I know that I have seen the formula for calculating the weight of a Steelhead here a number of times, but I didn't make a note of it.
I got a Steelhead Sunday on Anderson Bar that was 31' x 14.5 (gutted).
Thanks in advance.
Fishguts

PS A friend and I will be fishing Blue Creek to the Mission again this weekend. As always we are looking for a turnaround (who wants to ride a bike past all those mean a** dogs?)
We will most likely have an open seat on the big blue boat, perhaps a trade? email me at the above.


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I Wish I were standing in a River,
In the Rain,
Catching Steelhead.

Not that it is entirely accurate, but a good quick and easy way to estimate weight is to measure the fish in inches and subtract 20..
i.e. 36 inch fish weighs about 16 lbs...at least that is what Idaho Fish and Game says, and I have checked it a number of times...it's pretty close

Another answer to your question....found my files (the wife's actually)...

Formula is W=(L * G squared)/650 for Salmon
W=(L * G squared)/750 for Steelhead.

Example: 31 inch fish 14.5 Girth
31*210.25/750 = 8.69 lbs
Girth Measurments need to be taken before gutting.


[This message has been edited by Reel Em In (edited 07-25-2000).]

Thanks Reel em in. I like the first formula better! We guessed him at 12 - 15 so the first one works better for me. I guess I will break down and buy a scale.
Fishguts

I posted previously that I've made up an Excel spreadsheet that shows weight of steelhead or salmon, given the length and girth. If you'd like it, post your e-mail addy and I'd be glad to send.
-currentdrifter

Hey currentdrifter,if you don't mind I'll take a copy of that spread sheet..thanks

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Row Quietly and fish a Cataraft }<<(('>----<'))>>{
Release all Wild Fish

The formula that is widely used for steelhead weight estimation is:

length x girth squared /775

or 31 x (14.5 x 14.5) /775

which turns out to be quite a bit smaller than 12-15 lbs. Using your measurements, it was about 8 1/2 lbs. But remember that this formula is only as accurate as the measurements you take. A couple inch error here or there can yield widely different results. I think the measurement of girth is taken around the body in front of the dorsal fin, and the length is from tip of snout to the center of the tail "fork". I've used this formula on hatchery fish ( I don't typically want to handle a Nate enough to get measurements) and it comes out within a half pound + or -. Of course there are those fish with an unusual physique that don't fit the mold, but it's usually pretty close. In any case, congrats on your catch, and hopefully you can put this formula to good use.

Fish on..........

Reel Em In you are right on
That is the formula that was taught to me by my father-in-law over 20 years ago and it doesn't take a calculator to us it. It's fairly accurate and when the fish are biting it's real handy. 1. Measure fish length. 2.Length over 20" = weight of fish.