Category: Monthly Meeting Program

Speaker info

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May: Lance Gray – Steelhead

May 07 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange
Lance Gray - Steelheading on the Feather

Zoom Meeting:  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

The Feather River, located in Oroville, CA, has a large Fall and Spring run of steelhead. The fishery has been in the news lately due to our wild winter 2017. The river has changed in many ways for the good. The high water has wiped the slate clean. New spawning gravel has been exposed, and side channels have been opened to rear the small steelhead and salmon minnows. The presentation gives a well-rounded view of the river. The lecture portion of this presentation covers history, angling information, access points, fly-fishing techniques, and flies. Lance will explore the difference between the Fall and Spring run fish and our tactics to target these great fish.

Lance will join us on Zoom to share the knowledge he’s gained since age 17, when he went to work at Powell’s in Chico, in the fly shop and building rods. He guided for Powell’s, led fly-tying and fly-fishing schools, and traveled.

In 1993, Lance and Kirsten started Saltwater Innovations, a company that manufactured and distributed products for saltwater fly fishing. Lance’s Crystal Popper, Gray’s Billfish Fly, the KO Charlie line and the Raghead Crabs are all Saltwater Innovations products. Kirsten worked behind the scenes, handling the day-to-day operation and running the manufacturing floor of the company.

In 2003 they launched Lance Gray & Company, a full-service outfitter offering guided trips, fly-fishing schools, workshops and a travel agency. Lance conducts presentations at fly clubs and outdoor shows and supports local groups like Cub Scouts and 4H. He’s a signature tier for Aqua Flies, pro staff member for Sage and Rio and is a featured writer, with articles published in Angling Trade Magazine, California Fly Fisher, Fly Fishermen, Sierra Fisherman and Northwest Fly Fishing.



NOTE: Prior to the start of the General Meeting at 6:15 pm, we will be conducting short Introductory Skills to help our those new to the sport. We will also have the same Introductory Skills class at the casting clinic. Please look at the Club Activities article n the Newsletter for more information.

Posted on April 24th, 2025

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April: Rob Anderson – Bucket list fish

Apr 02 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange
Rob Anderson - New Pyramid Lake Strategies

Zoom Meeting:  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

Rob’s team will be guiding the club’s Pyramid trip on June 2nd – 4th.  There are still spaces left, check your calendar and bring your questions to the meeting  Pyramid trip link

Rob was born and raised in Virginia, where he grew up hunting and fishing from a very young age.  A career in Golf brought Rob West and rekindled his interest in Fly Fishing.  After a serious accident in 2000 that required surgery and rehabilitation, Rob changed careers and joined the Reno Fly Shop. He played a key role in building the guide service and became the first non-tribal guide at Pyramid Lake, where his efforts helped grow the lake’s popularity through fishing reports and a dedicated website.

In the early 2000s, Rob’s passion for Peacock Bass led him to Brazil, where he began hosting trips to the Amazon and developing a travel program. When the Reno Fly Shop closed in 2010, Rob launched his own website to promote local guiding, including trips to Pyramid Lake, and continued his work in the Amazon with various lodges. In 2016, he partnered with Neto Silva to create an exclusive fly-fishing program on the Xeruini River Preserve, now one of the world’s premier fishing destinations.

Today, Rob runs his local guide service, Bucket List Fly Fishing, and hosts charity events, all while supporting conservation and local communities. His passion for fishing, especially at Pyramid Lake, and his dedication to giving back continue to drive his work.



NOTE: Prior to the start of the General Meeting at 5:45 pm, we will be conducting short Introductory Skills to help our those new to the sport. We will also have the same Introductory Skills class at the casting clinic. Please look at the Club Activities article n the Newsletter for more information.

FUTURE SPEAKERS

Date Monthly Speaker Description
May 07 Lance Gray - Steelheading on the FeatherWe’re excited to welcome Lance Grey, longtime friend of the club and owner/operator of Lance Grey & Company, to speak with us about some of Northern California’s most renowned fisheries, including Lake Almanor and the Feather River. Lance has spent years exploring and guiding in these waters, and his deep knowledge of these rivers and lakes will give us invaluable insights into fishing techniques, seasonal patterns, and how to make the most of your time on these iconic fisheries.

