Steelhead

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Oncorhynchus mykiss

Also known as: Sea-run Rainbow Trout, Anadromous Rainbow, Steelhead Trout

Salmon Native (anadromous) Threatened (ESA) in some populations; varies by region and stock

Size & Weight

Average Length 24.0"

Max Length 40.0"

Average Weight 8.0 lbs

Max Weight 55.0 lbs

Lifespan 8 years

Habitat

Depth Range 0 - 200 ft

Water Temp 45-55°F

Rivers and streams (spawning); coastal waters and ocean (feeding phase); estuaries (staging areas); prefer cool flowing water

Behavior

Spawning Season Winter-early spring (Dec-April); varies by population and geographic location

Migration: Anadromous; spend 1-3 years in ocean feeding; return to natal rivers to spawn; some multiple spawning

Diet: Small fish (smelt; herring; juvenile salmon); insects; crustaceans; opportunistic feeders

Fishing Tips

PNW Season Winter-spring (peak Dec-March); varies significantly by river system

View season chart →

Techniques: Spey casting; fly fishing; drift fishing; bobber & jig; live bait presentation

Best Bait: Salmon roe; live smelt; sand shrimp; yarn flies; drift baits

Eating Quality

Edibility Excellent

Mild; firm; lower fat than Pacific salmon; excellent table quality; highly prized

State Records

Washington

42.0

lbs

Oregon

35.5

lbs

California

34.75

lbs

Fun Facts

State fish of Washington; can spawn multiple times unlike other Pacific salmon; feed in ocean then migrate back; some stay in freshwater as residents

How to Identify

Silver body with faint red stripe along lateral line; black spots on back and tail; smaller and more slender than Chinook; white gum line

Commonly Confused With

Chinook Salmon Salmon

Coho Salmon Salmon

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Official Resources

WDFW (Washington) ODFW (Oregon) CDFW (California) NOAA Fisheries

Sources: NOAA Fisheries; WDFW; ODFW; ADF&G; Endangered Species Act

Change History (Last updated Feb 02, 2026 at 10:33 AM)

Date	Change	Old Value	New Value
Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM	Updated Depth Min Ft	—	—
Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM	Updated OR State Record	31.5	35.5