Mad River flows

[lairdbaird]

Hello,
Was thinking of heading north this weekend and fishing the Mad among other rivers in the Humboldt area. Hoping somebody could provide some insight into flows on the Mad; saw it was running at 1600, and wondering if that's fishable for wading/clarity as I've never fished the Mad before.
Thanks

[JasonB]

Flows and clarity should be fine (mostly a hunch on the clarity), but if you've not fished the Mad come prepared with low expectations in terms of quality experience. There can be a ton of fish at times that get clogged up as they get closer to the hatchery, but there can be what appears to be even more anglers. Ethics and etiquette can be pretty low. Obviously I've fished it a few times to form such opinions, so it's not all bad al the time. Often though, I've taken a quick glance and decided to keep driving. I'm thinking most streams up there could be very fishable right now.
Good luck,
JB

[Bill Kiene semi-retired]

The Mad River, like the Russian River, both take a while to clear up after a big rain.

Normally I would recommend calling the Eureka Fly Shop and ask Mike how the Mad looks but Mike retired.


Jason Hartwick is living up there now guiding the north coast for winter Steelhead swinging flies with two handed fly rods.

http://steelheadonthespey.com/

https://steelheadonthespey.wordpress.com/

https://www.facebook.com/Steelhead-on-the-Spey-Guide-Service-70017701713/

[Humboldt Coastie]

http://www.cnrfc.noaa.gov/graphicalRVF.php?id=ARCC1

Should be perfect by Monday!

I Use to fish that stream weekly. Don't be discouraged by the crowd at the hatchery most of the wild fish keep heading up and don't stop in front of the hatchery gate. As Jason pointed out ethics are pretty low in front of the hatchery gate but its almost better that all the lining and snagging is concentrated to one area and effects mostly the hatchery fish. Mad river is extremely poplular among locals but ~ 95% of people fish below the hatchery. At 1000 cfs you can safely cross the river in spots below the hatchery. Once you're on the other side find the Green Diamond Rd. (logging Rd) that parallels the river, it will lead you to some good riffles upstream. You use to be able to drive to the river on the East side below the hatchery but that might require a Green Diamond Key these days. I feel comfortable posting about the Mad because its no secret and heavily impacted already.

Even If you don't cross the river, @ 1600 cfs the river is very fishable and most likely low turbidity (if the weather holds.) Call mad river tackle in Arcata if you are questioning the turbidity. They can give you a good idea of the current conditions.

[lairdbaird]

Thanks so much for the help guys, i really appreciate it. Will give it a shot this weekend.