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Fishing the North Coast
Kenny Priest
Times Standard Fishing Report
August 25, 2011
Boats take advantage of calm seas — slay the kings
Increased flows coming out of Lewiston Dam
A beautiful ocean, along with tons of bait, provided some phenomenal salmon action off the coast of Eureka and Trinidad earlier in the week. With the ocean as calm as a lake, just about everything was available for the willing angler. Boats from Shelter Cove, Fort Bragg and Eureka were all chasing schools of tuna. Good numbers of halibut were being landed off Eureka as well as south near Punta Gorda, and salmon were ready to bite anything and everything you could throw at them. Boats of all shapes and sizes were also able to make the run south to Cape Mendocino for some incredible rockfish action.
But nothing lasts forever, not even calm seas. The ocean is predicted to rough up slightly over the next few days, but it will still be fishable, especially for the salmon boats. Five to six foot swells are forecasted through the weekend with one-foot wind waves.
Klamath/Trinity River notes
On September 1, the main stem of the Trinity and the upper Klamath will begin its fall regulations, with a total quota of 2,608 Chinook salmon The main stem Trinity from 250 feet downstream of the Lewiston Dam to the confluence with Klamath River will open September 1 and run through December 31. The exception to this is the Burnt Ranch Gorge area, (downstream of the Highway 299 West bridge at Cedar Flat to the Denny Road Bridge at Hawkins Bar) which closes to all fishing on September 1. The daily bag limit will be three Chinook salmon with only two fish over 22 inches total length, five brown trout and two hatchery trout or hatchery steelhead.
The Klamath River from 3,500 feet downstream of the Iron Gate Dam to the Highway 96 bridge at Weitchpec opened to the take of Chinook salmon on August 15, with a daily bag limit of three Chinook salmon, with only two fish over 22 inches total length, one hatchery trout or hatchery steelhead.
Lewiston Dam flow increases
Beginning Sunday, August 28, at approximately 8 a.m., the Bureau of Reclamation will begin to increase releases from Lewiston Dam to the Trinity River for Hoopa Tribal ceremonial purposes. The increased flows in the Trinity River will also meet downstream needs and are based on flow adjustment rates that protect the public and fish and wildlife.
The increased releases will raise flows gradually from the summer base flow of 450 cfs to a peak of 2,650 cfs by midnight Sunday. On Tuesday, August 30, the flows will be gradually cut back to 450 cfs by 8 p.m. on Thursday, September 1. Recreational river users should exercise extreme caution during the flow increase. Increased flows may pose a danger to swimmers, rafters, fishermen, and others. For more information, contact Robin Schrock at the Trinity River Restoration Program Office, at (530) 623-1800 or e-mail rschrock@usbr.gov.
Free Fishing Day to fall on the Saturday of Labor Day Weekend
Saturday, September 3 is the second of California's two 2011 Free Fishing Days, when people can try their hand at fishing without having to buy a sport fishing license. All fishing regulations, such as bag and size limits, gear restrictions, report card requirements, fishing hours and stream closures remain in effect. For more information on Free Fishing Days, please visit www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/fishing/freefishdays.html.
The Oceans:
Eureka
Since Sunday, limits have been the norm for Eureka’s three charter boats. The majority of the action has been coming between the 48 and 52 lines. Skipper Phil Glenn of Celtic Charter Service has his best day of the week on Sunday, when he had limits for his six passengers, including two big fish weighing 30 and 25-pounds. Monday and Tuesday were both limit days as well, with the fish running a little smaller in size. His biggest on Tuesday was 18-pounds. “The fishing is still good, with lots of shakers still around. The amount of bait and birds in the ocean right now is pretty incredible and once you find both, it’s pretty easy fishing,” Glenn added.
Sunday through Tuesday, Captain Tim Klassen on the Reel Steel has had daily limits for all his clients with salmon ranging from small to 18–pounds. With early limits on Monday, he headed out to drift some bait for halibut, but couldn’t find any takers. “The ocean was actually too calm to fish halibut effectively, the rods were straight up and down due to no current,” Klassen added.
Captain Gary Blasi of Full Throttle Sportfishing was back on the water Monday with his clients itching for some halibut. After landing two of the five fish he hooked, he switched gears and trolled for salmon. The move paid off as he put seven keepers, all between 10 and 17-pounds in the box before days end. Tuesday he ran south of the fleet, up to the 52.5 line and found what he says was the most birds and bait he’s ever seen. He put four fish on board immediately to 19-pounds. “It was the fastest bite and the best fishing I’ve had this year. The fish weren’t huge, but there were lots of them,” Blasi added. Like most anglers fishing out of Eureka, Blasi was quick to call out his numbers to the other boats on the water, with everyone one who made the move scoring easy limits.
Trinidad
Skipper Tony Sepulveda of Northwind Charters reports the salmon action is still red-hot, with limits coming just about every trip. The halibut bite has also been steady, with limits not uncommon. Saturday was Sepulveda’s best day when he had four limits of salmon and four halibut for his clients. “The water started to clear and the salmon have moved out, I’ve been catching most of my fish in 220 feet of water down 120 on the wire. The halibut have been coming south of Trinidad in 320 feet of water, with most of my hook-ups coming on a herring with a hoochie,” Sepulveda added.
Shelter Cove
Albacore and halibut have been the focus for most boats according to Russ Thomas of Mario’s Marina in Shelter Cove. “Sunday and Monday’s tuna action was off the charts. Everybody who went caught fish, with some boats landing over 70 fish and lots of boats had over 40. The halibut bite has also been decent at Punta Gorda, with a 96-pounder caught last Sunday. Not many salmon are being caught, mostly because not many are trying,” Thomas added.
Crescent City
Leonard Carter of Crescent City’s Englund Marine reports the rockfish action is still really good, with all the usual spots giving up fish. “We’re still seeing quite a few Pacific Halibut caught by anglers targeting lings at the Big Reef. I’ve seen just a few salmon caught recently, but nothing really to speak of,” Carter added.
The Rivers:
Lower Klamath
Guide Mike Coopman reports the fishing is still as good as it gets on the Klamath. “More adults are starting to make their way upriver now. On Wednesday, my clients landed two fish that weighed 25-pounds, so there are some bigger fish around. There are still quite a few fish being caught at Blue Creek, but most of the deeper holes have fish in them now. With the water being released from the Trinity this weekend, my guess is a lot of the fish that are holding in the holes will move quickly upriver, very similar to winter steelhead when we get a big rain. The other side of that is more fish should be coming into the mouth, we just have to hope they stop and hold in the lower river so we can get a shot at them,” Coopman added.
Rogue
According to guide Bill Divens (SalmonKingLodge.com) the Rogue fished very well this past week. “The tides early in the week brought in waves of salmon, but the fishing did slow down later in the week. Our strategy was to follow the big pushes of salmon, and it paid off as we caught fish every day. The first part of the week, we fished above Lobster Creek, where we anchored early and then backtrolled later in the day for our fish.
Later in the week, we split our time between the National Forest and the estuary. Our best results came from anchoring for moving fish early, then trolling the afternoon/evening tides. This is shaping up to be a big fish year as we're seeing lots of four-year old fish in the high 20's to mid 30's," Divens said. Divens predicts the warming temperatures in the Medford area will warm the waters of the Rogue this week, leading to more of an estuary fishery over the next week.
“Fishing the North Coast” is now on Facebook. Be sure to check it out for timely, up-to-date fishing reports and information from all over the North Coast.
Questions, comments, tips, and photos can be emailed to kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com
Boats take advantage of calm seas — slay the kings
Increased flows coming out of Lewiston Dam
A beautiful ocean, along with tons of bait, provided some phenomenal salmon action off the coast of Eureka and Trinidad earlier in the week. With the ocean as calm as a lake, just about everything was available for the willing angler. Boats from Shelter Cove, Fort Bragg and Eureka were all chasing schools of tuna. Good numbers of halibut were being landed off Eureka as well as south near Punta Gorda, and salmon were ready to bite anything and everything you could throw at them. Boats of all shapes and sizes were also able to make the run south to Cape Mendocino for some incredible rockfish action.
