I feel that flexibility is the key to being a succeful steelheader. For years the only techniques I used were to drift fish or pull plugs. I became quite succeful at both of these techniques but over the years my success rate was actually going down. Sure I had some very good days, but I also suffered through many skunkings. After hearing about these other techniques, such as float/jig or spoon fishing, I made a desicion to try and learn these techniques. It started with jig fishing for summer runs. After a slow start I started to realize the advantages of fishing a float from below the fish in low gin clear water, without spooking them. Over the years my success rate started to go up dramatically. Then came my most recent attempts at winter runs with spoons. I picked up this techinque rather quickly and by the end of this past winter season I found myself fishing with only spoons, and having fantastic results. I ended up with my best winter steelheading season in years. My point is that by being being flexible, I have dramatically increased my success rate and have been able to hook fish in water that I could not effectively cover with standard drift gear. In these times of increased pressure and decreased fish runs, I have actually been catching more steelhead than ever. Match your techniques to the river you are fishing and don't be afraid to try new techniques. And always be courtious to your fellow anglers.