American River Fishing Report
Report Updated March 8, 2010
Steelies still hanging around
The American continues to pump out some nice late-running winter steelhead, along with a few spring run firecrackers, a handful of wild half pounders a mess o’ some super smolt.
Guide JD Richey’s outings are turning up 1-2 adult steelies and a bunch of “smaller stuff” as well.
The trick is to fish the upper river — Nimbus down to Rossmoor Bar with crawlers, plugs or egg patterns and Birds Nests under indicators. There should be some stripers trickling into the lower river soon, too!
Current & Forecasted Flow
Take a closer look…this slick graph shows you current river flow, height and projected flows, which will help you plan upcoming trips. Keep in mind steelhead and salmon fishing is best as a river is on the drop — and typically tough when a stream’s on the rise.
Current Weather
American River map
About the American River
The American winds its way 23 miles through the heart of California’s Capitol City from Nimbus dam to its confluence with the Sacramento River. Though it bisects a major metropolitan area, you’d never know it when you’re on the water. There’s a ton of wildlife in the scenic green belt along the river and surprisingly good fishing to be had as well.
The American’s once epic salmon runs have recently fallen on hard times but anglers still see some nice winter steelhead action from November through March on mostly hatchery fish that can sometimes reach 16 or even 18 pounds. In May, a huge run of shad hits the river and they are followed by striped bass that can occasionally top the 50-pound mark. Both species are present until mid summer and then things settle down here from mid July until the fall.
Photos from the American by JD
Spring steelhead on the American River
Species of the American River
Fall Chinook
Striped Bass
American Shad
Steelhead
Photos from the American:
Riffle below Ancil Hoffman Park
The Lower American, just up from Watt Ave.
Deer crossing near Goethe (River Bend) Park
