Stormin30,
FF's provided some good advice. I'd also recommend an 8 weight rod to start for salmon/steelhead. A 6 wt is just too light in my opinion. You may be able to use that rod for small salmon (e.g. pinks), but I'd go with at least a 7 wt in that case (I've got a 7 wt rod for small salmon/steelhead). An 8 wt rod will give you the versatility to have a chance at some larger fish (chums & springs), and will also not be too heavy for the smaller fish (pinks, coho, etc.). FF's mentioned some rod companies. I believe that a good fly (or tackle) shop can recommend a decent rod to fit your budget.
As for reels - I'd go with one that has a decent drag system and lots of line (backing) capacity. I'm sure you can get a decent reel for under $100.00. I know that FF used a Dragonfly (or was it a BFR) reel prior to his flashy new Battenkill LA. I think Dragonfly reels are around the 70 - 80 dollar range? Again, I'm sure the shop can recommend a decent reel.
As for lines – go with a sink tip system. I'd recommend a multi-tip (or versa-tip) system. The only problem is that these are quite expensive (200+ dollars) - but you get a number of sink tips you can use and change depending on the water conditions. There is the option of making your own sink tip system – but you’ll likely feel uncomfortable cutting into a new dry line if you haven’t done this before! For salmon/steelhead - it is imperative that you have a decent presentation, and in my experience - the right sink tip line is critical to get the fly to the correct depth, yet provide you decent control (e.g. mending) through the dry line portion of the line. An all floating line may work if you use weighted flies, or if you’re fishing shallow runs. A sinking line is impractical for flowing water. For very slow flow or still water (such as backwaters), a slow sink line works OK for cast and retrieve. But for a system like the Vedder – I’d go with a sink tip system.
Anyway – this is just a quick “summary” to hopefully get someone started for flyfishing salmon/steelhead. It may seem expensive at first, but over time it’s not too bad! Good luck and just ask if you have any more questions.