Posted on March 26th, 2025

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March: Jim Cox – Western River Conservancy

Mar 05 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange
Jim Cox - Western Rivers Conservancy

Jim joined Western Rivers Conservancy as Director of Donor Relations in 2011. He is a past steering committee co-chair of the Nonprofit Association of Oregon and is an active member of the Northwest Planned Giving Roundtable. He is a member of numerous conservation organizations including Trout Unlimited, Flyfishers Club of Oregon, FFI, and the Native Fish Society. Jim holds a Bachelor of Theatre Degree from Willamette University and lives in Portland, Oregon. In his free time, you can find him fly fishing for trout and steelhead on is favorite western streams and occasionally sitting in as guest trumpet soloist with the Latin jazz band The Steelhead Stalkers.

Western Rivers Conservancy has been working for more than 35 years to conserve and protect lands on more than 280 rivers and streams in nine western states, purchasing properties across the West to protect and conserve vital river ecosystems and to provide compatible public use and enjoyment.  Jim will be discussing the organization’s recent projects across the west including Dillon Beach in California, McDermitt Creek in Oregon, Terryall Creek Colorado, Racetrack Creek in Montana, the Yakima River in Washington and the Selway River in Idaho among others.



NOTE: Prior to the start of the General Meeting at 5:45 pm, we will be conducting short Introductory Skills to help our those new to the sport. We will also have the same Introductory Skills class at the casting clinic. Please look at the Club Activities article n the Newsletter for more information.

FUTURE SPEAKERS

Date Monthly Speaker Description
Apr 02 Rob Anderson - New Pyramid Lake StrategiesIn conjunction with June’s Pyramid Lake Fish Out, we’re thrilled to have Rob Andersen, owner and operator of Bucket List Fishing, join the club to share his expertise on new techniques for fishing Pyramid Lake. Rob’s knowledge of this iconic fishery is second to none, whether you’re a seasoned Pyramid Lake angler or new to the lake’s unique challenges, you won’t want to miss this chance to learn from one of the best in the business!
May 07 Lance Gray - Steelheading on the FeatherWe’re excited to welcome Lance Grey, longtime friend of the club and owner/operator of Lance Grey & Company, to speak with us about some of Northern California’s most renowned fisheries, including Lake Almanor and the Feather River. Lance has spent years exploring and guiding in these waters, and his deep knowledge of these rivers and lakes will give us invaluable insights into fishing techniques, seasonal patterns, and how to make the most of your time on these iconic fisheries.

Posted on February 27th, 2025

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February Meeting – New Member Orientation and Hangout



Feb 05 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange

We are not going to have an “official meeting” in February since we have just had the Annual Fundraiser the Saturday before.   However, we have already rented the Aptos Grange for Feb 5th and so we are going to open it up for a hang out.   There will be a couple of different groups meeting there that night.

New Member Orientation:   This is open to anyone, but is primarily meant for people who have joined in the last year.   Opportunity to meet other new members, talk about your fishing goals and learn how to get the most out of  the club.

Women’s Group Meetup:    This is an opportunity for women in the club to be able to meet each other, discuss fishing opportunities and ways to make the club more welcoming to the fastest growing segment of fly fishing.

 

Date Monthly Speaker Description
Mar 05 Jim Cox - Western Rivers ConservancyJim Cox joined Western Rivers Conservancy in 2011 and is the Director of Donor Relations. He has more than 40 years of experience working professionally in the nonprofit sector. Jim joining the club to discuss how Western Rivers Conservancy works to restore and protect rivers through the Western US.
Apr 02 Rob Anderson - New Pyramid Lake StrategiesIn conjunction with June’s Pyramid Lake Fish Out, we’re thrilled to have Rob Andersen, owner and operator of Bucket List Fishing, join the club to share his expertise on new techniques for fishing Pyramid Lake. Rob’s knowledge of this iconic fishery is second to none, whether you’re a seasoned Pyramid Lake angler or new to the lake’s unique challenges, you won’t want to miss this chance to learn from one of the best in the business!
May 07 Lance Gray - Steelheading on the FeatherWe’re excited to welcome Lance Grey, longtime friend of the club and owner/operator of Lance Grey & Company, to speak with us about some of Northern California’s most renowned fisheries, including Lake Almanor and the Feather River. Lance has spent years exploring and guiding in these waters, and his deep knowledge of these rivers and lakes will give us invaluable insights into fishing techniques, seasonal patterns, and how to make the most of your time on these iconic fisheries.

Posted on January 23rd, 2025

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Fish Stories from our members

Jan 08 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange
2024 Fish Stories from our members

Zoom Meeting:  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

Let’s start the new year by listening to stories from your fellow club  members.   First fish, biggest fish, funniest story, who knows what we will hear.

