Information on new members, board update (i.e. treasurer’s update)
The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club will have booth TBD at the Pleasanton Fly Show. Club members will be staffing the booth. Discounted show tickets are available for current Santa Cruz Fly Fishing members.
The SCFF is selling discounted tickets to current members of the club for $13.00. This is a 35% discount from the on-site price.
Posted on January 17th, 2026
Posted on December 15th, 2025
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 24 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | This class will be geared toward learning surf casting skills and will be limited to 6 participants. If you are interested in attending this class, please contact Alex Ferber at 831-419-0564. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Jan 31 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm | 2026 SCFF Annual Fundraiser - Jan 31st, 5-9 pm | Wild Alaska Salmon will highlight the dinner and we will have many prizes available for door prizes and silent auction. A wild salmon dinner for at $50/person and expect it will sell out early. Click on the article to see who has purchased tickets to the event. | Pajaro Valley Rod and Gun Club |
| Feb 27 - Mar 01 10:00 am - 6:00 pm | Pleasanton Fly Fishing Show - SCFF booth | The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club will have booth TBD at the Pleasanton Fly Show. Club members will be staffing the booth. Discounted show tickets are available for current Santa Cruz Fly Fishing members.
Pleasanton Fly Show Ticket - 2026The SCFF is selling discounted tickets to current members of the club for $13.00. This is a 35% discount from the on-site price.
| Alameda County Fairgrounds |
| Feb 28 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | This class will be geared toward learning surf casting skills and will be limited to 6 participants. If you are interested in attending this class, please contact Alex Ferber at 831-419-0564. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Mar 21 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | This class will be geared toward learning surf casting skills and will be limited to 6 participants. If you are interested in attending this class, please contact Alex Ferber at 831-419-0564. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
Posted on December 9th, 2025
As stated in the club’s by-laws, we will hold our annual election for the Board of Directors at the December General meeting. We are fortunate to have many people who have volunteered to serve on the board and are willing to continue their service. This year, we have some openings in the nominations and encourage members to consider serving on the board.
In the table below, I have listed the positions and current board members who would like to continue to serve. You can run or nominate someone for a position where there is already a nominee, however as you can see we have several openings that we need to fill. Elections will be held at the December General Meeting.
| Officers | 2025 elected | 2026 nominees |
|---|---|---|
| President: | Scott Kitayama | Jesse Collins |
| Vice President: | Jesse Collins | Rick Chace |
| Treasurer: | Jim Tolonen | Bill Seaman |
| Secretary: | Kevin McClish | Kevin McClish |
| Committees: | ||
| Monthly Raffle: | Jeff Goyert | OPEN |
| Membership: | Bob Peterson | Scott Kitayama |
| Fishouts: | Justin Ice | Justin Ice |
| Programs: | Tommy Polito | Scott Anderson / Robert Holombo |
| Conservation: | Bob Garbarino | Bob Garbarino |
| Newsletter Editor: | Myles Honda | Myles Honda |
| Fly Casting Master: | Alex Ferber | Alex Ferber |
| Fly Tying Chair: | Elaine Cook | Elaine Cook |
| Marketing/Publicity: | Rick Chace | Nancy Smith |
| Instagram Chair: | Jerry McKeon | Jerry McKeon |
| Annual Fundraiser Dinner Coordinator: | David South | David South |
| Annual Fundraiser Raffle Coordinator: | OPEN | |
| Scholarship Coordinator: | David South | David South |
| Technology Coordinator (new) | Chris Severs | |
| Member at Large: | Kathy Powers | Kathy Powers |
| Past President: | Tom Hogye | Scott Kitayama |
If you are interested in knowing more about the duties of these positions, many of the descriptions can be found in this link.
Posted on November 25th, 2025
Just a reminder 2026 dues can be renewed online at santacruzflyfishing.org
Also members who have paid will receive a thank you email from WordPress(our technical portal support software) and a reminder email if you have not renewed.
Please email/ text me if you have any questions.
Bob/Membership/ robert6367@aol.com cp831-251-8655
Posted on November 25th, 2025
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 24 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | This class will be geared toward learning surf casting skills and will be limited to 6 participants. If you are interested in attending this class, please contact Alex Ferber at 831-419-0564. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Jan 31 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm | 2026 SCFF Annual Fundraiser - Jan 31st, 5-9 pm | Wild Alaska Salmon will highlight the dinner and we will have many prizes available for door prizes and silent auction. A wild salmon dinner for at $50/person and expect it will sell out early. Click on the article to see who has purchased tickets to the event. | Pajaro Valley Rod and Gun Club |
| Feb 27 - Mar 01 10:00 am - 6:00 pm | Pleasanton Fly Fishing Show - SCFF booth | The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club will have booth TBD at the Pleasanton Fly Show. Club members will be staffing the booth. Discounted show tickets are available for current Santa Cruz Fly Fishing members.
