Catching My First Steelhead with a Spey on the Vedder River chilliwack bc
Steelhead fishing has always been a dream of mine, and achieving it with a Spey system on the Vedder River made it even more special. The journey to landing this beautiful fish was not just about technique but also about perseverance, the right gear, and a deep appreciation for the river and its challenges.
This accomplishment was particularly meaningful because it happened in December, a notoriously tough month for steelhead fishing. December marks the very beginning of the steelhead season, and finding these elusive fish at this time of year can be incredibly challenging. Despite the odds, I was fortunate enough to connect with a stunning steelhead that will remain one of the highlights of my fishing journey.
The day started early, with the Vedder River flowing steadily under a cloudy sky. I had my trusted Spey setup in hand—a rod and reel from the renowned brand Loop. My rod, a thirteen-and-a-half-foot masterpiece, felt perfect for the job, providing the balance and strength needed for targeting steelhead in the river’s dynamic waters. Paired with the rod was a matching Loop reel, which handled the line and drag flawlessly throughout the day.
For this trip, I chose a tip system that combined T-11 and T-14 sections. These sinking tips allowed me to present my fly at just the right depth, reaching the steelhead that tend to hold in deeper pools. I connected the tip to a four-foot leader with a twelve-pound test strength, ensuring durability without sacrificing sensitivity.
The fly I used was an Intruder pattern, tied in striking black and purple. This combination of colors has always been a favorite of mine for its ability to attract attention in both clear and slightly murky water. Its movement in the current mimicked prey perfectly, and I felt confident with every swing.
After hours of casting and swinging the fly through promising runs, I finally felt the unmistakable tug—a powerful, electric pull that sent my heart racing. The steelhead on the other end of the line was not going to give up easily. It leapt out of the water multiple times, its chrome body flashing brilliantly in the dim light. Each run and head shake tested my setup, but the Loop rod absorbed the energy beautifully, and the reel’s drag system worked seamlessly to control the fish.
The fight lasted several minutes but felt like an eternity. When I finally brought the steelhead close enough to see its full size and beauty, I was in awe. Its pristine silver body, accented with hints of pink and green, was breathtaking. This hatchery steelhead was legal to keep, and I made the decision to retain it. Bringing home such a fish felt like a rare and rewarding achievement, especially during December when catching any steelhead can be an uphill battle.
This steelhead was more than just a fish—it represented the culmination of years of practice, learning, and patience. The Spey casting technique, with its elegant loops and rhythmic flow, had been a challenge to master, but it proved to be the perfect method for targeting steelhead in this river.
Catching my first steelhead with a Spey system in such a challenging month was not just a personal milestone but also a reminder of why I love this sport—the connection to nature, the thrill of the chase, and the respect for the fish and their environment.
This experience on the Vedder River has deepened my passion for fly fishing. It has inspired me to continue refining my skills and exploring new waters in pursuit of these incredible fish. For anyone considering taking on the challenge of steelhead fishing with a Spey, I can only say: it’s worth every cast.
