Live baits

[dsukh]

Does anybody use live minnows for steelhead in the tribs? If so, when would be a good time to use it?

 

[salmotrutta]

Migratory steelhead will have a twofold instinct when it comes to feeding:

1) The feeding habits they acquired as parr/smolt/fry
2) The feeding habits they acquired out in the lake

Primarily, the first will dominate in rivers/creeks. Hence, flies, jigs, roe bags, insects are best.

Secondarily, their predatory instincts can be triggered by flashy lures.

Would a live minnow work? Probably, in some situations, but I think the other options will almost always trump the use of minnows for steelhead in creeks.

If I was fishing for landlocked rainbows, it would be a different story, and flashy lures and/or live minnows would be excellent choices.

 

[float^drifter]

The only place I know live minnows are affective is probably Niagara. I've never seen anyone use them around gta tribs, I always wanted to try it just don't have no room to carry them around with me lol. More guys can fill in on this maybe someone's actually tried In smaller tribs and had success.

 

[Blair]

The only place I know live minnows are affective is probably Niagara. I've never seen anyone use them around gta tribs, I always wanted to try it just don't have no room to carry them around with me lol. More guys can fill in on this maybe someone's actually tried In smaller tribs and had success.

I definately agree with you about the effectiveness in this area (GTA TRIBS).
Minnows are in general NOT as effective. ( I have caught limited steelies with a BERKLEY GULP MINNOW, but far and in between)

* Always pay attention to the LIVE BAIT REGS as well.

Now, down in Niagara (Specifically the Pool) thats a whole different ball park.
The Browns & Lakers sometimes will only TAKE MINNOWS.

Just last week it seemed that was the GO TO bait. (Didnt mean others where not working)
The funny thing is that usually does'nt occur (The "Switch") until late Dec/Jan.

Considering everything seems to be a bit late this year, I was totally surprised at that.
* Friggin fish are constantly confusing me!

The GO TO minnow there are: Live or Smelt imitations (Black & White) and also not the BIG ONES but the 3" ones.