Hi JD,
I’m getting my gear, boat and friends (shuttle drivers) ready for a few trips down the American River this winter and was wondering what your outlook for the winter steelhead run looks like. Also, do you plan on booking any drifting trips down the American?
Thanks…
Scott
Hey Scott,
Yep, I will do trips this winter on the American. As far as the outlook goes, that a tough one. Luckily, you can’t really base the steelie forecast on the salmon returns. Last season, the hatchery had a pretty good push of fish — around 3,000 steelhead — so, I’m not sure why we can’t expect to see something similar this year. Famous last words, of course…
While the drought is a bad deal, the low water we’re likely to find this winter will force the fish into some pretty well-defined spots.
Good luck!
James says
Any steelies at the bridge in Rancho
JD says
Dustin, this time of year, there are typically some “egg eaters” around — 1- to 4-pound steelies that used to key in on spawning salmon for easy meals. Now, without any kings this year, those little buggers may not be around much.
Over the past couple seasons, the first wave of big winter fish have shown up in November, so be on the look-out for them any day now. The American’s fishery is typically best in January.
Good luck!
Dustin says
I have been out there on the american for the last 3 days and can not seem to get much for steelhead. Have you been out this year? Also, I have been using the pink worm, and this week will try the egg loop with some roe. When in the year do the steelies in the lower american really start hitting?
Thanks