But nothing lasts forever, not even calm seas. The ocean is predicted to rough up slightly over the next few days, but it will still be fishable, especially for the salmon boats. Five to six foot swells are forecasted through the weekend with one-foot wind waves.
Klamath/Trinity River notes
On September 1, the main stem of the Trinity and the upper Klamath will begin its fall regulations, with a total quota of 2,608 Chinook salmon The main stem Trinity from 250 feet downstream of the Lewiston Dam to the confluence with Klamath River will open September 1 and run through December 31. The exception to this is the Burnt Ranch Gorge area, (downstream of the Highway 299 West bridge at Cedar Flat to the Denny Road Bridge at Hawkins Bar) which closes to all fishing on September 1. The daily bag limit will be three Chinook salmon with only two fish over 22 inches total length, five brown trout and two hatchery trout or hatchery steelhead.
The Klamath River from 3,500 feet downstream of the Iron Gate Dam to the Highway 96 bridge at Weitchpec opened to the take of Chinook salmon on August 15, with a daily bag limit of three Chinook salmon, with only two fish over 22 inches total length, one hatchery trout or hatchery steelhead.
Lewiston Dam flow increases
Beginning Sunday, August 28, at approximately 8 a.m., the Bureau of Reclamation will begin to increase releases from Lewiston Dam to the Trinity River for Hoopa Tribal ceremonial purposes. The increased flows in the Trinity River will also meet downstream needs and are based on flow adjustment rates that protect the public and fish and wildlife.
The increased releases will raise flows gradually from the summer base flow of 450 cfs to a peak of 2,650 cfs by midnight Sunday. On Tuesday, August 30, the flows will be gradually cut back to 450 cfs by 8 p.m. on Thursday, September 1. Recreational river users should exercise extreme caution during the flow increase. Increased flows may pose a danger to swimmers, rafters, fishermen, and others. For more information, contact Robin Schrock at the Trinity River Restoration Program Office, at (530) 623-1800 or e-mail rschrock@usbr.gov.
Free Fishing Day to fall on the Saturday of Labor Day Weekend
Saturday, September 3 is the second of California's two 2011 Free Fishing Days, when people can try their hand at fishing without having to buy a sport fishing license. All fishing regulations, such as bag and size limits, gear restrictions, report card requirements, fishing hours and stream closures remain in effect. For more information on Free Fishing Days, please visit www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/fishing/freefishdays.html.
The Oceans:
Eureka
Since Sunday, limits have been the norm for Eureka’s three charter boats. The majority of the action has been coming between the 48 and 52 lines. Skipper Phil Glenn of Celtic Charter Service has his best day of the week on Sunday, when he had limits for his six passengers, including two big fish weighing 30 and 25-pounds. Monday and Tuesday were both limit days as well, with the fish running a little smaller in size. His biggest on Tuesday was 18-pounds. “The fishing is still good, with lots of shakers still around. The amount of bait and birds in the ocean right now is pretty incredible and once you find both, it’s pretty easy fishing,” Glenn added.
Sunday through Tuesday, Captain Tim Klassen on the Reel Steel has had daily limits for all his clients with salmon ranging from small to 18–pounds. With early limits on Monday, he headed out to drift some bait for halibut, but couldn’t find any takers. “The ocean was actually too calm to fish halibut effectively, the rods were straight up and down due to no current,” Klassen added.
Captain Gary Blasi of Full Throttle Sportfishing was back on the water Monday with his clients itching for some halibut. After landing two of the five fish he hooked, he switched gears and trolled for salmon. The move paid off as he put seven keepers, all between 10 and 17-pounds in the box before days end. Tuesday he ran south of the fleet, up to the 52.5 line and found what he says was the most birds and bait he’s ever seen. He put four fish on board immediately to 19-pounds. “It was the fastest bite and the best fishing I’ve had this year. The fish weren’t huge, but there were lots of them,” Blasi added. Like most anglers fishing out of Eureka, Blasi was quick to call out his numbers to the other boats on the water, with everyone one who made the move scoring easy limits.
Trinidad
Skipper Tony Sepulveda of Northwind Charters reports the salmon action is still red-hot, with limits coming just about every trip. The halibut bite has also been steady, with limits not uncommon. Saturday was Sepulveda’s best day when he had four limits of salmon and four halibut for his clients. “The water started to clear and the salmon have moved out, I’ve been catching most of my fish in 220 feet of water down 120 on the wire. The halibut have been coming south of Trinidad in 320 feet of water, with most of my hook-ups coming on a herring with a hoochie,” Sepulveda added.
Shelter Cove
Albacore and halibut have been the focus for most boats according to Russ Thomas of Mario’s Marina in Shelter Cove. “Sunday and Monday’s tuna action was off the charts. Everybody who went caught fish, with some boats landing over 70 fish and lots of boats had over 40. The halibut bite has also been decent at Punta Gorda, with a 96-pounder caught last Sunday. Not many salmon are being caught, mostly because not many are trying,” Thomas added.
Crescent City
Leonard Carter of Crescent City’s Englund Marine reports the rockfish action is still really good, with all the usual spots giving up fish. “We’re still seeing quite a few Pacific Halibut caught by anglers targeting lings at the Big Reef. I’ve seen just a few salmon caught recently, but nothing really to speak of,” Carter added.
The Rivers:
Lower Klamath
Guide Mike Coopman reports the fishing is still as good as it gets on the Klamath. “More adults are starting to make their way upriver now. On Wednesday, my clients landed two fish that weighed 25-pounds, so there are some bigger fish around. There are still quite a few fish being caught at Blue Creek, but most of the deeper holes have fish in them now. With the water being released from the Trinity this weekend, my guess is a lot of the fish that are holding in the holes will move quickly upriver, very similar to winter steelhead when we get a big rain. The other side of that is more fish should be coming into the mouth, we just have to hope they stop and hold in the lower river so we can get a shot at them,” Coopman added.
Rogue
According to guide Bill Divens (SalmonKingLodge.com) the Rogue fished very well this past week. “The tides early in the week brought in waves of salmon, but the fishing did slow down later in the week. Our strategy was to follow the big pushes of salmon, and it paid off as we caught fish every day. The first part of the week, we fished above Lobster Creek, where we anchored early and then backtrolled later in the day for our fish.
Later in the week, we split our time between the National Forest and the estuary. Our best results came from anchoring for moving fish early, then trolling the afternoon/evening tides. This is shaping up to be a big fish year as we're seeing lots of four-year old fish in the high 20's to mid 30's," Divens said. Divens predicts the warming temperatures in the Medford area will warm the waters of the Rogue this week, leading to more of an estuary fishery over the next week.
“Fishing the North Coast” is now on Facebook. Be sure to check it out for timely, up-to-date fishing reports and information from all over the North Coast.
Questions, comments, tips, and photos can be emailed to kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com
August 8, 2011
Salmon action off Eureka heats back up
Klamath River full of fish
No sooner did the ink hit the newsprint in last week’s fishing column, where I wrote that the fishing had slowed, the salmon pulled a complete 180 and went back on the bite. Whether schools of fish moved back in the area or they just decided to start feeding again — know one really knows. But they’re back and anglers are once again scoring limits. Up in Trinidad, reports indicate that the schools of kings have scattered and you’ll need to spend some time in search mode looking for birds and bait.
The best spot for local rivers continues to be the Klamath, where salmon and steelhead in all shapes and sizes are jam-packed in just about every riffle and flat from the boat ramp to Blue Creek. If you’re looking for a fun-filled day with lots of action, the Klamath is your best bet. 20-plus fish days are not uncommon right now.
Clamming
Another series of minus tides have rolled in, with Friday and Saturday looking like the most promising days. With the ocean predicted to be calm this weekend, this is a good opportunity to get some late-season clamming in.