Pleasanton Fly Show Ticket - 2026The SCFF is selling discounted tickets to current members of the club for $13.00. This is a 35% discount from the on-site price.
| Alameda County Fairgrounds |
| Feb 28 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | This class will be geared toward learning surf casting skills and will be limited to 6 participants. If you are interested in attending this class, please contact Alex Ferber at 831-419-0564. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
Posted on November 20th, 2025
As stated in the club’s by-laws, we will hold our annual election for the Board of Directors at the December General meeting. We are fortunate to have many people who have volunteered to serve on the board and are willing to continue their service. This year, we have some openings in the nominations and encourage members to consider serving on the board.
In the table below, I have listed the positions and current board members who would like to continue to serve. You can run or nominate someone for a position where there is already a nominee, however as you can see we have several openings that we need to fill.
| Officers | 2025 elected | 2026 nominees |
|---|---|---|
| President: | Scott Kitayama | Jesse Collins |
| Vice President: | Jesse Collins | Rick Chace |
| Treasurer: | Jim Tolonen | Bill Seaman |
| Secretary: | Kevin McClish | Kevin McClish |
| Committees: | ||
| Monthly Raffle: | Jeff Goyert | OPEN |
| Membership: | Bob Peterson | Scott Kitayama |
| Fishouts: | Justin Ice | Justin Ice |
| Programs: | Tommy Polito | Scott Anderson / Robert Holombo |
| Conservation: | Bob Garbarino | Bob Garbarino |
| Newsletter Editor: | Myles Honda | Myles Honda |
| Fly Casting Master: | Alex Ferber | Alex Ferber |
| Fly Tying Chair: | Elaine Cook | Elaine Cook |
| Marketing/Publicity: | Rick Chace | OPEN |
| Instagram Chair: | Jerry McKeon | Jerry McKeon |
| Annual Fundraiser Dinner Coordinator: | David South | David South |
| Annual Fundraiser Raffle Coordinator: | OPEN | |
| Scholarship Coordinator: | David South | David South |
| Technology Coordinator (new) | OPEN | |
| Member at Large: | Kathy Powers | |
| Past President: | Tom Hogye | Scott Kitayama |
If you are interested in knowing more about the duties of these positions, many of the descriptions can be found in this link. If you have any questions or would like to run for a position, please send an email to scottkitayama@gmail.com before Thanksgiving. And of course, any member of the club is welcome to attend the board meetings which take place at the Aptos Grange on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 6:30 pm.
Posted on October 22nd, 2025
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 22 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | CANCELLED Fly Casting Meetup | This month we will have an informal casting practice session where you can work on aspects of your cast of your choice. If you want to work on accuracy, bring a target,. I’ll bring a few as well. If you are just getting started, come and pick up a few tips. Practice rods will be provided if needed. Hope to see you there. November 22nd, 1:00-3:00 PM | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Nov 23 9:00 am - 12:00 pm | Volunteer for Salinas River Cleanup, Sunday November 23 | Join the Salinas Valley Fly Fishers for the annual clean up of the Salinas River fishing access. The event will be on Sunday November 23 starting at 9:00 am. Jay Jefferson is the Salinas Valley Fly Fishers representative for this event. Wear clothing for the weather of that day and if you can, bring gloves and a three prong hoe, as it’s the best tool. Directions:
| |
| Jan 24 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | This class will be geared toward learning surf casting skills and will be limited to 6 participants. If you are interested in attending this class, please contact Alex Ferber at 831-419-0564. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Jan 31 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm | 2026 SCFF Annual Fundraiser - Jan 31st, 5-9 pm | Wild Alaska Salmon will highlight the dinner and we will have many prizes available for door prizes and silent auction. A wild salmon dinner for at $50/person and expect it will sell out early. Click on the article to see who has purchased tickets to the event. | Pajaro Valley Rod and Gun Club |
Posted on October 20th, 2025
As a reminder, 2026 dues can be renewed online Dec 1-Dec 31 by clicking “menu->membership” on the club website. Because the portal is a secure platform, you will need your email and a password to renew your 2026 membership. Also your membership renewal date is on a calendar date from the date of renewal payment. We will continue to provide updates mid November and before December which will include the January date of the Annual Dinner, price, and ticket details, which can be purchase together online with dues renewals.
Posted on October 8th, 2025
This month I had the pleasure of talking with Jesse Collins-Incoming President and Scott Kitayama, the current President,
about their Club.
Some facts:
The Club started in 1977 so we are getting close to 50 years. And like many of the Northern California Clubs we:
● Hold monthly meetings with speakers.
● Monthly fly tying classes.
● Monthly casting clinics on the lawn and sometimes in the San Lorenzo river.
● Have about 17 fish outs per year.
They are currently around 260 members with significant growth occurring during and after Covid. Tom Hogye (who serves as VP of NCCFFI) was President of the club at that time So at a time when many clubs stopped having meetings and were losing members, the Santa Cruz club did some things that helped us survive and continue to thrive today.
They:
● Continued to have meetings during Covid using Zoom and today’s meetings are now a hybrid of zoom and in-person.
