Main Fork Eel River - Dos Rios - California
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Main Fork Eel River – Dos Rios - Water Flow Chart
Main Fork Eel River – Dos Rios - Weather report & radar
Main Fork Eel River – Dos Rios - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midges | Dusk to Dawn | 18-22 | Zebra Midge |
| February | Midges | Dusk to Dawn | 18-22 | Zebra Midge |
| March | Blue winged Olives | Late Morning to Afternoon | 18-20 | Pheasant Tail Nymph |
| April | Caddisflies | Afternoon to Dusk | 14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis |
| Blue winged Olives | Late Morning to Afternoon | 18-20 | Pheasant Tail Nymph | |
| May | Caddisflies | Afternoon to Dusk | 14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis |
| Stoneflies | Morning to Afternoon | 8-12 | Golden Stonefly Nymph | |
| June | Stoneflies | Morning to Afternoon | 8-12 | Golden Stonefly Nymph |
| Terrestrials | All Day | 10-14 | Ant, Beetle, and Hopper patterns | |
| July | Terrestrials | All Day | 10-14 | Ant, Beetle, and Hopper patterns |
| August | Terrestrials | All Day | 10-14 | Ant, Beetle, and Hopper patterns |
| September | Terrestrials | All Day | 10-14 | Ant, Beetle, and Hopper patterns |
| October | Midges | Dusk to Dawn | 18-22 | Zebra Midge |
| November | Midges | Dusk to Dawn | 18-22 | Zebra Midge |
| December | Midges | Dusk to Dawn | 18-22 | Zebra Midge |
Main Fork Eel River – Dos Rios Access Points
The Main Fork Eel River – Dos Rios is an illustrious fisherman’s haven known for its abundance of steelhead trout, and other species. Here are the best access points:
- North of Leggett: This can be your initial entry point. It’s a widespread convergence point for local anglers.
- Island Mountain: Popular for its favorable water depth, which makes it an ideal breeding ground for fishes.
- South Fork Eel Wilderness: Accessible from the south. Known for its pure, undisturbed aquatic habitats.
- Dos Rios: As it’s at the river’s confluence with the Middle Fork, it’s a hotspot for fishes during spawning season.
- East Branch South Fork Eel River: This stretch is next to the Heartwood Institute, known for reliable fish catches.
- Piercy: Furthest south, provides great fishing opportunities near Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area.
Main Fork Eel River – Dos Rios Fishing Spots
For fly fishing enthusiasts, the Main Fork Eel River – Dos Rios offers a plethora of fantastic spots teeming with diverse aquatic life. Some of the best locations include:
- Potter Valley: Known for its numerous deep pools home to Steelhead and Salmon, it’s a prime location.
- Willits: Its slower flow is ideal for fly fishing beginners and heavy with Shad and Steelhead.
- Mendocino National Forest Section: It’s a pristine and quiet setting with a rich population of Trout.
- The Confluence: Where Middle Eel River and Black Butte River meet, it’s great for Trophy Steelhead.
- RV Park in Dos Rios: Offers easy access for day trips and a variety of species like trout, bass, and salmon.
Please remember to respect local fishing regulations and practices to ensure the sustainability of these incredible fishing spots.
Main Fork Eel River – Dos Rios Local Fish Species
- Pacific Salmon: One of the most targeted species in the Eel River.
- Steelhead Trout: Well known for its strength and fight, a preferred game for fly fishers on the river.
- Brown Trout: Known for their size in the river, they are a common target for avid fishers.
- Rainbow Trout: These fish provide a great sporting challenge and are famous for their vibrant colors.
- Largemouth Bass: A species that is loved for its fight.
- Smallmouth Bass: While smaller in size, these fish are popular for their aggressive fights.
- Chinook Salmon: Also known as King Salmon, they are the largest of the pacific salmon species present in the river.
- Coho Salmon: Known for their struggle, these species offer a great challenge to anglers.
About the Main Fork Eel River – Dos Rios
Dive into the intriguing history and natural beauty of the Main Fork Eel River, also known as Dos Rios. Named by early Spanish explorers, Dos Rios translates to “two rivers”, due to the convergence of the Middle Fork and North Fork Eel River at this location.
Esteemed for its aquatic diversity, including runs of salmon and trout, the river offers a haven for anglers and nature lovers alike. The river’s clean, cold water also provides critical habitat for a variety of animals.
- 1849 – The rapid population expansion during the California Gold Rush brought people into Eel River region.
- Late 19th Century – The river became an invaluable transportation route for log-drive operations, aiding the thriving timber industry.
- 1981 – Eel River was designated a Wild and Scenic River for its free-flowing condition and unique values. This protects the river from major alterations.
Today, the Main Fork Eel River – Dos Rios continues to enchant with its breathtaking scenery and rich history.
Community Contributions
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