NEW Meeting Hours: Doors to the Aptos Grange will be open at 6:00 pm and the meeting will start promptly at 6:45 pm. Plenty of time to socialize and buy raffle tickets.
Andrew Harris has been guiding in northern California since 1997. He lives in Red Bluff, California with his wife Katie and daughters Mackenzie and Madison. In 2007 Andrew created Confluence Outfitters with help from partners Gino Bernero and Jon Hazlett. Andrew puts the “Outfitter” in Confluence Outfitters, as he is the one who answers the phones and emails. Andrew can help you select the right guide, destination, and time of year for your next fly fishing trip.
Andrew is a USCG-licensed Captain, is a regular on the fly-club speaker circuit, has written countless articles for California Fly Fisher and other magazines, and is the author of the Plumas National Forest Fishing Guide, a fly fishing guidebook to the Feather River Country. Andrew is currently President of the Shasta-Trinity-Cascades chapter of Trout Unlimited.
Andrew also has a career as a software developer. He created LodgeRunner.com, a booking system catered to fishing and hunting lodges and outfitters. LodgeRunner helps Confluence Outfitters and other high-profile fly fishing businesses like Henry’s Fork Anglers, Silver Creek Outfitters, and Westbank Anglers manage their bookings and assign guide trips. Andrew loves working with other outfitters and lodges and has helped dozens of them optimize their booking systems by using LodgeRunner.
Andrew will be joining the club virtually to speak about the Trinity River Watershed. Andrew has guided the Trinity River since 2003 and will cover the entire watershed from the Trinity Alps to the confluence with the Klamath River. Andrew will discuss the small stream fishing above Trinity Lake, stillwater fishing on Trinity Lake and Lewiston Lake, and the several distinct sections of steelhead fishing on the remainder of the river. Andrew’s presentation includes gear and techniques for both single-hand and spey casters.
Image processed by CodeCarvings Piczard ### FREE Community Edition ### on 2022-12-29 16:35:00Z | http://piczard.com | http://codecarvings.com
L -R: Tim Loomis, Bob Garbarino and Scott Kitayama fishing for steelhead in an undisclosed location
As the new president of the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club, I am excited to have a chance to work with all of you to make this club, stronger and more valuable for all of us. First of all, I want to thank Tom Hogye, who encouraged me to join the board three years ago and promised that the more I put into the club, the more I would get out of it. He was right. Tom’s passion and emphasis while president was in the areas of conservation and education, and he will continue to champion those causes for us as well as the larger NCFFI organization. Thank you, Tom.
My focus in the upcoming year is centered around fellowship. A club like ours provides a great opportunity for us to make new friends, share experiences while teaching and learning from each other along the way. As a part of the SCFF Board of Directors, we are committed to increasing the number of activities and the quality of the events per year. All we ask of you is … participate!
During February and March we have a lot of events for your participation. In the newsletter, we have a new section in the Membership area called “Club Activities” which lists events such as fly casting, volunteer opportunities, dinners, and hang outs. These are separate from the sections of the fly tying and fish outs which describe what is happening in future months. If you want to see everything that is happening, click on EVENTS on the website which has a calendar showing the dates of the events along with sections with detailed info about fishouts, fly tying and club activities.
I want to highlight some of the changes that we are making to provide more opportunities to congregate and socialize. These include:
Feb 18th, Annual Fund Raiser and Installation: After a three-year hiatus, the event will feature a new venue, new hours, new food, a new ticket price, and with your help, more comradery, laughter and fun. The day will include a lunch catered by SAJJ Mediterranean, raffle of great prizes, annual awards, and introduction of the new Board of Directors.
General Meetings (1st Wednesday of the Month): Please attend our General Meetings in person at the Aptos Grange. Doors will open at 6:00 pm and the meeting will start promptly at 6:45 pm. This provides up to 45 minutes to help setup the room, swap fishing stories, buy raffle tickets, and meet new members.
March 8 @ 6:30 pm, Fly Tying Hangout: We are trying out something new by providing a venue for members to come together and tie flies along side others. Its a great excuse to get out of the house, so bring your vise, tools, materials and fish stories.
I hope that you can attend some of these upcoming events and if you have any suggestions on other club activities, let me know: scottkitayama@gmail.com or mobile 650 279 5871.
This fly is designed to catch largemouth bass, large trout and even stripers. As always the class is free and all materials are provided other than thread. Some will be available to borrow. Bring cream 6/0 and brown 6/0 or 8/0. Tools and vises will be available for beginners, who are always welcome and receive much instruction. You can sign up at the club meeting or call Elaine with at least 24 hours notice at 831-688-1561. For safety, well fitting masks will be required by all.
Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to Fly Name to see more information.
March’s fly tying class is going to be a two day event on March 13 and 14th from noon until 3 pm each day at Elaine’s house. If you wish to attend, please sign up no later than March 4th. Call Elaine at 831-688-1561 or 831-234-6515. Allow 4-5 hours each day.
Caddis larva are available to trout year-round. They protect themselves in an interesting way. They surround their bodies with pebbles or twigs and move around with their heads and legs sticking out the front of this tube. This pattern simulates the larva out of its protective casing which occurs when they have outgrown their last one or they are ready to ascend to the surface as a pupa. Some caddis larva are free floating without a case. The PVC in the name of this pattern originated on the lower Owens River when former club member, Walt Robinson, speared one while fishing. We sat down and devise this fly then went out and successfully fished it all week. The type of thread used for the body is very important. Because of its thickness and shinny properties.
HOOK: TMC 200,2312, or 100 sizes 14–18. Crimp barb
THREAD: kevlar, in natural (light cream)or olive color.
Attach thread 1/8 inch behind eye for smaller hooks, 3/16 inch for size 14 hooks.
NOTE: During all thread wraps keep thread flat by spinning counterclockwise.
Touching thread wraps toward rear of shank while holding tag at 45° angle.
Cut tag before end of shank.
Reposition hook with head lowered downward. This will make it easier to apply thread to rear of hook.
