Recent rains brought some relief to our area last week, and helped spawning steelhead trout in our local creeks and streams. Flows remain very low on the coastal streams and steelhead fishing remains closed in Santa Cruz, San Mateo and Monterey Counties. Northern California Rivers are also subject to low flow restrictions, but most of them were open last week, and reports indicate the steelhead fishing was very good.

Micah Woolworth, owner and operator of Rivers Edge Fishing Guide Adventures in Arcata CA is grateful for the recent rainstorms that brought much-needed flow to the north Coast Rivers. Surprisingly, even with the drought conditions this year, Woolworth says steelhead fishing has been outstanding in his area. "This year the numbers and size are baffling in all the rivers I have fished. The fish are coming in all colors and sizes! The past week has and will have an everlasting effect in my memory for one of the most legendary fishing years I've experienced. I can't tell you the last time the grade of fish has been so large. Fishing hard on the local rivers has been very productive! We have had a great average in size and numbers. My biggest fish was in the mid to high teens! For all the steelhead junkies out there... It is game on!"

With more rain forecast for Northern California this weekend, hopes are high for fishing next week. Anglers have found great steelhead action on the Smith, Mad and Eel Rivers lately, and all those streams should be in shape this weekend or during the following week. Frustrated steelheaders from the Central Coast should seriously consider a quick trip up north to scratch the itch.

On the local salt scene, the story remains consistent with crabs and 'dabs taking the front seat. While Dungeness crab fishing is slower than at the start of the season, private boaters and charter operations alike are still reporting limits. Chris' Sportfishing out of Monterey took 15 anglers on the Checkmate Thursday, and came home with Dungeness limits for all. The sanddab fishing is very productive. Chris' does not even bother to count anymore, merely reporting "lots of sanddabs" for Thursday's outing.

And, finally, let's not forget surfcasting for perch. The season is in full swing now, and most beaches south of Capitola have decent structure, perfect for feeding perch. We have one more week to sign up for the Annual Sand Crab Classic Perch Derby, available at www.lgfrs.net.

At times it is tough to find a beach with water clear of seagrass and kelp, but keep heading south and conditions get better. The beaches south of Moss landing are the best bet for big barred surfperch this week. Be forewarned, though. We are expecting a very big ocean swell in the next few days, likely peaking on Tuesday at 10-12 feet. Remember to be safe while having fun, watch out for the sneaker sets and live to fish another day.

?? Bushnell can also be heard Friday mornings at 6:45 on KSCO radio 1080 AM.?? Send your photos, comments or questions to scruzfishing@yahoo.com.