Depending on where you live you can catch both salmon and steelhead in the same river just at different time of the year. I prefer fishing from a drift boat or sled on rivers both casting and pulling plugs. I fished for years from the bank but bank access became a problem. I have also fish for salmon in the local saltwater trolling or mooching (drifting with the tide). I really recommend you start with salmon - they are more plentiful and accessible. Steelheading can be frustrating although highly rewarding. Good luck!!
Start with a 1/4 ounce lead tied directly to the main line and practice. Forehand, backhand and over the head casts. You don't break your wrist with a baitcaster like you would with a spincaster. Keep your wrist rigid and swing with your arm. Tighten up the drag at first to avoid the dreaded backlash. Practice outside off the water to avoid frustration. Pick your targets.
I've caught rockfish, flounder, salmon, crab and lings from the Westport jetty. Weather (wind especially), tidal flow, terminal tackle and bait are keys to any success. The rocks are really slippery so it treacherous. A backpack is a must. Good luck!!
Any fishing reports, stories or suggestions from fresh or saltwater in western Washington?
I bought two used (no longer manufactured) Shimano baitcasters on Ebay from Japan and had no issues or problems. They were shipped promptly. Buy from private parties.
Just like fly fishing, you have to load your rod on your back move. Start by pointing at your target, quickly but smoothly make your back move almost touching the water with your terminal gear and when your rod loads up (bent along it's entire length) immediately forward cast with your arm and shoulder (keeping your wrist locked) with a speed to match the distance desired. Practice in your yard and start out slowly. Expect a few backlashes. Good luck!
Depending on the fish you are targeting, a baitcaster won't disappoint you. It takes a bit of practice and patience to cast (distance, targeting, wind conditions, weight of your terminal gear, etc.) but fighting a fish on a baitcaster is a dream!
Fishermen take care of fellow fishermen. Towing, gear, advise, first aid, etc. Well maybe not good advise.
Fishing is a great hobby and sport. I would recommend that you first decide if you want to catch and release or catch and eat. That will help narrow down the direction you will want to go. Catch and release opens a lot more opportunities. Good luck and good catching.
Mending is important. I loaded one reel with braided dacron just for bobber fishing. Change depths periodically. With the colder water temps the fish are lethargic and you may have put your offering right at their snouts. Most importantly, don't get discouraged!!
If you have or could borrow a baitcaster, let him try it. You can do this in the back yard, park, etc. Make he also tries backcasting. You can a lot of money and frustration.
Nightcrawlers with a split shot under a bobber works good in soft water. They slam worms so be attentive. Good luck
Thanks RJS for your advice and insight!
I live between Woodinville and Duvall.