Your fishing forecast for November 5th is here, and things are looking very promising for another round of steelhead action this weekend. With a good amount of rain in the forecast for southern Ontario, conditions are shaping up to be ideal for anglers chasing chrome.

Last weekend’s fishing was solid, with rivers running on the lower side but still producing plenty of fish. From western systems like the Saugeen, to local favourites like the Credit, and even eastern tributaries such as the Ganaraska, anglers found fish across the board. Most Lake Ontario tributaries were running low and clear, but there was no shortage of fresh, bright, and aggressive steelhead moving into the systems.

With those lower water levels, fish have been holding tight to cover and structure, spots like undercut banks, log jams, and deeper shaded pools. In these conditions, finding one fish often means you’ve found several, as they’ll group up in the most protective areas of the river.

On larger systems like the Maitland and Saugeen, fish movement has been more wave-like, with pods pushing through different stretches of river. That means you might find good fishing in one section, and then a few kilometres upstream, things quiet down before picking up again.

If you’re fishing these bigger rivers, covering water is key. Anglers with drift boats, rafts, or pontoons like an NRS or Water Master will benefit from being able to intercept fish throughout the system. For those on foot, car hopping is an excellent strategy this time of year, fish one or two pools, then move up or downstream to another access point. Don’t stay stuck in one spot too long, this time of year, mobility finds fish.

The forecast is calling for around 15 mm of rain, which should bring rivers up to ideal fishing levels without pushing them into blowout territory. The ground has been relatively dry, so a lot of this precipitation will soak in rather than cause excessive runoff.

If that forecast holds, this weekend could offer perfect flows and fresh waves of fish moving in from the lake. That bump in water will make rivers more forgiving and could redistribute fish into new holding areas.

In the lower, clearer water we’ve had recently, small nymphs and subtle egg patterns have been the top producers. Think muted tones, light pinks, peaches, and natural tan or brown nymphs like hare’s ears, pheasant tails, and prince nymphs.

For those swinging flies, natural baitfish and sculpin-style patterns have been the ticket, patterns that move water but still match the clarity conditions.

If we do get that expected rain, however, be ready to adjust your colors and sizes. As November progresses, brighter colors start to come into their own, chartreuse eggs, vivid worm patterns, and poppier swing flies in purples and blues often light up when the water picks up some stain.

Pack a variety and be flexible. This time of year, one river might still be running clear while another a few towns over takes color quickly. Being prepared to change your presentation and pattern can make all the difference in your day.

All signs point toward a very fishy weekend ahead for steelhead anglers across southern Ontario. With more rain on the way and fresh runs entering the rivers, there’s no better time to be out there.

Whether you’re swinging, drifting, or nymphing, be ready to adapt, fish are there, and the ones coming in now are bright, fresh, and full of energy.

As always, if you need up-to-date conditions, fly suggestions, or river recommendations, stop by the shop or reach out to us. We’re happy to point you in the right direction.

See you on the water.