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May 2025 Table of Contents

May: Lance Gray – Steelhead………………
My Turn: SCFF club by the numbers……………………………
Fly Tying……………………
 May Fly Tying Class: No Mess Mouse
 Fly of the Month: Orange Stick
Conservation Concerns……………………
 NCCFFI Conservation Advocates
Membership Notes…………………
  Club Activities – May thru July
  Sun Protection for Fly Fishers
  21 new memberships for 2025
Gone Fishing: Roostercomb Ranch ……………………
Gearing Up ……………………
  Fishout Schedule
Cartoon ……………………

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May: Lance Gray – Steelhead

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

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

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

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

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

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





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


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SCFF club by the numbers

by Jim Tolonen, SCFF Treasurer

Welcome readers. This month’s “Presidents Letter” is brought to you by Jim Tolonen, SCFF Treasurer. To help spread Scott’s president duties, each of us Board Members has taken over one month’s president’s letter. This month is my turn.

I am going to summarize the “ins and the outs” of our finances; then for anyone who makes it through that, I will also share a couple “good read” paragraphs from a fly-fishing book I recently read.
The SCFF was formed in 1980, and so we are a 44-year-old club, (which is an amazing accomplishment for any organization). We were formed as an IRS section “501- C- 4” fishing club. As such, we are a non-profit organization, but not a charity; so, contributions to our club are not tax-deductible, but generally we file a simple tax return, and we owe no taxes whether we make or lose small amounts of money each year.
We have four major sources of Revenue: Membership Dues (42%), Donations (16%), Annual Fund Raiser Dinner (28%), and all else (14%).


Membership dues are currently running about $9,000 per year, (225 members at $40 plus/minus for Family and honorary).

Donations have been running about $3,500 per year, although the past two years this number has been much higher due to extra donations from the passing of Steve Rudzinski, John Steele and Gil Santos.


The Annual Fund Raiser Dinner generally sells out for $7,400 (185 tickets at $40 each), Auction/Raffle for about $4,100, and Silent auction items for about $1,500. But we have big expenses of Hall rent, $800, Food and supplies $3,200, Raffle and door Prizes $3,000. So, net we bring in about $6,000 for the event.


All else miscellaneous revenue includes; monthly meeting fund raisers net of costs, BBQ and Swap meet events, Film tour net of costs, Yuba fishing trip net of costs, sales of logo-ware (now outsourced so just close-out this year), Sam Bishop’s donated stripping basket sales, etc. Although each year varies, these have generally brought in approximately $3,000 per year.


The net of all the above revenues runs about $21,500 per year, but can vary a lot, (as mentioned, more due to donations the past two years).


We try to run the club so that our expenses run just under this amount. Biggest recurring expense items typically are Aptos Grange rent $2,500 (club, fly tying, board meetings each month), Speakers costs $2,500, web site and newsletter consulting and fees $1,500, Roster/Printing postage PO Box and Supplies $1,500, FFFI Dues and Insurance $1,000, All Other $2,500 (Steele award, Fly tying supplies, computer and Zoom supplies, BBQ supplies, etc.) totaling about $11,500, but these also vary significantly each year.

The revenues less these recurring expenses leaves about $10,000 which we have been choosing to donate for Conservation contributions, $4,000 and scholarships $4,000. (Although this year 2025, due to the large increase in donations the past two years, we plan to increase Scholarships to $5,000 and Conservation Contributions to $5.000). We also expect to incur several thousand dollars in consulting costs to begin moving us onto a computerized accounting system, (we are still all manual and spreadsheet.)

That about does it. Any questions? Give me a text or email. Want to help out? Bill Seaman is stepping up as Treasurer for next year and perhaps sharing the load with a couple of Assistant Treasurers. Let Scott, Bill or me know if you have interest and can help.


Since I have heard that many fly fishers can read, we might consider book reports as a more regular item in the newsletter?

Now for a few good words, taken from the book “River Songs – moments of wild wonder in fly fishing” by Steve Duda (c) 2024:

“Fly Fishing teaches us a few things about a few things. We know which way is north and which direction the winds blows when the weather’s about to turn. We can stop the bleeding, patch the leaks, and always have duct tape handy. We know a few good knots, a few good jokes, and can curse in a handful of languages. We can pitch a tent in the dark and point to a few constellations. We know how to ford a river, build a fire and brew a cup of coffee. We can open a beer with almost anything.
We’re good sports and gracious winners who are used to long odds and making friends with failure. We are blessed with a vast reservoir of hope, and we trust that better outcomes and brighter prospects – the next cast, the next run, the next day – are around the next bend.
We’re a family of enthusiastic activists, weirdos, obsessives, and odd balls exploring the peculiar back alleys, sidetracks, and secret rooms of our sport. Fly fishing isn’t just one thing: it’s a whirling ball of bamboo rods, blue-lining, and bass. It’s poetry, permit, and plotting to bring down dead-beat dams. It’s tarpon, tenkara, and the alchemy of old fishing caps. It’s carp, conservation, and keeping a cigar lit in a sideways gully washer. It’s steelhead, shore lunches, and the beauty of native fish. It’s strange and beautiful – beautifully strange – and it’s what we do.
Most of all, this is a family that understands and appreciates the enormity wildness and wonder of the outdoors. Together, we stand in its light with humility, appreciation, and the determination not to lose what we love.”