Continue rapping partway around bend of hook
BODY: same thread as above.
Keeping thread flat as described above, wrap thread forward to starting position. Then back to within one short of prior thread wraps. Repeat one more time. NOTE: at this time you will have six wraps of thread on the shank that is slightly tapered at the rear.
Repeat one more time if tying size 14 hook.
Now make wraps to mid shank and back again to tie in. NOTE: at this time a tapered body has been formed.
Bring thread onto shank with one wrap.
Whip finish, cut thread.
Apply Zap-A-Gap or similar glue to entire body, let dry.
HEAD: Black 8/0 thread, AND peacock herl.
Attached thread behind eye.
Select one strand of peacock herl for small flies and two for size 14 hooks, that have barbs of moderate length.
Pinch off fragile tip.
Tie in tip back to body.
Advance thread to eye.
Wrap hurl forward using 4 wraps.
Tie off, cut excess, whip finish, cut thread.
Glue to tie off threads.
Posted on December 31st, 2022
Date: March 8th.(Wed.) AND March 11-12 (Sat. And Sun.)
The club has 2 fly tying opportunities coming up in March. Both events are free as always. The first will be social tying drop-in at the Grange Hall Mar. 8th at 6:15 PM, for club members to tie anything they wish. No instruction but lots of great socializing, the opportunity to share fly patterns with one another, and of course to start filling your fly box for
the upcoming months. Bring your own tools, vices, light and materials. And a mask of course to be safe.
The second will be our annual popper class. The flies are designed for largemouth bass and bluegill fishing. Sign ups are required due to limited space at Elaine‘s home. This not a difficult class and beginners should feel comfortable to participate. 2 days are required due to the drying of epoxy and paints. And a one hour class on how to fish with for bass will be included. The class will be held on Saturday, March 11 and Sun. March 12. Each starting at 10 AM and running about five hours each. If you are interested and can commit to attending, it’s best to sign up early for the class often fills up ahead of time. Thread and materials will be provided as well as vice and tools for beginners. If you wish to attend, please sign up no later than March 4th. Call Elaine at 831-688-1561 or 831-234-6515
Is your fly box looking a little thin? Going on a Fishout and need some new patterns? Or maybe you just
love tying and need something to do with all those flies that aren’t getting wet…
Well, the Fly Swap is just what you need!
Fly swap instructions –
– Fly Swap organizer (leader) chooses the theme and lists the parameters of the swap:
Organizer
Theme
Target Species
Fly Type
# Of Participants
Due Date to Organizer
Organizer’s fly pattern
The Swap organizer will be responsible for sending out an announcement of the swap
thru the google group email and coordinating the swap there after (including contact
information and mailing addresses.)
Multiple groups may be running at any given time
(Participants are free to join multiple groups and are only limited to their ability and time
management)
– Number of participants is limited to 6 for each swap group.
– Group members choose any fly pattern meeting the group organizer’s criteria.
– Each participant ties a total of 24 flies of the same size and pattern (4ea. for each of the
group’s members) and then packages the flies for each member separately.
Each package to include the information below:
Pattern name
Pattern recipe
Hook Mfg. / size / style
Bead / dumbbell / size / color
Thread color / size
Tail Material
Etc.
Optional information
General description and significant back story to pattern chosen
– After a predetermined duration the flies are delivered to the group leader.
(Consider 2-4 weeks or to coincide with the clubs monthly meeting. If the flies are to be
delivered by mail, include a self-addressed return envelope and stamp)
– The leader then reorganizes the packages of flies for distribution to each member of the
group by either mail or in person (24 total flies for each participate 4 of each pattern tied
by each participant).
If you want to talk it out, feel free to give me a call or send me a message Justin Ice 408 690 6143 Justin@schwagerdavis.com
One of our club’s most valued local partners, Monterey Bay Salmon and Trout Project has some opportunities for us to help out and learn about this organization in a hands-on fashion. Please contact Bob Garbarino (rjgarbarino@gmail.com or 831-24-2045) if you want to participate in any of these activities.
1. Hatchery—Come up on weekends for a few hours to feed fish, check intakes, etc.
or help with spawning at least one weekday a week through mid-February. The hatchery is about 18 miles north of Santa Cruz.
2. Fish Trap– Interested in helping out with San Lorenzo River steelhead trapping for data collection? MBSTP and the Santa Cruz Water Dept. are planning on operating the fish trap in Felton. For trapping, it can be a “spur of the moment” kind of thing with flow conditions and inflation of the dam. This is not a set-schedule volunteer event. The trap is run if river conditions are suitable and the dam is inflated, so volunteers have to be pretty flexible. The hope is the window will open mid-January.
3. Coho Release–As we move into spring, there will be a chance to help out with releasing fish (also, potentially an adult release to Pescadero in late January like we had last year). Jerry McKeon, Jeff Gose and I participated last year and it was a really special experience. There will probably be only 2-3 spots available as there were last year.
This month we’ll look at two conservation organizations SCFF supports and current projects they are working on to improve habitat for fish in California
Western Rivers Conservancy “buys land along the West’s finest rivers and streams to conserve habitat for fish and wildlife, protect key sources of cold water and provide public access for all to enjoy”. Their motto is: “Sometimes to save a river, you have to buy it”. They look for opportunities to purchase key sections of rivers and convey them to partners with the goal of protecting fish and wildlife while providing public access permanently. One of their projects is to conserve the 4,344 acre Silva Ranch which includes a stretch of the Wheatfield Fork and a series of headwater creeks—all feeding the Gualala River in Sonoma County, California. The cold water in the river and creeks is healthy habitat for winter steelhead and Coho salmon. For more information, go to https://www.westernrivers.org/projects/ca/gualala-river.