Fri., Aug. 12 (Low: 5:38 a.m. (-0.6) • Sat., Aug. 13 (Low: 6:16 a.m. (-0.5)
Sun., Aug. 14 (Low: 6:51 a.m. (-0.2). For a complete set of times, visit, www.saltwatertides.com/dynamic.dir/californiasites.html#humboldt
The Bay:
The California Halibut bite has been real slow according to Phil Pritting of Eureka’s Englund Marine. “It’s possible we could be on the downside of the cycle for the halibut. There’s still tons of bait in the bay, so my guess is either they’re late or they aren’t coming,” Pritting added.
The Oceans:
Eureka
Skipper Phil Glenn of Celtic Charter Service was top dog amongst the boats this week, putting in limits of quality salmon daily. On Saturday, he had limits to 22-pounds and followed that up with five limits for five customers to 21-pounds on Sunday. Tuesday was his best day of the week, scoring limits for his six customers to 32-pounds — all before by 10:30 a.m. Wednesday was a much tougher bite, but Glenn was one of the few to grind it out — finishing the day with limits to 18-pounds. Like most of the fleet, Glenn was fishing around the 45.5 to 46 line in 150 feet of water, with most of his fish coming 30- 40 feet down. Straight bait behind a flasher has been his top producer.
Captain Tim Klassen on the Reel Steel was on the halibut grounds last Friday through Sunday, and put up some decent numbers. Friday was his best day by far when be had five halibut in the box by 11 a.m. Saturday had landed a couple more, both being in the high 30’s. Klassen put another three on board Sunday and then made the switch to salmon for Monday where he landed limits, with three of the fish weighing 16-pounds. He was back at it on Wednesday, and like most of the boats, had good action in the morning before the bite shut down around 11 a.m. He finished the day with four salmon, two of which were over 18-pounds. Most of Klassen’s fish came on anchovies fished behind a chrome dodger.
Captain Gary Blasi of Full Throttle Sportfishing also spent some time drifting for halibut. Friday he went three for five with the biggest tipping the scales at 40-pounds. After landing one halibut Saturday morning, his customers decided they’d like a go at some salmon, so out came the trolling gear into the box went two nice salmon for his happy clients. Sunday through Tuesday, it was limits of salmon daily, with the biggest fish weighing 22-pounds. Wednesday he boated three salmon to 20-pounds before the fish went completely off the bite. “There was a pretty good morning bite, but at 11:30 a.m., it just shut down. We had lots of action, and lost a good number of fish as well,” Blasi added. Blasi’s rig of choice has been an anchovy using a green Bechhold bait holder behind a dodger.
Trinidad
After a few days off the water, Skipper Tony Sepulveda of Northwind Charters reports the salmon are pretty scattered and you’ll need to do a little searching if you want to find some decent schools. On Wednesday, he found some good water four miles south of the harbor and dropped the lines in and quickly put three fish in the box. After trolling for another hour with nothing, he started looking for birds and bait and found both 10 miles south of the head, where he put a few more fish in the net. “The pockets of fish seem to be farther apart now, so you really need to hunt for them. Once you find the birds and bait, the fish should be there,” Sepulveda said. The rockfish action continues to be hit and miss, with the bite turning off and on randomly. There’s been a pretty good halibut bite as of late in 300 to 350 feet of water from the 07 line to the 01. “If you put your time in, there’s halibut to be had,” Sepulveda added. Sepulveda’s bait of choice for halibut has been straight herring.
Shelter Cove
According to Russ Thomas of Mario’s Marina in Shelter Cove, the salmon action has remained slow, with less than a fish per angler average. “The fish are still scattered with most boats either fishing out front or heading to the Hat. I did see a 33-pounder come in over the weekend, so there’s still some big ones out there. A few Halibut were caught on Wednesday near Punta Gorda and I’ve heard of some being caught out front near the whistle,” Thomas added. The perch bite has also slowed at the beach according to Thomas.
Crescent City
According to Chris Hegnes of Crescent City’s Englund Marine, the rockfish bite remains hot, but there isn’t much else going on. “All the usual spots, the Sisters, Big Reef, Long Rock are all giving up limits of quality rockfish. There’s still very few anglers trying for salmon, but I did hear of at least one salmon caught this week. The redtail action has also been quiet. With a nice ocean predicted, this weekend would be a good time to head to the beach. The mouth of the Smith River and South Beach are a couple good spots to try your luck,” Hegnes added.
The Rivers:
Lower Klamath
The salmon and steelhead action remains hot on the Klamath, with 25 to 30 fish days not uncommon. I spent a few days this past week fishing with guides Mike Coopman and Alan Borges, and the bite was pretty much non-stop. A lot of fish are stopping at Blue Creek, but there’s fish holding in just about every flat and riffle all the way down to the Glen. Most of the fish being caught are jacks or small adults, along with some nice steelhead. There’s also a fair amount of half-pounders around. Both red and natural-colored roe have been catching fish. There’s still quite a bit of moss in the river, which makes it a little difficult to get a good drift. I did hear from a couple anglers who were out at the mouth on Wednesday and saw quite a few adults moving through.
Questions, comments, tips, and photos can be emailed to kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com
July 21, 2011
First albacore of the year caught off the coast Growing up in Lodi, I know what living in the heat is all about. But after being on the coast for the past eight years, I’m not real comfortable in hot weather and I try to avoid it at all costs. When guide Alan Borges invited me on a trip to the upper Trinity last week, I knew I’d be fishing in 80 to 90 degree weather. Two things far outweighed a few hours of blazing sun — seeing a new stretch of river for the first time, and the chance to do battle with a Trinity River spring salmon.
The plan was to drift from the Douglas City area down to Junction City. After leaving Eureka at 2:30 a.m., we arrived at the put in just prior to daylight. With only one boat launching before us, the chances of us getting into some fish were good. My fishing partner for the day, Gary Barker, hooked and landed a bright 10-pound salmon in the third hole we fished. We hooked our next fish a couple holes down in what is probably the best slot on the drift. This time is was my turn to fight a fish. It turned out to be a pretty good one, and was not going to come to the boat easily. After 10 minutes of playing tug-of-war, it finally took us down river and away from the hole. When the 18-pounder slid into Borge’s awaiting net, we realized that we weren’t going to be able to get back up river, so that was it for that hole. But that was OK, we had a long way to go and lots of good water to fish. This section of the Trinity is fairly narrow and just about every point has a deep slot running off it. We hooked fish or got bit in just about every one of them, even in the middle of the afternoon, which was surprising. It was a great day. We ended up landing 4 nice salmon, I was able to see some new river, and I survived the heat.
Clamming
John Corbett of Eureka’s Pacific Outfitters reports the clamming was a little tougher last weekend and limits weren’t as easy to come by. The next series of fishable minus tides begin on Friday, July 29.
Perch Derby next weekend
Samoa Peninsula Fire District’s will hold it’s 2nd Annual Perch’n on the Peninsula
on Saturday, July 30 from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is a $20 entry fee donation (includes admission to the BBQ fundraiser and one entry into door prize raffle). Fishing begins at sunrise with check-in deadline at 3 p.m. at the Elementary School, 909 Vance Ave. (directly across the street from the Samoa Cookhouse). Pre-registration will be available at Mad River Bait, Tackle & Guide Service, Pacific Outfitters, Englund Marine, Grundmans Sporting Goods or by contacting Charlie Holthaus at (707) 499-7088.
Klamath Management Zone Commercial Salmon Season Closure
The California Department of Fish and Game and NOAA Fisheries have issued an Ocean Salmon Fishery Closure Notice of the commercial salmon season between the Oregon-California border and Humboldt South Jetty effective 11:59 p.m., Monday, July 18, 2011.
The 1,400 Chinook salmon quota was met, necessitating immediate closure. Information about the commercial and recreational ocean salmon season is available on the DFG website at www.dfg.ca.gov/marine/oceansalmon.asp.
