Russian River Preserve
Kayaking, tubing and fishing are great at Russian River Preserve!
By Meredith Walker

Can you picture yourself just leaning back in your kayak or inner tube and letting the river’s current carry you gently through some of the most beautiful country around?  Sound good?  You can put yourself, your family and your friends in this picture at the Russian River Preserve.  The Preserve is situated right on the Russian River which is a popular place for kayaking, canoeing, rafting, fishing and swimming.

You can bring your own canoe, kayak or tube, or rent one from the Preserve for about $10-$20 (depending on how long you want to use it) and launch it right at the Preserve.  Or, you can head over to one of the local outfitters for special river tours.  The closest outfitter is about 12 miles away and prices start around $40 per person depending on which tour you decide to take.

Are you ready to spend the day on the river?  Pack a picnic lunch, take plenty of drinking water, spread on the sun protection, wear your swimming suit, strap on a life jacket and wear waterproof shoes to protect your feet.  It’s also a good idea to take along a cell phone in case you need to call for help or want to take pictures.  As you drift down the river you’ll find swimming holes and rope swings along the bank.  Take some time to enjoy both.   You’ll also come across a number of sand islands in the river that make great stops for picnicking.  Remember to take all your trash with you and dump it in designated waste cans when you return from your adventure.

There is a variety of wildlife along the river.  Watch for different birds, such as, egrets, heron, osprey, kingfisher, ducks, turkey buzzards, woodpeckers, wild turkey and owls.  If you don’t know what these birds look like, ask the staff at the Preserve to help you out.

The Russian River is a year-round fishery from the shore or from a boat. Steelhead run from the fall through April, Shad run April through June, and Smallmouth Bass, Bluegill, and Carp run in the summertime. The Russian River is a "barbless- hook" river all year. The California Fish and Game Agency requires fishing licenses for ages 16 and over.  Visit their website for more specific information on licenses.

The Russian River Preserve is located north of San Francisco and its busiest time is from about May 15 through October.

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