Nor Cal Fish Report
Smith River Fish Report for 12-18-2025


The Smith jumped to over 21 feet Wednesday, but has since dropped down to a fishable height

Smith River - Smith River, CA (Del Norte County)

The Smith jumped to over 21 feet Wednesday, but has since dropped down to a fishable height

by Kenny Priest
12-18-2025
Website

The Smith jumped to over 21 feet Wednesday, but has since dropped down to a fishable height. As of Thursday afternoon, it was just above 10 feet, perfect for drifting. However, more rain is predicted for Friday, which could push flows to high to drift. The weekend looks plenty fishable, as does next week. It’s forecast to remain in the 10-12-foot range all next week, and will likely be the only game in town. Should be some steelhead making their way in.


Find "Fishing the North Coast" on Facebook and fishingthenorthcoast.com for up-to-date fishing reports and North Coast river information. Questions, comments and photos can be emailed to kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com.


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More Reports

Nor Cal Fish Reports Reports
for Thursday, December 18th

Mad River: The Mad is high and off color, sitting at just over 9 feet on Thursday
Eel River: After reaching 48,000 cfs Wednesday night, the man Eel was on the drop Thursday
Eel River - South Fork: The South Fork Eel is big and muddy, and temporarily on the drop
Van Duzen River: The Van Duzen peaked at over 8,700 cfs Wednesday morning, but has dropped quickly

Nor Cal Fish Reports Reports
for Thursday, December 11th

Mad River: The Mad remains closed, but changes are on the way
Eel River: The main Eel remains open, but is now under 700 cfs as of Thursday
Eel River - South Fork: The South Fork Eel remains closed to fishing, but some much-needed water is on the way
Van Duzen River: The Van Duzen is currently closed due to low flows, but that will soon change
Smith River: The Smith remains open as of Thursday, but is low and clear with very little fishing pressure
Chetco River: Salmon fishing has been slow on the Chetco, Elk and Sixes with prolonged low water reports