The Oceans:
Season’s first tuna action reported
Last weekend, the warm tuna water came within striking distance and boats from Fort Bragg to Coos Bay were on the hunt. Boats running out of Fort Bragg found the 58-plus degree water roughly 32 miles out and the reportedly the few that made the run plugged their boats with quality albacore to 30-pounds, with lots of triples and quad hookups reported. A few boats made the 60-plus mile run out of Eureka on Saturday and got into a bunch of fish. Most boats put in over 20 fish, with lots of fish lost. The best action was reported out of Crescent City, where the warm water was a very reachable 22 miles out. According to the Humboldt Tuna Club website, everyone who made the trip got some fish. The afternoon bite seemed to be the best, and most boats pulled the plug and headed for home with the fish still biting. Hopefully the wind that’s forecasted to blow the next day or so won’t push the warm water away.
Eureka
“It’s not if we’ll get limits, it’s when.” That’s been the general consensus since the salmon action broke went wide-open on July 10. Skipper Phil Glenn of Celtic Charter Service had 10 straight days of salmon limits but reports some smaller fish started showing up on Tuesday. “Not only are we starting to see smaller fish, we’re also catching a lot of shakers and silvers. On Tuesday, we probably caught eight shakers per one adult kept, but after 10 fantastic days no one’s complaining,” Glenn added. Glenn has been fishing around the 49-line the last few days and thinks the bigger fish may have moved north. Glenn continues to catch most of his fish on straight bait behind a flasher.
Captain Tim Klassen on the Reel Steel has also had limits daily, but came up a couple short on Tuesday when the action slowed. “It looks like the salmon have moved north and they may not be feeding quite as heavily now. After a week of catching salmon with stomachs plugged solid with krill, the fish I caught on Tuesday had empty stomachs. I’m not sure what that means other than they weren’t actively feeding,” Klassen said. With early salmon limits coming daily, Klassen has filled a few days on the halibut grounds and has come back with fish each trip. The best bite is happening straight out in 300 feet of water.
After eight straight days with salmon limits, Captain Gary Blasi on the Seaweasel switched it up and targeted halibut on Monday and Tuesday. And the flatties didn’t disappoint as Blasi boated limits both days. Monday his biggest tipped the scales at 50-pounds and Tuesday, the largest weighted in at respectable 52-pounds. As for salmon, Blasi’s best day was last Thursday when he boated eight fish, with seven being over 20-pounds and the eighth fish weighed in at 19.3-pounds. “Probably one of my best salmon days ever,” Blasi added.
Trinidad
Phil Pritting of Eureka’s Englund Marine has been fishing out of Trinidad and reports the salmon bite has been red-hot. Most of Pritting’s fish have been coming in 130 to 140 feet of water five miles south of the harbor, just off the overlook. “This past weekend all of our fish were big, nothing under 18-pounds and the largest weighing a solid 28-pounds. The hot lure for me has been the Best Bet #5 spoon — half chrome and half pearl white,” Pritting added.
Shelter Cove
The salmon bite continues to be wide-open according to Russ Thomas of Mario’s Marina in Shelter Cove. “The whistle and the Hat have been the two hot spots. The tuna water is within 25 miles so quite a few boats have been making the run. The average has been 12 to 15 per boat. Perch fishing off the beach continues to be hot, with limits of redtails coming to those who put in the time,” Thomas added.
Crescent City
Last weekends albacore action was the hot topic out of Crescent City reports Chris Hegnes of Englund Marine. A few boats went out on Thursday and Friday but the action really turned on over the weekend. The warm water came within 22 miles and lots of boats made the run. “I heard some boats had up to 30 tuna and the majority of them were a good grade, with most in the high 20’s and some over 30. For whatever reason, the bite really got going in the afternoon,” Hegnes added. A few salmon have finally started to show, but very few are giving it a go. “There was a bunch of bait right off the beach and a couple boats working right outside the breakers landed a few. The rockfish bite continues to be sporadic and inconsistent. One day they’re on the bite, and the next day you’ve got to work hard to get a few,” Hegnes said.
The Rivers:
Lower Klamath
The Klamath is still kicking out lots of salmon for the few anglers willing to sit on the anchor. The last couple days, the boats have been averaging up to six hookups per trip. There’s some big fish still entering the river with lots of fish over 20 pounds being landed. Big fish of the week was a 38-pound salmon landed by Lodi resident Pat Patterson.
Questions, comments, tips, and photos can be emailed to kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com
The king is back!
Good clam tides through the weekend
Yes, Elvis is still dead but the other king is alive and well — at least off the coastal waters from Shelter Cove to Trinidad. “As good as it gets” — that’s how most anglers have described the last four days of Chinook salmon fishing along the North Coast. Just about every boat going out and dropping down the gear 35-feet near the 45 line has been catching fish. And these aren’t cheap ones either. There have been some bruisers in the 30-pound range caught and most are averaging in the high teens.
Not only are the ocean waters full of salmon, but the Klamath and Trinity Rivers continue to pump out fresh spring-run salmon. The few boats that are still targeting springers on the Klamath are landing one to four fish per day. There are still some big fish being caught, and the jacks and steelhead are showing up in bigger numbers daily. On the Trinity side, anglers are continuing to catch dime-bright kings in the Burnt Ranch and Grey Falls areas, and more and more fish are now being caught up river between Lewiston and Cedar Flat.
Marine forecast
Calm ocean conditions are predicted to last through the weekend, with swells around four feet and wind waves predicted at one foot through Sunday. Wind is forecasted at six knots or less daily and some patchy fog should show up by the weekend.
These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For up-to-date weather forecast, visit www.weather.gov/eureka. You can also call the National Weather Service at (707) 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at (707) 443-6484.
Weekend clam tides
John Corbett of Eureka’s Pacific Outfitters reports we’re in the midst of another good set of minus tides and the weekend should great. The tides will continue through Monday with the next series of fishable tides coming July 29.
Sport crab season set to close
Sport Dungeness crab season in Mendocino, Humboldt, and Del Norte counties will come to a close on Saturday July 30.
Perch Derby reminder
Samoa Peninsula Fire District's will hold it’s 2nd Annual Perch'n on the Peninsula
on Saturday, July 30 from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is a $20 entry fee donation (includes admission to the BBQ fundraiser and one entry into door prize raffle). Fishing begins at sunrise with check-in deadline at 3 p.m. at the Elementary School, 909 Vance Ave. (directly across the street from the Samoa Cookhouse). Pre-registration will be available at Mad River Bait, Tackle & Guide Service, Pacific Outfitters, Englund Marine, Grundmans Sporting Goods or by contacting Charlie Holthaus at (707) 499-7088.
Klamath/Trinity River regulations set
Klamath River
The spring salmon regulations run from Jan. 1 through Aug. 14. The daily bag and possession limit is two Chinook salmon. The take of salmon is prohibited on the Klamath River from Iron Gate Dam downstream to Weitchpec. The fall salmon regulations run from Aug. 15 through Dec. 31. The Daily bag limit is three Chinook salmon of which no more than two may be over 22 inches. Possession limit is nine Chinook salmon of which no more than six may be over 22 inches.
Trinity River
The spring salmon regulations run from Jan. 1 through Aug 31. The daily bag and possession limit is two Chinook salmon. The take of salmon is prohibited from the confluence of the South Fork Trinity River downstream to the confluence with the Klamath River from Jan. 1 through Aug. 31. Open to salmon fishing from Sept. 1 through Dec. 31. The Daily bag limit is three Chinook salmon of which no more than two may be over 22 inches. Possession limit is nine Chinook salmon of which no more than six may be over 22 inches.
The Oceans:
Eureka
After more than a week of rough water, the weather finally turned and the fleet was back on the water Saturday. Skipper Phil Glenn of Celtic Charter Service had limits for his six customers daily through Tuesday. Tuesday turned out to be his best day to date, not for the amount of fish, but for the quality. “We landed 12 fish and the average size was 17 to 18-pounds. It doesn’t get much better than that,” Glenn added. Glenn has been hovering around the 45-line in 150 to 170 feet of water, with the fish coming 30 to 35 feet on the wire or 35 pulls on the Deep Six. Bait behind a dodger, Glenn’s favorite, has been doing most of the damage.
