Nor Cal Fish Report
Eel River Fish Report for 4-17-2026


The main stem Eel is dropping back into shape

Eel River - Fortuna, CA

The main stem Eel is dropping back into shape

by Kenny Priest
4-17-2026
Website

The main stem Eel is dropping back into shape. As of Thursday, flows were at 3,500 cfs at Scotia and it should be plenty fishable by the weekend. Another rise is predicted for early next week following the rain Sunday. It’s predicted to reach roughly 10,000 cfs. The main stem Eel to the South Fork is open all year. Only artificial lures with barbless hooks may be used from April 1 through Sept. 30.


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 Friday, April 10th

Eel River: The main stem is clearing as it was down to 1,600 cfs at Scotia as of Thursday
Smith River: Following late last week’s rain, there were some downers to be had
Rogue River- Lower: Salmon fishing is slow on the Rogue, with low water conditions

Nor Cal Fish Reports Reports
for Thursday, April 2nd

Eel River: The main stem Eel is rising slightly following Tuesday’s rain event
Smith River: Nearly three inches of rain fell within the Smith watershed Wednesday
Chetco River: The Chetco is now closed for the season and reopens in mid-May