emeralds verses goldens

The Goldens from Conneaut actually come from Arkansas. Fatheads are fatheads. No mistaking them.

I have used both emeralds and fatheads and both have worked for me.  I agree the fatheads are hardier and last longer.

Rollcaster,

It depends on conditions. Low and clear, I'll use an 18 or 20. If the water has some color, I'll go as big as 14 sometimes. Either way though, I just hook 'em through the lips. I prefer a little bigger hook when I can get away with it. Seem to get better hookups that way.

In deeper runs, I'll drift them under a float with a little bit of shot just like an egg or any other bait. In fast runs when I can see the fish, I'll often lose the float, adjust the shot and try to watch 'em take it.

Never used fatheads in Erie, but shiners are by far my favorite bait for steelhead. I'd imagine the fatheads work just as well though. I've just always used shiners.

rsquared gave you some very good info.  I usually use a #14 nymph hook most of the time and hook them between their belly and tail so they hang head down.  If you don't hit any vital organs they will still swim around for awhile.

Thanks bug I'll try both ways.