Don't feel bad beartrak. We are all learning as we go. I applaude you for taking some proactive steps to reduce the chances of snagging fish.

Most rivers in the NW are in the same boat right now -water too low and the fish are very prone to snagging and not very willing to bite. In fact, I think many more rivers should just be shut down until we do get more rain.

Wait for some good rain then go after them again

Next time you are using a float for salmon, start out by setting your jig less than 2 feet from the float - even in deep water. If the fish are actively biting, they'll have no problem coming up and nailing it. If you're not haveing any luck, lower it about 6 to 12 inches and try again. Keep this up until you are ticking bottom, then bring it to about 6 to 10 inches off the bottom. If you find that you are foul hooking fish, move your jig up until you are sure your jig is not going to brush across their backs. Try different colors, sizes, bait, etc. But if they just don't want to bite, move on. In fact, if you found biting fish, you'll often know pretty quick. Fishing over lock jawed fish is often only going to frustrate you and harass the fish... But I have seen lock jawed fish suddenly just turn on for no apparent reason...

For winter steelies that aren't stacked like salmon, it's better to start the jig ticking the bottom and then working it up a little.

Well, good luck - pray for rain!!