Cal Trout engages in numerous projects with the goal of “Ensuring healthy waters and resilient wild fish for a better California”. One of their projects took place in northern Mendocino County last summer. A concrete dam was built on Cedar Creek, a tributary of the South Fork Eel River. The dam was part of an experimental fish hatchery that was decommissioned in 1964. Unfortunately, this eight foot dam impeded migration of native juvenile fish, including steelhead, Chinook and steelhead salmon. The cold water in the upper reaches of Cedar Creek is now available to these fish. Check out the details: https://caltrout.org/news/cold-water-refuge-unlocked-for-south-fork-eel-river-steelhead-and-salmon
After 3 long years, we are bringing back our annual fundraiser on February 18th from 12:30 pm to 6:00 pm at the Aptos Grange! So many things have changed in the past three years and there was no way we could run the fundraiser “the way we used to”, so here we go. New venue, new hours, new food, new ticket price, new faces and with your help, more comradery, laughter and fun. We will be serving lunch, raffling wonderful prizes, spotlighting deserving members with annual awards, and introducing the 2023 Board of Directors.
There are lots of activities including casting demos/instruction, fly tying demos/instruction, seminars from well-know pros, vendors selling all-things fly fishy. It’s a great opportunity to learn and check out gear before you purchase. Many club members make it an annual event. If you are new to the sport, go and pick up a few tips. Visit the the website for details and how to get tickets. https://flyfishingshow.com/pleasanton-ca/
Thank you for all the 175 paid members for 2023 which included 70 % who renewed on line @ santacruzflyfishing.org. Donations exceeded $3,0 00 and will allow us to continue with local high school scholarships and conservations projects including local rivers damaged by recent storm damage. WE are looking forward to our Annual Fundraising Dinner Sat Feb 18th @ Aptos Grange 2555 MarVista Dr. in Aptos. Meal and Raffle tickets are still available online
santacruzflyfishing.org and @ the Wed Feb 1 st monthly meeting. So far 55 members have paid and reserved tickets. And lastly, any members can request
Nametags with our new logo by sending me an email @robert6367@aol.com and will be available @ the Annual dinner, or if requested @ the Feb monthly meeting, or by mail.
After 3 long years, we are bringing back our annual fundraiser on February 18th from 12:30 pm to 6:00 pm at the Aptos Grange! So many things have changed in the past three years and there was no way we could run the fundraiser “the way we used to”, so here we go. New venue, new hours, new food, new ticket price, new faces and with your help, more comradery, laughter and fun. We will be serving lunch, raffling wonderful prizes, spotlighting deserving members with annual awards, and introducing the 2023 Board of Directors.
Buy your tickets now: Its such a bummer to plan a party when no one tells you they are coming. We know you are thinking about it, so just do it! Tickets are $25/person and we only can sell 150 entrance/meal tickets due to space limitations of the Grange. Tickets are available online here: https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/product-category/annual-fundraiser/
Volunteer: Many long term club members say the best part of our Annual Fundraiser is the time volunteering and working with others to put the whole event together. We still need people to step-up and take an assignment whether it is before, during or after the event. Contact Elaine Cook (coookin@gmail.com) to find out where you can best help.
Lunch:
Fresh, healthy, filling and fun. What’s not to like about Mediterranean food? We are bringing a winner from the Bay Area down to cater our lunch. @Zagat dubbed SAJJ Mediterranean falafel as best in the Bay Area! Guests will have the option to choose between the following three entrees. (All entrees will be served with fries.)
SAJJ Bowl: Your choice of Chicken Shawarma, Steak shawarma or falafel; served over turmeric rice, wild arugula, tomato & cucumber mix, hummus, cabbage, diced pickles, and a drizzle of tahini sauce
SAJJ Wrap: Your choice of Chicken Shawarma, Steak shawarma or falafel; garlic spread, wild arugula, tomato & cucumber mix, sumac onions and diced pickles
SAJJ Pita: Your choice of Chicken Shawarma, Steak shawarma or falafel; with hummus, wild arugula, tomato & cucumber mix, diced pickles
Seating will be available indoor and outdoor all though inside will be cozy depending on the weather. Lunch will be available between 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm. Water, soda, and coffee will be available as well as a dessert table. We will not be serving or selling alcohol so plan accordingly.
Parking: Everyone needs to buddy-up and comes to the Fundraiser with a fellow member, so that we can fit everyone in the parking lot. Otherwise, over flow will need to park on Mar Vista Drive.
Raffle Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online and can also be purchased at the event. If you purchased online, your tickets will be waiting for you along with your entrance/lunch receipt when you check-in. Raffle boxes will be on the tables for you to decide what you want to win. Keep a portion of your ticket so that you can claim your winnings.
Health Protocol: We hope to have a lot of people attend this event and the Grange is not that big of a building. Masking is encouraged as we want everyone healthy for the upcoming fishing season.
Pyramid Lake Fish-out March 26th – April 1st 2023 – New Info
Mar 26 - Apr 01
Lahontan Cutthroat Trout
Mike White - (831) 706-5556
BOURDET RANCH ONE DAY FISHOUTS
Apr 15 - Apr 24
Del Valle Fishout – CANCELED
Apr 15 - Apr 16
Stripers, bass, trout
Joshua Wilkens
Los Padres Dam / Reservoir Fishout
Apr 29
Rio Del Mar State Beach Surf Fishout
May 06
Los Banos Creek Reservoir
May 08 - May 10
Manresa State Beach Surf Fishout
Jun 03
Lake Almanor/Hex Hatch – Jun 25 – Jul 1 2023 – New Info
Jun 24 - Jul 01
Trout, Bass
Jeff (Yog) Goyert - Fishmaster (831)234-0033
Palm Beach Surf Fishout
Jul 01
Loreto Fly Fishing Trip July 2023
Jul 16 - Jul 20
Mar 26 : Pyramid Lake Fish-out March 26th – April 1st 2023 – New Info
Pyramid Lake (Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Mike White - (831) 706-5556
NEEDS TO BE UPDATED WITH 2023 INFO.
