To determine if you have been awarded a Smith River permit, you will need to navigate to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website. You can search for your name or application number to see if you are one of the permit recipients for the upcoming season.
You may also check your email inbox for a notification from the DFW, if you submitted your application via email. If you find you were awarded a permit, you will need to pay for your permit and provide proof of purchase before you can use it.
You can complete this step by visiting the DFW website and submitting payment. Please make sure to keep your emailed receipt of the payment as it will be required when you check-in at Smith River commencement points.
Can you float the Smith River without a permit?
No, you cannot float the Smith River without a permit. The Smith River is controlled by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC). According to state law, people must obtain a permit to access the river.
These very desirable permits are limited and difficult to obtain, due in part to the popularity of the river and its unique scenery. It is required to obtain one of these permits either at the Smith River State Park headquarters or from the state’s DNRC office.
Floating on the Smith River without a permit is illegal and carries hefty fines.
When can I fish the Smith River?
The Smith River is open for fishing year round, however some seasons and dates may vary depending on the species of fish you plan to target. The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Department determines the fishing regulations and have set specific dates for open and closed fishing seasons.
It is important to reference their website or check with a local game warden to be sure that the season and fishing rules are being followed. Generally, the Smith River is open to fishing from March through October.
During this time, anglers may target a variety of species including trout, whitefish, catfish, and bass. During the winter months, typically November to February, the Smith River is typically closed to general fishing with the exception of a few winter runs of whitefish.
Can you keep steelhead on the Smith River?
Yes, steelhead can be kept on the Smith River. Steelhead fishing on the Smith River is managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). The CDFW regulates season and catch limits for steelhead on the Smith River.
The fishing season typically starts in October and ends in late April or early May. During the fishing season, anglers can keep up to two steelhead as long as they meet size restrictions. Steelhead must be at least 20 inches in length to be kept and catch limits are based on the river.
Anglers are encouraged to check the current fishing regulations for exact dates and other limitations.
What you need for river floating?
For river floating, the most important thing you need is a raft. You may also want to consider bringing other safety equipment such as life jackets, a rescue rope, and a waterproof cell phone case. A first aid kit is also essential in case of any potential accidents.
Additionally, you should have some type of waterproof storage container for your food and clothing, as well as a change of clothes (just in case) in case you end up getting wet. Sunscreen and insect repellent should also be brought, as well as a swimsuit, hat, and water shoes.
Finally, for river floating, you should always have a buddy with you so you can look out for each other.
Are Smith River permits transferable?
No, Smith River permits are not transferable. All Smith River permits must be obtained and used by the person who applied for the permit. Permits are not transferable or refundable. If an individual is unable to use their permit they must cancel the reservation prior to their trip and apply to save their spot for the following year.
The Smith River is managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and they do not allow transfers of permits/reservations. The Smith River is immediately downstream of the Portal Forebay Reservoir, and is an important water supply for Northwest California.
This is why transfers are not allowed; the Department of Fish and Wildlife wants to ensure the Smith River and its resources are not overused.
Where is Smith River Montana?
Smith River Montana is located in the south-western corner of the state, along the Montana-Idaho border. It is about 46 miles south of Helena and about 70 miles north of Missoula. Smith River Montana is situated in the rugged Rocky Mountain foothills, with numerous streams and rivers in the area.
The Lewis and Clark National Forest surrounds the area and is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, boating, camping, and hiking. The Smith River is the largest river in Montana, and runs through the center of the state.
It flows through the Big Belt Mountains and continues on to the Missouri River. Smith River Montana offers great views of the surrounding mountains and is also home to many scenic and interesting places, such as the Smith River State Park, the Smith River Falls, and Monument Rock.
Is Smith River the cleanest river in the US?
Due to varying environmental concerns, it is not possible to definitively answer the question of which river in the US is the cleanest. However, many consider Smith River, located in Del Norte County, Northern California to be one of the cleanest rivers in the US.
It is fed predominantly by spring runoff rather than agricultural, industrial, or urban sources. It is home to many fish, including coho and chinook salmon, steelhead trout, and coastal cutthroat trout.
The Smith River is also the only major river in California that still has on-going wild runs, making it a safe and relatively clean place for fishing and rafting. In addition, organized stream clean-up events and restoration efforts that have been conducted by volunteers and Trout Unlimited have helped maintain the water quality of the Smith River.
As a result, Smith River is one of the few rivers in California that remains largely unchanged and is widely seen as one of the cleanest in the US.
How far is Smith River from Eureka?
The distance between Smith River and Eureka is approximately 79 miles. Driving from Smith River to Eureka by car typically takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes depending on traffic. Smith River is located on the far north end of California’s North Coast, along the Oregon border, in Del Norte County.
The town is located about 12 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean, near the mouth of the Smith River. Eureka is the largest coastal city between San Francisco and Portland, Oregon and is located in Humboldt County, almost directly south of Smith River.
How much does it cost to float the Smith River?
The cost to float the Smith River depends on several factors, such as the length of the raft trip, the size of the raft, and the type of permits and insurance needed. The cost of an overnight trip, for example, can range from around $500 to $1,500 or more per person, depending on the type of equipment, permits, and insurance needed.
If your goal is a day trip, the cost can range from $100 to $350 or more per person, depending on the above mentioned factors. It’s also important to remember that there may be additional costs associated with outfitters, such as overnight camping fees, food, and other items.
If you’re planning a multi-day raft trip, make sure to factor in the total cost of the trip and the associated expenses.
Is the Smith River open for fishing?
Yes, the Smith River is open for fishing year-round. The river is known for its rich variety of fish including chinook salmon, steelhead, coho salmon, and brown trout. Depending on the time of year you can also find sea-run cutthroat trout, Pacific lamprey, and Chum salmon.
Such as Rainbow Bend, Quarrier Point, Oregon Hole, Middle Creek, and Soap Creek. All of these stretches provide excellent opportunities to catch salmon, steelhead, and other game fish. Be sure to follow all of the restrictions and regulations when fishing the Smith River, including catch limits and seasons.
Additionally, always practice responsible fishing etiquette, such as not over-harvesting and leaving the area as you found it.