Smith salmon

Just got back from the Smith estuary, where I spent 4 days. On the fourth day, today, it became cloudy and still. Using a type 3 head on my 10 wgt, counting down to about a 15 count on a quick out-go tide, I hook a fish! It plays me for 20 minutes before the hook pulled free. I never see the beast. This was in 11 or 12 feet of water and it towed me a good 100 yards.
I was in my pram but a kayak would work also. Today I saw at least 2 chrome fish kept by flyfishers, both pushing 30lbs. Flies caught fish every day, monday was exceptional for some. Still, not like it should be. Sorta slow, considering the river.
4 days of double-hauling=my wrist hurts. I'm also a better caster than I was 4 days ago. I also learned lots of little things from other guys.
Around 5 PM in Crescent City it started raining hard. If the low flow closure is called off...

Thanks for the report - I wish I lived closer to the Smith - what an awesome river!   

Thanks for the report.

could you tell us  how the bank fishing went.

Alex

With regards to how the bankies did, last friday they pulled upwards of 40 fish out of the hole. Saturday I saw at least 25 pulled out by the bankies, sunday was slower. On the those days the flyfishermen didn't do well. Fish and game was out in force keeping tabs on snagged fish. F/G confiscated rods, reels, backpacks and fish.
I'm headed up this noon.

sound promissing.  Let us know how you do!

Might head back up next weekend if the rain brings more fish in the river.

SOudns liek its 'on'. too bad a logn road trip isn't in the cards for me right now. Good luck and, it probably doesn't need to be said but, let us know how you do.

I'm back from Baja and on my way to the Smith also this morning. I'm bringing a mini-x and a whitewater kayak. I figure I'll double my chances for some fun. The Smith is just a mountain range away from my homebase HQ. You all should give a call in to Humboats if your up here to fish. I can always find accomodations

Will post my Baja trip report tonight.