For those of you who want to see what people did in 2024, please spend time looking at the pictures and captions on the club’s website: www.santacruzflyfishing.org . Viewing is best done on a full screen computer and when you click on the picture, you get a larger image and the full description. Images are sorted chronologically and hitting the ‘Load More’ button at the bottom of the page will show pictures from earlier in the year. Also, please share your pictures with others by sending them to Jerry at metropolitantrout@gmail.com.



Posted on December 27th, 2024

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Fly Fishing in Chilean Patagonia – Live Speaker

Dec 04 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange
Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

Recording of the Meeting:  https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/IYqsd16PFQHY5nHdEK4yoC30hTuneOfb2oTNwjjaTHzgxfUPrLQeOG-4h8qNl1K8.jS-yHbwPMVWTxARn

(transcript included.  Minute 50:00 Miles Marquez talk.  Minute 19:00  Bucket list places and international travel tips)

Miles has been with Big Sky Anglers since the business on the corner of Madison and Canyon Street. He started out in the fly shop and quickly made his way to a full time guide in short order. Miles has truly unique background, he grew up on the streets of New York City, he and his buddies chased striped bass with their fly rods from the Bronx, along the East River, and down to the jetties in Queens. In between, they would ride the train up to the Catskills and fish dries on fabled rivers such as the Beaverkill and the West Branch of the Delaware River. Over the years Miles has lived and fished along the central California coast, in Northern Georgia, in rural Indiana, Argentina and Chile. Miles served with distinction in the US Army’s special operations community, as a member of 1st Bn, 75th Ranger Regiment. A Ranger School graduate, two deployments to Afghanistan and a wide variety of special operations training in all environments makes him no stranger to the outdoors, and a respectful and professional individual of the highest order.

After leaving the Army in the Spring of 2015, Miles moved to West Yellowstone. Miles quickly began to soak up local knowledge and learn the area’s waters as well as many of the long time locals. His drive and knowledge led to him to search for work in the fishing world.

Miles splits time between guiding full-time in West Yellowstone in the summer and in Chile for Martin Pescador during the winter months. When he’s not out on the water, you can find him rock climbing throughout the Rockies or hanging with his daughter, River.

You will never find Miles on the same piece of water day after day. Whether he’s on the Lakes, the Madison, Henry’s Fork or deep in the Yellowstone backcountry, he loves to explore all the area has to offer. Miles believes that fly fishing in any capacity or location makes all your worldly problems and worries vanish behind the sound of the river, the wild around you, and the rhythm of your casting stroke.



January general meeting will be on Wednesday the 8th and the January fly tying class will be cancelled.

Posted on November 26th, 2024

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Geoff Malloway of Central Coast Fly Fishing

Nov 06 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange
Geoff Malloway ~ Owner of Central Coast Fly Fishing

Zoom Meeting:  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

Born in Carmel and raised in Monterey, Geoff Malloway grew up in the fields and streams of California’s Central Coast.  His time studying Natural Resources Management at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, further developed his love and respect for the outdoors and his desire to share and teach the conservation ethic.  In April 1996, Geoff settled on opening Central Coast Fly Fishing since he wanted to be self-employed yet still have an avenue to work with natural resource agencies and the public.

The members of Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club are long time fans and supporters of Central Coast Fly Fishing as the only shop in Monterey(now even closer!).   Geoff visiting Novembers meeting to discuss the new shop locations, fishing classes and programs offered, and a review of the rules regulations of our local waters.



Posted on October 30th, 2024

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Local Surf Fly Fishing

Oct 02 6:45 AM at the Aptos Grange
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

The ocean is the closest fishery that we have in Santa Cruz.  Luckily for us in the area, our beaches provide ample access for those to take advantage of this fishery year-round.

Club members Jerry McKeon, Tommy Polito, and Lance Boiling will discuss fly fishing on our local beaches.  We will chat about everything from tides and conditions to gear and tips.  Whether you’re new to fishing the surf, or an experienced feather chucker; come share stories and learn why our closest fishery is one of our favorites.



Posted on September 24th, 2024

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Restoring the Klamath River – Virtual Speaker

Sep 04 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

Dr. Mark Rockwell has been working on environmental issues since 2001, when he retired from his Chiropractic Practice in Redwood City, CA. He’s been married 54 years and has 3 children.  In 2001 he became the V.P. of Conservation for the Northern California Council, Fly Fishers International (NCCFFI). In 2005, after returning from a lobby trip to D.C. on Snake River dam removal, he was invited to be the California Organizer of the Endangered Species Coalition (ESC), working to stop the Congressional effort to rewrite the Endangered Species Act (ESA).  He worked for 12 years for the ESC as the California Organizer, and then the Pacific Field Organizer in charge of California, Oregon and Washington field operations.  He has been in leadership for Fly Fishers International (FFI) since joining the Board of the Northern California Council, FFI in 2003, serving as V.P. of Conservation, and then President from 2018 to 2023. He continues today as the V.P. of Conservation, and has received the coveted FFI Conservation Leadership Award twice – 2007 & 2023.


