Ask anglers of Northern California where to go to catch your share of good Salmon, and a lot of them will agree – what you need is a Smith River fishing trip! In its 25 miles, this well-known watershed offers first-class Salmon and Trout action that you won’t soon forget.
Seeing that it’s the Smith River that produced the current Steelhead state record, it’s not hard to understand why so many fishermen love coming here. If you prefer Chinook Salmon fishing, then you can expect beautiful fish that could weigh up to 25 pounds, but that’s just to ease you in. If you know where to go, you can easily come face-to-gills with a 50-pounder, and that’s where the fun begins.
Because Smith River is well-known for its abundant resources, you can find plenty of fishing charters running trips out of nearby towns. You can book a shared charter if you’re fishing solo, or a boat for your group on a private expedition. Trips vary from 4–9 hours, and bear in mind that a longer trip will give you the chance to explore more remote fishing spots.
Discover the riches of California’s last wild river and find out just how thrilling Smith River fishing can be!
Rules & Regulations
The fishing season on Smith River is open for most of the year, aside from a short period in spring. You should check the exact dates and limits around the time you book your trip, and your guide will help you with everything else. It’s also important to bring a valid fishing license with appropriate report cards. For any additional info, feel free to ask your charter captain.