November 4, 2026 at Aptos Grange

Led by: Jesse Collins

Jesse Collins has been fly fishing since the age of six and has spent more than three decades pursuing trout, salmon, and steelhead throughout North America. A former fishing guide in Alaska, Jesse is experienced in a wide range of fly-fishing techniques, but his greatest passion has always been steelhead.

Over the past 19 years, he has chased steelhead across the Great Lakes, Alaska, and the Pacific Coast from California to Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. His experience spans everything from small coastal streams to some of the most renowned steelhead rivers on the continent, providing a broad perspective on steelhead behavior, migration patterns, and effective angling strategies.

As a Santa Cruz County angler, Jesse has devoted countless hours to studying and fishing the San Lorenzo River. Through extensive time on the water, historical research, analysis of river flow data, and exploration of nearly every accessible reach of the watershed, he has developed a detailed understanding of one of California’s most unique and storied steelhead fisheries. The presentation examines the river’s history, the factors that led to the decline of its once-famous steelhead runs, modern run timing and fish behavior, equipment and techniques, and a comprehensive breakdown of the river’s most notable fishing locations.

Whether you are new to steelheading or a longtime angler, this presentation offers a unique look at the San Lorenzo River through the lens of both its past and its future.

Please note: This presentation will not be recorded, so be sure to attend the November meeting to take part in the discussion and see the full presentation live.

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