Captain Tim Klassen on the Reel Steel started his week on Saturday, and it’s been limits every day. His big fish of the week was a 36.5-pounder caught on Saturday. Monday he boated another big one, weighing in at 27-pounds and on Tuesday, half of his 8-fish limit were over 20-pounds. “The fishing right now is as good as I can remember, I just hope it continues,” Klassen added. The top producer for Klassen has been anchovies hooked with a Rotary Salmon Killer behind a dodger and a Deep Six.
“There are fish everywhere” according to Captain Gary Blasi on the Seaweasel. He also started his week out on Saturday and put in three nice fish for his customers in tough fishing conditions. Since then, it’s been easy limits daily. Sunday he had three limits to 27-pounds. Monday he boated four limits, with four fish over 20-pounds. He followed that up on Tuesday with another four limits of quality salmon with a whopping five fish over 20-pounds. Blasi’s best producer continues to be the purple haze hoochie rigged with an anchovy.
Trinidad
Skipper Matt Dallam of Northwind Charters reports the salmon have arrived in Trinidad and it doesn’t matter what turn you make. “We’ve been getting them north, south, as well as straight out. There doesn’t seem to be any real pattern yet, though we’ve been catching them shallow early and deeper later in the day. We’ve been doing most of our fishing in 25 to 30 fathoms of water and the fish are running from just legal size up to 30-pounds, with lots of shakers and silvers around as well. The rockfish bite has been hit and miss the last few days, but we’re still managing to scratch out near limits, but we have to work for them. The crab action is still going strong, we had 25 keepers on Saturday,” Dallams added.
Shelter Cove
According to Russ Thomas of Mario’s Marina in Shelter Cove, the salmon action has been absolutely wide-open this past week. “Just about every boat is coming back with limits. Most of the fish are coming near the whistler and the watermelon Apex has been the hot lure. The big fish of the week was a 55-pounder taken over the weekend. There’s still a few halibut being caught, but the action hasn’t been red-hot and the fish have been on the small side. The perch bite off the beach has picked back up and most have been scoring limits,” Thomas added.
Crescent City
According to Chris Hegnes of Crescent City’s Englund Marine, there are only a couple of boats fishing for salmon and there isn’t much catching going on. “There were some bait and birds in close a few days ago, but I heard they’ve moved out since. The rockfish bite has tailed off the last couple days with some boats coming back with only a handful of fish. The minus tides could have something to do with the slower bite. The mouth of the Smith has been kicking out good numbers of redtail perch, with Berkeley Gulp sandworms being the top bait,” Hegnes added.
The Rivers:
Lower Klamath
Guide Mike Coopman reports the river is still unseasonably high, in upwards of 4,000 more cfs than at this time last year. “Even though the river is high, it’s still clean, with no signs of moss as of yet. There’s a real mixed bag of fish in the river now and boats are landing nice adults, with lots of jacks as well as summer steelhead. The steelhead fishing should go full bore anytime now, though the water is a little high and the temperature is still cool, so a lot of them are heading up river and not holding in the usual spots,” Coopman added.
Questions, comments, tips, and photos can be emailed to kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com
June 30, 2011
Eureka boats slammin’ the salmon
Catching salmon off the Eureka coast took center stage this week as anglers were able to string together consecutive days on the water. According to several reports, the bite isn’t red-hot, but quite a few fish are being caught daily and several boats are scoring limits. The majority of the action has been coming between the 44 and 49 line, and the fish caught this week were of good quality, with many being in the 30-pound range. The action really picked up on Tuesday and continued into Wednesday, as both Phil Glenn of Celtic Charter Service and Gary Blasi of Full Throttle Sportfishing called in to report limits of salmon. They weren’t the only boats with fish, numerous sport boats also came in with limits and a few were back to the docks before 9 a.m.
Unfortunately, ocean conditions are predicted to rough up on Friday and the 4th of July weekend will probably be marginal.
Marine forecast
Friday looks to be the worst day of the holiday weekend, with winds out of the NNW to 13 knots. A WNW swell is predicted at eight feet, with wind waves from one to three feet. Saturday and Sundays forecast is looking similar, with wind predicted to blow to 13 knots. Swells are forecasted at seven feet with one to two-foot wind waves.
These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For up-to-date weather forecast, visit www.weather.gov/eureka. You can also call the National Weather Service at (707) 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at (707) 443-6484.
Clam Tides are here
John Corbett of Eureka’s Pacific Outfitters reports another series of minus tides started on Wednesday and will last through Tuesday, July 5. “The clamming has been excellent all year and I’d expect it to continue,” Corbett said. The limit is 20 clams and you must keep the first 20 dug regardless of size or broken condition. For tide information, visit www.saltwatertides.com/dynamic.dir/californiasites.html#humboldt.
2nd Annual Perch Derby
Samoa Peninsula Fire District's will hold it’s 2nd Annual Perch'n on the Peninsula
on Saturday, July 30 from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is a $20 entry fee (includes admission to the BBQ fundraiser and one (1) entry into door prize raffle). Fishing begins at sunrise with check-in deadline at 3 p.m. at the Elementary School, 909 Vance Ave. (directly across the street from the Samoa Cookhouse). Fishing is allowed anywhere in ocean waters, only surfperch in the family Embiotocidae are eligible and all DFG Regulations will apply.
Pre Registration will be available at Mad River Bait, Tackle & Guide Service, Pacific Outfitters (formerly Pro Sport Center), Englund Marine, Grundmans Sporting Goods or by contacting Charlie Holthaus at (707) 499-7088.
Upcoming events:
July 1 - Northern California red abalone fishery closed through July 31. For more information, visit www.dfg.ca.gov/marine/invertebrate/abalone.asp.
July 2 - Free Fishing Day, statewide. On this day, people may fish California's waters without a sport fishing license. All regulations, such as bag and size limits, gear restrictions, report card requirements, fishing hours and stream closures remain in effect. Every angler must have the appropriate report card if fishing for steelhead, sturgeon, or salmon in the Smith and Klamath-Trinity River systems. For more information, visit www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/fishing/freefishdays.html.
July 2 - Commercial ocean salmon season opens (Saturdays through Wednesdays only) from the Oregon/ California border to Humboldt South Jetty (California portion of Klamath Management Zone). There is a possession and landing limit of 15 Chinook per day. All salmon caught must be landed within the area and within 24 hours of any closure. Season extends through July 20 or until a 1,400 Chinook quota is reached. For more information please visit the Ocean Salmon webpage at www.dfg.ca.gov/marine/oceansalmon.asp or call the Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline at (707) 576-3429.
The Oceans:
Eureka
After getting skunked on Sunday, Corbett was back on the water Tuesday in search of salmon and he reported a pretty decent bite. Teaming up with Ben Williams, a long time employee of Pacific Outfitters, and another friend, they put six quality salmon in the box before noon. “There’s definitely a good grade of fish out there right now, with the majority of them in the 15 to 20-pund class. The fish we got were absolutely plugged full of krill, I’m real surprised they were interested in feeding. The majority of our fish came on Brad's Super Bait Cut Plugs,” Corbett added. Corbett also reports another employee of the store was out Wednesday morning and had six nice fish by 8:15 a.m. “With this many fish out there, I really hope the weather holds for the holiday weekend,” Corbett said.
Skipper Phil Glenn of Celtic Charter Service has been fishing daily since Saturday, and except for a quick rockfish trip to the Cape, has been chasing salmon. He spent a frustrating couple days mooching before he went back to the troll. Monday he reported a pretty spotty bite, but he was able land a hog, 33.5-pounds, as well as two other keepers for his customers. Tuesday, the action picked up and he put nine salmon on board for his five paying customers to 18-pounds. “The fishing right now is good, but I wouldn’t call it red-hot. We’re catching some real nice fish right now, which is pretty typical for the end of June. The big fish typically move on this time of year, but hopefully they’ll stick around for awhile,” Glenn added.
