For Those Obsessed with swinging flies for steelhead

Steelhead fishing has come a long way. What was once seen as a game of “chuck-and-chance” has evolved into a refined pursuit fueled by innovation and intention. Today’s anglers have access to purpose-built tools that match their fishery, their style, and their skill level.

Open any fly rod catalog and you’ll see it: an array of Spey rods, single-handers, and switch rods, all engineered for specific conditions. Rods are lighter, stronger, and more responsive than ever. And they’re matched by fly lines that bring out their full potential, Skagit heads for sink tips and big intruders, Scandi tapers for tight loops and finesse, multi-tip systems for all-around adaptability.

Fly companies have stepped up, too. Today’s flies are designed by anglers who live and breathe steelhead, patterns born on the river, not in a boardroom. And let’s not forget the gear we wear: waterproof, windproof, built-to-last outerwear that keeps you dry and fishing longer, even when winter tries to push you back to the truck.

Cut Through the Noise

We get it. The modern steelhead world can feel overwhelming. If you’ve ever stood around at a spey clave, you’ve probably heard terms like grain weight, weight windows, or tip deflection thrown around like common slang. It can sound like a foreign language.

That’s where we come in.

At SteelheadBum.com, our mission is to simplify the gear, the language, and the choices—so you get exactly what you need, without the confusion. Whether you're brand new to steelhead or fluent in "spey speak," we’re here to help you navigate it all.

The Team Behind the Shop

SteelheadBum.com is powered by the same crew that keeps Gorge Fly Shop running strong. While Travis is out on the river or chasing elk, they’re here, helping customers, shipping gear, and keeping this site rolling. We’re a tight-knit group of anglers who live this life and love helping others dive deeper into it.

Ready to gear up? Explore the site, check things out, and reach out if you have questions. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been swinging flies for years, SteelheadBum is here for the obsessed.