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November Fly Tying Class: The Kilowatt

by Barry Bert



The Kilowatt

Nov 12 6:30 PM @ Aptos Grange

This is a variation of Cliff Watt’s Kilowatt fly that has produced some really nice steelhead for me on the San Lorenzo. I’ve swung it on a skaget line in the estuary, dead, drifted it on a tight line in the riffles, and through runs under a bobber. It also can be jigged like a spoon through a pool or frog water. As always, the classes are free and materials are provided if you have black 140 denier or 3/0 wax nylon, please bring it. The club will have thread to borrow. For you beginners there will be equipment to use as well. Sign up at the club meeting or call with at least 24 hours notice. 831-345-0864.

Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to Fly Name to see more information.

No upcoming events scheduled - check back soon!

Date Fly Excerpt

Posted on October 13th, 2025

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Member’s Boat for Sale

by Dougald Scott

This 2008 Triumph 17-foot Center Console was purchased new in 2010. It is a rugged and versatile fishing boat built for serious anglers and family outings alike. Crafted with a durable roto-molded marine grade polyethylene hull, it offers exceptional strength and a smooth, comfortable ride that resists cracking and wear over time.

2008 Triumph 170 cc
For Sale $11,000
SCF 5639 VY

• Purchased new in 2010
• One owner

• Factory equipped with Yamaha 60 HP outboard with 480 hours of use
•  Last service on 2/21/25 (31 Hrs/Yr)
• Complete service record at
Monterey Bay Marine
• Stored in home garage with no weathering
• Minn Kota Riptide SP Saltwater 55 Bow-Mount Trolling Motor
• LOWRANCE HD-5 GPS and Sonar
• Live bait well with pump
• Hand held VHS radio

• Trailer has a swing-away tongue to fit in garage

• Cannon downrigger – manual crank – rod holder mount
• Full size cover
• Two Batteries with chargers
• Anchor & Dock lines
• Factory equipped Igloo Cooler

• Well suited for Monterey Bay, San Luis Reservoir or the
Delta
• Fishing tackle not included

CONTACT:
DOUGALD SCOTT
831-345-2175
dougald@Comcast.net

Posted on October 8th, 2025

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October 2025 Newsletter

October: California Stripers………………
My Turn: My Love of Fishing ……………………………
Fly Tying……………………
 October Fly Tying Class: Gurgler
 Fly of the Month: Bead Chain Whistler
Conservation Concerns……………………
 Important Win for San Francisco Bay-Delta Estuary Coalition
Membership Notes…………………
  Strategic Direction for SCFF
  SCFF Fly Display at 2025 Santa Cruz Fair
  Club Activities – October thru December
Gearing Up ……………………
  Fishout Schedule
Cartoon ……………………
Bait for Thought ……………………
  Thank you to Terry Williams

Posted on September 22nd, 2025

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October: California Stripers – Here’s the Skinny

Oct 01 6:30 PM at the Aptos Grange

The stripers have been hitting in the surf, which is perfect timing for our speaker for October, Noel De Guzman, to give us the skinny on California stripers.

As a resident of the SF Bay Area, Noel has fished for striped bass since the 1970s, and has landed stripers throughout their migratory range. He is a self taught fly fisherman who was sold on fly fishing when he watched a trout devour a yellow humpy at the tip of his rod, before a cast was made, while stripping line off the reel. A few proud accomplishments include holding a USCG OUPV captain license, credentialed since 2010, serving as co-director of the Costa Bass-N-Fly tournament, and as the chairman for DanBlanton.Com’s Striperfest fundraising body. The most impactful aspects of his striped bass fishing pursuit were becoming a boat owner and living in the California Delta (Discovery Bay, CA).



NOTE: Meetings will now follow this time: 6:30 pm – Hands on Learning, 7:00 pm – Club information, 7:30 pm – Main speaker(s)

Posted on September 19th, 2025

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My Love of Fishing

      Some people who don’t fish think that fishing is lazy or boring. But it is just the complete opposite. There are multitudes of little decisions to be made for each situation. Variables to be considered. And you are never quite sure what choices will make the difference.
      Did I cast too high or too long, too far to the right or to the left? Did I retrieve the subsurface fly too slowly or too quickly?  Is the color of the dry fly too bright or too dull, is the size too big or too small?  Do I stay “here”, or should I go over “there”?
       And you know hooking a fish is not just luck, but you do not know by how much. That is why I fish.
       It is never exactly the same. Success requires constant readjusting, reevaluation. Because I am never disappointed in the outdoors. Because I don’t expect anything. Because anything is possible, I can be hopeful out there, even if I don’t succeed. Because I know if I just go over there behind that rock or next to that log jam or wade out into that water just a little further it might make a difference. Something might be different. Something I change might lend itself to success.
         And if I catch a fish the reward of success gives me great joy, a deep sense of accomplishment, and gratitude for the experience.
                                               Tight Lines,
                                                Kathy Powers
                                                SCFF at-large Board Member

Posted on September 18th, 2025

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October Fly Tying Class: Gurgler

by Elaine Cook - Fly Tying Chairman



Gurgler

Oct 08 6:30 PM @ Aptos Grange

So are you looking for a fly to go after those stripers in the O’Neill Forbay? The club fishout being heldthere will be coming up very soon. When the stripers start boiling at the top of the surface, this is a fly you ought to use. As always, the classes, are freeand materials are provided. If you have white,flat waxed nylon, please bring it. We will also be using either 6/0 or 3/0. The club will have thread to borrow. For you beginners there will be equipment to use as well. Sign up at the club meeting or call with at least 24 hours notice. 831-234-6515.

Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to Fly Name to see more information.

Date Fly Excerpt
GurglerOct 08 6:30 pm - 8:30 pmGurgler

So are you looking for a fly to go after those stripers in the O’Neill Forbay? The club fishout being heldthere will be coming up very soon. When the stripers start boiling at the top of the surface, this is a fly you ought to use. As always, the classes, are freeand materials are provided. If you have white,flat waxed nylon, please bring it. We will also be using either 6/0 or 3/0. The club will have thread to borrow. For you beginners there will be equipment to use as well. Sign up at the club meeting or call with at least 24 hours notice. 831-234-6515.

The KilowattNov 12 6:30 pm - 8:30 pmThe Kilowatt

This is a variation of Cliff Watt’s Kilowatt fly that has produced some really nice steelhead for me on the San Lorenzo. I’ve swung it on a skaget line in the estuary, dead, drifted it on a tight line in the riffles, and through runs under a bobber. It also can be jigged like a spoon through a pool or frog water. As always, the classes are free and materials are provided if you have black 140 denier or 3/0 wax nylon, please bring it. The club will have thread to borrow. For you beginners there will be equipment to use as well. Sign up at the club meeting or call with at least 24 hours notice. 831-345-0864.

Posted on September 8th, 2025

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Bead Chain Whistler

by Fly tying chairman – Elaine Cook

This pattern can be used for stripers, pike, salmon, steelhead or ocean fish, depending on size. These directions are appropriate for stripers. Use a fast sinking line and rapid long strips. The overall length of the fly should be about 3 inches, which will turn upside down when finished.
HOOK: Mustad 34007 , size 1 to 1/0.  Crimp barb.
THREAD: White flat waxed nylon.    Attach behind eye. Touching wraps to mid shank then forward to one and a half eye lengths behind eye.
UPPER BODY: Red or white  bucktail. (recently, a copper tan color has worked well). Cut a clump from hide about the size of a wooden match stick. Pull out long fibers from tips and line them up with others. Cut bucktail ends at an angle two and three-quarter inches from tips. Attached to top of shank behind barbells, then back to mid Shank. Repeat with a second plump. Apply glue.
MID BODY: Mega Baitfish Emulator pearl color.   Cut about 1/8 inch of binding. Attached strands behind barbells to top of shank. Trim to length of fly.
LATERAL LINE: Grizzly neck hackle.  Select Two feathers, barbs equal to 1/2 hook gap. cut about 10 barbs short on each side of the butt end of stem, forming a “ crew cut”. Tie in “ crew cut “ on each side of shank behind barbells.
LOWER BODY: white bucktail.  Repeat like upper body only use one clump.
THORAX:  Red chenille.  Strip fuzz from end exposing about 1/4 inch of threads.  Tie in infront of body materials. Advanced thread to barbells. Wrap chenille forward. Tie off, cut excess.
HACKLE: Very webby grizzly hackle with pliable barbs. NOTE: picture of fly did not have pliable barbs and too long.  Select feather, barbs equal to one and a half hook gap. Cut off fuzz and and prepare crew cut. With dark side up, tip to rear, tie in crew cut between barbells on top of chenille. Stroke barbs to rear while wrapping three times behind barbells.Tie off cut access. Moisten fingers, hold barbs back, make a couple of thread wraps to hold them toward rear.
HEAD THREAD: Make a number of figure 8 wraps around barbells. Form a small tapered nose in front of eyes. Whip finish, cut thread. Apply glue to nose and thread between barbells.

Posted on September 17th, 2025

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An Important Win for San Francisco Bay-Delta Estuary Coalition

by Bob Garbarino

An effort to fast track a controversial project to construct a 45 mile, 36 foot diameter tunnel that would divert water from the San Francisco Bay-Delta estuary to supply consumers to the south including agricultural businesses and urban residents has been defeated. Agriculture consumes 4 times the volume of water than cities and towns in the state. This surely does not mean the project is dead. But it does reveal that there is a substantial coalition that has worked hard to gather support to throw a major roadblock to the Delta Conveyance Project (aka Delta Tunnel). This fast track approach would have added trailer bills to California’s budget.

What would these bills have established?

  • Bypass established environmental review and public participation processes.
  • Given unlimited bonding authority to the Department of Water Resources for the Delta Conveyance Project.
  • Fast tracked the DCP construction.
  • Eliminated the administrative record access.
  • Eliminated the public participation for the so-called “Healthy Rivers and Landscapes” Program also known as the “voluntary agreements”.

Why did the trailer bills get defeated?

  • A coalition of more than 50 organizations of Tribes, environmental justice organizations, fishing groups, conservation advocates, and Delta communities opposed the trailer bills. Some of the members include, Restore the Delta, California Sport Fishing Protection Alliance, Golden State Salmon Association and Friends of the River.
  • State residents emailed and called their representatives to voice disapproval.
  • The Delta Legislative Caucus unified around opposition to the bills.

What are primary reasons for opposition?

