American River Facts
Written By: Dan Bacher, January 29, 2013
Species:
Location: American River - Lower, American River- Middle Fork, American River- North Fork, American River- South Fork,
Location: The 23 miles of the American River from Nimbus Dam to its junction to the mouth are located in the heart of the Sacramento metropolitan area. The entire river is accessible to bank anglers and boaters, since it is located in the beautiful American River Parkway. The parkway is located in a protected greenbelt that cuts Sacramento County in half. It features a paved bicycle and running trail, many rest areas and access from most neighborhoods adjacent to the river parkway.
Fishing Season: The river above the SMUD powerline to the Hazel Avenue Bridge is closed to all fishing from November 1 through December 31. Review the California Fresh Water Sport Fishing Regulations Booklet for bag and possession limits, hook restrictions and additional restrictions.
Day Use: The entrance fee for vehicles under 22 feet in length is $5.00 except on summer holiday weekends when the fee is $8.00. The fee for trailer or vehicle 22 or more feet in length is $10.00 except for only holiday weekends when the fee is $13.00. The small watercraft fee is $8.00 except for summer holiday weekends when the fee is $11.00.
Annual Fees: Vehicle (private or commercial - $50.00
Boat and trailer plus vehicle pass - $100.00.
Boat launching: Concrete boat ramps are available at Discovery Park, Howe Avenue and Watt Avenue. Unimproved gravel launching is available at Gristmill, Ancil Hoffman, Rossmoor and other areas on the river.
Park information: http://www.sacparks.net, Sacramento County Department of Regional Parks, Recreation and Open Space Administration, 3711 Branch Center Rod, Sacramento, CA. 95827. For General Parks, Golf and Rangers Information, call (916) 875-6961.
Fishing information: Guides available for salmon, steelhead and shad trips on the American include Rick Torres, fishing guide 9916-425-7116 or 530-367-2637; Russell Strickland of Hog On Drift Boat Guide Service (707) 477-5174, Jerry Lampkin of T.N.G. Motor Sports Guide Service 530-320-099, and Dave Mierkey of Rip Their Lips Off Guide Service 1-888-924-5477. Information on the American River is available at Fisherman's Warehouse (916) 362-1200, Broadway Bait Rod & Gun (916) 448-6338, and Sacramento Pro Tackle (916) 925-0529.
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