Angler Resources
ANgler Resources story map
For current fishing rules and regulations please visit the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website and call the Low-Flow Closure Hotline at 707-944-5533 before heading out on the water.
Know your salmon species to avoid catching endangered coho
Coho salmon and steelhead primarily spawn in tributaries, smaller creeks that flow into the river, rather than the mainstem of the Russian River. During low rainfall years and early in the season, it is more important than ever to be conscious of the impact of angling on these protected fish.
When there is just enough rain to allow adult fish to enter the river, but not enough water to allow access to their spawning grounds, fish may be forced to hold in the river for weeks, or even months, until the tributaries become open to adult passage.
Concerned anglers will want to know that endangered coho are particularly vulnerable during periods of low flow during their spawning season. Anglers could easily catch one without intending to and, potentially, face penalties associated with harming them. Knowing how to identify coho salmon, steelhead, and Chinook is a critical skill for anyone fishing in the Russian River.
Before you head out to fish, take a moment to review our Russian River salmonid identification guide. If you are not completely confident in the identification of a fish, handle it with great care and release immediately.
Any time you catch a fish that looks like a salmon or steelhead:
- Land the fish as quickly as possible
- Have a rubber net ready for safe landing
- Immediately check for an adipose fin. It will be intact on coho, wild steelhead, and Chinook. In order to avoid injuring or killing these protected fish:
- Keep the fish in the water at all times – even if taking photos
- Carefully remove your barbless hook and release the fish as quickly as possible
Remember that targeting, harassing, or harming an endangered species is subject to prosecution under the law.
For more information on releasing fish in the best way possible, visit www.keepemwet.org
Stay informed on low flow closures by calling the California Fish and Wildlife hotline at 707-944-5533 before heading out to the water.
Additional angler resources, including links to flow guages, regulations can be found here.
Please fish responsibly to help support recovery of our Russian River salmon!
