Washington Fly Fishing November: Steelhead & Winter Trout

01November Conditions Overview

November marks the transition to Washington's premier steelhead season, with chrome-bright fish pushing into rivers across the Olympic Peninsula and Puget Sound drainages. While summer fishing winds down, winter opportunities expand dramatically as freestone systems clear from fall rains and steelhead begin their spawning migrations. Water temperatures hover in the ideal 40-50°F range, keeping fish active while demanding strategic timing and technique adjustments.

The month presents excellent fishing for both resident trout and anadromous species. Eastern Washington's tailwaters maintain consistent flows and temperatures, providing reliable trout fishing when coastal rivers run high and colored. Meanwhile, the first significant steelhead pushes create opportunities for swinging flies and dead-drifting presentations in classic winter holding water.

Weather patterns become increasingly variable, with Pacific storm systems bringing periods of high water followed by clear, cold fishing windows. Successful anglers monitor river levels closely and remain flexible with their plans, ready to capitalize on dropping water conditions that concentrate fish in predictable lies.

02Top Rivers This Month

Skagit River

The Skagit system fires up in November as wild steelhead return in impressive numbers. Focus efforts on the lower river below Concrete, where fish stage before moving upstream. Classic winter runs and deep pools hold fresh fish, particularly after water levels stabilize following rain events. The river's size allows for productive swinging with two-handed rods, while single-hand tactics work well in smaller tributaries like the Sauk and Cascade rivers.

Fish Woolly Buggers and Egg Sucking Leeches on sink-tip lines, varying retrieve speeds to match fish activity levels. Early morning and late afternoon provide the most consistent action, with overcast days often producing throughout the day.

Yakima River

Eastern Washington's premier trout stream maintains excellent conditions throughout November. The regulated flows below Cle Elum Dam create stable fishing opportunities when coastal rivers run high and muddy. Target the canyon section between Cle Elum and Ellensburg, where deep pools and complex currents hold impressive rainbow and cutthroat trout.

Midge patterns dominate in the slower pools, while Pheasant Tail Nymphs and Hare's Ear Nymphs produce in faster water. The river's technical nature rewards precise presentations and long, fine tippets.

Hoh River

November brings the first significant runs of wild steelhead to this Olympic Peninsula gem. The river's pristine character and strong wild fish populations make it a premier destination for serious steelhead anglers. Focus on the lower river's classic holding water, including the famous Boulder Pool and Oxbow sections.

Swinging flies remains the preferred method, with Comet patterns and traditional steelhead flies producing consistent results. The river's clarity allows for smaller presentations than many coastal systems, making it ideal for single-hand rod techniques.

Columbia River

The mainstem Columbia offers excellent opportunities for both steelhead and salmon in November. Hanford Reach provides outstanding fall chinook fishing, while areas near tributary mouths concentrate returning steelhead. The river's size allows for boat-based fishing, significantly expanding access to productive water.

Chartreuse Deceivers and large Clouser Minnows work well for salmon, while smaller presentations target steelhead in back eddies and seams. Focus fishing efforts during the two hours before and after tide changes when using the lower river.

Methow River

This Okanogan tributary maintains excellent trout fishing throughout November, with resident rainbow trout actively feeding before winter's grip tightens. The river's diverse habitat includes everything from fast pocket water to slow, deep pools, requiring versatile fly selection and presentation techniques.

Blue-Winged Olive Comparaduns work during sporadic surface activity, while subsurface presentations with Two-Bit Hookers and small nymphs consistently produce fish.

03Hatch Report

November's insect activity centers on BWO emergences and persistent midge activity. Baitfish movements become increasingly important as resident trout prepare for winter and anadromous species focus on high-protein forage.

Blue-Winged Olives

Baetis mayflies provide the month's most significant surface feeding opportunities. These small mayflies (sizes 18-22) emerge during overcast afternoons, particularly following storm systems. Emergence timing becomes later in the day as temperatures drop, with peak activity occurring between 1:00-4:00 PM.

BWO Comparaduns and Klinkhammers work well during active emergences, while Baetis nymph patterns produce throughout the day in slower water. The extended emergence period allows for both emerger and adult patterns to be effective.

Midges

Chironomid activity remains consistent throughout November, particularly on stillwaters and slower river sections. These tiny insects (sizes 20-26) provide reliable subsurface fishing when other insects remain inactive. Iced Out Midge Pupas and simple thread patterns work well in various colors.

Winter Stoneflies

Small winter stoneflies begin emerging late in the month, providing important early-season activity. These insects prefer the warmest parts of the day and often emerge on streamside rocks rather than in the water column. Little Black Stonefly patterns work well when targeting fish feeding on adult insects.

04Recommended Flies

November fly selection must account for both resident trout feeding patterns and the specific needs of returning anadromous fish. Water temperatures and insect activity dictate subsurface presentations, while occasional surface opportunities require quick adaptation.

Dry Flies

Blue-Winged Olive Comparaduns in sizes 18-22 handle BWO emergences effectively. Comparadun patterns provide excellent visibility and realistic silhouettes during sparse hatches. Orange Stimulators work as searching patterns in faster water, imitating various terrestrial and aquatic insects.

Nymphs

Pheasant Tail Nymphs remain essential for matching BWO nymphs and general subsurface feeding. Hare's Ear Nymphs provide buggy profiles that suggest multiple food sources. Mysis Shrimp patterns work exceptionally well in tailwater environments where these crustaceans provide primary trout forage.