He began working on Klamath river dam removal in 2003, signing the original Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement (KBRA) & Klamath Hydropower Settlement Agreement (KHSA) agreements in 2010, and the current revised KHSA in 2015. It’s been a 20+ year collaborative
effort to provide the opportunity for the Klamath River to return to its historic greatness. In 2023 the license to operate the Klamath project was transferred and surrendered to the Klamath River Renewal Corporation, the entity formed to manage removal of the 4 dams and oversee restoration of the footprint lands of the project. As of early 2024, the Klamath is running free for the first time since 1918, and all dams will be off the river by the end of October 2024.

Mark continues to be focused on fishery & watershed conservation as his post-chiropractic life mission. “I spent my professional life treating spine and nervous system interference problems for my community in the San Francisco region for 25 years, and my post Chiropractic life working to improve our planet. Both of these efforts are done with a sense of love and caring. Conserving our great watersheds & fish is now my purpose. We owe it to our children & grandkids to pass along to them the same greatness & beauty we inherited.” ~ Dr. Mark Rockwell



Posted on August 27th, 2024

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August BBQ 2024

Aug 07 6:00 PM at the Aptos Grange Club BBQ 2024

For our August meeting, we’ll get together for our annual summer B-B-Q. This year, we’ll meet at 6:00 pm at the Aptos Grange. The club will host a burger and hot-dog cookout with all the fixings along chips, water and sodas. We suggest a $5 donation for the dinner.

Adult beverages will not be offered. Feel free to bring your own. This meeting is a great opportunity to meet and greet in person.



Posted on July 29th, 2024

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Matt: Truckee River

Jun 05 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

Matt began fly fishing the waters of the Tahoe-Truckee region when he was a kid. As a guide, Gilligan brings to the river over 35 years of experience fly fishing and tying flies for Truckee River trout. A veteran guide, Gill loves to guide anglers of all abilities. Gill lives on the banks of the Truckee River in Hirschdale Ca, and has a familiarity with river that he will present to you.

www.gilligansguideservice.com

Posted on May 29th, 2024

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Trout Unlimited Meeting

Jun 19 6:30 PM at the Aptos Grange
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939
TU Meeting at Aptos Grange on June 19th

Trout Unlimited Steinbeck Country Chapter (Central Coast of California) membership meeting announcement.
Please join us for a hybrid General Membership meeting on June 19th.
Date:  June 19
Time:  6:30 – 8:00
In Person Location:  Aptos Grange, 2555 Mar Vista Dr, Aptos, CA  95003
Zoom option:  Join Zoom Meeting  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88295626770
Meeting ID: 882 9562 6770

Agenda:
6:00 Gather and Social Time
6:30 Call to Order and Introduction by Christy Fischer, Chapter President
7:00 Presentation: Current and Future of the Klamath River – After the Dams are Gone – Latest news and Vision for the Future Presentation by Tommy Williams, SW NOAA Science Center
7:45 Presentation: Carmel River / Rancho Canada Floodplain Project – Turning a Golf Course into a Natural River on the Central Coast Presentation by Tim Frahm, Trout Unlimited
8:00 Wrap up by Christy Fischer – What’s next for the Chapter

Our lead presenter for this meeting is Tommy Williams who is a research biologist at the National Marine Fisheries Service’s (NMFS) Southwest Fisheries Science Center (SWFSC) for the past 24 years, Tommy serves as the lead for the SWFSC on issues related to planning, and science issues regarding the removal of four dams on the Klamath River.  He knows the river, the landscape, the politics, the current conditions and the potential for recovery of cold-water fisheries.

Also presenting will be Tim Frahm, TU Central Coast Steelhead Project Manager discussing the ambitious Carmel River Floodplain Restoration Project (largest such project on the California Coast) which will commence construction next summer (2-year effort).

