Steelhead consume lots of eggs in their lifetime. Especially in winter, when suckers move up rivers to spawn. The most popular egg pattern is Sucker Spawn, with Crystal Meth a close second. Egg patterns are generally bounced along bottom. And are a good choice all winter long into March.

The last class of patterns fished for Erie steelhead is basic nymph and beadhead nymphs. Like trout, steelhead consume lots of nymphs in their lifetime. The same nymphs that are popular for trout fishing are used in Steelhead Alley. With Hare’s Ear, Prince, caddis larva and stonefly imitations being most popular. Buggy nymphs seem to work best, and although bug life is fairly dormant in winter these are never a bad choice.

Some classic steelhead patterns from Northwest are used as well, including Green Butt Skunk. And in murky waters Popsicle is popular along with other bright streamers.

After reaching water, use some of same techniques discussed on out other steelhead articles, clearer water go smaller and more subtle colors, high, murky water go brighter and larger.

Any time you put a rifle on an airplane, you should shoot it at a target before you hunt. For that matter, you should fire at a target every now and then throughout hunting season.

Once sighted in, most hunting rifles are very reliable, but even most accurate rifle can be "off" if it's knocked around enough.

Regards, Tracker Outdoors www.tracker-outdoors.com