The Fish Sniffer

As usual, the Bureau of Reclamation has reduced releases on the American River just prior to the fall chinook salmon run.

The agency cut flows from 2,250 cfs to 2,000 cfs on August 31. Russ Yaworsky, Bureau spokesman, said the flows were reduced because of “reduced Delta requirements.”

Until the salmon run begins arriving in September, anglers can expect the most promising action for striped bass. However, the fishing isn’t all that good, as evidenced by the fact that experienced angler Bud Pratt of Sacramento Pro Tackle hasn’t been even trying for them lately.

“Some guys are reporting hooking a few stripers from 4 to 6 pounds while fishing jumbo minnows in the lower American below the Highway 160 Bridge,” said Dennis Phanner of Sacramento Pro Tackle. “I haven’t heard of any salmon caught on the American lately except for the few being hooked by shore anglers below Nimbus Dam. Boaters working the dredger holes haven’t reported catching any salmon.”