Recent Columns

Steelhead have been trickling into the lower Klamath, and the fishing so far has been on the slow side. That’s the tough news. The good news is the river is in great shape. The water temps are slightly cooler than previous years, and the water is clear and free from moss. These excellent conditions, however, could be working against anglers. Cool temps aren’t providing a reason for the steelhead to stop and the few coming in are likely blowing right through. But it’s still very early in the season and the steelhead action really starts to pickup toward the end of July into early August. Until then, anglers can enjoy the chance to hook a steelhead or two with very little angling pressure. The daily bag limit is two hatchery steelhead or hatchery trout per day on both the Klamath and Trinity rivers, with a possession limit of four. Anglers must have a Steelhead Fishing Report and Restoration Card in their possession while fishing for steelhead trout in anadromous waters. For more information, visit nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=202686&inline.

Klamath/Trinity Chinook salmon regulations
The California Fish and Game Commission acted unanimously to enact a full closure of California’s recreational salmon fishing season in the Klamath River Basin rivers through its annual process for adjusting seasons and bag limits, planned effective August 15, 2023. Below are the 2023-2024 sport salmon regulations as listed in the California Supplemental Sport Fishing Regulation booklet dated July 15, 2023.

• Klamath River from 3,500 feet downstream of the Iron Gate Dam to the Highway 96 bridge at Weitchpec: Aug. 15 through Dec. 31, 2023. Closed to the take and possession of Chinook Salmon.

• Klamath River downstream of the Highway 96 bridge at Weitchpec: Jul. 1 through Aug. 14. Closed to all salmon fishing except for 1 Chinook Salmon by federally recognized tribes; Aug. 15 through Dec. 31. Closed to the take and possession of Chinook Salmon.

• Trinity River main stem downstream of the Old Lewiston Bridge to the Highway 299 West bridge at Cedar Flat: Jul. 1 through Aug. 31. Closed to all salmon fishing except for 1 Chinook Salmon by federally recognized tribes; Sep. 1 through Dec. 31. Closed to the take and possession of Chinook Salmon.

• Trinity River main stem downstream of the High-way 299 West bridge at Cedar Flat to the Denny Road bridge at Hawkins Bar: Jul. 1 through Aug. 31. Closed to all salmon fishing except for 1 Chinook Salmon by federally recognized tribes; Sep. 1 through Dec. 31. Closed to all fishing.

• Trinity River main stem downstream of the Denny Road bridge at Hawkins Bar to the mouth of the South Fork Trinity River: Jul. 1 through Aug. 31. Closed to all salmon fishing except for 1 Chinook Salmon by federally recognized tribes; Sep. 1 through Dec. 31. Closed to the take and possession of Chinook Salmon.

• Trinity River main stem downstream of the mouth of the South Fork Trinity River to the confluence with the Klamath River: Sep. 1 through Dec. 31. Closed to the take and possession of Chinook Salmon.

In waters where the bag limit is zero, fish for which the bag limit is zero must be released unharmed, and should not be removed from the water.

Marine Forecast
After a week of sloppy seas, better conditions will begin Thursday. As of Wednesday afternoon, Friday’s forecast is calling for north winds 5 to 15 knots and north waves 5 feet at six seconds. Saturday’s forecast is calling for north winds 5 to 15 knots and waves north 4 feet at five seconds. Winds will be similar Sunday, blowing 5 to 15 knots from the north with waves north 5 feet at five seconds. These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For an up-to-date weather forecast, visit www.weather.gov/eureka/ or www.windy.com. You can also call the National Weather Service at 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at 443-6484.

California halibut bite improving
The California halibut bite is heating up, with a few more caught daily. There aren’t a lot of anchovies in the bay yet, but there seem to be plenty of shiner perch for those wanting live bait. Anglers fishing dead bait and even jigs and swimbaits are having plenty of success. The fishing seems to really improve when we have the smaller tide swings, which will start this weekend. The minimum size is 22 inches and the daily bag and possession limit is two.

Pacific halibut quota update
The CDFW has projected 31,257 net pounds of Pacific halibut have been harvested through July 16. In 2023, the Pacific halibut allocation for California is 39,520 pounds. The Pacific halibut fishery will run through Nov. 15 or until the quota is reached, whichever is earlier. To view the latest catch projection information, visit wildlife.ca.gov/conservation/marine/pacific-halibut#31670772-in-season-tracking.

The Oceans:
Eureka
Rough ocean conditions have prevented most boats from chasing Pacific halibut the past several days, reports Tim Klassen, of Reel Steel Sport Fishing. “We’ve been off the water since late last week but there were a couple of fishable days in there,” says Klassen. “Prior to the seas coming up, most boats were still getting limits of Pacific halibut. The large area between the Eel River and Mad still has plenty of fish, but they are moving around a bit. Boats have been fishing between 250 and 300 feet. And there’s still plenty of hake and black cod you’ll need to deal with. Ocean conditions finally look like they’ll improve starting Thursday.”

Trinidad
We’ve been dealing with some sloppy conditions the last few days, reports Curt Wilson of Wind Rose Charters. “The Pacific halibut bite has slowed dramatically, and so has the effort,” says Wilson. “The black rockfish has been good and we’re getting limits, but it’s been a little tougher. When we can get there, Redding Rock continues to produce some quality rockfish and lingcod. Crabbing has been decent, we’re sending the customers home with a few each trip.”

Shelter Cove
According to Jake Mitchell of Sea Hawk Sport Fishing, ocean conditions have been pretty sloppy the past few days, but boats have made it out most days. “Rock fishing remains pretty solid and the lingcod fishing improved a little with the opening of the all-depths fishery Sunday,” says Mitchell. “Due to the conditions, we’ve been fishing right around the whistle. Crabbing is still really good, as well, and we’ve been setting gear below the bell.”

Crescent City
“Thresher sharks have showed up on South Beach this week and a few were caught,” says Britt Carson, of Crescent City’s Englund Marine. “The biggest one over the weekend weighed in at 168 pounds. Anglers are slow trolling a herring or anchovy. A few California halibut are being caught along the beach, as well, but it’s not red-hot. The rockfish bite continues to be excellent, with both reefs kicking out limits of rockfish and lingcod. The Pacific halibut bite is still going strong. Guys who have figured out the anchor system are doing well.”

Brookings
Ocean salmon fishing remains slow out of Brookings, says Andy Martin, of Brookings Fishing Charters. “A few hatchery coho are being caught on calm weather days,” he says. “Halibut fishing is good on flat days, with many six-pack charters getting two-fish limits. Herring and squid combinations fished in 200 to 230 feet of water are working best. Windy weather kept boats close to shore on Sunday and Monday, but rockfish are thick on the inner reefs.”

Lower Rogue
According to Martin, the Rogue Bay produced its best day so far this season on Saturday, with dozens of salmon landed. “Some guides estimated the total number of fish caught close to 100. Sunday and Monday were slower, in part because of strong winds. The afternoon outgoing tide has been the best bet.”

Kenny Priest operates Fishing the North Coast, a fishing guide service out of Humboldt specializing in salmon and steelhead. Find it on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and fishingthenorthcoast.com. For up-to-date fishing reports and North Coast river information, email kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com

Anglers fishing out of Eureka and Crescent City enjoyed some of the best Pacific halibut fishing of the season this week. Both ports kicked out limits for boats willing to put in some time. And most days it didn’t take much time. Out of Eureka, charters were loaded up and headed to the dock not long after dropping anchor, sometimes within an hour. That’s some pretty good halibut fishing! And that’s despite unfavorable tides and having to contend with those pesky black cod. The halibut fishery has really caught fire in Crescent City, where anglers are enjoying one of the best seasons anyone can remember. Ocean conditions have been great the last few days, and I’m sure that didn’t hurt the cause. But there’s little doubt the sea floor is covered in halibut right now. Eyeing the weather ahead and where we stand with the quota, you’ll want to get in on the action before the end of the month. Or you may miss the boat.

Pacific halibut quota update
The CDFW has projected 27,437 net pounds of Pacific halibut have been harvested through July 9. In 2023, the Pacific halibut allocation for California is 39,520 pounds. The Pacific halibut fishery will run through Nov. 15 or until the quota is reached, whichever is earlier. To view the latest catch projection information, visit wildlife.ca.gov/conservation/marine/pacific-halibut#31670772-in-season-tracking.