 

Posted on May 29th, 2024

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Jesse Collins: Fishing Alaska

May 01 6:30 PM at the Aptos Grange
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

 

Club Member Jesse Collins is a former guide who first started guiding on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula in 2007. He grew up within walking distance of the Chattahoochee River and started flyfishing when his grandfather took him to see the premier of “River Runs Through It” in 1992. For over 30 years Jesse has been tying flies and fly fishing and has fished all over America from the southeast tailwaters like the Taccoa, Chattahoochee, and South Holston Rivers, to the Great Lakes Tributaries, Pennsylvania Spring Creeks, Appalachian Freestones, Western rivers like the Madison, Yellowstone, and the Beaverhead, all the way to Alaska. He is passionate about all things fly fishing and one of his favorite places in the world is Alaska where he makes it back every year.

Posted on April 24th, 2024

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The Origin of Golden Trout with Steve Schalla


Apr 03 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange

Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939


Steve Schalla is the creator of the website, www.FlyFishingtheSierra.com. Filled with maps and fishing knowledge, the website has become a repository for everything he’s learned about fly fishing over the past 30 years. Steve’s goal has been to create regional maps covering all of the waters of the Sierra. These maps show fish species, fishless areas, access trails, fishing/permit regulations, and a hatch chart with a suggested fly selection.

Steve is a graduate of Forestry from Cal with an emphasis on Botany from UCSB. He has established reforestation nurseries in California, Oregon, and Washington and grew close to 45 million seedlings for replanting many of our forests. Additionally, Steve is active with Fly Fishers International and his local club, Sespe Fly Fishers.

Steve will be speaking to the club on the history of the Golden Trout Wilderness, from the uniqueness of the geology and natural fish introduction to cultural interests that impact  Golden Trout today.


Apr 03 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange

Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939


Click here to see current month club meeting program

Posted on March 27th, 2024

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David Gregory – March


Mar 06 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange

Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939


David Gregory is the owner of Yosemite Outfitters, a fly fishing and Hiking guide service out of Yosemite.


David has a B.S. in Parks and Recreation Management and is a graduate of Clearwater Guide School. He is enthusiastically devoted to sharing his love of fly fishing and guides for Yosemite Outfitters. The past 19 years he has formed a deep connection to Yosemite and the cool crystal waters off the Merced and Tuolumne Rivers


From roaming the Patagonian Andes to the sheer magic of Yosemite, David Gregory will take us on an aquatic adventure through places that have captured his heart.  Addressing the need for conservation and stewardship to preserve the future of our sport and planet.

Posted on March 1st, 2024

Date:  January 3, 2024

Time:  6:45 pm

Place:  Aptos Grange and Zoom

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Fish Stories from our members

Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

Let’s start the year by hearing some fish stories from fellow club members. Stories will be about a 50 year fish hunt, chasing native fish in the west, blitzes in the bay and more. Hope to see you there!

For those of you who want to see what people did in 2023, please spend time looking at the pictures and captions on the club’s website: www.santacruzflyfishing.org . Viewing is best done on a full screen computer and when you click on the picture, you get a larger image and the full description. Images are sorted chronologically and hitting the ‘Load More’ button at the bottom of the page will show pictures from earlier in the year. Also, please share your pictures with others by sending them to Jerry at metropolitantrout@gmail.com.

Posted on December 27th, 2023

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Lance Gray – December


Dec 06 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange

Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

Lance Gray - Guide

During 2003, Lance and Kirsten Gray launched Lance Gray & Co., a full-service outfitter offering guided trips, fly-fishing schools, workshops and a travel agency. His guide service covers Lake Almanor, Manzanita Lake, and the Yuba, Lower Sac and Feather rivers. Lance is a signature tier for Aqua Flies, pro staff member for Sage and Rio and is a featured writer, with articles published in Angling Trade Magazine, California Fly Fisher, Fly Fishermen, Sierra Fisherman and Northwest Fly Fishing.

Lance and Kirsten together have more than a combined 50 years of experience in fly fishing. Lance started fly fishing with his father and brother Lincoln at age 7. In his teens, he began tying flies commercially for shops all around Northern California. During 1993, Lance and Kirsten started Saltwater Innovations, a manufacturer and distributor products for saltwater fly fishing. Lance’s Crystal Popper, Gray’s Billfish Fly, the KO Charlie line and the Raghead Crabs are all Saltwater Innovations products. Kirsten worked behind the scenes, handling day-to-day operations and running the manufacturing floor.

Monthly Speaker Date Excerpt
Jan 03 Club Meeting

Posted on November 29th, 2023

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Conway Bowman ~ Fly Fishing for Mako Sharks


Nov 01 6:30 PM at the Aptos Grange

Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939


Conway X Bowman is a USCG-licensed captain who pioneered fly fishing for Mako sharks over 27 years ago. has fly fished and guided around the globe from the jungles of Thailand to the remote lakes and rivers of Alaska.

