SF American

The South Fork of the American river is another under fished river in northern California. It is the most popular river for the summer time rafters who come from the bay area and L.A. to play in the "wild" outdoors. This river is home to a great population of Rainbow trout and a small population of fisherman. This is a great introductory into white water activities. The river is tame in most sections with a few class III and two class IV rapids. The flows are dependent on the PG&E power stations, so the flows are very unpredictable. The scenery is nice and the float down river is enjoyable. The fishing can be amazing at times and good at others.

The Six mile float from Chili Bar Bridge to Coloma is a very productive run. This section holds a large number of Rainbow trout in it's pocket water and short riffles. This section is usually best fished with a nymph and an indicator.

The lower 15 mile section of the South Fork has excellent wild trout fishing. The runs are fast and deep with some riffles and pocket water mixed in the middle. The warmer water temps helps the hatches come off day in and day out. It is a very long float and has some exciting rapid between Coloma and Folsom lake.