Weekend marine forecast
After a nice stretch of calm seas, the wind is forecast to pick up over the weekend. As of Thursday afternoon, Friday’s forecast is calling for north winds 5 to 10 knots and waves from the north 4 feet at six seconds and west 2 feet at 11 seconds. Saturday’s forecast is calling for north winds 5 to 15 knots and north waves 7 feet at 10 seconds and west 2 feet at 10 seconds. Winds will increase slightly Sunday, blowing 10 to 20 knots from the north with waves north 7 feet at nine seconds. These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For an up-to-date weather forecast, visit weather.gov/eureka or windy.com. You can also call the National Weather Service at (707) 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at (707) 443-6484.

Mendocino area all-depth rockfish season opens July 16
The all-depth recreational groundfish season will open on July 16, 2023 in the Mendocino Groundfish Management Area (GMA), which includes Shelter Cove and Fort Bragg, and will remain open until December 31, 2023. The San Francisco GMA  will also open at the same time. The all-depth, boat-based season allows fishing in these GMAs regardless of depth, outside of state or federal marine protected areas or other closures where fishing is prohibited.

The all-depth, boat-based season provides access to nearshore rockfish, cabezon, and greenlings along with deeper shelf and slope rockfish species and lingcod. Take of bronzespotted rockfish, cowcod, and yelloweye rockfish continues to be prohibited year-round at all depths.

Divers and shore-based anglers will continue to be exempt from boat-based season restrictions affecting rockfish and other federally managed groundfish, which allows for year-round diving and shore-based angling in line with current regulations. For more information, visit https://cdfwmarine.wordpress.com/2023/07/11/recreational-groundfish-all-depth-season-opens-july-16th-in-san-francisco-and-mendocino-management-areas/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

The Oceans:
Eureka
According to Tim Klassen of Reel Steel Sport Fishing, the Pacific halibut bite is really good right now. “There seems to be a lot of fish out there, and some days the limits come quickly,” he said. “Boats are catching from the Eel River north to the Mad. There are some small ones in the mix, 6 to 12 pounders, but there’s also fish up to 80 pounds. The average is running right around 20 to 25 pounds. Herring is still a top producer. The black cod and Hake are thick out there, you’ll need to check your bait every few minutes. The rockfish bite at Cape Mendocino has been excellent, though it’s tough to get past the black rockfish as they are voracious. The lingcod bite continues to be on the slow side.”

Trinidad
According to Tony Sepulveda of Shellback Sport Fishing, the Pacific halibut got a touch more elusive this week. “We still put fish on the boat every day we tried with plenty of good ones up to 60 pounds,” said Sepulveda. “Limits of jumbo black rockfish went along with them. The negative tides made them a little fickle, but still no problem loading the boat. Out near Reading Rock produced limits of lingcod and rockfish every day we made the remote waters run. And the jumbo lings went on the hard chew late in the week. We had five over 20 pounds, topped by a 30-pounder Sunday, to go along with limits of jumbo rockfish and couple bonus 40-pound Pacific halibut.”

Shelter Cove
“The rockfish bite continues to be wide-open,” said Jake Mitchell of Sea Hawk Sport Fishing. “However, the lingcod bite is still slow. Most of the rockfish action is happening outside the Hat. The halibut bite has been slow this week.”

Crescent City
“The Pacific halibut bite has been excellent, the best we’ve seen in a long time,” said Britt Carson, of Crescent City’s Englund Marine. “Most of the boats are targeting the South Reef area in 230 to 280 feet of water. There’s also been a few caught by anglers targeting rockfish near the North Reef. Both the rockfish and lingcod bite are still wide-open, with limits coming easily. The reefs along with the Sisters have been productive. The California halibut bite has been hit and miss. Not many coming from the rock wall, but the trollers are getting a few along South Beach. Razor clamming, which just opened back up last week, has been productive for the guys who know what they’re doing.” The daily bag limit for razor clams is 20 and the first 20 clams dug must be retained regardless of size or condition. The fishery in 2023 is open north of Battery Point in Del Norte County.

Brookings
“Halibut fishing has busted open out of Brookings, with an average of a fish per rod,” said Andy Martin of Brookings Fishing Charters. “Some charters are getting their two-fish-limits for Pacific halibut. The best action has been in 180 to 240 feet of water. Lingcod and rockfish action also is good out of Brookings. Catch rates improved with the calm weather over the weekend. Fishing has been slow for coho salmon.”

Lower Rogue
The Rogue Bay is producing a few salmon, but overall action has been slow according to Martin.  “Just a handful of kings are being caught each day. Fishing generally picks up by late August. Surfperch are biting along the south jetty.”

Kenny Priest operates Fishing the North Coast, a fishing guide service out of Humboldt specializing in salmon and steelhead. Find it on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and fishingthenorthcoast.com. For up-to-date fishing reports and North Coast river information, email kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com.

Hank Moore, of Chico, landed a nice Pacific halibut on a recent trip out in Eureka aboard the Seaweasel II. Photo courtesy of Gary Blasi/Full Throttle Sport Fishing

A nice long stretch of fishable weather provided some pretty good Pacific halibut action from Eureka up to Crescent City. Private, and especially charter boats, have been putting a lickin’ on the halibut since last weekend. There were plenty of days where boats were back in port well inside of 10 a.m. with a box full of flatties. This time last year, the fishing was wide-open, and it looks like we’re on the same pace this season. Unlike last year, we don’t have a salmon season to take the pressure off the halibut, so there’s a good chance our season will come to an end early. So, if you haven’t yet gotten in on the action, you better make it quick. This fishery won’t last long. Through June 25, CDFW projected 20,573 pounds had been caught. But those numbers are sure to skyrocket after the wide-open bite last week. To view the latest catch projection information, visit wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Marine/Pacific-Halibut#31670772-in-season-tracking.

Weekend marine forecast
Northerlies will continue to strengthen through the week as well as advisory level winds and seas. As of Wednesday afternoon, Friday’s forecast is calling for north winds 5 to 15 knots and waves north 6 feet at seven seconds. Saturday forecast is forecast for north winds 10 to 20 knots along with northwest waves 10 feet at 11 seconds. Sunday’s forecast is calling for north winds 10 to 15 knots and waves northwest 10 feet at 10 seconds. These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For an up-to-date weather forecast, visit weather.gov/eureka or windy.com. You can also call the National Weather Service at (707) 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at (707) 443-6484.

Upcoming events
The National Parks Service and the California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife are hosting a Veterans Fishing Day on Saturday, July 1. Family members are also invited for a fin-filled day of surf perch fishing. The event will be held at the Redwood Creek Day Use area off U.S. Highway 101 just south of Orick. No fishing license is required as it’s a free fishing day in California. Participants are encouraged to bring water, lunch/snacks, life vests, chairs and sunscreen. Fishing rods and tackle will be provided if needed.

Shelter Cove Fishing Preservation, Inc. is holding a Fish and Chips Fundraiser on Monday, July 3. The event will start at 11 a.m. at the tractor launch area and donation is $20 per person. For more information, visit facebook.com/scfpinc.

July 1 is statewide free fishing day
On Saturday, July 1, 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. On free fishing days, every angler must have the appropriate report card if they are fishing for steelhead, sturgeon, spiny lobster, or salmon in the Smith and Klamath-Trinity river systems. For more information, visit wildlife.ca.gov/Licensing/Fishing/Free-Fishing-Days.

The Oceans:
Eureka
Halibut is still the focus out of Eureka, and when the weather cooperates, limits are coming easily. Most of the action continues straight out of the entrance in 270 to 300 feet of water. The charter fleet is scoring early limits of flatties up to 60 pounds while sitting on the anchor. Last week provided some calm seas and boats made the run south to Cape Mendocino where the rockfish are devouring baits. The offshore weather ahead doesn’t look great heading into the weekend.

Shelter Cove
“There hasn’t been much fishing effort lately,” said Jake Mitchell of Sea Hawk Sport Fishing. “However, the rock fishing and crabbing remain excellent with limits of both daily. The lingcod bite is still slow, but we have managed limits a couple days of smaller grade fish. We’ve spent most of our time outside the Hat. There hasn’t been much effort on halibut this week.”

Crescent City
“When the boats can get out, they’ve been loading up on rockfish and lingcod,” said Chis Hegnes of Crescent City’s Englund Marine. “The Sisters and South Reef are giving up good numbers. After a decent bite last week, the Pacific halibut bite has slowed down. Same with the California halibut. A few have been caught off the jetty and along South Beach, but it has slowed. There’s been a pretty good perch bite for a while now at Kellogg Beach.”