  • An estimated cost of $20-$100 billion dollars, with an expected cost burden to rate payers.
  • Environmental concerns, including harm to ecosystems and an incomplete environmental impact report.
  • Harm to native fish populations, including endangered salmon which are already in severe decline as demonstrated by the closure of the commercial salmon fishery for 3 years.
  • Construction impact (expected to last about 15 years) could disrupt ecosystems and threaten habitats, by increasing sedimentation and pollution in the Delta’s waterways, disrupt farming operations, affect local water supplies, and increase noise and traffic in surrounding areas.
  • Prime delta farmland could be diminished and/or disrupted.
  • Delta residents and legislators declaring that the process is not responsive to local concerns and input.

What possible are alternate measures instead of one massive project?

  • Increase water conservation
  • Desalination
  • Improve groundwater management, including groundwater recharge
  • Increase wastewater recycling
  • Fortify existing Delta levees

I was pleased and relieved to hear about how sometimes positive results can be attained by a collection of grassroots organizations and individuals from different backgrounds to stand up to powerful agencies and corporate interests and push back one more time. Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club supports Restore the Delta California Sport Fishing Protection Alliance with contributions. They play an important role in this ongoing effort. Also, Santa Cruz Fly Fishing and Northern California Council Fly Fishers International signed this letter opposing the trailer bills.

Photo credit: The Freshwater Trust (TFT)

Other sources for this article:

https://restorethedelta.org/2025/09/11/coalition-stops-trailer-bills-threatening-the-bay-delta-and-communities/

https://calmatters.org/environment/water/2025/03/california-delta-tunnel-residents-fear/#:~:text=Major%20water%20agencies%20that%20could,the%20dregs%20of%20the%20river.

https://calmatters.org/environment/water/2025/03/california-delta-tunnel-residents-fear/?

Posted on September 19th, 2025

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Strategic Direction for the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club

by Penelope Gadd-Coster

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

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SCFF Fly Display at 2025 Santa Cruz Fair

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

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Club Activities – October thru December

Date Activity Link DescriptionLocation
Oct 11 1:00 pm - 3:00 pmFly 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
4400 Jade St
Capitola, 95010

Jade Street Park baseball field
Oct 25 8:00 am - 11:00 amSan Lorenzo River Cleanup

Cleaning up our Local Waters!

SanLo – Ocean Extension

Posted on September 17th, 2025

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Fishout Schedule

The newsletter provides brief fishout info.  For full detail, go to the website menu and select EVENTS -> Fishout Schedule

Date Link (new tab) Description
Oct 04 5:45 am - 10:30 amManresa State Beach Surf Fishout – CO Fishout with The Delta Fly FishersLocation: Manresa State Beach (Ocean View Drive, La Selva Beach Parking Lot) Meet at 5:45AM Sunrise is 7:04AM and we will be fishing an incoming tide cresting at 9:28AM. Fish Master: Lance Boiling  / clboling@gmail.com / 408-728-0548  Species: Surf Perch, Striped Bass  Min./Max Participants: The Delta Fly Fishers will be joining us on this outing Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety), Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket (If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY [...]
Oct 04 5:45 am - 10:30 amManresa State Beach Surf Fishout – CO Fishout with The Delta Fly FishersLocation: Manresa State Beach (236 Ocean View Drive Parking Lot) Meet at 5:45AM Sunrise is 7:04AM and we will be fishing an incoming tide cresting at 9:28AM. Fish Master: Lance Boiling  / clboling@gmail.com / 408-728-0548  Species: Surf Perch, Striped Bass  Min./Max Participants: The Delta Fly Fishers will be joining us on this outing Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety), Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket (If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket [...]
Oct 16 - Oct 20 O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout October 16-20thCamping and striped bass fishing at the O'Neil Forebay.
Nov 07 - Nov 09 12:00 amTrinity River FishoutTarget: Steelhead and trout.  Contact Alex Ferber if you are interested in going on the trip, text Alex at (831) 419-0564  or alex.ferber74@gmail.com. 
Mar 15 - Mar 21 Pyramid Lake Ladder Fishout – March 2026 – UPDATEDFishmaster: Mike White Greetings fellow Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club Members I have been leading the Pyramid Lake fishing trip for the past ten years. It has always been a remarkable fish out, and one of the best attended too. This one is similar to trips we've done in the past except on a smaller scale. I have reserved 2 trailers and can accommodate 10 people.  The dates are March 15th through the 21st. The weather can be very unpredictable in March, but we have had good times in the past fishing this time of year. The cost will range [...]
Apr 25 - May 02 12:00 amGreen River – Utah2026 Green River Fishout is now open! We are doing a maximum of 12 people. Contact Fishmaster Scott Andersen for more information; Cell: 831-247-2993. Email: scott.a.andersen@gmail.com

Posted on September 17th, 2025

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Thank You to Terry Williams

by Elaine

In August the club received a generous donation of items for us to use as we saw fit. It included fly tying materials, fishing equipment, and a very large amount of rod crafting and building materials and tools. We will be able to use the items for our fly tying classes, swap meet, and annual installation dinner. So thanks go to Terry Williams who read about our club online. The items were her husband‘s who has passed away. She describes him as having been an avid fly fisherman.

