The key here is definately to use a long rod.
Preferably a bait casting rod for line control. For the resons I us bait casting rods check out "Sheps" post under float fishing, I put quite a lenghty explanation there. I personally suggest the Dave Vedder signature series Lamiglass 10'6" rod. Vedder gave me the very first prototype of his rod made and told me,"John, if a rod is going to have my name on it I want to know its good. Take it and work it hard and try to break it if you can." Never have I had someone ask me to break a rod. First steelie landed on it was a 16 pound nate out of the Sol-duc up at Riverside. Now 3 years later and many steelhead and salmon including kings, it has not yet busted. The investment in a rod of this caliber is well worth it. Try "Teds Sport Center" in Lynwood to find the rod.