Brookings
“Halibut action has improved out of Brookings, with a fish-per-rod average on the good weather days,” said Andy Martin of Brookings Fishing Charters. “Lots of fish were caught over the weekend. The coho salmon opener was a dud, with just a handful of hatchery silvers caught. Salmon fishing has been decent out of Coos Bay and Winchester Bay, an indication the coho run may have already moved up the coast prior to the opener out of Brookings. Lingcod fishing has been fair, while boaters are getting limits of rockfish.”

Lower Rogue
According to Martin, salmon fishing has been slow in the Rogue Bay, while boats anchoring above Lobster Creek are catching a few late-arriving springers. “Water temperatures are on the verge of hitting 70 degrees at the Agness gauge, which should force kings to begin holding up in the bay and jump start the troll fishery.”

Kenny Priest operates Fishing the North Coast, a fishing guide service out of Humboldt specializing in salmon and steelhead. Find it on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and fishingthenorthcoast.com. For up-to-date fishing reports and North Coast river information, email kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com

After a few weeks of windy weather, which hasn’t allowed for much consistent time on the water, it finally looks like we’re going to string together quite a few fishable days. Through at least Sunday, fairly light winds and small seas are in the forecast. This could spell doom for the Pacific halibut quota. As the fishery continues to sizzle from Eureka to Crescent City, anglers are likely to put a good-sized dent in the quota over the next week or so. With a third of the 39,520-pound quota already chewed up, we’ll be lucky to get through July. But you won’t hear many complaints as the calm conditions allow boats of all sizes to take to the water. So, take advantage of the conditions while they’re here, you never know what next week will bring.

Weekend marine forecast
Gentle to moderate breezes will return Thursday and stick around through the weekend. As of Tuesday afternoon, Friday’s forecast is calling for northwest winds 5 to 10 knots and waves northwest 3 feet at seven seconds. Saturday’s forecast is calling for northwest winds 5 to 15 knots and waves west 4 feet at five seconds. The winds will be out of the north Sunday 5 to 15 knots, with north waves 5 feet at six seconds. These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For an up-to-date weather forecast, visit weather.gov/eureka or windy.com. You can also call the National Weather Service at (707) 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at (707) 443-6484.

Pacific halibut quota update
The CDFW has projected 14,205 net pounds of Pacific halibut have been harvested through June 18. In 2023, the Pacific halibut allocation for California is 39,520 pounds. The Pacific halibut fishery will run through November 15, or until the quota is reached, whichever is earlier. To view the latest catch projection information, visit wildlife.ca.gov/conservation/marine/pacific-halibut#31670772-in-season-tracking

July 1 is statewide free fishing day
Next Saturday, July 1, 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. On Free Fishing Days, every angler must have the appropriate report card if they are fishing for steelhead, sturgeon, spiny lobster, or salmon in the Smith and Klamath-Trinity river systems. For more information visit, wildlife.ca.gov/Licensing/Fishing/Free-Fishing-Days

Freshwater Lagoon trout plant
According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website, Freshwater Lagoon has been planted with trout during the week of June 4, but fishing reports have been hard to come by. Freshwater Lagoon is open to fishing year-round and the limit is 5 trout per day and 10 in possession. For more information, visit nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FishPlants/ or call (530) 225-2146.

The Oceans:
Eureka
Offshore conditions have been favorable since Sunday and the Pacific halibut bite is still going strong. The charter fleet have been catching fairly easy limits straight out of the entrance in 270 to 300 feet of water, same general location they’ve been all year. Conditions look pretty good for the next few days and boats should also be able to make their way to Cape Mendocino where the rockfish bite has been excellent. The California halibut bite is starting to pick up as well. There were a few caught by the boats working the middle and third channels over the weekend. Shore anglers are having a tougher time at Fairhaven Beach where the bite has yet to turn on.

Trinidad
“The rockfish bite north of Trinidad head to Patrick’s Point has been good this week,” said Curt Wilson of Wind Rose Charters. “We aren’t seeing any real jumbo blacks; most are medium size. But we are seeing a few more lingcod than in the past couple years and we’re getting a couple nice ones per trip. The halibut bite has been good as well, with most of the action just north of the head in 260 feet of water. Reading Rock continues to produce some nice big rockfish as well as lingcod. The crabbing hasn’t been great, but customers are going home with a couple per person.”

Shelter Cove
According to Jake Mitchell of Sea Hawk Sport Fishing, the weather didn’t allow us to get to the halibut grounds last week. “We’ve spent most of our days fishing around the Hat for rockfish and it’s been good,” said Mitchell. “We even managed lingcod limits one day, but it was back to slow fishing the next.”

Crescent City
The Pacific halibut bite is still going strong,” said Britt Carson of Crescent City’s Englund Marine. “Guys are really starting to figure out the fishery, anchoring up seems to have really changed the game. Just south of the south reef is still the main target location. The rockfish bite is still excellent, but the lingcod bite has really turned on lately. It looks like the California halibut are finally arriving in better numbers. There’s been a handful caught by guys trolling along South Beach as well as anglers tossing jigs off the rock wall across from the boat launch. The redtail perch bite has picked up as well with the mouth of the Klamath and Kellogg Beach being top producers.”

Brookings
“Salmon season opened Saturday out of Brookings, but windy weather limited effort,” said Andy Martin of Brookings Fishing Charters. “Coho salmon are often offshore, close to the surface but over 300-plus feet of water. A few hatchery coho and lots of wild coho were caught Monday. As water temperature warms, expect the bite to improve. Water temperatures were 46 degrees on Sunday and still under 50 on Monday, but slowly warming with a break in the northwest wind and upwelling. Lingcod fishing is fair out of Brookings, but hot near the Point St. George Reef Lighthouse. Numerous boats are planning on halibut trips on Wednesday.”

Lower Rogue
According to Martin, salmon fishing is slow on the Rogue Bay. “A few springers are still trickling upriver. The best bet for springers is the upper Rogue near Shady Cove. Expect bay trolling to improve by mid-July.”

Send in your fish photos
Land a big lingcod or halibut lately? Or maybe your friend or relative has reeled in their first perch. Email your fishing photo to kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com and I’ll run them with the “Fishing the North Coast” weekly column. Just include the name of the angler in the photo, where and when it was taken and any other details you’d like to share.

Kenny Priest operates Fishing the North Coast, a fishing guide service out of Humboldt specializing in salmon and steelhead. Find it on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and fishingthenorthcoast.com. For up-to-date fishing reports and North Coast river information, email kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com

Gale-force north winds in June are historically common along the North Coast. And this year is certainly no exception. Following four fishable days last week, the north winds have returned in force and look to stick around through the weekend. The good news is when the boats can slip out during these short windows, they are finding some really good fishing. Both Pacific halibut and rockfish have been coming over the rails at a very high clip. With new rockfish regulations in affect for the Southern and Northern Management areas, anglers are able to fish waters that have been off limits for many years. The Pacific halibut fishery continues to grow in popularity as ports where the effort was typically low, are now tapping into the seemingly abundant resource. Fort Bragg and Crescent City are two of the ports where the halibut fishery has increased in popularity. And with that popularity, we’ve seen an increase in the catch rates. Proof of this lies in the quota numbers. At this time last year, only 3,500 pounds had been harvested. This year, as of the first week in June, 12,931 pounds have been harvested towards a 39,520-pound quota. Windy conditions could be a blessing as it looks like the only way to keep the fishery from an early closure.

Weekend marine forecast
Hazardous seas and gusty winds are forecast at least through Saturday. On Friday, north winds are predicted at 15 to 25 knots and waves from the north 9 feet at nine seconds. Saturday’s forecast is calling for north winds 10 to 20 knots and north waves 7 feet at eight seconds and northwest 4 feet at 12 seconds. The winds will begin to calm on Sunday. North winds will be 5 to 15 knots and north waves 6 feet at six seconds. These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For an up-to-date weather forecast, visit weather.gov/eureka or windy.com. You can also call the National Weather Service at (707) 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at (707) 443-6484.

Upcoming kids fishing events
On Saturday, June 17, kids and their families are invited to a fun filled day of surf perch fishing and activities at the Redwood Creek Day Use Area located off of Highway 101 just south of Orick. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All kids under 16 will not need a fishing license. A license is required for those 17 years old and above. Parents are advised to bring water, lunch/snacks, life vest, chairs and sunscreen. Fishing rods and tackle will be provided for participants if needed. The event is put on by the National Parks Service and the California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife.

