American River fishing newbe (Folsom: apartment, buy, live)

[califas31]

I just moved in to an apartment right across the street from the Howe Avenue American River Access. How shoulkd I rig up my rod. What lb test, hook size, bait? I'm a good ocean and lake fisherman, but not a good river one. Do you lose alot of tackle from snagging? How far out should I throw my line?
Thanks

[Sactoslacker]

Howdy!
It really depends on what your going after- try here first:The Fish Sniffer Newspaper Online Forums
Tons of great info on what's running, types of rigs and bait.

I usually fish the American with artificial bait, but that's just me.
The Shad run should be turning on soon....I went out last Sunday and got skunked- I was on the north side of the American across from Howe.

But back to your question,Shad fishing can be very cheap. You'll need some weighted jigheads on about 30" long or so leader with a sliding sinker.I've been using 8lb test- only because of the currents- you could get away with an ultralite set up, but it's your choice.

There's also Stripers out there-I'd use a min. of 10lb test and I've had luck with artificial and live bait. We would buy sardines and cut them into sections and cast as far as we could, let it settle and wait......

Try going to the Fisherman's Warehouse on Folsom Blvd., east of Watt Ave.-they may be able to direct you on what's running and how to catch 'em.

Good Luck