Captain Tim Klassen on the Reel Steel spent most of the last week looking for halibut and rockfish, and he’s been successful with both. Saturday he motored south to the Cape and put limits of nice rockfish in the box for his clients. Sunday, the plan was to target halibut down south, but the wind kiboshed that plan. So he slid over to where the rockfish live and again scored limits of quality bottom-grabbers for his customers. Monday he ventured north looking for halibut, but they were either not there or not biting. Tuesday he was back down south and put in two nice halibut to 49-pounds and loaded the boat with more limits of rockfish, including seven lings for his five clients.
Captain Gary Blasi on the Seaweasel has been on the salmon since Sunday, and after a couple slow days by his standards, he’s dialed into the salmon now. Tuesday he had limits for his three clients by 10:45 a.m. with the biggest pushing 24-pounds. Wednesday was just as good, with three limits to 27-pounds by mid-morning. “There seems to be fish all over the place and when you hook-up, you need to grind away at that location,” Blasi added. Blasi’s been catching most of his fish on anchovies with hoochies and reports the best bite has been first thing in the morning.
Shelter Cove
Russ Thomas of Mario’s Marina in Shelter Cove reports the wind kept most boats off the water until Sunday and the ones that are going out are averaging about one salmon per boat. “We’ve had some bigger fish weighed in the last few days with a 31-pounder and at least four in the 20-25-pound class come in. The rockfish bite is still wide-open, with the top spots being the Hat and Rogers Break. The perch fishing from shore has slowed the past few days, but limits are still being had if you put in the time,” Thomas added.
Crescent City
According to Chris Hegnes of Crescent City’s Englund Marine, the warm water was within reach and at least one boat went out of Crescent City and came back with six nice Albacore. The weather has been strange the last couple days, it’s been a little nasty in the morning and it’s laying down in the afternoon, which has kept the guys from going for tuna. The rockfish bite continues to shine and it’s easy limits if you can make it out to the Big Reef. I did hear of one salmon caught on Tuesday, but still not a lot of anglers giving it a try. With the ocean changing conditions daily, you’ll want to look for the dirty water and fish right along those edges. They should be holding salmon,” Hegnes said. Hegnes also reports the harbor is loaded with bait and guys are loading up on the anchovies using Sabiki rigs.
The Rivers:
Lower Klamath
Guide Mike Coopman reports the river was on the rise all day Wednesday and the fish were off the bite. “The river went from 15,600 cfs to over 24,5000 cfs in less than 24 hours. The fish could still be pushing up river, but it could also put them off the bite, which is what happened Wednesday. I did hear of quite a few fish caught on Tuesday, so I know they’re still coming. It looks like the river will drop fairly quickly, so it could get good again in the next couple days, “Coopman added. Boat pressure has been light the past week, but look for it to pick up this weekend due to the holiday.
Questions, comments, tips, and photos can be emailed to kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com
June 23, 2011
Weather windows put anglers on the salmon
Trinidad rockfish bite stays hot
The talk amongst salmon anglers all last week was how the wind was going to blow through the weekend and keep everyone off the water. Well, for the most part that was true, except for Saturday. The wind relented long enough for the ocean to calm and the boats made a mad dash to the salmon grounds — and it paid off. Once the first boat found the fish, which were in tight to the beach off of Table Bluff, it was limits of quality-size salmon for just about everyone. According to the charter boat captains, the salmon had pushed a huge amount of nightfish into 80 feet of water and were gorging themselves. True to form, the action was short-lived as the wind picked back up and most of the boats were forced to cancel their trips through Tuesday. On Wednesday, Skippers Phil Glenn of Celtic Charter Service and Captain Tim Klassen on the Reel Steel took a chance on what was forecasted to be a windy ocean and found the bait and salmon back down off of Table Bluff. Both were fishing near the 41-42-line in 65 to 85 feet of water. Glenn put six fish to 19-pounds in the box before noon doing what he loves to do — mooch. Klassen started the day trolling and quickly landed two nice keepers. With no other bites, he moved in close and put the mooching rods out. Before long he had two more quality salmon in the net. He was back at the dock at 1:30 p.m. with four nice salmon for his happy customers.
This past week has been a microcosm on how the salmon season has been going lately — one day you find a big school of fish and really stick it to them — then it’s three or four days sitting at home. Once back out, you’re back at square one trying to locate the schools. As soon as the boats can get some consecutive days on the water, we’ll see good numbers of salmon hitting the decks.
Humboldt Bay Bar Cam
Conditions at the entrance to Humboldt Bay Harbor can now be checked online by visiting www.weather.gov/eureka/marine and navigating to the new webcam made available through a partnership between the National Weather Service, the United States Coast Guard, and the Humboldt Bay Harbor, Conservation and Recreation District.
According to a press release issued Wednesday by Troy Nicolini of Eureka’s National Weather Service, the Humboldt Bay Bar Cam is pointing towards the south jetty from the north jetty, where you can see much of the entrance and bar channels. The images are ten seconds apart and are updated every ten minutes. It’s important to remember that waves can be bigger than those captured on the Bar Cam, and that waves can suddenly get larger due to changes in tide and the arrival of larger sets of waves. Mariners are reminded that the Bar Cam is just one more piece of information for making navigation decisions and they should not rely on it solely to determine if the harbor entrance is safe to transit. Check for latest bar conditions by calling the Coast Guard using your marine VHF radio on channel 22A. For more information on Humboldt Bar safety, visit www.wrh.noaa.gov/eka/salmon/safety.pdf. For an up-to-date Humboldt bar forecast, visit: www.wrh.noaa.gov/eka/swan/
Abalone season closing
Abalone season will close June 30 and will be closed for the month of July. It will reopen on August 1. For more information, visit www.dfg.ca.gov/marine/invertebrate/abalone.asp
Marine forecast
A small craft advisory has been posted through Friday. The weekend ocean forecast looks like it will be a little sloppy, but fishable. On Saturday, winds will be out of the NNW 7 to 12 knots. A mixed swell is forecasted NW 5 feet and W 2 feet. Wind waves will be around 2 feet. For Sunday, the forecast is calling for wind out of the north to 11 knots. There will be a mixed swell, NW 4 feet and W 2 feet. Wind waves are forecasted at 2 feet. These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For up-to-date weather forecast, visit www.weather.gov/eureka/. You can also call the National Weather Service at (707) 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at (707) 443-6484.
The Oceans:
Eureka
According to John Corbett of Eureka’s Pacific Outfitters, the clamming remained excellent through the last set of minus tides, which ended on Monday. “There were big crowds this past weekend at Clam Beach and limits were really easy to come by. The next round of fishable minus tides will begin June 30 and run through the Fourth of July weekend,” Corbett added. Corbett also reports the redtail perch action was hot at the mouth of the Eel River on Saturday, even though the ocean was a little choppy. “We needed six ounces of weight to keep the rigs from moving, but the perch were there and eager to bite. Most of the fish were jumbo-sized and the hot bait was clam parts leftover from the razors,” Corbett said.
Skipper Phil Glenn of Celtic Charter Service, Captain Tim Klassen on the Reel Steel and Captain Gary Blasi on the Seaweasel were all on the fish last Saturday and report the salmon caught were bigger than what they’ve been catching, and chocked full of nightfish. The fish were schooled up on 80 feet of water near Table Bluff and were coming 30 feet down on the wire or on Deep Sixes. Anchovies was the choice for most of the boats, but Brad's Super Bait Cut Plugs were also catching a lot of fish. According to Corbett, who was out on Saturday as well, some of the top plugs were the Green Magic, Black Magic, and the Blue Hawaiian. Corbett swears by these baits and in his boat, they’ve been out-fishing anchovies.