Posted on September 19th, 2025

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September 2025 Newsletter

September: Mammoth Lakes Region………………
My Turn: Membership Update & Reflections after 9 Years ……………………………
Fly Tying……………………
 August Fly Tying Class: Loberg
 Fly of the Month: Hot Butt
Conservation Concerns……………………
 Bull Trout History in California
Membership Notes…………………
  Club Activities – September thru November
Gearing Up ……………………
  Fishout Schedule
Marketplace……………………
Cartoon ……………………

Posted on August 22nd, 2025

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September: Mammoth Lakes Region

Sep 03 6:30 PM at the Aptos Grange

Please Note – New Time & New Format

Luke Kinney from Golden Trout Guiding Company and Elaine Cook will be talking about Mammoth Lakes area and the fishout.

  • We’ll also be doing some hands on learning starting with Hopper Dropper Rigs (When & How to) at 6:30pm
  • General Meeting at 7pm
  • Mammoth Based Guide Luke Kinney at 7:30pm and our very own Elaine Cook to follow with Mammoth Fish Out Info



NOTE: Meetings will now follow this time: 6:30 pm – Hands on Learning, 7:00 pm – Club information, 7:30 pm – Main speaker(s)

Posted on August 21st, 2025

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Membership Update and Reflections after 9 Years

by Bob Peterson Membership Chair since 2016

I first joined SCFF club in July 2008 after I had retired and was looking forward to expanding my fishing experience from a spinning rod and reel to fly fishing, in not only California, but in other States and eventually Alaska and other areas, as well as meeting other like minded fishing partners who shared similar interest.  I would have to say that my 17 years in the club has far exceeded my expectations, including the following trips and experiences:

  • 4 trips to Alaska with John and Pat Steele catching more Salmon in a week and still had 50lbs to take back on the flight home.
  • 5 trips also with John and Pat with Ed Lawrence Guides to Bozeman, Montana on the Yellowstone, Madison, Missouri, and additional trips on the Green River in Utah and Antelope Valley Reservoir.
  • 3 trips to Mcloud Preserve in Northern California with Tom Donovan.
  • 12 trips to the Mammoth fishout with John and Elaine Cook which is always my favorite annual trip since I have been going to June Lake since 1955 with my family to fish the June Lake loop and Crowley with favorite memories  of visiting Bodie, 4th of July fireworks on Mono Lake, and waterskiing on Mono Lake.
  • 5 trips to to Pyramid Lake standing on a ladder with 20 other members waiting for the next bite before the wind and waves got too big.  And my best picture is of my daughter catching a Pyramid fish bigger than her net.

I only mention these trips since these are experiences and memories that make the Club something more than just a monthly meeting or an annual BBQ.  In 2016, I volunteered to be Membership Chair to help the then President Jim Black with membership since he was doing
two jobs as Membership and newly elected President. Since then I have seen the club grow from 120 members to 240 members on the current Roster.  It’s been a good run, but it is time for me to step down and have let someone else take the responsibility of club membership.

Membership Chair involves the following tasks and responsibilities:

  1. Primary duty is to update the current Roster with member information and updates. This has been made easier by moving from an excel spreadsheet to an online membership database where members can input membership data and in the following months will be able to access the current club Roster with other club members’ contact information and other club information with a secure ID and password for members only.
  2. Collect annual membership dues in Nov. and Dec. this has also been made easier with the use of Square/Visa and in 2026 automatic dues renewal.
  3. Attending monthly meeting to respond to member questions and sign up any new members attending the meeting for the first time.
  4. Attending monthly Board meetings for any updates on membership information or changes.
  5. Monitor SCFF Google groups – the Club’s go-to email forum for club activities and member questions.

The above only highlights recent changes in the Club since 2008 when memberships dues were either paid by check , or in cash, and monthly newsletters were printed and mailed out (and before that they were mimeographed for those who can still remember). I hope that the above comments may help members understand a little more about the Membership Chair and for those that have the time and interest to think about expanding your club experience by contacting me or any Board member by email or text.

Bob Peterson/robert6367@aol.com

Posted on August 21st, 2025

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September Fly Tying Class: Loberg

by Elaine Cook - Fly Tying Chairman



Loberg

Sep 10 6:30 PM @ Aptos Grange

We will be tying a streamer fly that is particularly successful at Crowley Lake near Mammoth. Tie up a few for the fishout there at the end of the month. It imitates a bait fish so will work in many stillwaters for bass or trout. Please bring your equipment and red 6/0  thread. If you don’t have  6/0,  8/0  will work as well. There will be a red sharpie pen to color any light colored thread.For you beginners, everything will be provided for you to borrow. As always, the class is free and all materials provided. Sign ups are very important in order to have enough material for all. Please do that at the club meeting or call with at least 24 hours notice. 831-234-6515

Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to Fly Name to see more information.

Date Fly Excerpt
GurglerOct 08 6:30 pm - 8:30 pmGurgler

So are you looking for a fly to go after those stripers in the O’Neill Forbay? The club fishout being heldthere will be coming up very soon. When the stripers start boiling at the top of the surface, this is a fly you ought to use. As always, the classes, are freeand materials are provided. If you have white,flat waxed nylon, please bring it. We will also be using either 6/0 or 3/0. The club will have thread to borrow. For you beginners there will be equipment to use as well. Sign up at the club meeting or call with at least 24 hours notice. 831-234-6515.

