October is here and that means that we are closer to the opening of steelhead season here in our region. Over 15,000 steelhead have passed over Priest Rapids Dam, and they are all headed for the Wenatchee, Entiat, Okanogan, Methow and Similkameen rivers, as well as the main stem Columbia.

I expect the season to open around the second week or middle of the month, and just in time, Town Ford is offering another free seminar. This one will be a very detailed description on how rig and fish for steelhead on the Columbia River and the tributaries. Once again, or local expert, Shane Magnuson of Upper Columbia Guide Service will be doing the presentation. It will take place at the Town Ford Dealership in East Wenatchee, across from Costco, beginning at 6 p.m. It is scheduled for the evening of Wednesday, October 17th.

Magnuson will walk everyone through the process of rigging up for steelhead bobber and jig fishing, with advice on rods, reels, lines and what to put on the end of your line. I hope to arrange for some other special guests for the evening, so keep an eye and an ear on my reports as the seminar date gets closer.