The 47th annual Kid’s Fish Lake Fishing Derby is taking place on Saturday, June 17 in Orleans. The derby starts promptly at 8 a.m. and runs until noon. It’s open to kids from Pre-K to the 8th grade. Poles and tackle will not be provided and an adult must accompany all children. Hot dogs and lemonade will be provided; adults are encouraged to bring a side dish or salad to share. Hosted by the Orleans Rod and Gun Club and Six Rivers National Forest with sponsors: Coast Central Credit Union, RMI Outdoors, Bassman Dan Custom Rods, California Deer Association, and our awesome river community. For additional information contact Eric Fieberg, Orleans Rod and Gun Club, at 707-951-4453 or LeRoy Cyr, District Fish Biologist, at 530-262-1790.

The Oceans:
Eureka
The Eureka fleet were finally able to get back to fishing last week following some wind and rough seas. With calm conditions through Saturday, boats were able to head south to the cape for rockfish and spend quality time on the halibut grounds. Tim Klassen of Reel Steel Sport Fishing reports the Pacific halibut bite was good, but never wide-open. “There were quite a few days where we had to wait out the tide change, not getting any bites until well after noon,” said Klassen. “But when they came, they came quick. A few days we limited the boat to 40 minutes once they decided to bite. Most of the action remains straight out in 270 to 285 feet. There are some nice fish around, but we’re also seeing some small 6- to 8-pounders. I made just one trip to the Cape and the bite wasn’t red-hot, but we did get limits of rockfish. The variety was incredible, we had about 15 different types of rockfish.”

Trinidad
According to Tony Sepulveda of Shellback Sport Fishing, it’s been a really good week of fishing out of Trinidad. “Flat weather to start the week gave way to big seas, but was very fishable later in the week,” said Sepulveda. “We were able to run every day and produce limits. In general, the grade of pacific halibut has been amazing this year. Lots of fish in the 30-50-pound range with some bigger. Monday, we faltered a bit in that regard with a smaller limit of 8- to 15-pound halibut and rockfish to go with it. We did three remote waters rockfish runs this week with limits of lingcod to 34 pounds and impressive limits of rockfish. Swimbaits and jigs produced the best results.”

Shelter Cove
According to Jake Mitchell of Sea Hawk Sport Fishing, not much has changed at the Cove. “Limits of rockfish are still coming quickly, but it’s a struggle to get one lingcod per rod,” said Mitchell. “We’ve fished up at Rodgers Break a couple times and outside the Hat. Same story both places. The Halibut bite has been decent for those willing to put in the time up at Gorda when weather permits. Crabbing remains excellent, we’re still getting limits every day.”

Crescent City
According to Kevin Hooper of Crescent City’s Englund Marine, not much has changed this week. He said, “When the boats can get out, the Pacific halibut bite is still going strong and quite a few are being caught daily. Most of the boats are fishing near the South Reef in 250 to 280 feet of water. The rockfish bite is excellent per usual at both of the reefs and the Sisters. The redtails are biting too, with Kellogg beach being the top spot. There’s been a few California halibut caught along South Beach by boats trolling anchovies.”

Brookings
Ocean salmon season opens Saturday out of Brookings reports Andy Martin of Brookings Fishing Charters. He said, “Hatchery coho may be kept June 17 to Aug. 31. A strong run of hatchery coho is expected, and Brookings generally experiences its best fishing in late June and early July. Windy weather could limit success for the opener, however, as coho are generally caught close to the surface, but over deep water 3 to 8 miles offshore. Pacific halibut limits also increased to two fish a day in Oregon on Monday. Halibut fishing improved out of Brookings last week before rougher conditions returned on Sunday.”

Southern Oregon rivers
A few king salmon have been caught in the Rogue Bay according to Martin. “Fishing improves in the bay throughout June, as warm water forces salmon to hold up closer to the ocean. Springer fishing is good near Medford on the Upper Rogue. Boats anchoring on the lower river are seeing fewer fish as the run tapers off. Smallmouth bass are now biting on the Umpqua River near Elkton. Cutthroat trout fishing is fair in the Chetco tidewater.”

Kenny Priest operates Fishing the North Coast, a fishing guide service out of Humboldt specializing in salmon and steelhead. Find it on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and fishingthenorthcoast.com. For up-to-date fishing reports and North Coast river information, email kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com

It’s been a quiet week for offshore anglers along the North Coast. The wind and seas finally relented Wednesday, allowing the Eureka-based fleet of boats to get back on the water. It’s been a long time coming as most charter and private boats haven’t fished since early last week. And it looks like we have some flat water at least through Friday. By the time Sunday rolls around, it looks like we’re back to strong north winds and big seas. If you’ve been waiting to get offshore, you’ll want to take advantage of this weather window.

Weekend marine forecast
Ocean conditions will be much improved beginning Wednesday. Looking towards the weekend, winds will be from the northwest 5 to 10 knots for Friday, with west waves 5 feet at 15 seconds. Saturday’s forecast is calling for north winds 5 to 15 knots and north swells 7 feet at seven seconds and west 4 feet at 13 seconds. On Sunday, north winds will begin to increase and predicted to blow 10 to 20 knots. Waves will be from the northwest 10 feet at nine seconds and west 3 feet at 13 seconds. These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For an up-to-date weather forecast, visit weather.gov/eureka or windy.com. You can also call the National Weather Service at (707) 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at (707) 443-6484.

Upcoming kids fishing events
On Saturday, June 17, kids and their families are invited to a fun filled day of surf perch fishing and activities at the Redwood Creek Day Use Area located off of Highway 101 just south of Orick. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All kids under 16 will not need a fishing license. A license is required for those 17 years old and above. Parents are advised to bring water, lunch/snacks, life vest, chairs and sunscreen. Fishing rods and tackle will be provided for participants if needed. The event is put on by the National Parks Service and the California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife.

The 47th annual Kid’s Fish Lake Fishing Derby is taking place on Saturday, June 17 in Orleans. The derby starts promptly at 8 a.m. and runs until noon. It’s open to kids from Pre-K to the 8th grade. Poles and tackle will not be provided and an adult must accompany all children. Hot dogs and lemonade will be provided; adults are encouraged to bring a side dish or salad to share. Hosted by the Orleans Rod and Gun Club and Six Rivers National Forest with sponsors: Coast Central Credit Union, RMI Outdoors, Bassman Dan Custom Rods, California Deer Association, and our awesome river community. For additional information contact Eric Fieberg, Orleans Rod and Gun Club, at 707-951-4453 or LeRoy Cyr, District Fish Biologist, at 530-262-1790.

Pacific halibut quota update
The CDFW has projected 7,249 net pounds of Pacific halibut has been harvested through May 29. In 2023, the Pacific halibut allocation for California is 39,520 pounds. The Pacific halibut fishery opened on May 1 and will run through November 15, or until the quota is reached, whichever is earlier. To view the latest catch projection information, visit wildlife.ca.gov/conservation/marine/pacific-halibut#31670772-in-season-tracking

California halibut bag limit reduced
As of June 2, the California halibut bag and total possession limit has been reduced from three to two in California waters north of Point Sur, Monterey County. The minimum size limit is 22 inches total length. The reduced California halibut limit is designed to protect the resource amid increased recreational fishing pressure due to limited fishing opportunities and changes in other ocean fisheries including salmon. For more information, visit wildlife.ca.gov/News/recreational-ocean-in-river-salmon-fisheries-in-california-to-close-for-remainder-of-2023#gsc.tab=0

The Oceans:
Eureka
Howling winds have kept the Eureka fleet tied to the dock since last week. The wind is finally forecast to calm down Wednesday, so expect a crowd moving west through the jaws. Excellent conditions are predicted through Saturday, which will allow boats to make it down to Cape Mendocino for rockfish and make some drifts for halibut as well. The California halibut bite is finally picking up some steam. A few are being caught daily from the Coast Guard Station up to Arcata Bay. Reportedly, there isn’t any real concentrations of bait fish yet.

Trinidad
“Weather has been up and down, but fishing is rock solid,” said Tony Sepulveda of Shellback Sport Fishing. “We were off the water Sunday and Monday for big seas, but the rest of the week saw great action. Pacific halibut has been really consistent with limits every day we tried this week. Bites seemed to come a little faster on the days I ran 13 miles southwest and fished with the Eureka fleet. But the grade was much better on the days I fished just a few miles out front. And had limits either way so feeling like unless something changes, I’ll be sticking close to home. Most of the fish we kept ran 15 to 50 pounds. The local reef is kicking out limits of jumbo blacks and a few lingcod. Remote waters run is giving up limits of mixed rockfish species and limits of lingcod to more than 30 pounds.”

Shelter Cove
Jake Mitchell, of Sea Hawk Sport Fishing had been off the water due to weather since early last week. He was finally able to get back out Tuesday and reported quick limits of rockfish in 300 feet of water off Bear Harbor. The lingcod bite was slower and he managed to entice just a few. The rest of the morning was spent at the Hat drifting for halibut.

