The current emphasis in fish habitat management is directed primarily towards the physical modification of streams and channels. However, added physical structures cannot replicate the important interactions between dynamic streams and associated riparian vegetation. Management of streamside vegetation was an early enhancement method and was used over a century ago. The management of streamside vegetation provides a basis for an interactive approach to fisheries enhancement and leads to a more productive, diverse, and stable biotic community. Channel roughness values index the hydraulic importance of snags and large wood in addition to their role as habitat and cover. Bioengineering approaches to fish habitat management must complement the natural dynamics of functional riparian communities that are well adapted and connected to the fluvial system.