● Fully embraced Instagram to tell our story to an audience younger than our average membership and today have over 1,000+ followers.
● Increased our conservation donations and started a scholarship at the local high schools convinced that our membership would grow by “doing good in the community”.
Scott Kitayama became President in 2023 and his main theme has been “fellowship”. We have tried to make the meetings more welcoming to new attendees, have breakfast and coffee at our local beach fishouts, work with other local organizations such as Project Healing Waters and Sisters on the Fly.
Jesse Collins will be the next President and is already setting direction. He discussed his deep-rooted love for fly fishing, which began in his childhood on the East Coast. He values the community aspect of the sport and aims to mentor others, especially veterans, through teaching and guiding. Jesse also mentioned his plans to conduct advanced fly tying clinics and share his knowledge through presentations on various fishing topics. He believes the club membership will continue to increase, become more dynamic and younger. One of the ways is providing affordable fly fishing experiences that would be attractive to any angler.
Here are some takeaways from our meeting:
Hybrid Meetings and Engagement Strategies
Some clubs are experiencing some push back on continuing virtual meetings with their in-person meetings. What have you experienced?
Some members expressed a preference for in-person interactions. Scott contributed to the discussion by emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and engagement in meetings.
Engagement Strategies and Scholarship Programs
Could you talk about what you are doing to bring in more members and diversity of members?
Jesse emphasized the need for greater member engagement to enhance the club’s activities, suggesting that more hands-on presentations could attract new participants. When asked about youth programs, Scott explained the club’s scholarship initiative for high school seniors entering environmental studies. The discussion highlighted the importance of fostering interest in nature among younger generations.
Scott also emphasized the value of local knowledge in fishing, suggesting that club members possess expertise that could rival professional guides.
How are you engaging younger generations in Fishing Activities?
Jesse discussed strategies to engage younger generations in the fishing club, including organizing cost-effective, do-it-yourself trips and implementing a points system to incentivize participation. He noted the success of the fly fishing film tour, which drew a large audience and resulted in new memberships. He also mentioned collaborating with the local Project Healing Waters chapter to attract veterans and their families to the club. These are successful events that have increased membership. He highlighted the importance of making learning enjoyable and accessible, suggesting shorter, more interactive sessions before meetings. He also mentioned the positive impact of recruiting younger members to the board, which encouraged diverse opinions and fresh perspectives.
As we were coming to the end of our discussion we all expressed enthusiasm for organizing a swap meet for clubs in California, highlighting the opportunity for collaboration and sharing resources. Scott noted the success of previous events and suggested that attracting overnight visitors could enhance participation. Jesse proposed organizing more joint events to foster collaboration among clubs, which could enhance membership and engagement and highlight the potential benefits of shared experiences.
Thank you Jesse and Scott for a very insightful discussion and I can’t wait to get some of the club collaborations going with you!
Posted on September 19th, 2025
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 11 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | This month we will have an informal casting practice session where you can work on aspects of your cast of your choice. If you want to work on accuracy, bring a target,. I’ll bring a few as well. If you are just getting started, come and pick up a few tips. Practice rods will be provided if needed. Hope to see you there. October 11th 1:00-3:00 PM | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Oct 25 8:00 am - 11:00 am | San Lorenzo River Cleanup | Cleaning up our Local Waters! | SanLo – Ocean Extension |
| Nov 22 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | CANCELLED Fly Casting Meetup | This month we will have an informal casting practice session where you can work on aspects of your cast of your choice. If you want to work on accuracy, bring a target,. I’ll bring a few as well. If you are just getting started, come and pick up a few tips. Practice rods will be provided if needed. Hope to see you there. November 22nd, 1:00-3:00 PM | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Nov 23 9:00 am - 12:00 pm | Volunteer for Salinas River Cleanup, Sunday November 23 | Join the Salinas Valley Fly Fishers for the annual clean up of the Salinas River fishing access. The event will be on Sunday November 23 starting at 9:00 am. Jay Jefferson is the Salinas Valley Fly Fishers representative for this event. Wear clothing for the weather of that day and if you can, bring gloves and a three prong hoe, as it’s the best tool. Directions:
|
Posted on September 17th, 2025
To try and get the word out about the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club, we created a display of flies and fisherman for the Collection and Hobbies section of the fair located in the Crosetti Building. The flies and pictures are spectacular and need to be shared. So please enjoy:
(Click Play on the left video. Blue Ribbon for the display)
The flies were all tied by Santa Cruz Fly Fishing members. The collection is intended to spark interest in novice and experienced fly fishers to check out our website and hopefully join the club.
Posted on September 11th, 2025
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 05 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting Class--8:00 AM Start on San Lorenzo River | Casting Master: Alex Ferber
For this class I will focus on an Introduction to Spey casting and be gearing it to those with little or no experience. Those with experience are welcome to come and work on their casting and I will be available to give tips. I have rods to loan out, so if you don’t have a 2 handed rod there will rods for you to use. I should have enough for about 8 people. The remainder of the classes ( dates to be announced) will be a chance to continue your practice, but also an opportunity to work on some other casts that you might be interested in learning.