Conway is regarded as one of the top fly fishing guides and anglers in the world. His pioneering of not only Mako sharks on the fly, but also West Coast saltwater fly fishing has been featured in many books, and he is the author of The Orvis Guide to Saltwater Fly fishing: 101 tips for the Absolute Beginner. Conway resides in the coastal town of Encinitas, California, with his marine biologist wife, Michelle, and their boys Maximillian and Jackson.

Conway will be joining the club virtually to speak about fly fishing for Mako Sharks just off the coast of San Diego.

Monthly Speaker Date Excerpt
Nov 01 November's Virtual Speaker ~ Conway Bowman ~ Fly Fishing for Mako Sharks
Lance Gray - GuideDec 06 Lance Gray - Guide
Jan 03 Club Meeting

Posted on October 26th, 2023

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Fly Fishing Film Tour – Part 2


Oct 04 6:00 PM at the Aptos Grange
Fly Fishing Film Tour - Part 2

The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club presents the Part 2 of Fly Fishing Film Tours 2023 film line up at the Aptos Grange during the October general meeting.  We want this to be a fun and exciting event and as a way of recruiting new club members. Please invite friends to come and watch the movie with you. No food and or drinks during the movie since we cannot have them in the main room of the Grange. However, we will have time after the film to visit and snack in the side room. We will have sodas and water for sale, if you want anything else, you need to bring it.

17th annual FLY FISHING FILM TOUR (F3T)

The 2023 show will feature locations from Cuba to Patagonia, Mexico to Australia, Alaska, Wyoming, the Deep South, Massachusetts and beyond. Experience the achievement of a permit slam, follow one man’s journey from Mexico to the waters of Wyoming, explore the best international waters and compete for the legendary belt buckle. Join us for a journey of adventure, friendship and the best fly fishing action.

The F3T is the original and largest fly fishing film event of its kind. Come for the action and stay for the giveaways and camaraderie that will feed your fishing addiction.

More info: https://flyfilmtour.com

Future Speakers. Dates and speakers may change, please go to URL to see the current information.

Monthly Speaker Date Excerpt
Nov 01 November's Virtual Speaker ~ Conway Bowman ~ Fly Fishing for Mako Sharks
Lance Gray - GuideDec 06 Lance Gray - Guide
Jan 03 Club Meeting

Posted on September 26th, 2023

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Fly Fishing Film Tour


Sep 06 6:00 PM at the Aptos Grange
No Zoom for September and October meetings.

The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club presents the Fly Fishing Film Tours 2023 film line up in a 2 part series showing at the Aptos Grange during the September and October general meetings.  We want this to be a fun and exciting event and as a way of recruiting new club members.  Please invite  friends to come and watch the movie with you.    No food and or drinks during the movie since we cannot have them in the main room of the Grange.  However, we will have time after the film to visit and snack in the side room.  We will have sodas and water for sale, if you want anything else, you need to bring it.

17th annual FLY FISHING FILM TOUR (F3T)

The 2023 show will feature locations from Cuba to Patagonia, Mexico to Australia, Alaska, Wyoming, the Deep South, Massachusetts and beyond. Experience the achievement of a permit slam, follow one man’s journey from Mexico to the waters of Wyoming, explore the best international waters and compete for the legendary belt buckle. Join us for a journey of adventure, friendship and the best fly fishing action.

The F3T is the original and largest fly fishing film event of its kind. Come for the action and stay for the giveaways and camaraderie that will feed your fishing addiction.

More info: https://flyfilmtour.com

Future Speakers. Dates and speakers may change, please go to URL to see the current information.

Monthly Speaker Date Excerpt
Fly Fishing Film Tour - Part 2Oct 04 Fly Fishing Film Tour - Part 2
Nov 01 November's Virtual Speaker ~ Conway Bowman ~ Fly Fishing for Mako Sharks
Lance Gray - GuideDec 06 Lance Gray - Guide

Posted on August 24th, 2023

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August BBQ

Aug 02 6:00 PM at the Aptos Grange Club BBQ

For our August meeting, we’ll get together for our annual summer B-B-Q. This year, we’ll meet at 6:00 pm at the Aptos Grange. The club will host a burger and hot-dog cookout with all the fixings. (Adult beverages will not be offered. Feel free to bring your own.)