Streamers

Woolly Buggers in olive, black, and brown remain the most versatile patterns for both trout and steelhead. Egg Sucking Leeches capitalize on the spawning activity of various salmonid species. Clouser Minnows work well in larger rivers where baitfish populations concentrate.

Egg Patterns

Blood Dot Eggs become increasingly important as salmon spawning activity peaks. Natural egg colors in sizes 8-12 work well in areas with spawning activity. Various egg patterns should be carried to match local conditions and preferences.

05Gear Notes & What to Pack

November fishing demands preparation for rapidly changing weather conditions and water levels. Temperature swings from freezing mornings to mild afternoons require layered clothing systems and versatile gear selections.

Rod Selection

A 5-weight rod handles most trout fishing situations, while 6-7 weight rods provide better line control in windy conditions and when casting larger flies. Steelhead fishing benefits from 7-8 weight single-hand rods or 6-7 weight two-handed rods for swinging presentations. Consider bringing multiple rods to adapt to changing conditions and fish species.

Line Systems

Weight-forward floating lines work well for most trout situations, while steelhead fishing requires sink-tip lines in various densities. Carry Type III and Type VI sink tips to adjust to different water depths and flow conditions. Full-sink lines work well in deep pools and slower water.

Waders and Boots

Quality breathable waders become essential as water temperatures drop and fishing days extend. Choose waders with good insulation properties and consider adding wading layers for extended cold-water sessions. Felt-soled boots provide excellent traction on slick rocks, though check local regulations as some areas restrict felt soles.

Our comprehensive wader selection guide covers the top options for cold-weather fishing, while boot regulations and performance comparisons help ensure legal and safe wading.

Cold Weather Essentials

Hand warmers become essential gear for maintaining dexterity during long fishing sessions. Neoprene gloves allow for fly changes while maintaining some warmth, though fingerless styles provide better tactile feedback. A quality rain jacket protects against sudden weather changes common in November.

Carry extra clothing layers in a waterproof pack, including spare gloves and a warm hat. A thermos with hot coffee or soup can provide crucial warmth during extended outings. Consider our detailed winter fishing strategies for comprehensive cold-weather preparation.

Safety Considerations

Shorter daylight hours and unpredictable weather increase safety concerns. Inform someone of your fishing plans and expected return time. Carry a headlamp with extra batteries, as fishing often extends into low-light conditions. A basic first-aid kit and emergency whistle should be standard equipment.

River levels can change rapidly during storm events. Monitor gauges and weather forecasts closely, and have exit strategies planned before water levels become dangerous. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife provides current conditions and safety advisories for popular fishing areas.

06Fishing Techniques

November techniques must adapt to cooling water temperatures and changing fish behavior. Slower presentations generally work better as fish metabolism decreases, though active feeding periods still occur during optimal conditions.

Nymph Fishing

Indicator nymphing remains productive throughout the month, particularly in deeper pools where fish concentrate. Use longer leaders (9-12 feet) and lighter tippets to achieve natural drifts. Euro nymphing techniques work exceptionally well in technical water where precise depth control is essential.

Weight adjustments become critical as water levels fluctuate. Carry split shot in multiple sizes and be prepared to adjust frequently. Focus on longer drifts and thorough coverage of productive water, as fish may be less aggressive in their feeding behavior.

Streamer Presentations

Vary retrieve speeds when fishing streamers, starting with slow strips and increasing speed if fish don't respond. Down-and-across presentations work well in current, while straight retrieves are effective in still water. Allow streamers to swing completely through the drift before picking up for the next cast.

Color selection should match forage base and water conditions. Darker patterns work well in stained water, while natural colors are effective in clear conditions. Size adjustment is equally important - start large and reduce size if fish follow but don't commit.

07Location-Specific Tips

Each of Washington's diverse fishing regions requires specific approaches and local knowledge to fish effectively during November conditions.

Olympic Peninsula

Coastal rivers respond quickly to weather patterns, making timing critical for success. Monitor weather forecasts and river gauges closely, planning fishing trips for the tail end of storm systems when rivers are dropping and clearing. Road conditions can deteriorate rapidly, so carry emergency supplies and check access conditions before heading out.

Puget Sound Drainages

Rivers like the Skagit, Snoqualmie, and Green benefit from the moderating influence of Puget Sound. These systems often fish well during periods when coastal rivers are blown out, though they also receive significant fishing pressure. Early morning starts and weekday fishing can help avoid crowds while targeting the most active fish.

Eastern Washington

The Columbia Plateau's tailwater fisheries provide consistent opportunities when weather closes coastal options. These regulated rivers maintain stable flows and temperatures, though they require more technical presentations due to clear water and educated fish. Focus on natural presentations and longer, finer tippets for consistent success.

08Planning Your November Trips

Successful November fishing requires flexibility and backup plans. Weather patterns can change rapidly, closing some rivers while opening others to excellent fishing. Maintain awareness of multiple river systems and be prepared to adjust plans based on conditions.

Book accommodations early for popular steelhead destinations, as serious anglers begin making reservations months in advance. Consider staying near multiple river systems to maximize fishing opportunities when conditions align properly.

Steelhead fishing can be physically demanding, particularly when using traditional swinging techniques. Prepare with appropriate conditioning and ensure your gear is in excellent condition before heading out. The rewards of connecting with a wild steelhead make the extra effort worthwhile.

09Sources & References

• Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife - Fishing Reports
• USGS Real-Time Water Data for Washington
• Trout Unlimited Northwest Region
• National Weather Service Seattle
• American Whitewater - Washington River Levels
• NOAA Precipitation Data
• US Forest Service - Okanogan-Wenatchee Conditions
• Washington State Department of Ecology - Water Quality