From crisp fall mornings to the freezing cold days of winter, salmon and steelhead season demands gear that performs under pressure. Whether you’re float fishing deep runs, drifting beads, or swinging flies through broad tailouts, choosing the right tool for the job determines how efficiently you cover water and how effectively you fight fish. Between the Steeldriver series and TFO’s two-handed and single-hand fly rods, anglers have a complete system designed for every region, every presentation, and every technique.
Steeldriver spinning and Centerpin models. Purpose-built for salmon and steelhead anglers who demand long drifts, quick hooksets, and dependable backbone when the bite turns cold.
The Steeldriver Series
Built specifically for anglers targeting trophy-class fish, the Steeldriver series combines strength, sensitivity, and balance for long, demanding days on the water. With nine total models—spinning, casting, and Centerpin—each rod features a lightweight graphite blank and action-specific tapers that maintain feel without sacrificing backbone.
9’ Medium Heavy Fast (Spinning & Casting) // SDS 905-2 & SDC 905-2
These 9’ Medium Heavy Steeldriver models excel when salmon are running and steelhead are close behind. The fast action provides solid hook-setting power and control in current, while maintaining enough sensitivity to detect subtle takes during a drift. Perfect for fishing beads, spawn sacks, or jigs on heavier main line in rivers across the Great Lakes and Pacific Northwest.
Steeldriver 9’ Medium Heavy Fast models (SDS 905-2 & SDC 905-2) built for drifting beads and controlling powerful salmon and steelhead in strong current.
10’6” Medium Light Fast // “The Michigan Handle” SDM 1063-2
The SDM 1063-2 “Michigan Handle” is a favorite among serious steelheaders. The extended handle improves leverage during the fight and balances the blank for long-range presentations. Its Medium Light power and fast recovery speed make it a go-to for precise float drifts and bead rigs in cold-water conditions where sensitivity and control are critical.
Steeldriver 10’6” Medium Light Fast “Michigan Handle” (SDM 1063-2) offers extra leverage, comfort, and balance for precise float drifts in cold conditions.
Centerpin // 11’0” Light & 13’0” Medium Light // SDP 1102-2 & SDP 1303-2
When it comes to traditional float fishing, the Steeldriver Centerpin models deliver long, controlled drifts and clean hooksets. The extra length offers superior line management, while the fast action provides immediate lifting power to drive hooks home and manage fish in heavy current. Both models are ideal for large rivers, extended drifts, and long leaders.
Steeldriver Centerpin rods (SDP 1102-2 & SDP 1303-2) deliver long drifts, precise line control, and the power needed to land hard-fighting steelhead in moving water.
Precision and patience. A perfect drift with the Steeldriver Centerpin ends with chrome in hand.
Fly Rod Options for Fall Salmon & Steelhead
For fly anglers, TFO’s two-handed and single-hand options offer purpose-built tapers that handle modern lines and techniques with precision. Whether you’re learning to swing or refining your presentation in cold, pressured water, these rods provide efficient loading, superior mending control, and plenty of fish-fighting leverage.
11’6” LK Legacy Two Handed
The 11’6” LK Legacy Two Handed is engineered for experienced spey casters who demand power and precision. Its fast action and refined taper handle Skagit heads, sink tips, and large flies with ease. The additional length provides exceptional line control for deep swings and big water, while the blank’s reserve power keeps fish pinned when they surge. Ideal for winter steelhead and large salmon applications.
Putting the LK Legacy Two Handed to work — long casts, tight loops, and total control for swinging flies through cold, moving water. // Photo: Kory Robbins
11’0” Pro III Two Handed (7wt or 8wt)
The Pro III Two Handed offers a budget-friendly, forgiving option for anglers new to spey or switch techniques. The progressive action loads easily with short heads and compact D-loops, making it perfect for small to medium rivers. It’s a versatile choice for swinging leeches, sculpin, or egg patterns with light sink tips, and a great introduction to two-handed casting efficiency.
We recommend the 11’0″ 7wt or 11’0″ 8wt Pro III Two Handed if you’re looking to get into steelhead or salmon this fall.
10’0” 7wt Solution
The 10’0” 7wt Solution bridges the gap between single-hand versatility and the reach of a switch rod. The extended length provides excellent mending and drift control for indicator or bead setups, while the fast action generates smooth power for compact sink tips and small streamers. Outside of salmon and steelhead, this rod excels for big-water trout, smallmouth bass, and light saltwater species where precision and distance matter.
Ready for the Season Ahead
From the drift to the swing, every presentation benefits from the right tool. The Steeldriver series covers the full range of conventional salmon and steelhead techniques, while the LK Legacy, Pro III, and Solution fly rods extend that same control and performance to the fly side. No matter your approach, TFO builds the gear to keep you confident, efficient, and ready for the next big run.
Cool rain, changing leaves, and the rhythm of the swing. Fall is made for two-handed fishing. // Photo: Kory Robbins
