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Steelhead Season Opens Today in Idaho by Niels Nokkentved Capital Press, September 1, 2006

While the steelhead season is set to open today in Idaho, the fish may be running a bit behind schedule.

The data accumulated by Idaho suggests that the 2006 run is slightly later than last year. The size of the run, therefore, is difficult to forecast.

The steelhead season opens today on the Salmon River, the Little Salmon River, and the Snake River downstream from Hells Canyon Dam. Anglers may fish for steelhead on the Clearwater River, but they may not keep any fish upstream from the U.S. Highway 12 Memorial Bridge until Oct.15.

All anglers fishing for steelhead, even catch-and-release, must have a valid 2006 fishing license and steelhead permit. Statewide limits for steelhead are three per day, nine in possession and 20 for the season. Limits on the Clearwater River system are two per day, six in possession, and 20 for the fall season.

Anglers must use barbless hooks, and can keep only hatchery steelhead marked with a clipped adipose fin. All other steelhead must be released unharmed immediately.