July and early August is a good time to look for sea-run cutthroat in the lower river. The estuary can become bar bound in late summer due to lower flows and strong north winds, which turns the estuary into a large lake. It can be very windy this time of year, so anglers should check the weather before heading out. Mornings are usually the best. Spinners or fly-fishing are good ways to target these fish. Bait is not allowed upstream of tidewater. Good public access can be had at Cape Blanco State Park