The KilowattNov 12 6:30 pm - 8:30 pmThe Kilowatt

This is a variation of Cliff Watt’s Kilowatt fly that has produced some really nice steelhead for me on the San Lorenzo. I’ve swung it on a skaget line in the estuary, dead, drifted it on a tight line in the riffles, and through runs under a bobber. It also can be jigged like a spoon through a pool or frog water. As always, the classes are free and materials are provided if you have black 140 denier or 3/0 wax nylon, please bring it. The club will have thread to borrow. For you beginners there will be equipment to use as well. Sign up at the club meeting or call with at least 24 hours notice. 831-345-0864.

Posted on April 24th, 2025

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Hot Butt

by Elaine Cook – fly tying chairman

This fly represents an adult caddis with an egg sack. The female caddis returns to the water in an interesting up-and-down dance, depositing her eggs and sometimes becoming trapped in the surface film and very available to the trout.
HOOK: TMC 100 sizes 14–20.  Crimp barb.
THREAD:  8/0 black.  Attach 1/3 back on shank.
EGG SACK: Spooled Antron yarn, hot pink.  Place strand on top of shank with end above hanging thread. Fasten to top of shank with touching thread wraps back to above barb.  Cut short so length equals 1/4 hook shank.
HACKEL: Grizzly, barbs equal to 1/2 hook gap.  Prepare “crew cut“ at end of stem. Fasten crew cut to top of shank, tip to rear, dull side of feather toward you. Touching thread wraps back to tie in.
BODY: Peacock herl.  Select three strands. Break off fragile tips. Lay on top of shank with tips at tie in and butts to rear.  Tie in place back to rear of shank. Form a dubbing loop.  Advance thread to tie in. Using dubbing tool make a chenille. Wrap chenille forward with touching wraps to tie in. Tie off, cut excess. Spiral hackle forward in about 3 to 4 wraps.  Tie off, cut excess. Cut barbs short on top of body.
WING: Deer hair (medium thick shafts).  Closely cut a clump of hair from hide the size of a wooden match stick. Remove under fur. Stack tips. Lay on top of shank, tips at rear of egg sack, butts forward. Make one loose thread wrap around hair only – not shank.  Make second wrap around both hair and shank.  Snug in place by pulling bobbin downward.  Make 3–6 more tight thread wraps on top of one another. Raise hair butts upward and cut short at an angle so that butts extend 1/4 hook shank length beyond thread wraps. Half hitch knots under cut butts and behind hook eye, cut thread. Apply small amount of glue.

Posted on April 2nd, 2025

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Bull Trout History in California

by Bob Garbarino

A couple months ago, I was forwarded an interesting article from Dougald Scott—one the members of our SCFF conservation committee. What makes it so interesting to me is it includes conservation, history, a California native fish and one of the legendary rivers in our state—The McCloud River.  And it was written by Dr. Peter B Moyle, Distinguished Professor Emeritus in the Department of Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology and associate director of the Center for Watershed Sciences at the University of California, Davis. In my limited perusing of matters relating to fish science in California, Dr. Boyle’s work has frequently appeared and he is well respected in his field. Here are several points I learned that I hope you will find interesting in this article titled Bull Trout and Other Endemic Fishes: McCloud River, found in California WaterBlog.  I encourage you to read it for much more insight.  Many thanks to Dougald Scott for sharing the article.

Bull Trout were native to the McCloud River, primarily in the headwaters and noted for a “very handsome and beautiful fish”.  In the 1800s it was targeted by wealthy anglers and the indigenous McCloud Winnemem Wintu.

Bull trout are actually type of char and were called Dolly Varden when they were found in the McCloud, as they called are in Alaska (and perhaps other areas). As you may know, Brook Trout are also char that thrive in colder water.

Several factors were probably to have caused the extirpation of the Bull Trout from the McCloud river:

  • Shasta Dam, built in 1945 and McCloud Dam built in 1965 blocked migration of salmon and steelhead and reduced of size of the river by about 80% by diverting it to the Pit River for hydropower.
  • Juvenile Salmon—which are no longer present in the McCloud*—were a declining source of food for Bull Trout.
  • Brown trout were introduced into the watershed, which were likely to have competed for habitat and food.
  • Logging in the watershed.

The last documented encounter with a Bull Trout in the McCloud occurred in 1975.

The story of the McCloud River’s place in trout history hopefully will teach us some lessons on how to do a better job of prioritizing our native fish for the benefit of all us and for future generations.

Another interesting bit of history:
The first fish hatchery on the West Coast was built in 1872 on the McCloud, producing Chinook salmon and steelhead for the McCloud (and other locations domestically and internationally).  The hatchery shut down in 1937 as it was to be submerged by the impending Shasta Reservoir.  Another hatchery, Livingston Stone National Fish Hatchery, was subsequently built below Shasta Dam.

*The first adult Chinook salmon in over 100 years have been spotted in the McCloud River.

Posted on August 21st, 2025

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Club Activities – September thru November

Date Activity Link DescriptionLocation
Sep 05 8:00 am - 10:00 amSpey 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 amSpey 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 pmFly 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 amSpey 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 pmFly 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
4400 Jade St
Capitola, 95010

Jade Street Park baseball field
Oct 25 8:00 am - 11:00 amSan Lorenzo River Cleanup

Cleaning up our Local Waters!

