Salmon are here! The fall run Chinook salmon season opened July 16th on the Sacramento and Feather rivers. Opening day showed more fish in both rivers than we have seen in several years this early in the season. The reports from the San Francisco area were stellar this summer. Ocean fisherman reported “Big Fish and Big numbers” throughout the season. In the last few days the huge schools of salmon disappeared from the ocean making their way through the bay and delta and into the Sacramento River system. By mid August we should have a great number of fish up here. The fall run should last through September and tail off in October. The winter run should kick in about mid November and last through the season closure in mid December. The Feather River (Oroville) has lots of quality bank fishing access. The Sacramento River is pretty much limited to boat fishing in our area.
The last few seasons on the Sacramento, the hot bite has been drifting roe. However in this early season, I have had most of my success backtrolling K15 Kwikfish. Others have done well Jigging in the deep holes. These three tactics will produce fish all season. It’s going to be an above average Salmon season this year so get out there!!!! Lots of big Chinooks headed our way. If you are not experienced boating on the river, I would highly recommend hiring a guide. There are several experienced fishing guides in the area so, book a trip and share an experience with your family or friends catching big fish while taking in the beauty of the Sacramento River.
Brad Forsythe
Wild River Outfitters
