Posts tagged Rainbow Trout

It was Halloween day. My wife and I were preparing to have some family over for our son’s first trick or treat experience. As we prepared for the day, my wife said she was going to go out for a bit with our son, and that I could do whatever I wanted for the next few hours. I decided that I would utilize my time fishing on Lake Michigan. I quickly raced to prepare my gear and headed off to the big lake.

Upon arrival, I knew my time was limited. I knew that I would probably only get to fish one spot. The time would only be for an hour or so. I quickly put spawn on my bobber, got it set, and chucked it into the corner of the harbor. It was a clear day with clear water, so I put on a perch colored Clackin Rap, by Rapala. I’ve had luck on this lure during sunny days this year. The immense noise and vibration the lure gives off seems to draw a lot of reaction strikes. This is perfect for some old salmon that can’t find a place to spawn.

My first cast was right along the wall of the harbor. I burned the lure under the surface to see if I could get any follows right away. I couldn’t believe it when halfway through my first cast, I feel a tap. The tap was brief and I kept retrieving. About three cranks later, there was no mistaking the feeling of a fish. I set the hook, in surprise, and immediately the fish porpoises out of the water. At first I figured I had a really silver king that had made a late fall entry into the harbor. After a few more jumps, it finally clicked, I had a steelhead. I began to feel really excited as I have never caught this species of fish. After a solid battle, by myself, I was able to successfully net the fish. I have had steelhead hook-ups before, but this was the 1^st successful landed. The fish was not a monster by any means, but it was a rather stout female.

A chunky female steelhead.

A close-up view to verify the sex of this trout.

Chicago area rainbow trout.

After another hour, or so, of fishing, I had to head home for the Halloween party. I had no more fish caught or seen. We then dressed my son up and visited some local family.