SanLo – Ocean Extension

Posted on August 18th, 2025

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Fishout Schedule

The newsletter provides brief fishout info.  For full detail, go to the website menu and select EVENTS -> Fishout Schedule

Date Link (new tab) Description
Sep 06 6:00 am - 10:00 amBeer Can Beach Surf Fishing – CO Fishout with The San Jose Fly Fishing ClubLocation: Beer Can Beach (AKA Summer Beach) - Staircase at 1191 Via Palo Alto, Aptos Fish Master:Michael Lovejoy <mikelovejoy94@gmail.com>  Species: Surf Perch, Striped Bass  Min./Max Participants: RSVP For Breakfast by 5:00pm September 3nd Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety), Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket (If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online) Flies: Clousers, wooly buggers, sand crabs, etc. Steve Adachi Clouser What to Expect:  Meet at [...]
Sep 20 - Oct 04 12:00 amMammoth Fishout -Sept. 20-Oct. 4thFall trout fishing in streams and lakes. Trip is for seven days and the participants share a condo in Mammoth Lakes.
Oct 04 5:45 am - 10:30 amManresa State Beach Surf Fishout – CO Fishout with The Delta Fly FishersLocation: Manresa State Beach (Ocean View Drive, La Selva Beach Parking Lot) Meet at 5:45AM Sunrise is 7:04AM and we will be fishing an incoming tide cresting at 9:28AM. Fish Master: Lance Boiling  / clboling@gmail.com / 408-728-0548  Species: Surf Perch, Striped Bass  Min./Max Participants: The Delta Fly Fishers will be joining us on this outing Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety), Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket (If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY [...]
Oct 04 5:45 am - 10:30 amManresa State Beach Surf Fishout – CO Fishout with The Delta Fly FishersLocation: Manresa State Beach (236 Ocean View Drive Parking Lot) Meet at 5:45AM Sunrise is 7:04AM and we will be fishing an incoming tide cresting at 9:28AM. Fish Master: Lance Boiling  / clboling@gmail.com / 408-728-0548  Species: Surf Perch, Striped Bass  Min./Max Participants: The Delta Fly Fishers will be joining us on this outing Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety), Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket (If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket [...]
Oct 16 - Oct 20 O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout October 16-20thCamping and striped bass fishing at the O'Neil Forebay.
Nov 07 - Nov 09 12:00 amTrinity River FishoutTarget: Steelhead and trout.  Contact Alex Ferber if you are interested in going on the trip, text Alex at (831) 419-0564  or alex.ferber74@gmail.com. 
Mar 15 - Mar 21 Pyramid Lake Ladder Fishout – March 2026 – UPDATEDFishmaster: Mike White Greetings fellow Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club Members I have been leading the Pyramid Lake fishing trip for the past ten years. It has always been a remarkable fish out, and one of the best attended too. This one is similar to trips we've done in the past except on a smaller scale. I have reserved 2 trailers and can accommodate 10 people.  The dates are March 15th through the 21st. The weather can be very unpredictable in March, but we have had good times in the past fishing this time of year. The cost will range [...]
Apr 25 - May 02 12:00 amGreen River – Utah2026 Green River Fishout is now open! We are doing a maximum of 12 people. Contact Fishmaster Scott Andersen for more information; Cell: 831-247-2993. Email: scott.a.andersen@gmail.com

Posted on August 18th, 2025

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Trout Unlimited – 50% discount for first time members

by Christy Fisher - TU Steinbeck Chapter President

Trout Unlimited (TU) is the nation’s oldest and largest coldwater conservation organization, dedicated to protecting, conserving, and restoring native trout and salmon resources and their habitats across North America. Founded by anglers in 1959, the non-profit has over 150,000 members organized into local chapters nationwide.  Each year, TU members contribute more than 650,000 volunteer hours working together to make local streams cleaner, colder and healthier.

Our local Steinbeck Country Chapter is focused on protecting, restoring and exploring the watersheds of the Central Coast from the San Mateo Coast to San Luis Obispo.  Each membership supports on-the-ground conservation work in your own backyard and offers opportunities to meet like-minded people as we work to protect native rainbow and steelhead trout in our coastal streams and waters.  Together we’re spending time doing what we love and helping protect wild places for the next generation.

Join us!  Use the QR Code below or this link:  www.tu.org/join198SteinbeckCountry  to become a member – first time members can join today for 50% off TU’s modest annual dues.

TU membership also includes:

  • Subscription to TU’s Trout magazine.
  • Access to national and regional TU events, workshops, and trainings.
  • Updates and alerts from your local chapter.
  • Potential discounts with TU’s partner brands and gear companies.

Posted on August 22nd, 2025

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August 2025 Newsletter

August: Club BBQ & Casting………………
My Turn: A Great Week on the Green River……………………………
Fly Tying……………………
 August Fly Tying Class: Crackleback Dry Wooly
 Fly of the Month: Snow Cone Chironomid
Conservation Concerns……………………
 Last Barrier on Alameda Creek—Removal Begins
Membership Notes…………………
  Club Activities – August thru October
  Membership/Roster update
Gearing Up ……………………
  Fishout Schedule
Cartoon ……………………
Marketplace……………………
 Club Discount on California Fly Fisher Magazine

Posted on July 25th, 2025

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August: Club BBQ and casting

Aug 06 6:00 PM at the Aptos Grange

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 hamburgers and hot-dog cookout with all the fixings along green salad, potato salad, chips, and dessert, water and sodas.   If you are vegan, bring us your Impossible burgers and we will be happy to grill them for you.

