Mendocino County Fishing Reports

Kings Sport and Tackle reports the Russian River continues to trend the right direction as we head into early February. Flows have dropped under 800 cfs at Hacienda, the water has cleaned up to a nice green... translating into some very good fishing. Boats drifting out of Healdsburg are averaging one to two fish per trip. There's also been solid shore action from Steelhead Beach down through Monte Rio. Plenty of fish are coming in the 6–8 pound range, with a few reported in the teens. With no meaningful rain on deck, expect conditions to keep improving and flows continue to settle.

According to Kenny Priest, the Eel River slid back into fishable shape last week, with the main stem dropping to a clean green while still running on the high side. Flows were around 4,400 cfs late last week, and it should stay in that window through the end of the month before the next storm cycle. Steelhead are around, but the bite has been inconsistent. The South Fork has been the better bet, holding just over 1,000 cfs at Miranda and fishing well for more than a week from top to bottom. It’s continuing to clear, which is tightening the bite somewhat.

The lower river is holding good numbers of largemouth bass right now, and some with legit size. Morning action has been slow, surprisingly, but afternoons are producing quality fish, including a couple of fish reported pushing 5 pounds. Some traditionally reliable holes have been quiet while secondary water has been carrying the most fish. Soft plastics jerkbaits and swimbaits are getting the most action, with 2-3 pounders not uncommon. Pikeminnows are being seen in schools, but have been somewhat inactive.