Crescent City
Quite a few Pacific halibut are being caught by the guys who know what they’re doing reports Britt Carson, of Crescent City’s Englund Marine. He said, “The majority of halibut being caught have come from just south of the South Reef in 235 to 280 feet of water with boats anchoring having the best success. Herring has been the top bait. The rockfish action is excellent, with limits coming easily at both reefs. There are quite a few lingcod around as well. A few California halibut have been caught, but they haven’t shown up in big numbers yet.”

Brookings
“Rough weather has limited success out of Brookings for lingcod and halibut, but limits of rockfish were still coming in last week and over the weekend, despite extreme winds,” said Andy Martin of Brookings Fishing Charters. “Calm weather is expected the rest of this week, allowing anglers to get back to the halibut grounds and the Point St. George Reef Lighthouse. The halibut limit increases to two per day on June 12. Ocean salmon fishing for hatchery coho opens June 17. ODFW will hold a meeting next week to discuss a possible “bubble season” in the ocean off the mouth of the Chetco River in October for fall king salmon.”

Lower Rogue
According to Martin, spring salmon fishing has slowed on the lower Rogue after the best season in years. He said, “A few springers are still trickling through, but the run is past its peak. Wild kings may now be kept on the Rogue. Expect a few early fall fish to show in the bay later this month, especially after hotter temperatures inland force them to hold up in the estuary. High flows and cooler water temperatures are allowing salmon to continue to blast upstream. That is good news for anglers in the Medford and Shady Cove areas, where springer season is off to a great start on the Upper Rogue. Drift boaters are getting into kings back-bouncing roe and running MagLip plugs with sardine wraps. Drift boat fishing for springers will continue into July.”

Send in your fish photos
Land a big lingcod or halibut lately? Or maybe your friend or relative has reeled in their first perch. Email your fishing photo to kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com and I’ll run them with the “Fishing the North Coast” weekly column. Just include the name of the angler in the photo, where and when it was taken and any other details you’d like to share.

Kenny Priest (he/him) operates Fishing the North Coast, a fishing guide service out of Humboldt specializing in salmon and steelhead. Find it on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and fishingthenorthcoast.com. For up-to-date fishing reports and North Coast river information, email kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com

With no salmon season, Pacific halibut continues to be the focal point out of Eureka, Trinidad and Crescent City after another week of sizzling action. Eureka charter and sport boats fishing a few miles on each side of the entrance in 290 to 300 feet of water are reporting quick limits. The small Trinidad fleet has done equally as well straight out of the harbor. Crescent City has also gotten in on the action with a hot bite reported in 260 feet of water straight out of the harbor. And it’s looking like the only thing that will slow down the onslaught is if you can’t get to the fishing grounds. And that’s exactly what’s happening this week. But that could be a blessing in disguise. The 39,520-pound quota has the potential to get chewed up quickly with the fleet consistently putting halibut in the box. The best case scenario would be for the quota to last at least through the summer. The way our weather pattern is shaping up, the wind may just see to it.

Through May 29, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife has projected 7,249 pounds have been caught. To track the quota, visit wildlife.ca.gov/conservation/marine/pacific-halibut#31670772-in-season-tracking.

Weekend marine forecast
Ocean conditions don’t look good through the work week, with the weekend not looking much better. Friday’s forecast calls for winds out of the north 5 to 15 knots and waves north 7 feet at seven seconds and northwest 3 feet at 11 seconds. Saturday is looking similar, with north winds 10 to 20 knots and waves north 6 feet at seven seconds. Sunday looks worse, with north winds 15 to 25 knots and northwest waves 12 feet at 10 seconds and west 3 feet at 15 seconds. These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For an up-to-date weather forecast, visit www.weather.gov/eureka/ or www.windy.com. You can also call the National Weather Service at 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at 443-6484.

Ruth Lake Bass tournament this Saturday
Fortuna Fire Department CO-2’s will be holding the annual “Paul Jadro Memorial Bass Tournament” on Saturday, June 3. Blast off will be at 5:45 a.m. or at first safe light, by draw. The one-day tournament event offers a first prize award of up to $1,000 with payout to 1 in 3 in addition to door prizes and sponsor products. The entry fee is $150 per team with a big fish buy in option of $10. The tournament is catch and release and all competitors must fish from boats that are required to have operational live wells on board. Life jackets are required. Check in at the Marina on Friday June 2 at 4:30-6 p.m. or Saturday 4-5 a.m. For more information, visit ruthlakecsd.org/30th-annual-paul-jadro-memorial-bass-tournament/

Junior Angler Fishing Day coming June 17
On Saturday, June 17, kids and their families are invited to a fun filled day of surf perch fishing and activities at the Redwood Creek Day Use Area located off of Highway 101 just south of Orick. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All kids under 16 will not need a fishing license. A license is required for those 17 years old and above. Parents are advised to bring water, lunch/snacks, life vest, chairs and sunscreen. Fishing rods and tackle will be provided for participants if needed. The event is put on by the National Parks Service and the California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife.

Fish Lake Kid’s fishing derby coming June 17
The 47th annual Kid’s Fish Lake Fishing Derby is taking place on Saturday, June 17 in Orleans. The derby starts promptly at 8 a.m. and runs until noon. It’s open to kids from Pre-K to the 8th grade. Poles and tackle will not be provided and an adult must accompany all children. Hot dogs and lemonade will be provided; adults are encouraged to bring a side dish or salad to share. Hosted by the Orleans Rod and Gun Club and Six Rivers National Forest with sponsors: Coast Central Credit Union, RMI Outdoors, Bassman Dan Custom Rods, California Deer Association, and our awesome river community. For additional information contact Eric Fieberg, Orleans Rod and Gun Club, at 707-951-4453 or LeRoy Cyr, District Fish Biologist, at 530-262-1790.

Fish for free this weekend in Oregon
Oregon will be having a Free Fishing Weekend June 3 and 4. On those two days, no license, tag or endorsement is required to fish, crab or clam anywhere in Oregon. This applies only to waters already open to fishing, crabbing or clamming. All other regulations, such as bag limits, still apply. Visit dfw.state.or.us/news/2023/05_May/052323.asp.

Notice of proposed emergency regulations – Chinook salmon sport fishing closures
A notice of proposal for emergency regulations regarding Chinook salmon sport fishing closures in the Klamath, Trinity, Eel, and Smith rivers has been posted to the Commission’s website. The notice and associated documents can be accessed at nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=213066&inline

California halibut bag limit reduction coming
As of June 1, the California halibut bag and possession limit is supposed to be reduced from three to two in California waters north of Point Sur, Monterey County. However, as of Thursday, the emergency regulation was still within the Office of Administrative Law. The reduced California halibut limit is designed to protect the resource amid increased recreational fishing pressure due to limited fishing opportunities and changes in other ocean fisheries including salmon. For more information, visit wildlife.ca.gov/News/recreational-ocean-in-river-salmon-fisheries-in-california-to-close-for-remainder-of-2023#gsc.tab=0

The Oceans:
Eureka
The Pacific halibut bite continues to be good, with most boats able to score limits, reports Tim Klassen of Reel Steel Sport Fishing. “Most of the boats are fishing between the 45 and 52-line in 290 to 300 feet of water. I haven’t been to the Cape in a few days, but the boats that have made their way down report a solid rockfish bite, catching a wide variety including blacks, browns, vermilions and canaries.”

Trinidad
“Pacific halibut are the main attraction right now with the majority of my guys coming into town for a shot at one of these fish that most people think they have to travel to Alaska to catch,” said Tony Sepulveda of Shellback Sport Fishing. “And the bite’s been really good this week, with limits every time we’ve tried. Some smaller 10 to 15-pound fish are definitely in the mix, but 30-pounders have been common and we’ve had a couple over 50 on Shellbacks deck already.  Early season fishing on the local Trinidad reef is typically a slam dunk for limits of jumbo black rockfish. This year is no exception with fish coming over the rail hot and heavy.
The remote waters lingcod/ rockfish runs kicked out ridiculous quality this week. A beautiful grade of lingcod running up to 30 pounds while old growth canaries up to 7 pounds stole the show on the rockfish front.”

Shelter Cove
According to Jake Mitchell of Sea Hawk Sport fishing, rock fishing has been great out of Shelter Cove. “It’s only taking a few drifts to get limits most days,” said Mitchell. “The lingcod are a different story and we’re lucky to get one per rod. Most of the effort on rockfish has been outside the Old Man. A few boats fished Pacific halibut on Friday at Gorda, but it was fairly slow. We had three fish, another boat had four, and I believe only two more were caught between the fleet.”