Adult beverages will not be offered. Feel free to bring your own. This meeting is a great opportunity to meet and greet in person.  We suggest a $5 donation for the dinner.

Alex Ferber will be there with the club rods to do a casting clinic and also discuss the double-handed spey casting clinic this fall along with the Trinity river fishout on the weekend of November 7th.



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 in the Newsletter for more information.

Posted on July 25th, 2025

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A Great Week on the Green River

by Rick Chace - Marketing

The last week of April 2025, my wife, Linda, and I had the pleasure of hosting a Club Fishout week with the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club at the Green River. Below Flaming Gorge Reservoir Utah, the Green River offers stunning scenery, jaw-dropping views, moments of wonder, combined with trophy trout.  Known as one of America’s most scenic trophy trout destinations, the Green River was not a disappointment. Located in the remote northeast corner of Utah, the Green River is one of the premier tailwaters in the country. The river flows from Flaming Gorge Reservoir through towering red rock canyons and holds upwards of 12,000 fish per mile. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to fly fishing, it’s hard to have a bad day here. The Green is best fished from a drift boat, but wade fisherman can also equally enjoy the river from its banks.  The Green is divided into three main sections:

Section A (7 miles): A true tailwater with cold, clear water and consistently strong fishing.
Section B (11 miles): Slightly slower water, less crowded, and known for bigger fish.
Section C (14 miles): Meanders through Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge and into Colorado- home to some truly massive brown trout.

The river fishes with midges, Baetis and caddis as the primary insects, as well as terrestrials in the summer. Resident fish are Rainbow, Brown, and Cutthroat, and Flaming Gorge reservoir holds Lake Trout, Rainbow and bass. Most of our group of 10 anglers used Trout Creek Outfitter Guides, a longtime partner of our club. Many will remember Denny Breer, the shop’s founder, who used to present at our club meetings back in the 1980’s, and generously donated float trips to our annual fundraiser. For this trip we were able to secure a four bedroom home that could accommodate 14 anglers. We had two last minute emergency cancellations. Our food coordinator was unfortunately in a car accident on
his way out of town and could not attend the trip. The home was a great match for our group of 10. A fun fact we learned was that the home was previously owned by Denny! 

The fishing and the catching were excellent. On our very first evening, Club President Scott received a tip from a Trout Creek Creek guide that Lake Trout were actively spawning along the banks of Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Scott ventured down on a solo mission and returned triumphantly with photo of himself with a beautiful 5 pound Laker! I know some of the other in the group fished the lake, but to my knowledge Scott was the only that managed to land a Lake Trout .

Over the next week all of the club anglers returned from the Green with daily fish counts in the mid-twenties. I believe the high count for the week came from Steve Pappas, who netted 34 fish floating section A and B of the river. We ate like kings each evening, with club members taking turns at cooking and cleanup. We also had the pleasure of watching the last few games with the Warriors in the playoffs on the two big screen TVs. The Fishout indeed was a great success, with many anglers expressing interest in returning for next year’s trip.

The club currently has a hold at the same property for the same week, April 25- May 2, 2026. The outing is to be Fish Mastered by Scott Anderson, who will be accepting trip commitments. For more information contact Scott at his Email: scott.a.andersen@gmail.com

Posted on July 18th, 2025

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August Fly Tying Class: Crackleback Dry Wooly

by Tom Eckert



Crackleback Dry Wooly

Aug 13 6:30 PM @ Aptos Grange

Crackleback Dry Wooly. This fly pattern is a great, generic representation of several insects found at stream or lakes. It can be fished dry or wet. Much like a Griffith’s Gnat but has far more color and material variations to match a variety of hatches. You need these in your fly box. “Expect near instant success!”

Class is free!!

Provided: All materials except thread (some available for beginners ) instructions, helpful assistance, and demonstrations.

 

Bring: Thread( black, brown or hot red 8/0) vice, tools, magnification, and glasses as needed. (Some are available for beginners).

Sign Up: At the club meeting or instructor at least 24 hours ahead. Phone # 831-818-3801

Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to Fly Name to see more information.

Date Fly Excerpt
Crackleback Dry WoolyAug 13 6:30 pm - 8:30 pmCrackleback Dry Wooly

Crackleback Dry Wooly. This fly pattern is a great, generic representation of several insects found at stream or lakes. It can be fished dry or wet. Much like a Griffith’s Gnat but has far more color and material variations to match a variety of hatches. You need these in your fly box. “Expect near instant success!”

Class is free!!

Provided: All materials except thread (some available for beginners ) instructions, helpful assistance, and demonstrations.

 

Bring: Thread( black, brown or hot red 8/0) vice, tools, magnification, and glasses as needed. (Some are available for beginners).

