The California Department of Fish and Game (DF&G) recently announced that the sport fishing season on the Smith River's main stem will close on April 30.
The 2007 California Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations booklet incorrectly listed the closing date as March 31 on the main stem Smith River from the mouth to the confluence of the Middle and South forks.
At the bottom of page 50 of the fishing regulations book, under Section (180) (A), the regulation incorrectly states that the season closes a month early.
It should state that the season runs annually from the fourth Saturday in May through April 30.
The regulation goes on to state, "Only artificial lures with barbless hooks may be used from the fourth Saturday in May through Aug. 31."
Bag limits for sport anglers along the Smith River remain one wild trout or wild Steelhead more than 16 inches in total length, and two cutthroat trout, minimum size of 10 inches in total length, or one hatchery trout or one hatchery Steelhead (no size limit) and one king salmon, also known as Chinook salmon (no size limit).
Anglers are reminded that hatchery trout and Steelhead are distinguished from wild fish by an adipose fin clip (further information is provided on page 22 of the fishing booklet). DFG reminds anglers that they may keep only five wild trout or wild Steelhead over 16 inches total length per year.
In 2005, the California Fish and Game Commission modified the regulations for the main stem Smith River from the mouth to the confluence of the Middle and South forks to provide anglers an additional month of Steelhead fishing.
For information, call Michelle Gilroy, DF&G District Watershed Biologist, at (707) 441 5791.