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How Anglers Can Recognize Tailouts and Target Steelhead

Tailouts are essential features in river systems, particularly for targeting species like steelhead. Understanding how to recognize and fish these areas can significantly enhance an angler's success. This page delves into identifying tailouts, the conditions that make them perfect holding spots for steelhead, and effective fishing strategies.

Recognizing Tailouts

Tailouts are the shallow, slower sections of a river that typically follow a deeper run. They often signify the transition from faster current to slower water, making them prime areas for fish to rest before moving upstream. Several factors make tailouts distinguishable:

Key Features of Tailouts

Identifying Tailouts on the Water

When scouting for tailouts, anglers should look for the following characteristics:

1. Visual Cues: Look for a gradual flattening of the water surface after a faster section. The color of the water can change, appearing lighter as it becomes shallower.

2. Current Breaks: Noticeable breaks in the current can signify where fish might be holding. For example, a swift run transitioning into a slower flow often indicates a tailout.

3. Surrounding Features: Observe river banks; tailouts often have lush vegetation or rocks that provide shelter. These areas can be prime spots for steelhead to feel secure.

4. Fish Behavior: During certain seasons, anglers might observe fish rising or moving towards these areas, especially during spawning runs.

Factors Causing Steelhead to Hold in Tailouts

Steelhead are known to exhibit specific behaviors based on environmental conditions. Several factors entice them to hold in tailouts:

Water Temperature

Steelhead prefer cooler water temperatures; however, they often seek out slightly warmer areas during colder months. Tailouts can provide a micro-habitat where the temperature is more favorable, especially in early spring or late fall.

Current Speed

Steelhead are less likely to expend energy fighting strong currents. Tailouts offer a respite, allowing them to rest and conserve energy. When fishing, understanding the current speed is crucial; slower water often means a higher chance of steelhead presence.

Food Availability

Tailouts can be nutrient-rich areas, especially after rainfall. Insects and other food sources can accumulate here, attracting steelhead. Anglers should consider using imitative tactics to match the local hatch.

Structural Elements

Rocks, downed trees, and other structures in tailouts provide cover for steelhead. Fish will often hold just behind these structures, waiting to ambush prey. Recognizing and targeting these features can lead to successful fishing.

Fishing Strategies for Tailouts

Drifting Techniques

Drifting bait or flies into tailouts requires finesse. Here are essential tactics:

1. Drift Fishing: Use a bobber or indicator to drift bait (like salmon eggs or worms) through the tailout. Adjust weight to ensure a natural presentation.

2. Fly Fishing: Utilize a nymph or soft-hackle pattern. Cast upstream and allow the fly to drift naturally into the tailout. The controlled drift simulates natural insect movement.

3. Side Drifting: This technique involves using a light weight and bait to drift sideways through the tailout. This method is effective in shallow areas where fish may be skittish.

Swinging Techniques

For fly anglers, swinging techniques are effective for targeting steelhead in tailouts:

1. Spey Casting: Use a two-handed rod to cast large streamers or wet flies across the current. Allow the fly to swing through the tailout, mimicking the movement of baitfish.

2. Tightline Nymphing: This technique allows anglers to control the depth of their flies. Keep the line tight as you drift through the tailout, ensuring an immediate hook set upon a strike.

Gear Fishing Strategies

For anglers using conventional gear, here are effective strategies:

1. Spoon and Spinner Fishing: Cast spoons or spinners into the tailout, allowing them to sink and retrieve them slowly. The flash and movement can attract steelhead.

2. Jigging: Use jigs to target steelhead holding in tailouts. Drop the jig into the tailout and let it settle before slowly retrieving it. The erratic motion can provoke a strike.

3. Bait Fishing: Use natural baits like roe or worms, ensuring they are well-presented. A weight can help keep the bait in the strike zone longer.

Orvis Read the Water Series

The Orvis Read the Water series is an exceptional resource for anglers looking to enhance their understanding of river features, including tailouts. This series provides insights into recognizing different water types, current patterns, and how fish interact with their environment.

To access the Orvis Read the Water series, click the icon below:

Key Takeaways from the Series

● Understanding Current Patterns

• The series emphasizes the importance of recognizing how currents shape river beds and create fish habitat.

● Identifying Fish Holding Areas

• It teaches anglers to look beyond the obvious to find less visible but productive fishing spots like tailouts.

● Improving Casting Techniques

• The videos provide casting tips specifically tailored for various water conditions, enhancing your ability to effectively fish tailouts.

Get more info by using the following Youtube searches

Search Term	Thumbnail	Link
How to spot tailouts in a river		Watch Video
How to read water in rivers		Watch Video
How to fish tailouts		Watch Video
Steelhead in tailouts		Watch Video
How to find rainbow trout		Watch Video