Sign Up: At the club meeting or instructor at least 24 hours ahead. Phone # 831-818-3801

LobergSep 10 6:30 pm - 8:30 pmLoberg

We will be tying a streamer fly that is particularly successful at Crowley Lake near Mammoth. Tie up a few for the fishout there at the end of the month. It imitates a bait fish so will work in many stillwaters for bass or trout. Please bring your equipment and red 6/0  thread. If you don’t have  6/0,  8/0  will work as well. There will be a red sharpie pen to color any light colored thread.For you beginners, everything will be provided for you to borrow. As always, the class is free and all materials provided. Sign ups are very important in order to have enough material for all. Please do that at the club meeting or call with at least 24 hours notice. 831-234-6515

GurglerOct 08 6:30 pm - 8:30 pmGurgler

So are you looking for a fly to go after those stripers in the O’Neill Forbay? The club fishout being heldthere will be coming up very soon. When the stripers start boiling at the top of the surface, this is a fly you ought to use. As always, the classes, are freeand materials are provided. If you have white,flat waxed nylon, please bring it. We will also be using either 6/0 or 3/0. The club will have thread to borrow. For you beginners there will be equipment to use as well. Sign up at the club meeting or call with at least 24 hours notice. 831-234-6515.

The KilowattNov 12 6:30 pm - 8:30 pmThe Kilowatt

This is a variation of Cliff Watt’s Kilowatt fly that has produced some really nice steelhead for me on the San Lorenzo. I’ve swung it on a skaget line in the estuary, dead, drifted it on a tight line in the riffles, and through runs under a bobber. It also can be jigged like a spoon through a pool or frog water. As always, the classes are free and materials are provided if you have black 140 denier or 3/0 wax nylon, please bring it. The club will have thread to borrow. For you beginners there will be equipment to use as well. Sign up at the club meeting or call with at least 24 hours notice. 831-345-0864.

Help

Posted on July 18th, 2025

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Snow Cone Chironomid

by Elaine Cook – fly tying chairman

Chirononids are also known as midges. There are hundreds of species throughout the world. They are the major source of food for trout in the winter. This size and coloring should work well at the fish out in mammoth while fishing Crowley lake. To fish Pyramid Lake you would use the larger sizes. This pattern can be used to mimic most of them by changing color and size. Some materials are used for the larger hooks, which will be explained at the bottom of these directions.
HOOK: TMC 3761, Daiichi 1560 (these are a 1x long nymph hook).   Crimp barb.
BEAD: 2mm pearl white bead.  Feed small opening onto hook. Position behind eye.
THREAD: Black 8/0.  Attach behind eye. Touching wraps to mid shank. Touching wraps back to bead.
RIB: Small Ultra Wire, red and silver or just one or the other.  Using your thumbnail or hard object, pull wire over edge to remove any kinks or bends. Put wire tip or tips into bead on top of shank. Tie wire in place with touching wraps back to above barb.
BODY: Flashabou black. Cut end to a point. Return thread with touching wraps up to bead.  Flashabou forward with overlapping wraps up to bead. Tie off, cut excess. Spiral wrap wire forward with seven turns up to bead. First two wraps close together and gradually getting further apart. Tie off. Cut excess with old scissors very close to bead. Make several wraps to cover ends of cut wire. Whip finish. Cut thread. Apply 2 coats of glue or Sally Hanson’s Hard As Nails to body.

HOOKS                 BEADS

6–8.                       3.8 mm
10–12                    2.8 mm.
12–14                    2.3 mm.
For hooks size 6 to 12 use Flex Scrub wrap for body, and pull tightly as you wrap. For sizes 12 to 14 wrap thread back and forth two or three times before starting rib.

Posted on April 2nd, 2025

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Last Barrier on Alameda Creek—Removal Begins

by Bob Garbarino

Back in November 2023 I wrote an article for this newsletter about a project being planned on Alameda Creek. The goal of this project is to remove the last major barrier to Chinook salmon and steelhead passage on Alameda Creek. The barrier in question is a protective erosion-control concrete pad over a PG&E gas main that crosses the creek just south of the Interstate 680 crossing near SR 84. The exciting news is that this project got started June 2025 and is planned to be complete by October! Before the barrier removal began, biologists from PG&E, CalTrout, East Bay parks, SFPUC, and volunteers used nets to rescue each fish, frog, and other native and nonnative freshwater species in the work zone and move them one by one to other locations where water runs cool and clear. Now, PG&E will remove the concrete barrier and relocate the pipeline about 100 feet downstream and bury it approximately 18 to 20 feet beneath the creek bed. CalTrout and others will replant and work to restore the affected area to a natural flow as well as monitor the creek during and after the gas line is relocated. The result will be to open up another 20 miles of creek upstream—greatly increasing spawning and rearing habitat and also enhance the overall health and resilience of the Alameda Creek ecosystem. This collaborative project, known as the Sunol Valley Fish Passage Project, was launched by California Trout (CalTrout) and PG&E with several other entities, including the Alameda Creek Alliance.
For an interesting read about the history of Alameda Creek Alliance and the creek they have worked to restore for 28 years, check out this article in Bay Nature: After 28 Years, Alameda Creek Opens Up To Fish
Thanks to Mary Hermansky of the SCFF conservation committee for sending me this article. And thank you club members for your support of the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club that enables us to contribute to organizations like Alameda Creek Alliance and CalTrout.
Another source of information for this article: CalTrout and PG&E Kick Off Construction on Alameda Creek Fish Passage Project

Posted on July 21st, 2025