Fall steelhead is opened on an "emergency" basis. There has to be a large enough wild run escapement to allow for a hatchery season. (This despite hatchery fish being listed, too.) We've had a few seasons, but not last year. (The Columbia was open.) It's my understanding that the state has to negotiate each season with NOAA Fisheries, after they see what the run looks like coming over the dams. The state usually makes a statement around late Sept., early Oct.

Good luck this weekend, tell us how you do. I'll be on the wetside, with a bunch of kooky kayakers, chasing 'buts and lings.