American River Non-Yak 10/08: Shhhhhh- The Salmon Run is On!

Me and the Pops headed out to the usual spot.  At the water at 6:45, he hooked up by 7:15.  One 15 pounder or so.  Good times, the run has finally started.  Fish were rolling, and all the boat guys out there had nothing- HA!  This time, we are making the report, not following it.  Get down there guys for a good time and some nice fish.

Woo,Hoo!!! 

Nice report and a good looking fish.  Glad to hear you guys scored one.

What's the drill on how to catch and take one of those bad boys home?

Thanks.

We use Meps #5 spinners (spoons) to get them.   Cast as far out and up steam as you can, slow retrieve back (but keep it off the bottom).  Fight is about 10 minutes for this size, longer for bigger fish.  Wear them out, bring them in, hoist them out by the gills and string them up.  They are strong so you have to be careful.  Thats it, timing is eveything, the technique is easy.

Awsome catch good way to start the season


SO....... when are we making the trip with the yaks


Ive never tried fishing for them in the rivers but I would definatelybe willing to give it a try

Current was VERY manageable- all you would need would be a heavier anchor (5 lbs or more I guess).  Launch at Howe Ave.  is a quick paddle to the spot and wouldn't be too hard of a paddle back I would think.  Or-  there is a spot that you can launch right where we fish, no paddling required.  I would be down for next Sunday- anyone else.  Ill post in the Hookup section.

Are you fishing by 'Log Hole'???

Gah, well I'll give it up:  It's the University foot bridge off of Howe Ave.  right behind Sac State.  My dad calls it the "Minnow Hole"  but I have never heard "Log Hole"

I just heard about this today from another local who lives up that way. Their comming up with 1 to 2 fish a day,from the Shore

Also went by the Sac/ American Mouth, 3 dozen boats not doing any good @ all

Thank You for Confirming a rumor.............Lets Go!!!.........Danglin

We use Meps #5 spinners (spoons) to get them.   Cast as far out and up steam as you can, slow retrieve back (but keep it off the bottom).  Fight is about 10 minutes for this size, longer for bigger fish.  Wear them out, bring them in, hoist them out by the gills and string them up.  They are strong so you have to be careful.  Thats it, timing is eveything, the technique is easy.

What Color?

Didn't know that area on the AR was called the Minnow Hole.  

The "Minnow Hole" I'm familiar with is on the Sac river on the bend between the Sacramento Yacht club and Garcia bend.

I guess it doesn't matter what it's called, you caught a nice fish.

Maybe that's what he meant Al, I'm a freakin Newb to the Salmon anyways.  As far as the lures, straight silver with silver spoons- nothing fancy.

Great report Ryan. You did good.

Did you park and fish on the Campus Commons side(opposite side of river from the college)?

We parked on the Campus Commons side, then crossed the foot bridge to the Sac State side.  The foliage growth there is very thick and space on the bank is at a premium, but that's where we always go- there doesnt seem to be much "bank" on the other side.

Since we did not have the necessary tools at the time of posting here are the stats on the buck: 16 LBS and 32"  He made a couple of great runs, about 30yds at a time.  I was using a vintage Fenwick Steelhead Rod with 8 lb test.  I am definitely anxious about getting out there in the YAK, however The bank is a great way to get the Salmon, I think the Yak will be more useful in going after the Steelhead further upstream.