The Pyramid Lake trip is one of the best-attended fishouts the club has, and for a good reason. Lahontan Cutthroat Trout cruise parallel to the shore in easy casting distance from shore. Cost for the week including meals and lodging and is around $300+ per person depending on the number in attendance. You need not fish all six days as there may be openings (usually later in the week.) Contact Mike for more details (831) 706-5556, to check on openings, or be put on a waiting list. First come first served.
You can also make your own arrangements either by bringing your own RV (Pyramid Lake Lodge has hook-ups and sells permits to park on the any of the beaches along the lake) or staying in Reno. Reno is 45 minutes away. Call Pyramid Lake Lodge to inquire about last minute cancellations in their cabins as well (775) 476-0400 and check out their website to see what the cabins look like at www.pyramidlakelodge.com. The General Store in Sutcliff offers meals on selected nights only to those who call in before 2:00 PM. Check at the General Store for details.
Equipment: 6-9 weight rods with hi-speed, hi-D shooting heads or fast sink integrated lines to fish the bottom in 6 to 9 feet of water, and a floating line for indicator fishing. You should bring a stripping basket and a ladder that will accommodate it. A ladder helps to get you up out of the cold water and enable you to cast out to where the fish are. You can still catch fish without one but not with near as much consistency.
Flies: Woolly buggers in black, white, purple, olive, midge, caddis and mayfly nymphs to name a few. If as in years past the Confab in February is offering the opportunity to see how some of the best Pyramid patterns are made plan to attend and bring a vise and tie some yourself. Flies may also available from club member Jim Hall who ties some very good flies specific to Pyramid cutthroat as well as other species at reasonable cost. His number is (831) 713-6835. There is a general store with provisions as well as tackle and an assortment of flies.
How to get there: Take US 80 to Reno-Sparks, take the Pyramid Blvd. off ramp and go north about 35 miles. Crosby Lodge is at Sutcliff, near the Ranger Station.
If you have any questions about equipment or how to get there, check the “Gearing up” columns in the March 2007-2009 archives on our great club website, or call Mike White at (831) 706-5556.
If you are considering going to Pyramid again this year with the club and you have not already done so, please contact the person who is booking the trailer you stayed in last year. Trailer-masters, if your trailer has gaps or cancellations, you can call Mike so he can pass the names of members who don’t have lodging to fill the empty spots.
Fishing, Camping, and New Ladder Regulation:
Fishing and camping permits can be purchased online prior to the fish-out. We would highly recommend doing this. Go to www.plpt.nsn.us to obtain your licenses. There is also an RV Park available at (775) 476-1155.
As with any great fishery there are always a long list of rules and regulations. We would recommend you review them on the website above. Suffice to say those of us who have been going to Pyramid Lake for many years are a good source of information as well. We will help inform and guide all newcomers. 15.6 USE OF LADDERS, ETC. Any ladders, milk crates, boxes or other objects used in the water as a fishing aid must be occupied or closely attended (i.e. remain in the area) by fishermen at all times. Any person who leaves such objects unoccupied in the water for more than one hour will be deemed guilty of littering. 15.6.1 Fishing aids described above must have a permanent tag affixed that has the name, address, and phone number of the owner of the fishing aid. If the permitted angler using the fishing aid is not the owner, the owner will be the responsible party for any infractions by the permitted angler.
This year we have five trailers reserved. (6,7,8,9, and 10) As of September 1st 2021 we have 5 openings available. These openings will fill up quickly, so contact Mike immediately at (831) 706-5556. Last year was an incredible experience with many fish over 15 lbs brought to the net. If you cannot commit early and make it into one of our reserved trailers you can always make your own arrangements by contacting the Pyramid Lake Lodge at (775) 476-0400.
NOTE: Due to insurance regulations, all attendees must be paid up members of Santa Cruz Fly fishermen, so get your membership paid up if you haven’t done so yet.
Apr 15 : BOURDET RANCH ONE DAY FISHOUTS
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster:
BOURDET RANCH
One-day fishouts: April 15 (Sat), April 19 (Wed), April 24 (Mon)
Location: Bourdet Ranch on Hwy 152 across from Casa de Fruta, Hollister
I have reserved 3 dates at this beautiful ranch in the green rolling hills of Hollister which offers 4 bass and pan fish ponds. Trespass fee is $75/person (fisher or non-fisher) per day, CASH ONLY. Important: 4-WD is REQUIRED but those without 4-WD can buddy up with someone who does. Ponds are primarily fished from float tubes with some limited bank fishing. The ponds fish best if each pond has just 3 fishers at a time. We will meet at the ranch entrance 8:00 a.m. and leave together at about 5:30pm. Be sure to bring lunch and drinks. If you are interested, please call me soon as possible as this is a very popular bass fishing venue and there is a limit to how many people I can take. You can sign up for 1 or all dates as permitted.
My cell: (831) 566-7707 email: flyfishgal3@aol.com
Cecilia Stipes
Apr 15 : Del Valle Fishout – CANCELED
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Joshua Wilkens
**CANCELED DUE TO STORM DAMAGE**
Currently the park has issued a hard closure for camping until May 20th, 2023. Any members who had previously made reservations thru the county website / Reserve America, should have received an email detailing the cancelation and a refund from The East Bay Parks District.
An alternate destination maybe suggested soon, keep an eye out for an e-mail on google groups.
Fish Species: Going for striper, largemouth, small mouth, bluegill, white crappie, rainbow trout, and striper.
Equipment: I’m bringing a 6 wt floating line for everything but stripers and 8 wt full sink for stripers down as far as 25 feet. Fishing out of float tube.
Flies: Clousers and buggers (smelt patterns) should be able to find one if not all species maybe.
Day Fishing Fees: Parking $6.
Watercraft launch fee: $5 for trailered boats; $3 for car-top, inflatable boats and float tubes. $2 for windsurf boards. Boat inspection: $4/cartop; $7/trailered.
Float tube Inspection: Don’t bring kayak if you do make sure super dry and bring float tube just in case, they fail kayaks like 95% of time for me. I learned to just float tube there.
