Conditions
Flows have settled to 13,700 cfs after dropping from last week's higher marks. Steelhead are moving through in smaller numbers, so focus on funneling features and structure where traveling fish concentrate. Smallmouth remain available; cooler September weather may slow topwater action, but subsurface presentations around rocky banks continue to draw strikes.
Gauges
Techniques
- Focus on places that naturally funnel traveling steelhead: inside corners, tailouts, current transitions and softer lanes beside heavier water
Recommended flies
Floating presentationsIntermediate presentationsSkagit setupsSubsurface patterns for smallmouth