We will be wading into the river, so waders are a good idea. We won’t be fishing–no hooks allowed. We’ll have yarn to attach to your leader. If you can, please let me know if you can attend, but it’s not necessary. Just show up.
831-419-0564 We will be meeting at the Mike Fox Skate park parking lot on the San Lorenzo river at 8 AM.
Address: 299 San Lorenzo Blvd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| Mike Fox Skate Park Parking Lot |
| Sep 14 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting Class--8:00 AM Start on San Lorenzo River | Casting Master: Alex Ferber
For this class I will focus on an Introduction to Spey casting and be gearing it to those with little or no experience. Those with experience are welcome to come and work on their casting and I will be available to give tips. I have rods to loan out, so if you don’t have a 2 handed rod there will rods for you to use. I should have enough for about 8 people. The remainder of the classes ( dates to be announced) will be a chance to continue your practice, but also an opportunity to work on some other casts that you might be interested in learning.
We will be wading into the river, so waders are a good idea. We won’t be fishing–no hooks allowed. We’ll have yarn to attach to your leader. If you can, please let me know if you can attend, but it’s not necessary. Just show up.
831-419-0564 We will be meeting at the Mike Fox Skate park parking lot on the San Lorenzo river at 8 AM.
Address: 299 San Lorenzo Blvd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| Mike Fox Skate Park Parking Lot |
| Sep 20 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Sep 21 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting Class--8:00 AM Start on San Lorenzo River | Casting Master: Alex Ferber
For this class I will focus on an Introduction to Spey casting and be gearing it to those with little or no experience. Those with experience are welcome to come and work on their casting and I will be available to give tips. I have rods to loan out, so if you don’t have a 2 handed rod there will rods for you to use. I should have enough for about 8 people. The remainder of the classes ( dates to be announced) will be a chance to continue your practice, but also an opportunity to work on some other casts that you might be interested in learning.
We will be wading into the river, so waders are a good idea. We won’t be fishing–no hooks allowed. We’ll have yarn to attach to your leader. If you can, please let me know if you can attend, but it’s not necessary. Just show up.
831-419-0564 We will be meeting at the Mike Fox Skate park parking lot on the San Lorenzo river at 8 AM.
Address: 299 San Lorenzo Blvd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| Mike Fox Skate Park Parking Lot |
| Oct 11 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | This month we will have an informal casting practice session where you can work on aspects of your cast of your choice. If you want to work on accuracy, bring a target,. I’ll bring a few as well. If you are just getting started, come and pick up a few tips. Practice rods will be provided if needed. Hope to see you there. October 11th 1:00-3:00 PM | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Oct 25 8:00 am - 11:00 am | San Lorenzo River Cleanup | Cleaning up our Local Waters! | SanLo – Ocean Extension |
| Nov 22 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | CANCELLED Fly Casting Meetup | This month we will have an informal casting practice session where you can work on aspects of your cast of your choice. If you want to work on accuracy, bring a target,. I’ll bring a few as well. If you are just getting started, come and pick up a few tips. Practice rods will be provided if needed. Hope to see you there. November 22nd, 1:00-3:00 PM | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Nov 23 9:00 am - 12:00 pm | Volunteer for Salinas River Cleanup, Sunday November 23 | Join the Salinas Valley Fly Fishers for the annual clean up of the Salinas River fishing access. The event will be on Sunday November 23 starting at 9:00 am. Jay Jefferson is the Salinas Valley Fly Fishers representative for this event. Wear clothing for the weather of that day and if you can, bring gloves and a three prong hoe, as it’s the best tool. Directions:
|
Posted on August 18th, 2025
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 23 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Sep 05 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting Class--8:00 AM Start on San Lorenzo River | Casting Master: Alex Ferber
For this class I will focus on an Introduction to Spey casting and be gearing it to those with little or no experience. Those with experience are welcome to come and work on their casting and I will be available to give tips. I have rods to loan out, so if you don’t have a 2 handed rod there will rods for you to use. I should have enough for about 8 people. The remainder of the classes ( dates to be announced) will be a chance to continue your practice, but also an opportunity to work on some other casts that you might be interested in learning.
We will be wading into the river, so waders are a good idea. We won’t be fishing–no hooks allowed. We’ll have yarn to attach to your leader. If you can, please let me know if you can attend, but it’s not necessary. Just show up.
831-419-0564 We will be meeting at the Mike Fox Skate park parking lot on the San Lorenzo river at 8 AM.
Address: 299 San Lorenzo Blvd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| Mike Fox Skate Park Parking Lot |
| Sep 14 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting Class--8:00 AM Start on San Lorenzo River | Casting Master: Alex Ferber
For this class I will focus on an Introduction to Spey casting and be gearing it to those with little or no experience. Those with experience are welcome to come and work on their casting and I will be available to give tips. I have rods to loan out, so if you don’t have a 2 handed rod there will rods for you to use. I should have enough for about 8 people. The remainder of the classes ( dates to be announced) will be a chance to continue your practice, but also an opportunity to work on some other casts that you might be interested in learning.