Skipper Matt Dallam, of Northwind Charters, fishing out of Trinidad reports the rockfish bite continues to be wide-open, with easy limits coming daily. “We’ve been getting quite a few lingcod and the blacks we’re catching are a real nice grade. Dallam’s big fish of the week was 22-pound lingcod taken last Friday. The salmon are starting to show up now, so were hoping to put some consecutive trips together so we can go out and find the schools. They’re here, some of the private boats are getting them, we just need some time to go out and find them. The crabbing is still going well, we’re averaging four to six keepers per pot.” Dallam added.
Shelter Cove
According to Russ Thomas of Mario’s Marina in Shelter Cove, the salmon bite slowed over the weekend, but that was mostly due to the weather. “There were a few salmon caught, but not many. The whole cove is absolutely loaded with anchovies, so it’s possible the salmon are getting all the food they need. When the boats can get out, the rockfish bite is still going well, with limits the norm. The perch action continues to be good from the beach, with most anglers getting limits,” Thomas added.
Crescent City
Chris Hegnes of Crescent City’s Englund Marine reports virtually no one is targeting salmon, even though the ocean has been fishable. “The rockfish action on the other hand continues to be lights out,” Hegnes said. Hegnes also reports the redtail perch fishing has been hit and miss at Kellogg Beach.
The Rivers:
Lower Klamath
The spring salmon bite has slowed considerably since the weekend on the Lower Klamath. The minus tides, plus a rough ocean, could have something to do with the lack of fish moving in. The river continues to drop and conditions are just about perfect. Some new fish should be moving in with the better tides.
Questions, comments, tips, and photos can be emailed to kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com
Salmon aplenty off Eureka coast
Wind predicted to blow through the weekend
Just as most predicted, the north wind that blew late last week brought with it cooler water temperatures, as well as lots and lots of salmon. Unfortunately, not all the salmon out there are the right size or the right kind. The hot topic this past weekend has been the amount of silvers that are in the area. Sport and charter boats alike spent a fair amount of time — and a fair amount of bait — releasing cohos. It’s not a horrible problem to have as it keeps everyone busy and on their toes, but a few more keeper kings would certainly make the cost of bait an easier pill to swallow. But the weekend wasn’t entirely catch and release as quite a few limits of nice kings were reported. The hot spot was south off the Eel River canyon, within shouting distance of False Cape. Boats headed that way first thing Saturday morning reported quick limits, and were soon on the radio spreading the word of the hot bite. The stellar action continued through Monday afternoon, at which point the wind picked up and the ocean grew sloppy, which is still the case today.
Coho salmon identification
With all the coho salmon in the area, there’s been quite a bit of talk on how best to identify the cohos from the kings. Seasoned salmon anglers will tell you that the kings give off a purple tint in the water, while the coho have a green tint. Another identification tool is the cohos have bumps on their tail from the bottom to the top, while the kings tail is smooth. In the CA Fish and Game regulations booklet, coho are said to have white gums around the teeth while the kings mouth is all dark. The best plan of action if you’re not one hundred percent sure is to release the fish. The California coastal coho is currently on the endangered species list and it’s unlawful to fish for, capture, keep, or possess under any circumstances. In all likelihood, most of the cohos that are caught off the North Coast are hatchery fish that came from rivers north of California, but some of them are California coastal coho, which are protected under the ESA.
Recreational Groundfish regulation changes:
The following changes will apply to California recreational groundfish fishing regulations for 2011-2012 statewide. The changes went into effect on June 9, 2011 from 0 to 200 nautical miles from shore.
• For 2011, the season runs from May 14 through October 31 in depths less than 120 feet.
• The lingcod minimum size limit went from 24 to 22 inches. Fillet size was reduced from 16 inches to 14 inches.
• The recreational bag limit of the cabezon went to three fish, within the 10-fish combined bag limit for rockfish, cabezon and greenlings.
• Removal of the lingcod fishery closure in December and January through March when groundfish fishing is otherwise authorized.
• Modification to gear restrictions when fishing for cabezon and greenlings so that no more than one line and two hooks may be used, consistent with existing regulations for rockfish and lingcod.
The upcoming recreational fishing regulations supplement will contain all new 2011-2012 groundfish regulations. The regulations are also available on the DFG website at www.dfg.ca.gov/marine/groundfishcentral or anglers can call the Recreational Groundfish Hotline at (831) 649-2801.
Clams and crabs
The tides are right for clams according to John Corbett of Eureka’s Pacific Outfitters. “The last few months, the clamming has been red hot at Clam Beach and I’d expect it will continue to good. Minus tides will run through Monday,” Corbett added.
The limit is 20 clams and you must keep the first 20 dug regardless of size or broken condition. For tide information, visit www.saltwatertides.com/dynamic.dir/californiasites.html#humboldt
Corbett also reports Dungeness crabs are still being taken in the ocean by sport anglers. “I heard a few anglers dropped their pots south of the Jetty on the way out salmon fishing and had at least two limits waiting for them when they came back. Historically, the crab move closer to shore later in the summer so you’ll want to set your gear near the beach,” Corbett added.
Marine forecast
Looks like this week’s forecast will continue on through the weekend, with lots of wind and a decent size swell. On Friday and Saturday, out 10 nautical miles, the wind is forecasted to blow 10-20 knots with gusts to 25 knots. Swells will be five to eight, with two to four foot wind waves. On Sunday, the wind is predicted to blow 15 to 25 knots with gusts up to 30. The swell is forecasted at six to eight feet with three to five foot wind waves. These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For up-to-date weather forecast, visit www.weather.gov/eureka/. You can also call the National Weather Service at (707) 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at (707) 443-6484.
The Oceans:
Eureka
The north wind continues to blow, keeping all the Eureka sport boats tied to the dock. Most aren’t complaining as we’ve settled into a typical June weather pattern. For the next few weeks, you can almost bet you’ll be on the shore more than you are on the water, mostly due the north wind. This is exactly what salmon anglers need as the wind will create an upwelling — bringing with it cooler and usually nutrient-rich water towards the surface — replacing the warmer, usually nutrient-depleted surface water.
Skipper Phil Glenn of Celtic Charter Service spent Saturday through Monday targeting salmon down south off the Eel River Canyon and found all sizes, shapes and kinds of hungry salmon. Saturday was his best day with limits to 20 lbs for his five clients. Sunday he put in eight keepers for his six customers to 18 lbs. On Monday, with the water warming up slightly, he put four keepers in the box for his three clients. Glenn, like the rest of the anglers who were out on the weekend, was amazed at the number of silvers that are out there. “It’s been a lot of years since I’ve seen this many silvers in the ocean, which certainly isn’t a bad thing,” Glenn added.
Captain Tim Klassen on the Reel Steel also spent the weekend down south on the salmon, and put limits in the box for his customers Saturday through Monday. His big fish of the weekend was a 28-pounder caught on Sunday. “The salmon fishing was just about as good as it gets this past weekend. The further south we went, the more kings we found. We also spotted some salmon sharks and a pod of killer whales were also in the area. Once we’re able to get back out there, the salmon bite should be wide-open, Klassen added.
Captain Gary Blasi on the Seaweasel started the weekend drifting for halibut, and after putting two nice keepers in the box Saturday morning, the radio chatter about the hot salmon bite was too tempting, so he pulled the lines and ran south to where the action was. He caught the tail end of the bite, but was able to land one nice keeper for his clients. With his clients choosing halibut over salmon on Sunday, he was back out in 300 feet of water on enjoying a nice, easy drift. He ended day with a nice 57-pund halibut. Monday he ran south looking for salmon, and he found them quick. He boated three limits to 25-pounds. “The ocean is absolutely loaded with salmon. I have a feeling it’s going to be lights-out fishing when the ocean lies down,” Blasi added.
Shelter Cove
Another good weekend of salmon fishing at the Cove, according to Russ Thomas of Mario’s Marina in Shelter Cove. “There were quite a few limits that came in on Saturday and there was reportedly a 30-pounder caught. The rockfish action was hot over the weekend as well and limits of perch continue to be taken from the jetty. The wind started blowing hard on Monday and is still blowing, so we may be off the water for awhile,” Thomas added.
