Skating dries is my preferred method. The unpredictability and excitement of the surface take is the drug I can't get enough of! Sometimes the fly just disappears with a dimple and other times there's an explosion like somebody threw a boulder in the river. Even had a fish take once jumping straight up like a missile launching. Detecting the take is not an issue....the hardest thing to do is what you should do when you see the strike....nothing! Wait until the fish starts to pull and you got him. Real bugs aren't tied to a line and if you strike too soon you will usually pull the fly away (been there, done that). If the water conditions are clear and relatively warm (high 40's or more) it is a great way to hook a summer steelhead. Don't avoid trying it because you think it is difficult.