Crescent City
According to Kevin Hooper of Crescent City’s Englund Marine, all the fisheries are starting to catch fire right now. “The Pacific halibut bite has been crazy good,” said Hooper. “Not a lot of big fish, but the catch rate is pretty high. Straight out in 250 to 260 feet of water has been good. The rockfish bite is excellent per usual at both of the reefs and the Sisters. The redtails are biting well too, with Kellogg beach being the top spot. We’re also seeing quite a few rockfish and lingcod coming off the jetty.”

Brookings
Lingcod and rockfish have been good out of Brookings reports Andy Martin of Brookings Fishing Charters. He said, “Windy weather has limited the opportunity to fish for halibut. Windy weather is expected all week. Ocean salmon opens June 17 out of Brookings for hatchery coho. A large ocean abundance of coho is forecasted this summer.”

Lower Rogue
Anglers on the Rogue River can begin keeping wild king salmon June 1 according to Martin. “Springers continue to move through, but action has slowed. Guides are still getting fish daily. Drift boat fishing in the upper river, meanwhile, near Shady Cove has busted open. Limits of salmon have been caught both on MagLip plugs and back-bouncing roe. June is peak season on the upper river. Don’t expect the bay to heat up until late June or July because of higher flows.”

Kenny Priest operates Fishing the North Coast, a fishing guide service out of Humboldt specializing in salmon and steelhead. Find it on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and fishingthenorthcoast.com. For up-to-date fishing reports and North Coast river information, email kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com.

For anglers across the North Coast, Memorial Day weekend provides an excellent opportunity to try your luck at a variety of fishing locations. With plenty of options on the table, the biggest decision might not be if you want to go, but where. Here are a few of the options that will hopefully make your decision a little easier this holiday weekend:

• Jetties for rockfish and lingcod —When the windisn’t howling, the jetties have been providing excellent rockfish and lingcod action. Small swimbaits or scampi jigs are catching fish as well as herring fished under a float.
• Dungeness Crab —Anglers dropping pots outside of the bay entrance are still catching Dungeness crab when the weather cooperates. If it’s too rough, there’s some good locations inside Humboldt Bay. Out in front of the PG&E plant is a good spot as well as the flat off the South Jetty parking lot. Another top location is either side of the channel leading into the South Bay.
• Freshwater Lagoon trout —Planted regularly with catchable-sized trout, there should be ample opportunities for shore-based anglers as well as boat fishermen. An easy rig to fish is a Berkley PowerBait with an egg sinker.
• Ruth Lake trout and bass —Nice weather and a family-friendly atmosphere make this a great spot for the weekend. Reportedly, the trout and bass bite are heating up.
• Elk River redtail perch —If it’s perch you’re after and the ocean is too rough, Elk River Beach is a great spot to target redtails. Two hours prior to high tide and an hour after typically are the optimal times. Shrimp, clams and sand crabs all work.
• Trinidad Harbor rockfish —A great option for rockfish and crab, especially if the ocean is rough. Launching a small boat from the beach is fairly easy. You’ll want to get an early start before the afternoon wind kicks in.
• California halibut —If bank angling is your only option, check out Fairhaven Beach on the bay side of the Samoa Peninsula. Fishing is best a couple hours before and after high tide. Swimbaits attached to a ¾-ounce jig head is a good bait choice.
• North Coast rivers —Many of the local rivers will re-open to fishing beginning Saturday, May 27. Rivers that will open include sections of the main Eel (South Fork to Cape Horn Dam), South Fork Eel (South Fork Eel River from mouth to Rattlesnake Creek) Van Duzen, Mad, Little River, Mattole and Smith. Be sure to check the regulations prior to fishing.
• Fisheries currently closed: Red Abalone, Mussels, Razor Clams (both Humboldt and Del Norte Counties), Ocean and River Chinook fishing.

Weekend marine forecast
After Wednesday, the north winds will begin to subside and the first part of the weekend is looking fishable. Friday, winds will be out of the northwest 5 to 10 knots with northwest waves 5 feet at eight seconds. Saturday is looking a little windier, with north winds 10 to 20 knots and northwest waves 6 feet at eight seconds. Sunday, the wind will lie down slightly and come out of the north 10 to 15 knots with northwest waves 7 feet at eight seconds. Monday is looking better, with north winds 5 to 15 knots forecast along with northwest waves 5 feet at nine seconds.These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For an up-to-date weather forecast, visit www.weather.gov/eureka/ or www.windy.com. You can also call the National Weather Service at 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at 443-6484.

Weekend tides
The latest round of minus tides will end Thursday, but low tides will occur in the afternoons over the holiday weekend when boats could be returning to the bay. Coupled with decent-sized swells, this could create a dangerous Humboldt Bay bar crossing. Saturday May 27: Low: 12:25 p.m. (.62 feet); Sunday May 28: Low: 1:14 p.m. (.95 feet); Monday May 29: Low: 2:00 p.m. (1.29 feet)

Ruth Lake Bass tournament coming June 4
Fortuna Fire Department CO-2’s will be holding the annual “Paul Jadro Memorial Bass Tournament” on Saturday, June 3. Blast off will be at 5:45 a.m. or at first safe light, by draw. The one-day tournament event offers a first prize award of up to $1,000 with payout to 1 in 3 in addition to door prizes and sponsor products. The entry fee is $150 per team with a big fish buy in option of $10. The tournament is catch and release and all competitors must fish from boats that are required to have operational live wells on board. Life jackets are required. Check in at the Marina on Friday June 2 at 4:30-6 p.m. or Saturday 4-5 a.m. For more information, visit ruthlakecsd.org/30th-annual-paul-jadro-memorial-bass-tournament/

Junior Angler Fishing Day coming June 17
On Saturday, June 17, kids and their families are invited to a fun filled day of surf perch fishing and activities at the Redwood Creek Day Use Area located off of Highway 101 just south of Orick. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All kids under 16 will not need a fishing license. A license is required for those 17 years old and above. Parents are advised to bring water, lunch/snacks, life vest, chairs and sunscreen. Fishing rods and tackle will be provided for participants if needed. The event is put on by the National Parks Service and the California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife.

Fish Lake Kid’s fishing derby coming June 17
The 47th annual Kid’s Fish Lake Fishing Derby is taking place on Saturday, June 17 in Orleans. The derby starts promptly at 8 a.m. and runs until noon. It’s open to kids from Pre-K to the 8th grade. Poles and tackle will not be provided and an adult must accompany all children. Hot dogs and lemonade will be provided; adults are encouraged to bring a side dish or salad to share. Hosted by the Orleans Rod and Gun Club and Six Rivers National Forest with sponsors: Coast Central Credit Union, RMI Outdoors, Bassman Dan Custom Rods, California Deer Association, and our awesome river community. For additional information contact Eric Fieberg, Orleans Rod and Gun Club, at 707-951-4453 or LeRoy Cyr, District Fish Biologist, at 530-262-1790.

Klamath basin and Central Valley rivers closed for Chinook
In the May 17 California Fish and Game Commission meeting, Commissioners voted unanimously to enact a full closure of California’s recreational salmon fishing season in the Klamath River Basin and Central Valley rivers through its annual process for adjusting seasons and bag limits. The Commission also voted to close recreational salmon fisheries in the Smith River and Eel River, and the springer fishery in the Klamath and Trinity rivers. The regulations are expected to take effect no later than July 1, 2023, following approval by the Office of Administrative Law. In the same emergency action and to the surprise of many, the Commission voted to allow federally recognized tribes that currently or historically used the river segments affected by the recreational fishing closures, to continue fishing under existing inland sport fishing regulations. The low ocean abundance forecasts, coupled with low 2022 returns, led the Commission to recommend closure of California’s in-river recreational salmon fisheries, which include the Klamath and Trinity rivers within the Klamath Basin, the Sacramento, Feather, American and Mokelumne rivers in the Central Valley, the Smith River and the Eel River. For more information, visit wildlife.ca.gov/News/recreational-ocean-in-river-salmon-fisheries-in-california-to-close-for-remainder-of-2023#gsc.tab=0

California halibut bag limit reduced
Also coming out of the Fish and Game Commission meeting, the Commission voted unanimously to reduce the daily bag and possession limit for California halibut from three fish to two fish in California waters north of Point Sur, Monterey County. The regulations are expected to take effect June 1, 2023. The reduced California halibut limit is designed to protect the resource amid increased recreational fishing pressure due to limited fishing opportunities and changes in other ocean fisheries including salmon. 

