The Smith has been the bright spot on the coast, and has given up some nice steelhead – even with the high water. It hasn’t been under 11-feet since last Friday, but that hasn’t slowed the fishing. A few boats have drifted in the high water, but the majority of boats are plunking on the anchor. Boats are getting a few opportunities, and landing a couple each day. With very little rain on the way, the river should drop into perfect drifting shape by Friday. Look for excellent conditions through the weekend.

Kenny Priest operates Fishing the North Coast, a fishing guide service out of Humboldt specializing in salmon and steelhead. Find it on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and www.fishingthenorthcoast.com. For up-to-date fishing reports and North Coast river information, email kenny@fishingthenorthcoast.com.