Eel River Fishing Report

Fishing Report Updated Feb. 8, 2012

STEELIE FISHING SLOWING A BIT, BUT…

Alan Jackson landed this 13 pounder on the Eel with guide Mike Stratman

The river was gaining some color from the rain on Tuesday and was on the rise. Guide Mike Stratman of Redwood Coast Fishing said he was on the South Fork on Monday and it was a trickle but the rain changed that. Fishing in the low water was difficult but things definitely showed signs of life with the increase in flows. These next several days should be good!

A chroma caught by one of John Klar's guide

Trusted Guides

JOHN’S GUIDE SERVICE
Extremely dedicated, thoroughly professional and an all-around great guy, John Klar is truly one of California’s premier guides. We’d fish with him any day of the week…and twice on Sunday!

REDWOOD COAST FISHING
Mike Stratman is an excellent guide who specializes in drift boat trips in the quiet, remote corners of Northern California. He’s super friendly and a real pleasure to spend the day with.

Current River Conditions

North Coast Low Flow River Closure Hotline: (707) 822-3164

DFG Fishing Regulations

Current Weather

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Main Stem Eel River map

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About Main Stem Eel River

The “Main” as it is known is technically the stretch of river from the bay up to the mouth of the South Fork Eel. In that stretch, you can find some excellent catch and release fishing for fall chinook and steelhead. The big native steelies that call the river home can top 20 pounds on occasion and are among some of the best fighting fish you’ll encounter in freshwater. Kings to 50 pound used to be fairly common, too.

Because of decades worth of heavy logging in its headwaters, the Main Eel muds up quickly after a rain and can stay off-color for weeks on end. Hit it as she’s just dropping into shape, however, and you can have some incredible days of fishing…

How to Boonedogg for Steelhead
DFG Fishing Regulations Booklet