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How much do steelhead jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for steelhead in the United States is $56.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.87 and $75.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are steelhead?

Steelhead are a type of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) that are anadromous, meaning they migrate from the ocean to freshwater rivers to spawn. Unlike typical rainbow trout, which spend their entire lives in freshwater, steelhead are born in rivers, migrate to the ocean to grow and mature, and then return to their natal rivers to reproduce. This unique life cycle makes steelhead highly prized among anglers and ecologists. They are native to the Pacific Ocean and river systems in North America and are known for their strength and agility.

What is the difference between Steelhead vs Fish Biologist?

AspectSteelheadFish Biologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require biology or environmental science backgroundBachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or related field; advanced roles may need a master's or PhD
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in rivers, streams, and hatcheries; some lab workResearch labs, field sites, government agencies, or environmental organizations
Employer & Industry UsageFisheries management, hatcheries, conservation programsResearch institutions, government agencies, environmental consulting firms

While Steelhead refers to a specific fish species often involved in conservation and hatchery work, a Fish Biologist is a professional who studies fish species, including Steelhead, to understand their biology, ecology, and conservation needs. The roles overlap in fieldwork and environmental settings, but Fish Biologists typically have higher education credentials and broader research responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Steelhead angler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a steelhead angler, you need in-depth knowledge of fish behavior, angling techniques, and local waterways, often gained through experience and specialized fishing courses. Familiarity with fishing gear such as rods, reels, lures, and fish finders is essential. Patience, adaptability, and strong observational skills help anglers adjust strategies and respond to changing river conditions. These skills are important to consistently locate, catch, and conserve steelhead in diverse and sometimes challenging environments.

What are the common challenges faced by steelhead fishing guides during peak season?

Steelhead fishing guides often face challenges such as unpredictable river conditions, fluctuating fish runs, and managing client expectations during peak season. They must adapt quickly to weather changes and ensure safety while providing a successful fishing experience. Additionally, guides work long hours and need strong communication skills to coordinate logistics and educate clients about local regulations and conservation practices.
More about Steelhead jobs
What cities are hiring for Steelhead jobs? Cities with the most Steelhead job openings:
What states have the most Steelhead jobs? States with the most job openings for Steelhead jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Steelhead jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Steelhead jobs are:
Steelhead jobs near you
Infographic showing various Steelhead job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $117,135 per year, or $56.3 per hour.

Fisheries Technician - Rotary Screw Trap Tender/Hatchery Technician

Idaho Fish and Game

Nampa, ID • On-site

$18.61/hr

Temporary

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

The Idaho Department of Fish & Game Nampa Fisheries Research office is seeking (1) 4.5-month non-benefitted Fisheries Technicians to assist with our Idaho and Salmon and Steelhead Monitoring and Evaluation Study. The work site is located at Rapid River Hatchery near Riggins, Idaho.
Dates Needed
  • (1) 4.5-month non-benefitted: immediately - 11/6/26

General Information
The Rapid River hatchery is located at the base of the Seven Devils Mountains and is one of the largest spawning and rearing facilities for spring Chinook Salmon in the state of Idaho. The hatchery is 7 miles from Riggins, ID, one of the state's most desired locations for whitewater recreation, fishing, hunting, and hiking. Riggins is a small mountain town with restaurants, rustic cabins and lodges, outdoor outfitters, and local crafts.
This position is based out of the Fisheries Research office in Nampa, but technicians spend most of their time at the Rapid River Fish Hatchery near Riggins, ID. Work is split between operating a rotary screw trap near the hatchery, assisting hatchery staff with daily operations, and assisting with creel surveys as needed.
The work schedule is typically eight days on with six days off, including weekends and holidays. Occasional night shifts may be required. An agency vehicle, housing (dorm or camp trailer), and food will be provided during the work shift. Housing is not provided during days off.
Incumbents must be able to lift and carry a minimum of 60 pounds with occasional lifting and carrying of up to 100 pounds for short distances, with or without reasonable accommodations. This position involves working in cold water for long periods of time, in variable weather conditions.
Qualifications
Required
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver's license. Proficiency in Windows-based software such as Word and Excel is essential for these positions. Experience following oral and written instructions, policies, and procedures. Some knowledge of life history, anatomy, and ecology of various fish and wildlife species. Experience recording data. Experience interacting with the public in a professional setting. Candidates must be able to work independently, be self-motivated, and demonstrate problem solving ability and safety awareness.
Preferred
It is preferred that applicants have a BS degree in fisheries or related field, or the equivalent from applicable job experience and training. Individuals with experience in aquaculture, operating rotary screw traps, implanting PIT tags, and collecting and managing biological data from both adult and juvenile salmonids will be given preference. Experience towing and backing trailers, operating ATV's and 4x4 vehicles, driving on snow and ice-covered roads, and operating chain saws, winches, and a variety of power/hand tools is desired.
Responsibilities
Rotary Screw Trap (25% of workload): Technicians are responsible for maintaining and operating a rotary screw trap. Typical trap duties include: collecting and PIT-tagging juvenile steelhead, measuring and weighing fish, collecting genetic and scale samples, mounting scales for aging, recording biological information, data entry on a laptop computer, routine QA/QC of field data, and operating/maintaining field equipment and fleet vehicles.
Hatchery Operations (75% of workload): Technicians will assist hatchery staff every day. Typical fish culture duties include: sweeping raceways, feeding fish, trapping adult Chinook salmon and steelhead, recording biological information, spawning adult Chinook salmon, monitoring the development of eggs, cleaning and maintaining equipment, and maintaining hatchery grounds.
Creel Surveys: Technicians may be required to assist with creel surveys during the early season salmon fishery in and around Riggins, ID. This requires interacting with anglers to obtain data on fishing effort.
How To Apply
  1. Applicants must first register with Idaho Department of Labor
    Job Posting: 2471356 https://labor.idaho.gov
  2. Complete an IDFG Application for Temporary Employment
    https://idfg.idaho.gov/jobs/application-temporary
  3. Submit a cover letter, resume, three professional or academic references, and a completed IDFG Application for Temporary Employment via email to: ron.roberts@idfg.idaho.gov

EEO/Veteran's Preference. If qualified applicants are found, this announcement may close before the listed closing date.
URL: https://idfg.idaho.gov/jobs/application-temporary
Contact: Ron Roberts
Email: ron.roberts@idfg.idaho.gov
Phone: (208) 854-8917

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