New to the site and am looking to become a better steel slayer. Was on the Kalama today and there are plenty on steel in though was unsuccessful. Tried everything, spinners, spoons, jig and bobber, up to and including the old hold out of yarn and corkie. Any suggestions on fishing tidal waters, dropped four feet in about an hour. All suggestions, ideas and crazy suggestions appreciated. Thanks!

Welcome to the forum! Most people fish the incoming tide for steelhead and salmon in tide water. Bait should work well since they are just entering fresh water and still feeding regularly! Some others on here might be able to help you more.

The challenge is by the time fish reach the Kalama they have spent a period of time in the fresh traveling the Columbia. That being said, the Kalama is still close enough to the mouth of the Columbia it is influenced by the tidal flows. I'll start watching the high and low tides and give it go go. Would you recommend drifting prawns, roe or give the both a go? Thanks!

I would try roe and I have heard good things about coon shrimp. We used them on the Columbia on one rod with a blade above them and they got lots of hits. Sand shrimp might be a good option as well. Good luck!