Pacific halibut quota update
The CDFW has projected 3,233 net pounds of Pacific halibut have been harvested through May 21. In 2023, the Pacific halibut allocation for California is 39,520 pounds. The Pacific halibut fishery will run through November 15, or until the quota is reached, whichever is earlier. To view the latest catch projection information, visit wildlife.ca.gov/conservation/marine/pacific-halibut#31670772-in-season-tracking

The Oceans:
Eureka
The Pacific halibut bite has been really good, with easy limits for most boats reports Tim Klassen of Reel Steel Sport Fishing. “Poor conditions have kept us off the water since Saturday, but prior to that it was good,” said Klassen. “Most of the boats are fishing straight out of the entrance and north to the stacks in 270 to 300 feet of water. Some boats have tried in deeper water and had good success. The grade might be a little better out deeper. The rockfish action at the Cape has been excellent, with boats catching a wide variety including blacks, browns, vermilions and canaries. The lingcod bite has been a little tougher due to ocean conditions keeping us from fishing deeper water.”

Trinidad
The boat launch will open for business starting Thursday, May 25. Hours of operation will be 7 a.m. until 4p.m., Thursday through Monday. The cost to launch is $45. Call 707-677-3625 for more information. Friday, Saturday, and Monday’s conditions look good for small boats and kayaks to launch from the beach.

Shelter Cove
“We were able to make it out to the edge of the canyon for rockfish a few times last week,” said Jake Mitchell of Sea Hawk Sport Fishing. “Limits came pretty quickly on quality rockfish, but we have only been able to scratch up about a lingcod per person on average. We’re still getting limits of crabs as well. We briefly tried for halibut in some new places last week, but no takers. It looks like we’ll have fishable conditions Thursday through Saturday.”

Crescent City
The ocean’s been rough the last several days, so there hasn’t been much going on, reports Britt Carson of Crescent City’s Englund Marine. He said, “Over the weekend, quite a few Pacific halibut were brought in by anglers fishing near the south reef. Plenty of boats were able to boat limits. The rockfish and lingcod bite remains excellent. The north reef and the Sister have been a couple of the top locations.”

Brookings
“Ocean fishing has been good out of Brookings on calm weather days,” said Andy Martin of Brookings Fishing Charters. “Charters are getting easy limits of rockfish and decent numbers of lingcod. Boats from Brookings venturing to the Point St. George Reef Lighthouse are returning with limits of lingcod and a few halibut. Sport crabbing has been fair to slow. Ocean salmon opens June 17 in Oregon for hatchery coho.”

River openings
Sections of the main Eel (South Fork to Cape Horn Dam), South Fork Eel (South Fork Eel River from mouth to Rattlesnake Creek) Van Duzen, Mad, Little River, Mattole and Smith will re-open on Saturday, May 27. On most rivers, only artificial lures with barbless hooks may be used. For a complete list of CA river openings and regulations visit nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=209090&inline. The Chetco opened to trout fishing Monday. Spinners are tricking sea-run cutthroat trout.

Lower Rogue
According to Martin, Spring salmon continue to be caught on the lower Rogue, where anglers may begin keeping wild springers on June 1, while spring king fishing has busted wide open on the upper river near Shady Cove. “Anglers are limiting out from top to bottom on the Rogue, with drift boaters running MagLip plugs or back-bouncing roe catching fish upstream from the Medford area, and jet boaters still getting good numbers of fish on the lower river just above Gold Beach. With lots of hatchery fish still moving into the lower river, and ocean anglers catching salmon while bottom fishing, this year’s spring run and fall run will likely overlap. The bay fishing could pick up as soon as late June.”

Kenny Priest operates Fishing the North Coast, a fishing guide service out of Humboldt specializing in salmon and steelhead. Find it on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and www.fishingthenorthcoast.com. For up-to-date fishing reports and North Coast river information, email kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com

Much like the Pacific halibut opener a couple weeks ago, Monday’s rockfish season debut was curtailed by rough ocean conditions. Luckily the delay lasted just a day as boats were headed to the rockfish grounds first thing Tuesday morning. And as expected, wide-open rock fishing was reported from Shelter Cove north to Crescent City. Expect more of the same, as this region is home to some of the best rock fishing on the West Coast. The same could be said for Pacific halibut. This fishery has started off strong, as over 2,000 pounds towards a 39,520 net pound quota were projected to have been caught during the first seven days of the season. With no ocean or river salmon season in 2023, both fisheries will be extremely popular. For current rockfish regulations, which had multiple adjustments this season, visit wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Ocean/Regulations/Groundfish-Summary#north. To keep an eye on the in-season Pacific halibut catch rate, visit wildlife.ca.gov/conservation/marine/pacific-halibut#31670772-in-season-tracking.

Marine Forecast
Ocean conditions are looking favorable through the weekend, though the wind will pick up Sunday. As of Wednesday, Friday’s forecast is calling for north winds 5 to 15 knots with waves northwest 5 feet at six seconds and south 2 feet at 16 seconds. Saturday, the winds will be out of the north 10 to 15 knots and waves will be out of the north 6 feet at seven seconds. Sunday, winds will increase and come from the north 15 to 25 knots with waves out of the north 5 feet at seven seconds. These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For an up-to-date weather forecast, visit www.weather.gov/eureka/ or www.windy.com. You can also call the National Weather Service at 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at 443-6484.

Kids free fishing derbies this Saturday
On Saturday, May 20, 2023, all kids 15 years old and younger are invited to the Ruth Lake Marina for the Kids Free Fishing Derby. The event will be from 8 a.m. until noon. Kids must bring their own fishing poles and must be accompanied by an adult. There will be a hot dog feed at noon. For more information, call the Ruth Lake Community Services District at 707-574-6332 or visit ruthlakecsd.org/kids-free-fishing-derby/.

On Saturday, May 20, 2023, all kids age 4 to 15 are invited to the Carrville Dredger Pond for the 49th annual Trinity Lake Lions Fish Derby. The pond is located five miles north of the Trinity Center. Registration is from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. The fishing derby will last until 11 a.m. Free fishing tackle will be provided to the first 100 kids registered. Kids must bring their own fishing poles, and only bait will be allowed. Prizes will be awarded in many categories, along with a grand prize.  Free hot dogs, chips and drinks for everyone. For more information, visit trinityjournal.com/calendar/sport/event_691c2422-b481-11ed-bd66-c73a9d26ca40.html.

The Oceans:

Eureka
The Pacific halibut bite was good over the weekend, according to Tim Klassen of Reel Steel Sport Fishing. “It’s not wide-open, but the fishing is really good,” said Klassen. “The majority of the boats are fishing straight out of the entrance and up to the stacks in 260 to 320 [feet] of water. Herring and salmon bellies have been the top bait choices.” After being tied up due to rough seas for Monday’s rockfish opener, boats were making their way south to the Cape for rockfish Tuesday. Reports were typical for the Cape, pretty wide-open for rockfish and lingcod.

Trinidad
The boat launch is currently closed for maintenance. For updates and current information, you can call the bait shop at 677-3625. Tuesday’s ocean conditions allowed small boats and kayaks to try for rockfish. 

Shelter Cove
The weather kept boats off the water most of last week, reports Jake Mitchell of Sea Hawk Sport Fishing. “We were only able to get out twice for halibut but couldn’t make it up to Gorda,” said Mitchell. “We fished around Big Flat and landed one each day up to 30 pounds along with limits of crab.” After not being able to get out Monday, Mitchell was on the rockfish grounds Tuesday morning and reported a hot bite.

Crescent City
Boats were able to get out Tuesday and Wednesday for rockfish after sitting out the opener, reports Britt Carson of Crescent City’s Englund Marine. He said, “There have been some Pacific halibut caught, but not a lot of effort. I heard some boats scored limits last Thursday at the South Reef fishing in 230 to 250 feet of water.”

Brookings
“Halibut fishing is slow out of Brookings, but a 62-inch, 100-plus-pounder was caught last week,” said Andy Martin of Brookings Fishing Charters. “Lingcod and rockfish action is good on calm weather days. Crabbing is slow, although some boaters are finding limits when they can distance themselves from commercial pots. Nice weather is expected this week.”

Lower Rogue
According to Martin, this year’s spring salmon season on the Rogue continues to go down as the best in recent memory, rivaling the epic fishing of the mid-1990s, when 80,000 springers crossed Gold Ray Dam. “Guides continue to catch limits anchoring close to shore and fishing anchovies. Plenty of hatchery fish are still arriving daily on the tides. Boats bottom fishing out of Brookings also are encountering salmon. Wild kings may be kept beginning June 1.”