We will be wading into the river, so waders are a good idea. We won’t be fishing–no hooks allowed. We’ll have yarn to attach to your leader. If you can, please let me know if you can attend, but it’s not necessary. Just show up.
831-419-0564 We will be meeting at the Mike Fox Skate park parking lot on the San Lorenzo river at 8 AM.
Address: 299 San Lorenzo Blvd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| Mike Fox Skate Park Parking Lot |
| Sep 20 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Sep 21 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting Class--8:00 AM Start on San Lorenzo River | Casting Master: Alex Ferber
For this class I will focus on an Introduction to Spey casting and be gearing it to those with little or no experience. Those with experience are welcome to come and work on their casting and I will be available to give tips. I have rods to loan out, so if you don’t have a 2 handed rod there will rods for you to use. I should have enough for about 8 people. The remainder of the classes ( dates to be announced) will be a chance to continue your practice, but also an opportunity to work on some other casts that you might be interested in learning.
We will be wading into the river, so waders are a good idea. We won’t be fishing–no hooks allowed. We’ll have yarn to attach to your leader. If you can, please let me know if you can attend, but it’s not necessary. Just show up.
831-419-0564 We will be meeting at the Mike Fox Skate park parking lot on the San Lorenzo river at 8 AM.
Address: 299 San Lorenzo Blvd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| Mike Fox Skate Park Parking Lot |
| Oct 11 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | This month we will have an informal casting practice session where you can work on aspects of your cast of your choice. If you want to work on accuracy, bring a target,. I’ll bring a few as well. If you are just getting started, come and pick up a few tips. Practice rods will be provided if needed. Hope to see you there. October 11th 1:00-3:00 PM | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Oct 25 8:00 am - 11:00 am | San Lorenzo River Cleanup | Cleaning up our Local Waters! | SanLo – Ocean Extension |
Posted on July 21st, 2025
Over the summer, new membership has decreased from 4 a month, to 1 a month probably due to summer vacations.
Over the next 3 months , the webpage will be updated to allow members to review/update/edit their information on the roster and be able to renew their membership with a secure ID and password. Welcome to the digital age!
Posted on July 21st, 2025
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 04 6:15 pm - 6:45 pm | Introductory Skills: Basic Indicator Nymph rigs |
There are probably more nymph rig setups than there are members of our club. Going to start go through some basic rigs, what knots to use and how to make adjustments. | Aptos Grange |
| Jun 14 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Jul 19 9:00 am - 11:00 am | Fly Casting Meetup--9:00 AM Start on San Lorenzo River | Casting Master: Alex Ferber
This class will be focusing on the roll cast. Practicing on the water will make it a lot easier to master. I’d also like to expand on the roll cast by introducing single hand Spey casts. The use of single hand Spey casts will open up your ability to cast in tight quarters, and manipulate your line to open up new casting opportunities. Learning these casts will help introduce you to 2 handed Spey casting, as well as Trout Spey casts. Single Hand Spey casting works well with any regular fly line (Weight forward ideally). There are Single Spey/trout spey lines available, but not necessary at this time. Bring your rod or borrow one of the club rods. No special fly line is needed for this class.
We will be meeting at the Mike Fox Skate park parking lot on the San Lorenzo river at 9 AM.
Address: 299 San Lorenzo Blvd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| Mike Fox Skate Park Parking Lot |
| Aug 23 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
Posted on May 27th, 2025
We welcomes 5 new members in May’
May 11 Steve Laugero Oakdale
May 14 Marc Rosenblum Aptos
May 17 Gary Muro Santa Cruz
May 17 John Hannegan Aptos
May 17 Marc Koenig Boulder Creek
Marc Koenig signed up at the May 17th swapmeet after attending the flyfishing movie earlier, and provided a photo from his trip to Alaska of a nice rainbow from the Kenai peninsula, posted on google groups.
Posted on May 27th, 2025
Since Jan 1 meembership has grown by 21 new members, or an average of 5 new memberships per month for a a total members of 238 paid current members. We welcome all the new members below since Jan 1 and hope that they can participate in our future activities in the months ahead.
Jan L /m Shugart, T/j Livingston, J. Bombaci, R. Murphy
Feb K.Carlson, N/Smith, K.Conway-Christopher, M. Beth, D.Holton
March M. McDonough, D. Hernanez, J. Fong, D.Miyahara, H. Facchini, J. Payne, F Osman
April J. Martinez, B. Del Core, E.Medina- Banderas, E. Wilcox
Posted on April 24th, 2025
SUN PROTECTION FOR FLY FISHERS
Fly fishers are at particular risk for sun damaged skin (PD/photo-damage) , eye damage and ultraviolet (UVL) induced skin cancer, some of which are life threatening. This is due to our sport requiring prolonged exposure to sunlight and it’s reflection off of water and sand.
