I have had great success for summer/fall steelhead using #3 french blades with black bodies (both mortac and fishermens shack have great blades.)

Does anyone have proven, non-theoretical spinner recommendations for the winter fish in Washington rivers?

Well, I've had GOOD success on #5 blue fox silver/blue body... Although usually I just drift a corky, and do AWESOME.. hehe.. =)

But I have found that particular spinner to be a good one.. #4's work good too, but #5's they can really see.. heh

Tom

Ive had good success using the lur jensen gold #5 with a half red blade.

I've had good luck on the East Fork Lewis and Elochoman with #4 or #5 silver blada/body and red tape. I think its more of a "fish the lure effectively and with confidence" rather than a secret color. Jed Davis' book is "The Bible" for spinner fishermen.

I agree with buzzerbaby its having confidence in your lure and and the way you use it. Once you cath a few fish on a certain lure it will give you confidence in that lure and the way you fish it will come with practice. I start out fishing at my feet and working my way further and further until I have reached my maximum casting distance then start over again I like to give the lure a twitch once in while to imitate a bait fish and if it all comes together FISH ON!!!
ramprat

Those who have or have access to the original Pen-tac blades in the half and half silver/gold have worked the best in the #4 1/2 blade. I've only got a few of the pen-tac blades left and have resorted to the mortac blades although I haven't been able to find them in the 4 1/2 blade. Depending on water conditions clarity, temp, height I either use a #4 or #5 blade in either silver or gold with green tape and tubing for winter fish. They produce well, although I would rather entice a fish with eggs or shrimp.

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there are many times I wish I had a #8 blade and a body of an ounce or more. hint hint...
don't ever consider a spinner to be too big! someone said it earlier, cold water means you really have to get a fish's attention.
ie: more flash!!! (forget about color too) keep it simple...it really is!