I've returned from our successful trip to SE Alaska.
And well, some of you were right on the money about water conditions.
The water levels in the rivers were the biggest challenge to our success in catching steelies. We had bright sunny weather the entire time we were there (with one brief afternoon of light rain). One day was in the 70's which brought snow melt to the rivers, but it made little or no difference. As the week wore on, the levels got lower and lower.
Nonetheless, I was able to hook and play two steelies and land my first ever steelie. Not the success I wanted, but a good trip nonetheless.
Overall, our group of six caught and released between 25 and 30 fish. Half bright; half dark.
Not sure if I want to make the trek again, but maybe.
Thanks to everyone for the helpful comments.