Crescent City
According to Chris Hegnes of Crescent City’s Englund Marine, the rockfish bite continues to be steady, with limits coming for most anglers. “The Big Reef, Pt. St. George and south of the Sisters have been some of the better spots. Very few anglers are targeting salmon, but I did hear of one boat that got three last Saturday. I’m hearing from the commercial guys there’s lots of bait out in 22 to 26 fathom area,” Hegnes said. Like much of the North Coast, the wind is predicted to blow all weekend. If you’re looking to rockfish, your best bet is to get out and get back early before the wind kicks up.
The Rivers:
Lower Klamath
According to Guide Mike Coopman, whose been on the river daily and is averaging three to seven hook-ups per trip, the Klamath was on the rise most of the week, but is finally forecasted to drop beginning Thursday. “The lower water levels should open up some more spots where fish can be caught. Right now, about 10 percent of the boats are catching 90 percent of the fish. The water still has some color to it and anglers are getting most of their fish on chartreuse and green spinners. More and more steelhead are starting to show as well as a few jacks,” Coopman added.
Questions, comments, tips, and photos can be emailed to kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com
June 2, 2011
Salmon action heating up on the Klamath
Ocean forecast looks promising for weekend
This is one of my favorite times of the year. Old friends — who I haven’t seen since last fall — are making their way back to the campgrounds and RV parks along the North Coast. But they aren’t the only ones making their way back — spring salmon have begun their annual migration up the Klamath and Trinity Rivers. This season got off to a later start than previous years, due mostly to the large amount of water that was released from Lewiston Dam in April. But conditions are getting better by the day, and more and more fish are being caught. This style of fishing — anchored up next to the bank in the salmon travel lanes — isn’t the most exciting and requires a lot of patience. That is until the rod goes down and the chaos ensues. Between the time is takes reeling in the other lines and getting free of the anchor, an angry salmon with a spinner in it’s mouth can create a lot of excitement. But the reward far outweighs all the time spent waiting — spring salmon are one of the best eating fish you’ll ever taste. If you’ve never fished for spring salmon on the Klamath, it’s certainly a trip worth doing.
Clam digs
John Corbett of Eureka’s Pacific Outfitter’s reports the clamming has been excellent this week on Clam Beach. “The clams are actually bigger now than the ones we had earlier in the year. On Wednesday, there was about 100 people on the beach and I’d guess more people will be out this weekend,” Corbett added. The minus tides run through next Tuesday and the lowest tides will be on Friday and Saturday.
Bass Tournament this weekend
The Fortuna Fire Department CO-2’s are hosting the Paul Jadro Memorial Bass Tournament this Saturday at Ruth Lake. The entry fee is $100 per team and first place is $1,000. It is a catch and release tournament, live wells and life jackets are required. For more information, contact Dave Ansley at 725-5023 (days) or Lon Winburn at 725-7880 (evenings). There is a free boat inspection by Reynolds RV Repair by appointment only. Call 725-3426 for more information.
River openings
The Eel, Van Duzen, Mad, and Smith all re-opened on May 28th. On most rivers, only artificial lures with barbless hooks may be used. For a complete list of openings and regulations, visit http://www.dfg.ca.gov/regulations/FreshFish-Mar2011/ccr-t14-ch3-art3.html
Marine forecast
Looks like better conditions are finally on the way. Friday is calling for light winds and a mixed swell WNW to 3 feet and W 1 foot. Wind waves around 1 foot. Saturday is looking just as good with a mixed swell WNW to 4 feet and WSW at 1 foot. Wind waves will be around 1 foot. The same forecast goes for Sunday as well.
These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For up-to-date weather forecast, visit www.weather.gov/eureka/. You can also call the National Weather Service at (707) 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at (707) 443-6484.
The Oceans:
Eureka
Phil Pritting of Eureka’s Englund Marine reports the weather has really been keeping boats off the ocean, but that could change this weekend. “The forecast looks good for the weekend, probably the best so far this season. There are salmon to be had out there, this weekend we’ll hopefully see some more boats hit the water,” Pritting added.
Skipper Phil Glen of Celtic Charter Service had his best day of year on Saturday when he put 14 salmon on the boat before 10:00 a.m. He was down near the 39 line and just a little south of the rest of the fleet. Most of the fish were in the eight to 12-pound range with the biggest weighing 18-pounds. “I’ll chock the day up to right place, right time,” Glenn said. After canceling trips on Sunday due to weather, he back at it on Monday, but the day was cut short again due to the wind. He ended with three keepers to 13-pounds and lots of empty bait treys. “There certainly isn’t a lack of action as the shakers and silvers are keeping everyone busy and the bait dealers happy,” Glenn added.
Captain Tim Klassen on the Reel Steel continues to bounce the bottom for halibut and is averaging about one per trip. Friday his clients had one to 40-pounds in less than ideal conditions. Saturday he again put one in the box and finished out the day trolling for salmon and landed three in the eight to 12-pound range. Monday he was blown off the water earl with everyone else, but managed to bring three keeper salmon to 21-pounds to the net. “This is looking more and more like a normal year for us, probably our first in five or six years. The amount of undersized kings and silvers is a real good sign for years to come, something we haven’t seen in awhile,” Klassen added.
Captain Gary Blasi on the Seaweasel has been on the salmon everyday, and like most, is having a hard time getting the bigger fish to stick. Saturday he landed two adult kings out of the 10 hooked and went through a whopping 7 treys of bait. After canceling Sunday, he landed one nice king on Monday before the wind forced him to pull the plug early. He was back on the water Wednesday and limited out his two clients by noon with a nice grade of kings. “If you can get past the shakers and silvers, there are adults to be had. We’re still getting a lot of short bites and hit and runs, but we’re having a hard time getting the bigger kings to stick. There isn’t a lack of action, as soon as we put the lines in the water, it’s getting bit by something. If you plan on fishing bait, make sure and bring lots of it,” Blasi said.
Skipper Matt Dallam, of Northwind Charters, fishing out of Trinidad reports the weather is making it hard to consistently put fish in the box. He found a nice school of salmon last Wednesday and quickly put six keepers in the box. With customers on board, he ran right back to the same location on Thursday, but the fish were gone. Without a lot boats on the water, it’s really difficult to stay on the schools from day to day. He was back at it on Saturday, but couldn’t bring any keeper salmon to the boat. He did however send his clients home with limits of rockfish and some nice Dungeness crabs. “As soon as we get some back to back days of nice weather, we’ll be able to get a better read on where the salmon are. The good news is the rockfish are plentiful and willing to bite.” Dallam added. Matt and his partners have added a new 25-foot Parker to the fleet this year and they have a few open seats available.
Shelter Cove
According to Russ Thomas of Mario’s Marina in Shelter Cove, the salmon bite was slow over the weekend. “I think the salmon have spread out and some may have moved to the south. But a few are still being caught. The rockfish action continues to be hot and there are some halibut being caught at Punta Gorda. The redtail perch moved back in and the bite really took off Friday and Saturday with limits reported by just about everyone,” Thomas added.
Crescent City
Chris Hegnes of Crescent City’s Englund Marine reports the rockfish bite has been excellent for the few anglers who are making it out. “The Tally Ho II charter boat has been consistently catching limits of rockfish, but there hasn’t been a lot of boats out. That’s partly due to weather and also the out of town anglers are just starting to fill the campground and RV parks. Very few boats are going after salmon, but that should change within the next week or two,” Hegnes said.
The Rivers:
Lower Klamath
The action is steadily improving on the Lower Klamath, but it’s all about location. There are a few spots on the lower river where fish are consistently being caught and if you’re lucky enough to be sitting in one, you’ll get them. As the water continues to drop and the river narrows, the catch-rate should improve and the boats will be able to spread out. Spinners have been the bait of choice.
Questions, comments, tips, and photos can be emailed to kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com