5 Must-Have Steelhead Flies for Winter Runs: Tips from Ebi Fisher

With: ebifisher

I recently had the chance to sit down with Ebi Fisher, a passionate angler who’s built his journey from the waters of Iran to the rivers of British Columbia. His steelhead obsession is the real deal, and we talked about everything from the highs and lows of fishing for these elusive beasts to his goals for the future. Ebi shared some solid tips and a few stories that got me pumped just listening.

How did you first get into fly fishing, and what drew you to the sport?

It was around 2007 when I came across a satellite channel that broadcasted fishing videos. When I saw fly fishing on that channel, I became interested in it.

Where are you from, and what’s your background? How has that shaped your journey as an angler?

I was born in Iran and started fly fishing there. About eleven years ago, I immigrated to Canada alone. One of my biggest goals was to improve my fly fishing skills while also building a better future. I made the decision to move to Canada, and although the journey was very difficult, I eventually arrived and continued fly fishing here.

What is it about steelhead that keeps you coming back? Any particularly memorable battles that stand out?

I started fishing for steelhead in the winter. Sometimes I go for a day, a week, or even two weeks without catching anything. But then, suddenly, when I finally catch one, my hands and legs start shaking. I love that excitement. I want to experience it again and again. That’s why I keep fishing and keep going after steelhead. There are many times when I feel discouraged, but I always hold onto the hope of that moment when I succeed and feel that thrill again.

When it comes to targeting steelhead, what are your top five go-to flies?

If I had to name five of the best fly patterns I’ve used for steelhead, I’d focus on winter-run steelhead, which are my main target. Most of the time, I use Intruder flies. When the water is high and has a strong flow, I rely on Intruder patterns. Based on color, my top choice is blue and black, followed by purple and black. After that, I really like red and black, then orange and pink.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone just getting started in fly fishing?

If I want to recommend fly fishing to someone and explain why they should try it, I’d tell them that fly fishing isn’t just fishing—it’s an art. Sometimes, we go fishing and don’t catch anything, but just casting the line brings so much joy. I don’t think any other type of fishing gives you that same feeling. In fly fishing, even casting is a source of enjoyment.

Even tying flies at home is an amazing experience. In other types of fishing, people usually use bait or lures, but in fly fishing, you create your own flies. That in itself is very rewarding. And when you finally catch a fish on a fly you tied yourself, everything comes together perfectly.

What’s next for Ebi Fisher? Is there a particular fish species or location still on your bucket list? Any big trips, projects, or goals on the horizon?

One of my goals is to catch steelhead in the best rivers of my home region, British Columbia. I want to fish for steelhead in different rivers like the Skeena and the Dean River. I also really want to target summer-run steelhead, especially using dry flies—that’s one of my biggest dreams. I think next year, some of these dreams will come true because I’m gradually getting the opportunity to travel to these places for fly fishing.