A systematic review of evidence was conducted concerning the effects of large wood placement on salmonids. In contrast to a general literature review, a narrowly focused question was targeted. The question was formulated before the review commenced and specified the subject, treatment, and outcomes of interest. The primary review question was “Does instream wood placement affect salmonid abundance, growth, survival or habitat complexity?” Publications were found with a comprehensive, documented literature search and were selected for review based on explicit inclusion criteria. Two science reviewers evaluated the selected set of publications. The reviewers considered specific criteria to assess how relevant each publication was to the primary review question. Details for each publication considered in reviewing its relevancy, including factors that might have affected study conclusions, are reported. The overall strength of reviewed evidence is summarized in a narrative synthesis. Gaps in research are highlighted. Insights are provided into the process, feasibility, and utility of systematic reviews for assessing and synthesizing the science available to support forest management decisions and policymaking.