We’ll also hold a fishing swap-meet/flea market. Bring your gently or un-used gear to the meeting for cash or trade. Be sure to bring your own display table.

Also, bring your favorite rod and join the cast for cash competition.   This meeting is a great opportunity to meet and greet in person.



Future Speakers. Dates and speakers may change, please go to URL to see the current information.

Monthly Speaker Date Excerpt
Sep 06 Fly Fishing Film Tour 2023
Fly Fishing Film Tour - Part 2Oct 04 Fly Fishing Film Tour - Part 2
Nov 01 November's Virtual Speaker ~ Conway Bowman ~ Fly Fishing for Mako Sharks
Lance Gray - GuideDec 06 Lance Gray - Guide

Posted on July 25th, 2023

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(In Person) Lee Haskins


Jun 07 6:30 PM at the Aptos Grange
New Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

Lee Haskin began his fishing career in the late fifties, at about 10 years old. He learned to tie flies from his father, and an old Herter’s fly tying manual, and soon was flyfishing, side-by-side with his fly-fishing father, on trout waters throughout the California Sierras. However, in 1967 Lee caught his first striped bass at the mouth of the Pajaro River, just prior to moving to Long Beach to attend college. After settling in to college, Lee discovered the many species of fish that would readily come to the fly. His primary target was the Bonita, found in the San Gabriel River, near the college.

After reading about Bob Edgley blue shark fly fishing in Monterey Bay, in the late 1960’s, Lee was focused on catching yet another species on the fly. Many trips out of Capitola, CA yielded numerous blue sharks, as well as rockfish in the kelp beds.

In the early 1970’s Lee began to fish San Luis Reservoir and O’Neill Forebay, with a primary interest in catching stripers with top water bugs. About that same time Lee and old friend and mentor, Del Brown, (talk about good company!) began fishing the South San Francisco Bay for stripers. Del and Lee fished from Coyote Point to Candlestick Park throughout the 1970’s. However, in the early 1980’s, the San Francisco Bay’s incredible striper fishing dropped off, and Del began his world record run for permit. At this time, Lee concentrated his efforts once again on the San Luis Reservoir and O’Neill Forebay, targeting the flats and islands along Highway 152 on the O’Neill Forebay, and also, depending on the season, along the dam and many accessible coves, fishing from a float tube. Lee has fished these areas successfully since the 70’s.

Although Lee enjoys catching stripers throughout the year on his own flies, specifically Lee’s San Luis Smelt, he is particularly fond of throwing his favorite gurgler patterns along the weed beds of the O’Neill Forebay.

Lee found that his Gurgler Series could fill a niche with top-water loving fly fisherman around the world, and enjoys introducing people to this versatile pattern. A number of Lee’s fly patterns incorporate foam in the design, including the Neutralizer Series, which has become very popular for tarpon, redfish and snook. His commercial fly tying business keeps him busy filling fly orders for folks all over the world. Fortunately, he still has time for travel, from Alaska to Honduras, to the Bahamas. Lee particularly enjoys fishing inshore saltwater locations, for tarpon, permit, snook, bonefish, and redfish. Working with guides and outfitters, in the Yucatan, Belize, and the Bahamas, Lee has developed several successful and popular patterns for each fishery he visits. He also hosts trips to the Yucatan, primarily for baby tarpon

 

 

Future Speakers. Dates and speakers may change, please go to URL to see the current information.

Monthly Speaker Date Excerpt
Club BBQAug 02 Club BBQ
Sep 06 Fly Fishing Film Tour 2023

Posted on May 16th, 2023

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(In Person) James Garrettson


May 03 6:30 PM at the Aptos Grange
New Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

James Garrettson is the owner and head guide of About Trout, an outfitter operating on the San Juan River in Northwestern New Mexico. James has been a part of the fly fishing industry since 2004, and works towards making fly fishing accessible and fun for all those who want to be a part of the sport. A teacher of flyfishing first, James calls the San Juan River home and loves showcasing the diversity of techniques anglers can apply to the river on a daily basis. James has fished far and wide both domestically and out of country for salmon, steelhead, roosterfish, tarpon, soft mouth trout, tuna, and a mixed bag of other species. Aside from guiding full time, James gives his presentation “a guide’s approach to the water” all around the country. James hopes to share with you key strategies that the About Trout guides use day in and day out to combat the constant change of outside conditions and trout behavior. James is a member of both the FullingMill and Douglas pro teams.
www.abouttrout.com

Future Speakers. Dates and speakers may change, please go to URL to see the current information.

