USGS researchers at the Idaho Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (Idaho CRU) and graduate students at the University of Idaho are working with the Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG) on projects focused on better understanding the dynamics of steelhead fisheries in Idaho. These projects are highly collaborative, with IDFG identifying the most relevant research questions and providing support for public outreach about the projects and the Idaho CRU taking lead in development of the research tools needed to effectively manage the steelhead fisheries in the state.

A Salty Rainbow Trout

Steelhead are rainbow trout known for their long migrations. Like Pacific salmon, steelhead are born in freshwater and migrate to the ocean where they spend one to three years growing to large sizes before ultimately returning to their home freshwater streams to spawn. In addition to growing large, steelhead become somewhat stubborn after spending time in saltwater. As such, catching a steelhead is the pinnacle angling experience for many anglers.

Popular Sportfish

Given the iconic status of steelhead, it is no surprise that anglers get excited about these fish, and some are particularly passionate about wild steelhead. Steelhead are important from an economic perspective where steelhead fisheries bring in hundreds of millions of dollars annually to Idaho communities. Steelhead also play an important ecological role and are a critical part of the cultural identity of the region.