Gualala

Newbie here. Is there a good spot to take the kids fishing in Gualala? Going there in November and was looking to maybe hit up the small river by the campgrounds. We won't have our kayaks unfortunately.
I heard something about steelhead running up there, and if that's the case what kind of gear should I bring?
Thank you!

The river is subject to “low flow” closures for fishing. If we don’t get any rain the river won’t be open to fishing.

https://wildlife.ca.gov/News/emergency-regulations-allow-cdfw-to-extend-angling-restrictions-in-coastal-waters-experiencing-prolonged-low-flow-conditions-from-drought

Also barbless would be required, and there may be bait restrictions as well.

Good points!

Also, check which species allow retention in that specific location.  I haven’t fished that in many years, but I kinda recall some limitations.

Are you staying in the campground?  I went with a big group at the beginning of the summer this year, and it was a blast.  Beautiful place.  If you are into Disc Golf, there is a pretty good course just up the river road from the camp ground. 

Good luck with the fishing!

The Gualala River, until some serious rains flood it clean, also has a toxic blue-green algae problem. I wouldn’t put kids in a boat/kayak there. Anchor Bay Campground has beach access and easy launch if you come down the ramp to the sand and go right to the far end (Chicken Cove). You do have to pay day use fees and for putting in a boat, but if you camp there it’s included, I believe. It’s been flatter than a pancake here for a few days, and looks to continue. I’ve seen spearfishing guys come in with some really large vermillions and a few nice lings lately.