Russian River....
Jeff,.... I agree with the advice given by others and would add some additional info.
Since you mentioned the Eel, I'm assuming you know that river. The lower Russian is influenced by tidewater and like the lower Eel River is an attractor/reaction bite. The lower Russian is a comparable fishery. It has places/holes where access is available and known holding areas. Many of those are shown on maps. Same flies work in tidewaters of both rivers. The mouth of the Russian is situated in such a way that it frequently closes after storms. When that happens, the bite shuts down. Good place to start on the Russian is at Cassini's Ranch (Austin Creek Riffle and Browns Pool). Other than that, look for the crowds. Unless the mouth is closed, the fish will be around where they are fishing. Using a pram helps from Browns Pool downstream to the legal limit (Hwy 1 bridge??). After the locals remove their summer dams, you can fish upstream, as well.
One thing about that river that hasn't been mentioned is that once the Russian River receives a medium rain, it muddies up and stays muddy for a lengthy period; plus, it reaches flood stages quickly.
Good luck and be sure to take some photo's....
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