Camping Fees: $43 for tent campsite with reservation fees included, then $8 for additional vehicle, $5 fishing day pass, and #3 inspection. 2 vehicles and 8 people max per site. There is tap water and toilets. There is the potential of a group camp out, keep an eye on Google Groups.
Site Link: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=537, https://www.ebparks.org/parks/del-valle
Apr 29 : Los Padres Dam / Reservoir Fishout
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster:
Description: Los Padres Reservoir is located East of Carmel Valley Village. The best route is Carmel Valley Road East about 8 miles to a right turn on Cachagua Road to a right turn into and
through Princess Camp then about .5 miles to the Reservoir parking lot. You have to carry your float tube about .5 miles into the reservoir
and launch from the dam. Lake is about a mile long. Best to arrive before daybreak. Parking lot usually fills up opening day.
DO NOT LEAVE ITEMS VISIBLE WITHIN YOUR VEHICLE OR ON THE SHORE
No signups necessary, anyone wishing to fish should just show up. In general, fish in 10 to 20-foot depths. There are stories of huge brown trout, rainbows up to 24” and a chance to catch
steel-head much bigger.
Fishmaster: No Fishmaster for this Fishout self led
Fish Species: Steel Head Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout
Equipment: 5 and or 6wts with floating line and full sink or shooting heads. Fishing out of float tube.
Flies: Flies sizes 8 and 10 hooks, types black and brown woolly buggers, Denny Rikards seal buggers (orange, olive and black) and leeches (brown and black), Hale Bopp leeches (black,
brown and wine) and Hornburgs. Balanced flies under an indicator could be a good bet as well. Fishing is very similar to Goodwin Lake: very few hits on the surface.
Day Fishing Fees: No Fees
Fog burning off in the early morning
Carmel Creek with fish ladder to the left center. There is a couple of big fish in there…
May 06 : Rio Del Mar State Beach Surf Fishout
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster:
First Surf Fishout of 2023!
Location: Rio Del Mar State Beach
Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers
Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety),
Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket
(If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online)
Single, double & triple fly rigs
clousers to sand crabs
Directions: Take RDM Blvd all the way down to the flats (bottom), circle the round-about to the left and exit back along Beach Drive, drive half mile to the State Beach (aka Platform). DO NOT stop up by the round-about, be sure to continue on Beach Drive. Early in the morning the parking lot is closed, but there is plenty of parking outside.
SURF FISHOUTS 2023
Meeting Time (AM)
State Beach
2023
Date
Sunrise
Low tide
High tide
Moon
Tide flow
Fishmaster
MAY
6
Saturday
5:55
Rio Del Mar
6:09
LO 05:48 -0.8
HI 12:28 PM +3.5
Full May 5
Low slack to low Flood
Sam
JUNE
3
Saturday
5:35
Manresa
5:49
LO 04:52 -1.0
HI 11:42 +3.4
Full June 4
Low mid-flood
??
JULY
1
Saturday
5:35
Palm
5:51
LO 03:53 -0.8
HI 10:50 +3.4
Full July 3
Mid-flood
Sam
AUGUST
5
Saturday
6:00
Rio Del Mar
6:16
LO 07:48 -0.1
HI 2:29 PM +4.9
New Aug 16
Mid-flood
Sam
SEPT
2
Saturday
6:25
Manresa
6:39
LO 06:30 +0.3
HI 12:52 PM +5.3
Full Aug 31
Low slack to low Flood
Sam
OCT
7
Saturday
6:50
Palm
7:08
LO 13:17 + 3.3
HI 07:55 AM +4.0
Full Sep 29
High flood to slack
Sam
Meet up times are scheduled 15 – 20 minutes before official sunrise.
Los Banos Creek Reservoir is an oasis in the valley, it has Bass and Bluegill and the option of fishing Stripers and Bass in the O’Neill Forebay 20 miles away.
Camping: Los Banos Campground (209) 826-6393) doesn’t take reservations, has 14 sites with tables with shade and also shade trees, non-potable water, and campfire rings.
Sites are $20.00 per day. Bring firewood and folding chairs.
Food: Bring your own food for breakfast and lunch.
Dinner will be pot-luck; bring your own meat. Also bring plates, cups and silverware.
I will supply stove, BBQ, coffee pot and wash area for dishes.
There is no drinking water available.
Gear: Float tube and fins, kayak etc. lake has 5mph speed limit
Fly line 5-6wt. include floating, intermediate, and fast sinking.
For fly suggestions contact me.
This Fishout is limited to the first 10 members who contact me – Dan Eaton (831) 201-2330.
Jun 03 : Manresa State Beach Surf Fishout
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster:
Location: Manresa State Beach
Species: Surf Perch, Striped Bass
Min./Max Participants: NO Limit Cali Surf Style
Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety),
Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket
(If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online)
Locations/dates/times/Fishmasters might change, but note will go out early on Google group if so.
You may want to use a two fly rig, one smaller for perch and a larger one
for Stripers. When I add flies I often need to use lighter weight
ones than I might with one fly. For example, dumbbell eyes are
heavy, so I tie most Clousers and jig flies using bead-chain or even plastic eyes, knowing I will very likely be
using 2 or 3, so need them to be light enough to cast.
A reminder that the surf is not a place to learn to cast, but it will force you to improve your line control!
Belts are not mandatory but a good idea if you get swept off your feet. Baskets are also not mandatory but darn near.
Cost: Parking? & maybe some lost flies…and the fish of a life time
Meeting Location: In front Manresa Beach Parking Lot on San Andreas Rd.
San Andreas Rd. Lot has limited parking as the beach lot does not open until 8am
Special Considerations / Links: Tides, Wind, Swell, tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/
Lodging / Food: Coffee and donuts at the local hang out
Jun 24 : Lake Almanor/Hex Hatch – Jun 25 – Jul 1 2023 – New Info
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Jeff (Yog) Goyert - Fishmaster (831)234-0033
The Lake Almanor fishout is scheduled for the last week of June, 6/24 thru 7/1, 2023. This time period is, hopefully, the peak of the annual Hexagenia hatch that begins generally mid-June and runs through mid-July. The most productive fishing takes place early evenings on into past dark between Lake Almanor West to Canyon Dam on the SouthWest side of the lake. Most of the fishing is done from float tubes as well as small boats or even from shore.