Monthly Speaker Date Excerpt
Jun 07 June's Speaker ~ Lee Haskin ~ The San Luis Reservior
Club BBQAug 02 Club BBQ

Posted on April 18th, 2023

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Mike Villemiare of Mammoth Lakes


Apr 05 6:30 PM at the Aptos Grange
New Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939


Mike is the Owner and Head Guide of Mammoth Lakes Fly Fishing Guide Service in Mammoth Lakes, CA.  He first discovered his passion for fly fishing as a kid casting dry flies to wild brook trout on small streams in Vermont.  He spent many years developing his skills and chasing trout and warm water species all over local waters, eventually moving to California in 2003.  After a few years with the San Diego Fly shop learning surf fishing and saltwater tactics, he moved to Mammoth Lakes full time.  His primary focus since has been exploring and learning the nuances of the many fishing opportunities in the Eastern Sierras.  He completed the Clearwater Guide School in 2014, spent several years as a top guide at The Troutfitter, and currently operates his own service, guiding and teaching anglers of all skill levels.
www.mammothlakesflyfishing.com

Future Speakers. Dates and speakers may change, please go to URL to see the current information.

Monthly Speaker Date Excerpt
May 03 May's Speaker ~ James Garrettson of About Trout ~ A Guides Approach to the Water
Jun 07 June's Speaker ~ Lee Haskin ~ The San Luis Reservior
Club BBQAug 02 Club BBQ

Posted on March 30th, 2023

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Alvin Dedeuax ~ Bass on the Fly

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.



Alvin Dedeaux has been fly fishing for nearly 50 years. For the last quarter-century, he has been considered one of Texas’ premier fly-fishing guides. In the winter and spring months he spends his time chasing largemouth and Guadalupe bass on his home waters of the Colorado River. In the summer and fall he can be found chasing redfish in the shallow saltwater flats of the middle Texas coast.

Alvin is a two-time finalist for the Orvis guide of the year and his guide service All Water Guides has been a finalist in the Orvis Outfitter of the year. Alvin is one of the co-founders of the highly successful LoCo Trash Bash, a yearly clean-up on the Lower Colorado River downstream of Austin. To date, the all-volunteer effort has helped remove over 45 tons of trash from the Lower Colorado River.


Posted on February 24th, 2023

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Capt. Andrew Harris of Confluence Outfitters ~ Trinity River Watershed

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.

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Posted on January 26th, 2023

Date:  January 4, 2023

Time:  6:30 pm

Place:  Aptos Grange

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Member stories from 2022

Traditionally, the January meeting has been a slideshow that allows us to see where members have been fishing. Nowadays, we can see pictures of our friends posted while they are still in the water! So this year we are going to have 5 of our club members, Skip Montello, Jeff Slaboden, Kathy Power, Bill Seaman and Dar Naghshineh tell us about a special fishing moment from 2022. If this is popular, maybe we can have a member talk at our monthly meetings in 2023.

For those of you who miss the slideshow and want to see where people fished in 2022, please spend time looking at the pictures and captions on the club’s website: www.santacruzflyfishing.org . Viewing is best done on a full screen computer and when you click on the picture, you get a larger image and the full description. Images are sorted chronologically and hitting the ‘Load More’ button at the bottom of the page will show pictures from earlier in the year. Also, please share your pictures with others by sending them to Jerry at metropolitantrout@gmail.com.

Posted on December 27th, 2022

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Annual Fundraising Event is back!


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.

 


Posted on December 27th, 2022

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Devin Olsen – Tactical Fly fishing


Devin Olsen started fly fishing in Yellowstone at age 9. Within a couple of years, it became an addiction he could not shake and he begged for rides to local streams until he could drive. He started competing at age 19 and made Fly Fishing Team USA in 2006 when he was 21 years old. He has competed in 12 consecutive World Fly Fishing Championships with Fly Fishing Team USA. He has earned a bronze individual medal and silver and bronze team medals from these championships and numerous medals from competitions in the United States.

Away from competitive fishing he holds a bachelor’s degree in ecology and a master’s degree in fisheries science. He worked as a fisheries biologist for several years before starting his company Tactical Fly Fisher. He has produced three instructional films Modern Nymphing: European Inspired Techniques, Modern Nymphing Elevated: Beyond the Basics, and Adaptive Fly Fishing. He is also the author of the book Tactical Fly Fishing: Lessons Learned from Competition for All Anglers.

Devin will be joining the club virtually to present Tactical Fly Fishing: Lessons Learned from Competition for All Anglers.

Posted on November 22nd, 2022