That’s right you read it correctly! California’s crown jewel is open to salmon fishing this season. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s 2024 supplemental fishing regulations were updated on July 1, 2024. Leaving the Smith River open to salmon fishing. With the daily bag limit being 1 chinook (King) salmon per day, 5 per season. A North Coast Salmon Report Card must be purchased and in the anglers immediate possession while fishing. This is exciting news for California salmon fishermen as it will be the only place in California in two years where anglers can legally fish for and retain a chinook salmon.

Here at SalmonSacRiver we are taking reservations for this special fishery starting immediately. We are offering fully guided salmon fishing trips on the Smith River starting the last week of September, the entire month of October, and the first half of November. This fishery located just North of Crescent City, Ca is something you must experience. We will be mixing up the guided fishing trips between our jet boats and drift boats depending on river conditions. The Smith River is known for its jin clear water and its ability to fish even after the heaviest of rains. It is in my opinion the Smith River is Californias best salmon fishery, and your best chance at catching a true Tyee King Salmon. I would recommend jumping at the opportunity to fish this pristine river system. It’s something I think every serious salmon angler should experience once in their lifetime. I personally have fished the Smith River for better then twenty years and it is my favorite spot to fish for king salmon.

Join us this season and experience for yourself what a salmon run is like when there are no dams, no water diversions, no politics, and no special interest. About as wild as a river can get in this day and age. Our rates are $300 per adult. Kids and Vets $250. This includes all gear and fish processing. As I mentioned earlier a North Coast Salmon Report Card must be purchased in addition to at least a one day fishing license. However it is recommended to stay for two days of fishing, as to soak in the whole experience and breathtaking scenery. It is very likely once you have spent your first day of fishing on the Smith River you will want to fish again the following day. Because this fishery will be booked up fast it would be wise to pre book a two day trip in advance. There is little to zero chance of having a second day available at the time of your trip. The month of October is consider “prime time” although late September and early November will have some great action as well. DIY anglers have plenty of opportunities to fish the Smith River from the bank. Primarily up the separate forks of the river. The Middle and South Forks. Although landing adult King Salmon from the shore on the Smith River is challenging today the least. As far as DIY boating on the Smith River. All I can say is you better be careful. It’s dangerous and can rise or fall very quickly. Causing a array of potential problems and boating hazards. You want to go with someone who knows the who’s, how’s, when’s, where’s, what’s and why’s of this unique and incredible fishery. Then consider tackling it alone once you have gained some knowledge and understanding of this river system. Salmon fishing on the Smith River takes place in the first ten miles of the river system from where it enters the Pacific Ocean. Providing fresh ocean quality king salmon. Big King Salmon, and lots of them.

If you love salmon fishing and are itching to get your hands back on some dime bright king salmon this season. This trip is for you. Don’t hesitate and miss the opportunity to experience this unbelievable North Coast salmon fishery. Get a group of family or friends together and give me a call (530-722-8876). Let’s pick out a day or two for you to remember. Don’t wait these trips will sell out fast, and this opportunity to catch big bright California king salmon won’t be around for long. For our southern most customers, catching a flight may suite you best. The Smith River is tucked in the North West corner of California and it can be quite a drive getting there. Roughly a 7-8 hour drive from the Bay Area, 6-7 hours from the Sacramento area. Well worth the drive but flying adds a much faster travel option. Google flights lists round trip flights to Medford, Oregon from most major California airports between $200-$300 round trip. From Medford,Or your drive to the Smith River will only be a little over a hour. These prices are considering you book your flight sometime in the near future. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to call/txt (530-722-8876) me anytime . I’m glad to answer any questions you may have. I look forward to seeing some of you on the Redwood Coast this fall for some quality California king salmon fishing. Tight Lines!