This has probably already been discussed, but I'm looking for one and would like to hear recommendations on the absolute best scale for salmon and steelhead fishing, digital or otherwise.

That would be the Berkley digital scale ($30).

I've used the digitals but switched to the Shimano spring scale from Wal-Mart ($19.00)and I really like it

It is Dead-On accurate
It's adjustable so if the spring ever gets weak you can calibrate it.
It has a sliding marker so it still shows the weight after your done.
Plus it never needs batteries, like my digital does when you need it to weigh that pig!

I like the 'it's about' scale. It's absolutely free and it's always about 10#'s within an accurate reading - Especially after 2-3 tallboys

I spent the money and ordered a Chatillon spring scale out of Cabelas. They're about $55-$60 but are known worldwide for their longevity and accuracy. I have no regrets and am glad I did. They're all brass too.

I liked the Berkeley scale, but it didn't hold up to the weather. After a year in the boat, it got too wet and failed. If my boat was stored inside, would have been fine, still, and worked very well.

Thanks all!

I'll ditto some of the sentiments here as I've tried nearly all over the years. The digitals are neat, but water kills 'em, not a very good NW item. MIne lasted about 2 months.

Chatillions are the best without question. I carry them in the boat up north and often take trophy-class fish in the official scales as angles get a certificate from the state of Alaska for kings over 50 (75 Kenai). My observation, they are RIGHT on, period

Bob, damn, can't beat that recommendation. Gonna get one. Thanks.

Here's what I did to test/calibrate my scale:

Take a couple downrigger weights and a sharpie to the local Safeway on your next shopping trip. Ask the guy at the deli to weigh them on his certified digital scale. Mark the exact weights on the balls.

You can test the scale in two ranges by hanging one or two DR balls from the scale.

Ditto what Bob said. I've had the Chatillion for several years and it's very accurate. I also use the downrigger ball trick to calibrate it from time to time when needed. I use it strictly in a salt water environment and it's held up very well. Need to spray LPS on the screw from time to time but that's it.