The main Eel is in great shape, running at 3,920 cfs

Eel River - Fortuna, CA

by Kenny Priest
3-19-2026
Website

The main Eel is in great shape, running at 3,920 cfs at Scotia as of Thursday. Boat pressure has been fairly light, and boats are getting a chance at a few fish each day. There’s still a few fresh ones coming, but most fish landed have been downers. The main stem Eel, from its mouth to the South Fork, is open to fishing all year. From April 1 through Sept. 30, only artificial lures with barbless hooks may be used.

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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Nor Cal Fish Reports Reports

for Thursday, March 12th

Mad River: As of Thursday, the Mad has dipped under 8 feet and still has some color
Eel River: Conditions should be excellent starting this weekend and through next week
Eel River - South Fork: Conditions are still good on the lower South Fork
Van Duzen River: The Van Duzen is down below 200 cfs as of Thursday and is low and clear
Smith River: The Smith is low and clear, sitting just above 7 feet at the Jed Smith gauge
Chetco River: Steelhead fishing has slowed on the Chetco