UVL damage is cumulative and responsible for 90% of aging, which appears as thin, easily bruised and torn, wrinkled skin. UVL is associated with cataracts and numerous eye disorders. The annual cost of treating UVL induced skin cancer in the U.S. is around 10 Billion dollars. Protection is the key to avoid these adverse effects of sunlight.
The best sun protection is opaque clothing: hats without mesh, sun-gloves, “Buff” bandanas for face and neck, quality sunglasses, recently popular sun “hoodies,” and long sleeved shirts and pants. The density of the thread count is most important….a $10 KMart shirt that you can’t see light through when held up to strong light is equal/better in protection than a $90 one impregnated with sun protective factor (SPF) chemical. Some clothing like a white T-shirt become worthless when soaking wet. Don’t forget umbrellas where practical.
Sunscreen is the next best protection. They are rated in SPF (generally the higher number the better) and they are classified “organic” (meaning chemical) or ‘inorganic’ (meaning physical or mineral components). Of the dozen or more US approved ingredients, organic Avobenzone is considered the the safest and most effective. Oxybenzone the most likely to cause allergic reactions. Of the inorganic ingredients, micronized titanium dioxide & zinc oxide are the most commonly found. In addition, there may be pigments or antioxidants added for additional protection. When using any of these products remember to use them liberally, and re- apply through out the day. The inorganic group tend to be messy/greasy and wash of easily, so they definitely need to be re-applied more often than the chemical types.
Sunscreens have repeatedly been shown to prevent most common skin cancers and about 50% of malignant melanomas. They have recently come under scrutiny and controversy regarding THEORETICAL effect on human hormone production, bleaching of coral reefs, effect on algae in still waters, and presence of “nanoparticles” in the bloodstream. To date there is NO EVIDENCE of harm due to sunscreen in any of these areas.
The supposed “bad ingredients suspected are Benzophenone, Homosalicalate , and Octinoxate. Sunscreens thought to be “safer” are the mineral type…..but these have negative aspects as listed above.
“Safe “brands include: Think Sport, All Good Sport, Thrive Bodyshield, Banana Boat Light as Air, Badge Adventure Mineral, Hello Bello, Purely Simple & Sun Burn.
Thankfully, as fly fishers, if properly clothed, we only need a small dab of sunscreen on ears, nose, lips and possibly hands, so we don’t need to sweat safety issues…..feel free to use something cheap, highly effective and hard to wash off like Coppertone Sport 50 or 75 SPF! The best selection of sunscreen lip balms are found at “ski” shops.
Posted on April 24th, 2025
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 07 6:15 pm - 6:45 pm | Introductory Skills: Removing a hook from your skin |
Here is a skill for the novice as well as the expert. How to get a hook out of the skin quickly and minimal pain or damage. It is a simple technique, but one that makes sense when you see it and can practice it. If you just want to know how to do it, here is a video, but I am sure you are going to want to practice it. https://youtu.be/KNvWououyp4?si=_WeZUxkrtrVw4JEq | Aptos Grange |
| May 10 10:00 am - 12:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup--10:00 AM Start Time this Month | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| May 17 9:00 am - 1:00 pm | Swap Meet at Aptos Grange - 2025 | Swap meet at the Aptos Grange parking lot. 9am to 1 pm. All things fishing/outdoors! | Aptos Grange |
| Jun 04 6:15 pm - 6:45 pm | Introductory Skills: Basic Indicator Nymph rigs |
There are probably more nymph rig setups than there are members of our club. Going to start go through some basic rigs, what knots to use and how to make adjustments. | Aptos Grange |
| Jun 14 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Jul 19 9:00 am - 11:00 am | Fly Casting Meetup--9:00 AM Start on San Lorenzo River | Casting Master: Alex Ferber
This class will be focusing on the roll cast. Practicing on the water will make it a lot easier to master. I’d also like to expand on the roll cast by introducing single hand Spey casts. The use of single hand Spey casts will open up your ability to cast in tight quarters, and manipulate your line to open up new casting opportunities. Learning these casts will help introduce you to 2 handed Spey casting, as well as Trout Spey casts. Single Hand Spey casting works well with any regular fly line (Weight forward ideally). There are Single Spey/trout spey lines available, but not necessary at this time. Bring your rod or borrow one of the club rods. No special fly line is needed for this class.
We will be meeting at the Mike Fox Skate park parking lot on the San Lorenzo river at 9 AM.
Address: 299 San Lorenzo Blvd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| Mike Fox Skate Park Parking Lot |
Posted on April 22nd, 2025
The 2025 SCFF Roster will be available at the Wednesday Monthly Meeting April 2 at the Aptos Grange. An electronic PDF file that can be down loaded, as well as a googlesheet file is available for easy reference upon request. Should you have any questions, please contact me at robert6367@gmail.com
The costs of printing and mailing are over $11/copy with mailing/postage over $3 for each roster.