In addition to the evening “Hex” hatch, a multitude of opportunities exist for fishing throughout the day to include Little Crater Lake, Manzanita Lake, Baum Lake, Eagle Lake, Butt Valley Reservoir, Deer Creek, Clear Creek, Feather River, Yellow Creek, plus many more.
Lodging will be the responsibility of individual attendees. A popular campground operated by PG&E is the Rocky Point Campground, for reservation information call 916-386-5164. Many USFS campgrounds are in the area. Reservations are available through www.recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. Make use of internet resources to acquire the actual campground names. There are also many resorts and rental cabins available in the area. A few examples are Wilson’s Camp/530-259-2267 and Plumas Pines Resort/530-259-4343. Other options are available via online research. Be advised that due to the popularity of fishing at this time of year reservations fill up early.
Sierra Fly and Tackle, stores in Chester and Hamilton Branch, is a great resource for current conditions and reports along with a large invantory flies and equipment. A must stop for all visiting fly fishers if only to get one of their cool tee-shirts. Both first time and veteran “Hex” Anglers could well benefit from the expertise provided by a knowledgeable and experienced guide. Lance Gray (530-517-2204) or Tim Loomis (831-345-8411) both offer instructional packages to help achieve success during the “Hex”.
Jul 01 : Palm Beach Surf Fishout
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster:
Location: Palm Beach State Park
Species: Surf Perch, Striped Bass
Min./Max Participants: NO Limit Cali Surf Style
Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety),
Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket
(If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online)
Locations/dates/times/Fishmasters might change, but a note will go out early on Google group if so.
You may want to use a two fly rig, one smaller for perch and a larger one
for Stripers. When I add flies I often need to use lighter weight
ones than I might with one fly. For example, dumbbell eyes are
heavy, so I tie most Clousers and jig flies using bead-chain or even plastic eyes, knowing I will very likely be
using 2 or 3, so need them to be light enough to cast.
A reminder that the surf is not a place to learn to cast, but it will force you to improve your line control!
Cost: Parking? & maybe some lost flies…and the fish of a life time
Meeting Location: Parking Lot / End of W. Beach St.
Special Considerations / Links: Tides, Wind, Swell, tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/
Lodging / Food: Coffee and donuts at the local hang out after the session
Jul 16 : Loreto Fly Fishing Trip July 2023
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster:
Sign Up Now! Experience a new HIGH! Fish for Dorado, and many other salt-water fish, including Bonito, Roosters, Yellowtail and Sailfish on a fly! Join the group going to Loreto in Baja
Sunday, July 16th through Thursday, July 20th.
This trip includes:
Four nights at the beautiful Hotel La Mission, on the water-front next to the Loreto Harbor.
Three days of fishing on 24-foot Super Pangas, with fly fishing guides.
Ground transfers and fishing licenses.
The fishing day starts around 6:00 a.m. and we usually get back to the harbor between 1:30 and 2:00 p.m. Spend the rest of the afternoon fishing from the beach, having a cool drink in the pool, exploring Loreto, or just sitting around telling some tall fish stories. And, you will have many exciting moments on the Sea of Cortez to talk about.
The approximate cost for everything but meals and airfare is: *$900.00 per person,double occupancy; around $460.00 for a non-fishing guest. It does not include meals because there are some nice restaurants (A lot of fresh seafood!) in town or if you prefer, eat at the hotel, where they will also cook your catch to your preference. Interested?
Please contact Rich Hughett, 831-757-5709, for all the details. You will need to book airline flights* as soon as possible.
*No money will be collected in advance. Southwest Airlines and Alaska Airlines from San Jose to Los Angeles and Alaska Airlines to Loreto. Rich will help with your airline reservations.
Gear: The minimum size rod for Dorado is a 10 weight, with a corresponding size reel with plenty of backing. I suggest everyone take floating, intermediate and full sink lines, such as T-14. Most fish down there are not leader shy, so I use about a 5 foot leader with a 20 pound tippet. For Dorado, the main fly is a Sarmulmac. Clousers also work. In fact a variety of flies work for salt water fish, as long as they represent a smaller baitfish.
Notes: Further discussion of dates, gear and preparations to be had as interest develops
Happy New Year! I hope all of you had a beautiful Christmas with family and friends, AND there was something “fly-fishing” under the tree. I love this time of year as some of my most favorite gear came either on my birthday or Christmas. It’s also when I have a little extra time to get up in the morning, grab my coffee and binge watch Steelhead videos, swingin flies with a two-handed rod these days.
January Meeting
I’m looking forward to seeing all of you at the January meeting at the Grange. You can arrive as early as 6:ish – if you want to hang out, help set up or get some last minute raffle tickets.
We have something new we’re going to be doing. Instead of one speaker, we are going to have five club members who will be telling us their story of their favorite fly-fishing experience; sharing with us how you can do the same. And plenty of time for questions, bring your notebooks for new places to go.
Annual Fun-draiser/Dinner/Raffle
For many of you, the Annual Dinner has been one of the most fun experiences we’ve had together these last 45 years. This will be a lot of fun. If you haven’t ever been to one, don’t miss it. In fact, do what most of us will be doing, sign up to help, show up at 9 ish to have coffee and pastries with us, help set up, and then either stay, or come back for the fun and festivities.
Please make sure to buy your tickets On-Line, or at the January and February meetings. It will be an early event – 1:00 to 5:30 with food being available between 1-3. Installation of Board members, the John Steele Award, a few more “awards”, followed by the raffle.
