I would suggest keeping a journal. Make note of where you see fish caught….not just the general spot but exactly where they are caught. I often hike and climb to fish a spot the size of a bathtub. Sooner or later,your float will go down. I have a “milk run” for low, medium, and high water. The water level data is very important. If I am fishing a system that does not have a gauge, I estimate based on a nearby system with similar attributes. The fluctuation really changes depending on whether the system is mediated by having a lake.
Key points
Spots where you have seen fish hooked….make note of water height
My leader is usually under24” unless fishing slow deep pools
I use 3 things 90% of the time..bait sack, pink worm (Beau Mac pearly one), and a Spin and Glo for old times
When I feel motivated I pump bugs but it’s not necessary. Steelhead are not super picky….its more about putting your gear in front of fish wants to bite.
Set float to weight as 75% of depth…. Eg. in 8 feet deep, I go 6 feet float to lead