishermen who share the joy and take the time to respond...

Carlo and I "hit it right", at least for a couple days...may you be equally blessed!!!

[matt johnson]

Don,

I somehow missed this post, so am late to reply...

Holy cow! Those are beautiful steelhead!

If I caught a wild chrome winter slab like that on the swing I am pretty sure I would immediately end the trip, drive back home to California, then grab my woman! I would be that pumped up!

Those fish were well earned.

Keep that seat on the Dean chopper open for me!

Matt

[huntindog]

I am pretty sure I hate you...but in a good way. Nice fish.