King salmon on the Smith River - Nothern Califonia Coast - video - October 2025

[Bill Kiene semi-retired]

Most who will be affected by this drone video are very old now.

This is a significant part of the fly fishing history, catching large King salmon on a fly from little prams.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uyyYwuse7U


Here is a second video:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbZaP2mQcJg

[Langenbeck]

Here is a 26 pound fly caught Chinook from the Smith River in 2012. Taken on a Orange Comet.

[Bill Kiene semi-retired]

Nice one Gordon.


I wonder if they are in the lower Eel River now?

[Bob G]

Hey Billy - In 1978 I was an instructor at the last Fenwick Fly Fishing School held on the Smith River. I traveled up with Walt Bennett, and the School was directed by Frank and Gladys Gray. The Grays had just retired as Directors of Fenwick's Montana Fly Fishing Schools. And at the time I wasn't aware that I would be Director of the Montana Schools the following year (1979). Just wonderful people and such a beautiful River setting. Thanks for the memories! Bob

[Bill Kiene semi-retired]

Yes, Bobby G,

We were all very fortunate to have met some wonderful people in our lives.

In the 1970s, around my little fly shop, we had a group of really great guys to fish with.