Fly-Tying / Casting / Instagram and Fishouts
Keep a watchful eye on the Newsletter, website and the club email for all of the resources your membership comes with. The fly-tying classes are growing and you can watch for additional fly-tying opportunities as we organize some more or less informal fly-tying get togethers.
Weather permitting we’ll be having a casting class on the 28th – and maybe we can actually do that casting down by the boardwalk on the San Lorenzo. Stay tuned.
Jerry and company have been doing a great job growing SCFF coolness with the Instagram page that also publishes to the Newsletter. If you have any photos you’d like to share, get them to Jerry and you’ll soon see them on Instagram and our Website.
Super grateful for all the new help we have but we still need more – Facilities, Vice President, and more. If you’re interested in playing a greater role within the club, do seek out your committee chairs, me or anyone else – we’d love to have you. Thank you, Justin Ice, for recently jumping on board for Fish-Outs. There are going to be some fun new places to go together in 2023.
It’s Been a Treat
At this writing, we’re waiting or another portion of rain to fill the San Lorenzo and all her sister rivers in Central California so we can do a little steelhead fishing afterward. It is also my last President’s Message. I’m not the only one who has been leading the club for the last 5 years. So, while being President for five years was unprecedented, I was not alone in that work. I am beyond grateful for the rest of the Board and Committee chairs who also did not abandon the club when Covid forced us to do things considerably different. While we’re still working out a few bugs in some of the changes we made to keep our combined efforts going, these changes were really fantastic. Other clubs suffered, so we put together a President’s meeting every month to share ideas with the other NCFFI clubs so we could all survive and thrive. I could not have done this without the sincere and committed efforts of the Board. I would be writing a twenty-five-page book here, simply to cover my gratitude to everyone who helped SCFF over these last five years. I could also not have done this without the kind support of you, our member ship.
I will continue to teach the casting class and stay on the board, because I just love seeing where this club is growing and what a terrific resource it is for you, our members – our family. Today, thirty five dollars a year ($60 for a family – of which I’ve paid all these years), isn’t much considering the value of the friendships, family, fun, laughter, and more that comes with this club. You can’t get that with a magazine subscription, or a membership at any other organization you might belong to.
When I first joined the club in 1992, I was a 30-year-old kid. Elaine still calls me kid. Back then, I jumped in and served as Conservation Chair, President, and Program Chair. It was the most fun I’ve had doing anything. We made a difference. I left for a few years to raise my children, build a home, and do a little bike racing. But you know nearly every month, Mona would always ask me who I heard from at the club, was there a meeting, … When 2017 came around and the kids were now doing a lot on their own, the house was done and things were in a rhythm, I jumped right back and have enjoyed every bit of it.
Thank you all for being so kind to me, encouraging and downright uplifting. I dare say any President of any country couldn’t wish for a better approval rating.
I’m excited about the next generation that is coming to the club. That was the goal from the beginning – to take Santa Cruz Fly Fishing into the 21st Century and build it for the next forty years. Your board is going to continue improving. I am very excited at what Scott Kitayama has in store and I’ll be there to help or stay out of the way. I plan to fish a bit more, too.
Thank you. Thank you. I would never have done this without your encouragement, your love for fly-fishing, the environment and all that lives and breaths in the outdoors we want to be so great again.
Happy New Year! Tom
Posted on December 27th, 2022
Date: Jan. 11
Time: Doors open at 6:15, class begins at 6:30
Place: Aptos Grange Hall 2555 Mar Vista Dr., Aptos, CA
This fly features spinning deer hair. It’s not a difficult fly to tie but the technique is unusual and needed for a variety of flies. Sign up at the club meeting or call Elaine at (831)688-1561. Allow at least 24 hours before the class. As usual all the materials will be provided and the class is free. If you have mono cord or similar in any color, but preferably a light color, bring that. Some will be available. For beginners, who are always welcome, vices and tools will be available. Masks will be required due to Covid, flu, and colds that are currently looking for a host.
A big thank you goes out to those who taught classes this year and to those who assisted new tiers at our in person fly tying classes. Covid has made it difficult to keep this club function going but thanks to zoom we managed to make it happen. If it’s been a while since you attended classes feel free to come back again and please wear a mask to protect yourself and others. Tight thread lines to all of you in 2023.
The club would like to try a fly tying hangout and since the Grange is available we landed on this date. Bring your vise, tools, materials and fish stories. Great excuse to get out of the house and do some tying with others. Please note this is not an instructional class. There is an instructional class in March and Elaine will provide information for that. This is just a casual get together for folks who want to fill their boxes and talk fishing.
Pyramid lake has a particular beetle with these colors that goes to the bottom of the lake then ascends to the surface to take a breath. Then repeat this process over and over. Because this fly is made of foam and is used on a sinking line, when you strip it descends and when you pause it starts to rise up, which imitates the actual beetle. This is a simple fly to tie and if you’re going to Pyramid you must have one in your box. NOTE: Photo colors are not true, use color descriptions in instructions.
Hook: TMC 2457 size 6.
Thread: white 3/0 monochord or equivalent.
Overbody: white close cell foam, 2 mm thick.
Underbody: cactus chartreuse chenille.
1. Crimp barb.
2. Attach thread behind eye, wrap to above barb with touching wraps.
3. Cut foam in shape shown in diagram.
4. Wrap thread forward and touching wraps to two eye lengths behind eye.
5. Place tapered end of foam on top of shank positioning point toward the front where the thread hangs.
6. Wrap foam snuggly to top of shank back to above barb, then thread wraps forward to two eye lengths behind eye.
7. Tie in chenille. Wrap backward, each wrap against the last until above barb. Then forward in same manner to hanging thread. Tie off, cut access.
