While much of California’s salmon fishing is closed this year, there’s still a small stretch of the Smith River estuary that’s open for fishing, and we took the opportunity to visit it. This 4-mile section, from the California coast to Rowdy Creek, is one of the few places where you can legally target king salmon right now. It’s been a hot topic of debate, with many anglers not realizing this area is open. We dug into the regulations to clarify things and, sure enough, this stretch isn’t listed under the low-flow restrictions that are affecting many other sections.
New to this spot? Check out our full guide, complete with Google Maps, top gear recommendations, and insider tips.
If you’re planning to head out, it’s essential to know the regulations. You’re allowed to catch 1 Chinook Salmon per day, and no more than 5 wild Chinook Salmon over 22 inches per year. This part of the Smith River is special because, while most of the river has flow restrictions due to drought conditions, the estuary remains unaffected by those rules. In fact, it’s been omitted entirely from the low-flow closure list, so it’s a great spot to try your luck while other areas are off-limits.
On our trip, we saw quite a few anglers lining the banks, taking advantage of the unique opportunity. A guide came back with a couple of clients who had landed a 36-pounder and a 40-pounder—massive catches that are still possible in this section. It was something else to see these fish up close, reminding us why the Smith River estuary continues to draw anglers even in a tough year like this.
If you’re thinking about heading up, be sure to grab a North Coast Salmon Report Card, which is required in addition to your regular fishing license. It’s a small extra cost, but well worth it for the chance to fish in one of the few open sections left. And if you’re looking for a place to stay, Ha-wan-kwet Village is nearby and makes for a convenient RV camping spot.
With salmon fishing so limited in California right now, this stretch of the Smith River estuary is a must-visit for any serious angler. It’s an incredible spot that offers a rare opportunity, and the fishing is good if you hit it on the right day.