Posted on March 26th, 2025
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 02 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm | Introductory Skills: Setting up, Moving, and Breaking down the fly rod |
This will cover the basics of setting up, breaking down the fly rod. Practice and a few simple tricks will make you proficient. Another topic covered will be how to secure your rod and flies when moving from one area to another. Note: From the New Member Orientation meeting we had in February, it was obvious that we need to provide some introductory skills and knowledge to members who are just starting out in fly fishing. Instead of building some complicated training program, we are going to start by providing short skills development before the fly casting clinic and the general meetings. | Aptos Grange |
| Apr 19 1:00 pm - 1:30 pm | Introductory Skills: Removing a hook from your skin |
Here is a skill for the novice as well as the expert. How to get a hook out of the skin quickly and minimal pain or damage. It is a simple technique, but one that makes sense when you see it and can practice it. If you just want to know how to do it, here is a video, but I am sure you are going to want to practice it. https://youtu.be/KNvWououyp4?si=_WeZUxkrtrVw4JEq | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Apr 19 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Apr 23 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm | Fly Fishing Film Tour 2025 | The 19th annual FLY FISHING FILM TOUR (F3T) 2025 is at the Woodhouse Brewery with a top notch selection of short films that are sure to get you fired up for the season ahead! | Woodhouse Brewery |
| May 07 6:15 pm - 6:45 pm | Introductory Skills: Removing a hook from your skin |
Here is a skill for the novice as well as the expert. How to get a hook out of the skin quickly and minimal pain or damage. It is a simple technique, but one that makes sense when you see it and can practice it. If you just want to know how to do it, here is a video, but I am sure you are going to want to practice it. https://youtu.be/KNvWououyp4?si=_WeZUxkrtrVw4JEq | Aptos Grange |
| May 10 10:00 am - 12:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup--10:00 AM Start Time this Month | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| May 17 9:00 am - 1:00 pm | Swap Meet at Aptos Grange - 2025 | Swap meet at the Aptos Grange parking lot. 9am to 1 pm. All things fishing/outdoors! | Aptos Grange |
| Jun 04 6:15 pm - 6:45 pm | Introductory Skills: Basic Indicator Nymph rigs |
There are probably more nymph rig setups than there are members of our club. Going to start go through some basic rigs, what knots to use and how to make adjustments. | Aptos Grange |
| Jun 14 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
Posted on March 26th, 2025
The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club will have booth B6 at the Pleasanton Fly Show. Club members will be staffing the booth and will have our new club signage at the show.
Posted on February 27th, 2025
We began 2025 with a successful Annual Fundraiser with over 184 Salmon dinners sold and 56 member volunteers and family members. We also have 225 actiive members who have renewed their annual Club membership. We also heard at our last monthly meeting, that new members need additional support and information as to what basic equipment matches different needs ie lake fishing, vs stream/ larger rivers. Members should mark your calendars for Sat May 17th Annual SWAP MEET @ 9:00 am at Aptos Grange for good deals on fly rods and reels.
Posted on February 27th, 2025
The Salmon was great, the raffle tables were overflowing with stuff and everyone seemed to have a good time.
Posted on February 27th, 2025
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 01 9:00 am - 5:30 pm | Pleasanton Fly Fishing Show - SCFF booth | The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club will have booth B6 at the Pleasanton Fly Show. Club members will be staffing the booth and will have our new club signage at the show. | Alameda County Fairgrounds |
| Mar 02 9:00 am - 4:30 pm | Pleasanton Fly Fishing Show - SCFF booth | The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club will have booth B6 at the Pleasanton Fly Show. Club members will be staffing the booth and will have our new club signage at the show. | Alameda County Fairgrounds |
| Mar 05 5:45 pm - 6:30 pm | Introductory Skills: Basic Fishing Knots |
From the New Member Orientation meeting we had in February, it was obvious that we need to provide some introductory skills and knowledge to members who are just starting out in fly fishing. Instead of building some complicated training program, we are going to start by providing short skills development before the fly casting clinic and the general meetings. The first one, will be about basic fishing knots. | Aptos Grange |
| Mar 15 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Apr 02 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm | Introductory Skills: Setting up, Moving, and Breaking down the fly rod |
This will cover the basics of setting up, breaking down the fly rod. Practice and a few simple tricks will make you proficient. Another topic covered will be how to secure your rod and flies when moving from one area to another. Note: From the New Member Orientation meeting we had in February, it was obvious that we need to provide some introductory skills and knowledge to members who are just starting out in fly fishing. Instead of building some complicated training program, we are going to start by providing short skills development before the fly casting clinic and the general meetings. | Aptos Grange |
| Apr 19 1:00 pm - 1:30 pm | Introductory Skills: Removing a hook from your skin |
Here is a skill for the novice as well as the expert. How to get a hook out of the skin quickly and minimal pain or damage. It is a simple technique, but one that makes sense when you see it and can practice it. If you just want to know how to do it, here is a video, but I am sure you are going to want to practice it. https://youtu.be/KNvWououyp4?si=_WeZUxkrtrVw4JEq | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Apr 19 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Apr 23 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm | Fly Fishing Film Tour 2025 | The 19th annual FLY FISHING FILM TOUR (F3T) 2025 is at the Woodhouse Brewery with a top notch selection of short films that are sure to get you fired up for the season ahead! | Woodhouse Brewery |
| May 07 6:15 pm - 6:45 pm | Introductory Skills: Removing a hook from your skin |
Here is a skill for the novice as well as the expert. How to get a hook out of the skin quickly and minimal pain or damage. It is a simple technique, but one that makes sense when you see it and can practice it. If you just want to know how to do it, here is a video, but I am sure you are going to want to practice it. https://youtu.be/KNvWououyp4?si=_WeZUxkrtrVw4JEq | Aptos Grange |
| May 10 10:00 am - 12:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup--10:00 AM Start Time this Month | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
Posted on February 27th, 2025
If you are not on Googlegroups, have not renewed your 2025 membership, or have been placed on the inactive file, please email me at robert6367@aol.com to be updated. As of Jan 23rd we have over 200 members on our Roster. Also, as of January 23, we have 8 tickets left to the Annual Fundraiser Feb 1. Thank you for your renewal, Annual Dinner support, and generous donations.