8. Pull foam forward till snugly against top of chenille. Make several snug thread wraps.
9. Whip finish under foam and behind hook eye. Cut thread.
10. Cut off excess foam, leaving 1/4 inch in front of thread wraps.
11. Apply Zap-A-Gap or similar glue to thread wraps.
Back in the 1940s, Shasta and Keswick Dams were constructed to achieve a number of objectives, including water storage and generating hydroelectric power. However, through an apparent lack of foresight, the welfare of wild fish spawning habitat wasn’t given priority. Perhaps it was thought that the stretch of the Sacramento River below the Dams would provide sufficient spawning and rearing habitat for Chinook (King) salmon.Prior to the construction of these dams, Chinook salmon had access to the McCloud river for spawning.As a direct result of the dam construction, the Chinook runs have declined.In 1994 these winter run salmon were federally listed as endangered.In recent years, the fish counts have further diminished with severe drought and excessive warm water conditions.Peter Moyle, a fish biologist at UC Davis who has studied Central Valley fish since the 1970s stated “The winter run is headed for extinction, no question, if we don’t develop an artificial system for keeping it going,”
In response, federal and state agencies embarked on an effort to transport adult chinook from the base of Keswick Dam to Battle Creek, about 50 miles southeast where the water is more consistently cool and clear and the fish can move upstream and back out to the ocean.In addition, about 40,000 Chinook eggs were transported from a hatchery by truck and helicopter above Shasta Dam to the McCloud River.As the McCloud river fish migrated back downstream,the surviving smolt were captured and transported down below Keswick Dam to enable them to move down the Sacramento River. For more information and insight on this interesting effort to prevent these amazing fish from disappearing from this watershed, go to:https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/news/saving-salmon-chinook-return-to-californias-far-north-with-a-lot-of-hum/
After 3 long years, we are bringing back our annual fundraiser on February 18th from 12:30 pm to 6:00 pm at the Aptos Grange! So many things have changed in the past three years and there was no way we could run the fundraiser “the way we used to”, so here we go. New venue, new hours, new food, new ticket price, new faces and with your help, more comradery, laughter and fun. We will be serving lunch, raffling wonderful prizes, spotlighting deserving members with annual awards, and introducing the 2023 Board of Directors.
There are lots of activities including casting demos/instruction, fly tying demos/instruction, seminars from well-know pros, vendors selling all-things fly fishy. It’s a great opportunity to learn and check out gear before you purchase. Many club members make it an annual event. If you are new to the sport, go and pick up a few tips. Visit the the website for details and how to get tickets. https://flyfishingshow.com/pleasanton-ca/
After 3 long years, we are bringing back our annual fundraiser on February 18th from 12:30 pm to 6:00 pm at the Aptos Grange! So many things have changed in the past three years and there was no way we could run the fundraiser “the way we used to”, so here we go. New venue, new hours, new food, new ticket price, new faces and with your help, more comradery, laughter and fun. We will be serving lunch, raffling wonderful prizes, spotlighting deserving members with annual awards, and introducing the 2023 Board of Directors.
Buy your tickets now: Its such a bummer to plan a party when no one tells you they are coming. We know you are thinking about it, so just do it! Tickets are $25/person and we only can sell 150 entrance/meal tickets due to space limitations of the Grange. Tickets are available online here: https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/product-category/annual-fundraiser/
Volunteer: Many long term club members say the best part of our Annual Fundraiser is the time volunteering and working with others to put the whole event together. We still need people to step-up and take an assignment whether it is before, during or after the event. Contact Elaine Cook (coookin@gmail.com) to find out where you can best help.
Lunch:
Fresh, healthy, filling and fun. What’s not to like about Mediterranean food? We are bringing a winner from the Bay Area down to cater our lunch. @Zagat dubbed SAJJ Mediterranean falafel as best in the Bay Area! Guests will have the option to choose between the following three entrees. (All entrees will be served with fries.)
SAJJ Bowl: Your choice of Chicken Shawarma, Steak shawarma or falafel; served over turmeric rice, wild arugula, tomato & cucumber mix, hummus, cabbage, diced pickles, and a drizzle of tahini sauce
SAJJ Wrap: Your choice of Chicken Shawarma, Steak shawarma or falafel; garlic spread, wild arugula, tomato & cucumber mix, sumac onions and diced pickles
SAJJ Pita: Your choice of Chicken Shawarma, Steak shawarma or falafel; with hummus, wild arugula, tomato & cucumber mix, diced pickles
Seating will be available indoor and outdoor all though inside will be cozy depending on the weather. Lunch will be available between 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm. Water, soda, and coffee will be available as well as a dessert table. We will not be serving or selling alcohol so plan accordingly.
Parking: Everyone needs to buddy-up and comes to the Fundraiser with a fellow member, so that we can fit everyone in the parking lot. Otherwise, over flow will need to park on Mar Vista Drive.
Raffle Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online and can also be purchased at the event. If you purchased online, your tickets will be waiting for you along with your entrance/lunch receipt when you check-in. Raffle boxes will be on the tables for you to decide what you want to win. Keep a portion of your ticket so that you can claim your winnings.
Health Protocol: We hope to have a lot of people attend this event and the Grange is not that big of a building. Masking is encouraged as we want everyone healthy for the upcoming fishing season.
We have had a successful 2023 membership renewal with over 150 members renewed as of the end of December and anticipating more renewals after sending out a friendly email reminder so that members can be included in the 2023 Roster, which includes 25 new members. Membership renewal
Also, we have 30 members that have signed up for the annual dinner and raffle and have also sold over $400 Raffle tickets which can be bought online under the menu listed as 2023 Annual Fundraiser and will be available at the dinner @ the Aptos Grange, Sat Feb 18th. Fundraising Tickets Here!
Thank you for all for the renewals, donations, and Annual dinner and raffle sales, and have a Happy New 2023
You can also make your own arrangements either by bringing your own RV (Pyramid Lake Lodge has hook-ups and sells permits to park on the any of the beaches along the lake) or staying in Reno. Reno is 45 minutes away. Call Pyramid Lake Lodge to inquire about last minute cancellations in their cabins as well (775) 476-0400 and check out their website to see what the cabins look like at 
If you have any questions about equipment or how to get there, check the “Gearing up” columns in the March 2007-2009 archives on our great club website, or call Mike White at (831) 706-5556. 
