If you really are a rookie, you could learn a lot from reading Milt Keizer's Western Steelhead Fishing Guide. It was recommended in an earlier post, also. The book is attractive,informative, and is written by a veteran NW angler/author. Milt wrote for Fishing Holes Magazine and numerous other NW fishing and hunting publications. Here's a tip: Check used books stores and thrift store book stacks for fishing titles. Sometimes you find a real keeper!