Posted on January 23rd, 2025
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 01 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm | 2025 SCFF Annual Fundraiser - Feb 1st, 5-9 pm | Wild Alaska Salmon will highlight the dinner and we will have many prizes available for the raffle. We are keeping the dinner affordable at $40/person and expect it to sell out early. Click on the article to see who has purchased tickets to the event. | Pajaro Valley Rod and Gun Club |
| Feb 15 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Feb 28 10:00 am - 6:00 pm | Pleasanton Fly Fishing Show - SCFF booth | The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club will have booth B6 at the Pleasanton Fly Show. Club members will be staffing the booth and will have our new club signage at the show. | Alameda County Fairgrounds |
| Mar 01 9:00 am - 5:30 pm | Pleasanton Fly Fishing Show - SCFF booth | The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club will have booth B6 at the Pleasanton Fly Show. Club members will be staffing the booth and will have our new club signage at the show. | Alameda County Fairgrounds |
| Mar 02 9:00 am - 4:30 pm | Pleasanton Fly Fishing Show - SCFF booth | The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club will have booth B6 at the Pleasanton Fly Show. Club members will be staffing the booth and will have our new club signage at the show. | Alameda County Fairgrounds |
| Mar 05 5:45 pm - 6:30 pm | Introductory Skills: Basic Fishing Knots |
From the New Member Orientation meeting we had in February, it was obvious that we need to provide some introductory skills and knowledge to members who are just starting out in fly fishing. Instead of building some complicated training program, we are going to start by providing short skills development before the fly casting clinic and the general meetings. The first one, will be about basic fishing knots. | Aptos Grange |
| Mar 15 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm | Fly Casting Meetup | We will be working on FFI skills development course from the Bronze and Silver levels. If you’re not familiar with these exercises, it would be a great time to come out and see what it’s all about. The skills are directed at improving your casting skills, and will improve your overall fly fishing success. This will be a perfect time for those folks who are just getting started, to learn some basic core casting techniques. I will have practice rods if needed. Hope to see you there. | Jade Street Park baseball field |
Posted on January 23rd, 2025
As of Dec 18th we have 160 members who have renewed their 2025 membership with another 50 renewals coming in the next few weeks We do plan to send out a draft roster and print next years Roster in mid January, so members are encouraged to renew their membership in the next few weeks to be included in 2025 Roster. Members who do no renew will be placed in an inactive file and will not receive the monthly newsletter.
Posted on December 27th, 2024
We want to be sure to have raffle and silent auction prizes that appeal to everyone and many attendees don’t fly fish. We would like you go to your favorite businesses and ask for donations for the fundraiser, below is a list of companies that HAVE ALREADY donated to our 2025 fundraiser. Click here for a PDF link to a “Request for Donation” letter and a “fill in the blank” gift certificate. I hope that by filling in the name of the business, signing your name, and writing a short note on the letter, it will help make it easier to ask. Remember, we are asking for help to fund donations to local environmental organizations and student scholarships.
We are blessed to be getting gift certificates for the fundraiser and are looking to get more. Here are some who have already donated:
| Bayside Marine Bookshop Santa Cruz Cafe Cruz The Farm Bakery Cafe Cruz Riverside Lighting | Stagnaro Charters H&H Fish Johnny’s Harborside Pajaro Valley Golf Course AdamsBuilt MasterCleaners | Pacific Golf Center Trout Spot Fly Shop Central Coast Fly Shop TFO CA Sportfishing Protection |
If you do frequent any of these companies, please thank them for their generosity. And finally, you can help by attending the event! Remember, you can’t win the great prizes unless you are present.
Posted on December 27th, 2024
