What is a general rule of thumb for tippet selection for steelies ? On a fly rod ? Thanks in advance.

Tom

The biggest rule of any tippet selection is to make sure are using a similiar type of line as your leader. Try to match manufactures, re: if you are using Rio leaders use the same type of Rio Tippet. Copolymer to copolymer, copolymer to monofilament will decrease your knot strength by a good percentage. As far as tippet strength for winter runs #8-#12 test, summer runs can go down to #6. I am speaking from a North West perspective, you guys in the midwest I believe go all the way down to #4 test.

Generally speaking, fly fishing tippet size is determined by the size of the fly you're using. Many Fly Fishers use the formula (fly size/3 = approximate tippet size)to get into the ballpark.

For steelhead (and another Northwest perspective), size #2 through #10 flies generally describes the range of flies employed with size #4 through #8 covering most situations. Size #4 through #8 flies balance and turn over best with 0X (.011") and 1X (.010") tippets. One size up or down on either end (i.e. 2X (.009") and 02X (.015")) probably gives you the high and low range for the #4 through #8 flies. Of course, nothing is written in stone and external variables (e.g. water clarity, size of fish) as well as varience in size between manufacturer's materials may influence your decision to override this logic.
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Release Wild Steelhead

You guys are absolutly correct! We do tend to run light test around here, but I was amazed to hook into a few brutes and found my self up in the 2x-3x range. What are your guys favorite manufactures for tippets and leaders, and ot do you tie your own? do you gentleman use a float indicator? I have tried this method and had very lil sucess to none. I also untill now only had a 9ft rod, lol and now I have my real steelie/salmon out fit took me a lil while to get but man I got it ! I really like that formula you came up with never heard that before "fly/3" great sounds really good! As far as leader shy fish what do you guys reccomend still talking about leaders, and tippets. Thanks again for your help!

Tom

[This message has been edited by steelheader007 (edited 06-22-2000).]

Howdy,
I now like the strike indicator method, since I've learned from my friend Bryan how to rig it correctly. The trick is to use a good floating line with the indicator snugged right on the nail knot connecting line and leader. The leader is kept short(approx. 4ft.) and a heavy beadeye or bullethead pattern is used. Roll casting is much more fluid set-up this way, although a standard backcast is quite awkward.
This method is unbeatable for Dog Salmon (I can't beleive people who think getting Chums to actually bite is'nt possible) and winter Steelhead. During low flow I think traditional set-ups with long leaders will be your best bet. Good Luck!

Read Trey Combs book about steelhead. The setup for steelhaed is really simple. 9-14ft. leaders for floating line top water. Go down to 6lb. test as lightest tip. For strike indicator and right angle leaders go 4-8 ft. For sink tip 4-6 ft. and stay with the strongest leader that will cast and catch you can. Again read Treys or Deke Meyers books, they will tell you alot.