Kenny Priest operates Fishing the North Coast, a fishing guide service out of Humboldt specializing in salmon and steelhead. Find it on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and fishingthenorthcoast.com. For up-to-date fishing reports and North Coast river information, email kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com

After a hot start to the season, Pacific halibut action out of Eureka has since slowed. Last Monday’s opener was blown out but boats were able to make it back out Wednesday. And what they found were plenty of hungry halibut looking as though they haven’t seen bait in a long time. Quick limits were had by most of the small fleet, with some quality fish reported. But since, it’s been a tough scratch. According to Tim Klassen of Reel Steel Sport Fishing, there seems to be plenty of fish around. “The boats were pretty spread out last week, and all were catching fish,” said Klassen. “That tells me there’s a good-sized area of fish. I think there’s a few factors that have been working against us this past week. We’ve had some big tide swings, up, some of, to 8 feet, but there’s been very little current offshore. This keeps the boats from covering much ground. Throw in a south wind and a full moon and you’ve got some finicky halibut.” Ocean conditions are now changing for the better, so look for this fishery to take off very soon.

Weekend marine forecast
Ocean conditions should remain fishable through the weekend. Friday, north winds will be 5 to 15 knots with north waves 5 feet at seven seconds and west 5 feet at 13 seconds. Saturday’s forecast is calling for north winds 5 to 10 knots with northerly waves 5 feet at seven seconds and west 5 feet at 12 seconds. Southwest winds return Sunday with winds 5 to 10 knots with northwest waves 4 feet at seven seconds and west 7 feet at 16 seconds. These conditions can and will change by the weekend. For an up-to-date weather forecast, visit http://www.weather.gov/eureka/ or www.windy.com. You can also call the National Weather Service at 443-7062 or the office on Woodley Island at 443-6484.

Rockfish season opens May 15
The 2023 rockfish season will kick-off Monday, May 15, with a variety of changes. The new regulations were adopted in 2022 and will be in effect when the season opens. For groundfish, including rockfish, cabezon and greenling (RCG), as well as lingcod, the boat-based seasons will bring a mix of increased and reduced fishing opportunities, depending on the species. Unlike prior years, all Groundfish Management Areas will have a portion of the season when all-depth fishing is allowed and anglers are not subject to the Rockfish Conservation Area (RCA) depth constraints. This allows new fishing opportunities for deeper-water shelf and slope rockfish, which are most abundant in areas that have been previously closed to recreational groundfish fishing. Anglers will need to identify rockfish species they catch and be able to determine if the fish is categorized as a nearshore, shelf or slope rockfish species, as different seasons and depths apply to each category depending on the Groundfish Management Area and month.

There are also changes for several species that have been subject to boat-based closures in the past, which may offer new alternatives for boat-based anglers. They include:

• New year-round opportunities: ocean whitefish, California scorpionfish, leopard shark, soupfin shark, Dover sole, English sole, arrowtooth flounder, spiny dogfish, skates, ratfish, grenadiers, finescale codling, Pacific cod, Pacific whiting, sablefish and thornyheads will now be open year-round in all depths, statewide.
• Boat-based fishing for California sheephead, will be open from March 1 through Dec. 31, statewide. The bag limit, regardless of fishing mode, will decrease from five fish to two fish.

For a summary of the recreational groundfish fishing regulations, visit wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Ocean/Regulations/Groundfish-Summary.

In the Northern Management (Eureka, Trinidad, and Crescent City) area, which runs from the California/Oregon border to the 40°10′ N. latitude (near Cape Mendocino), the season opens at all depths May 15 and runs through Oct. 15, closed Oct. 16 through Dec. 31, for all species of rockfish, cabezon and greenlings. The RCG bag limit will remain at 10 fish in combination of rockfish, cabezon and greenlings, with sub-bag limits of not more than four vermilion rockfish, one copper rockfish and one quillback rockfish. Take and possession of cowcod, yelloweye and bronzespotted rockfish will remain prohibited. The limit for lingcod remains at two with a minimum size of 22 inches.

In the Mendocino Management area between 40°10′ N. latitude (near Cape Mendocino) and 38°57.5′ N. latitude (Point Arena), which includes Shelter Cove and Fort Bragg:

• The season opens May 15 through July 15 seaward of the 50 fathom (300 feet) RCA line for shelf and slope species and lingcod only. Take is prohibited shoreward of the 50 fathom RCA line.
• The season opens all depths July 16 through Dec. 31 for nearshore rockfish, cabezon, greenling, shelf, slope, and lingcod.

The RCG bag limit is 10 fish in combination of all species of rockfish, cabezon and greenlings, with sub-bag limits of not more than four vermilion rockfish, one copper rockfish and one quillback rockfish. Take and possession of cowcod, yelloweye and bronzespotted rockfish is prohibited. The limit for lingcod remains at two with a minimum size of 22 inches.

For more information on the Mendocino Management area, visit wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Ocean/Regulations/Groundfish-Summary#mendocino

HASA dinner and fundraiser coming May 13
The annual Humboldt Area Saltwater Anglers (HASA) fundraiser dinner and auction will be held Saturday, May 13, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Sequoia Conference Center, 901 Myrtle Ave. in Eureka. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for kids. Guest speaker will be Del Stephens on how to improve your albacore fishing skills. There will be a kids raffle and table, as well as other raffles. Tickets are available from Englund Marine and board members. Local sponsors include Englund Marine, RMI Outdoors and Redwood Coast Spreader Bars. For more information, email hasa6191@gmail.com.

Fish and Game Commission meeting coming May 17
The California Fish and Game Commission meeting will be held at Monterey County Fair & Event Center, Seaside Room 2004 Fairground Road in Monterey. The meeting will also be live streamed at http://www.fgc.ca.gov for viewing and listening purposes only. The meeting will start at 8:30 a.m. to adopt and discuss changes to the upcoming sport fishing seasons.

On the agenda, the commission will consider Chinook salmon emergency closures in the Klamath, Trinity, Eel, and Smith rivers. Closures for fall Chinook fisheries in the Klamath River basin and the Central Valley will also be adopted.

Also on the agenda is the potential to adopt emergency regulations for California halibut to reduce daily bag and possession limits in anticipation of greater fishery pressure due to salmon fishing closures.  

For a complete agenda and comment submission, and viewing information, visit https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=211281&inline

Kids free fishing derbies
On Saturday, May 20, 2023 all kids 15 years old and younger are invited to the Ruth Lake Marina for the Kids Free Fishing Derby. The event will be from 8 a.m. until noon. Kids must bring their own fishing poles and must be accompanied by an adult. There will be a hot dog feed at noon. For more information, call the Ruth Lake Community Services District at 707-574-6332 or visit ruthlakecsd.org/kids-free-fishing-derby/.

On Saturday, May 20 2023 all kids age 4 to 15 are invited to the Carrville Dredger Pond for the 49th annual Trinity Lake Lions Fish Derby. The pond is located five miles north of the Trinity Center. Registration is from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and the fishing derby will last until 11:00 a.m. Free fishing tackle will be provided to the first 100 kids registered. Kids must bring their own fishing poles and only bait will be allowed. Prizes will be awarded in many categories along with a grand prize.  Free hot dogs, chips, and drinks for everyone. For more information, visit trinityjournal.com/calendar/sport/event_691c2422-b481-11ed-bd66-c73a9d26ca40.html

Shelter Cove
According to Jake Mitchell of Sea Hawk Sport Fishing, the weather was good enough last week to target halibut. He said, “We were able to make it up to Gorda twice last week, but the fishing wasn’t great. Over the two days, we had a total of ten anglers and we only managed to land seven fish to 44 pounds. We were able to boat limits of Dungeness crabs both days.”

Brookings rockfish update
“Halibut started off slow out of Brookings, in part because of rough weather,” said Andy Martin of Brookings Fishing Charters. “Southerly winds have limited the window to get offshore. Lingcod and rockfish have been good on calm weather days. Anchovies, and pelicans, have arrived off of Brookings. Calm weather returns this week.”

Lower Rogue
The spring king salmon run on the lower Rogue continues to be one to remember, according to Martin. “Some guides are limiting their customers before 10 a.m. Shore anglers are also catching fish plunking Spin N Glos and Brads baits. Peak season continues through May.”

Kenny Priest operates Fishing the North Coast, a fishing guide service out of Humboldt specializing in salmon and steelhead. Find it on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and fishingthenorthcoast.com. For up-to-date fishing reports and North Coast river information, email kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com