Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Main Fork Eel River - Dos Rios - California

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

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

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best 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.

Best 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.

Local Fish

  • 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 River

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.

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