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May Fly Tying Class: No Mess Mouse

by Elaine Cook - Fly Tying Chairman



No Mess Mouse

May 14 6:30 PM @ Aptos Grange

Mouse patterns are becoming popular for bass and even trout fisherman. This is an easy fly to tie and good size. Please bring brown 6/0 thread. If you don’t have this thread, bring another 6/0 and there will be a Sharpie pen to color your thread. If you are a beginner, which we always welcome, there will be thread, vice, and tools for you to use. Please sign up at the club meeting or call me with at least 24 hours notice. 831-234-6515. As always the class is free and all materials provided. We never seem to have enough table lights, so if you have one, please bring it.


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

Date Fly Excerpt
Royal TrudeJun 11 6:30 pm - 8:30 pmRoyal Trude

The fly for the June fly tying class is the Royal Trude. Participants will need black thread.
The Royal Trude is a classic, versatile attractor fly pattern known for its bold appearance and ability to float well in rough water, featuring a calf hair wing, golden pheasant tail, peacock body, and a heavy brown hackle. We use it to imitate caddis and ants, as well as a general attractor. The royal trude is still one of the most versatile attractors in the west.

There will be a sign-up sheet at the monthly club meeting the week prior to this fly tying class (June 4th).  Greg will also be present at the May club meeting with the sign up sheet.

If you are unable to sign up at the club meeting, Greg can be reached for sign-ups at (831) 239-8780

The class will start at 6:30pm, doors open at 6:15pm.

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Orange Stick

by Elaine Cook – fly tying chairman

Here’s a fly that is super easy to tie. It’s also super effective in the surf.
1. HOOK: TMC 5263  size 6.  Crimp barb.
2. THREAD: Red 6/0.  Attach behind eye. Touching wraps to 1/3 back on shank. Then forward to two eye lengths behind eye.
3. EYES: Silver bead chain, small or medium size, Loctite glue or similar. Cut bead chain into 2 ball sections. Attach to top of shank with multiple crisscross wraps, then circular wraps around underside of balls, pull tight, then repeat several times. Apply glue. Position thread above hook point.
4. TAIL: Orange spooled Antron.  Using a 3 inch piece, cut in half and stack on top of one another. Tie in center of bundle with two thread wraps. Fold forward strands to rear. Tie in place back to rear of shank. Cut tail length equal to 1/2 hook shank.
5. BODY: Orange medium sized chenille.  Remove fibers from 1/4 inch of center of threads. Tie threads to top of shank. Reposition thread to in front of bead chain eyes. Wrap chenille forward with close touching wraps up to bead chain eyes.
USING SNUG WRAPS: Wrap chenille forward between top of eyes, then down on far side of shank, then under shank to near side, then back over top between eyes, then down on far side of shank, then forward under shank between eyes. Tie off behind hook eye. Cut thread. Apply glue to tie off threads.

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NCCFFI Conservation Advocates

by Bob

Our club is a member of the Northern California Council Fly Fishers International. NCCFFI is one of many nationwide councils under the umbrella of Fly Fishers International. So what is NCCFFI and what do they do? Here’s some information that provides an overview from NCCFFI’s website.

Vision
“To educate current and future generations on the traditions of fly fishing, and to conserve and improve healthy aquatic watersheds.”

Mission
“We are a volunteer, non-profit educational and conservation organization dedicated to preserving our outdoor watersheds and fisheries. Our purpose is to inform the public about the benefits of the fly fishing traditions, and to fight for clean water, healthy watersheds and fisheries. We do this by supporting our member clubs through education, conservation advocacy and outreach on behalf of their members and communities.”

Purpose Statements
Work to preserve our fisheries and watersheds.
Educate the public that fly fishing is a sport/hobby for all ages.
Provide value to fly fishing clubs on issues they are interested in and cannot do alone.
Promote fly fishing clubs and support them on their projects.
Bring together clubs on important issues affecting fly fishing and conservation so we can speak with a loud, coordinated voice.
Reach out to clubs for input and guidance on important issues.

How does Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club benefit from being a member? FFI has a robust, structured fly casting development program. If you’ve been to any of our fly casting classes lately, those cones and rings you’ve been targeting with different casting strokes is part of the FFI casting playbook. Many of our members are taking advantage of the classes are improving, which is very encouraging to see. Another important benefit is our club is able to obtain insurance through our membership with FFI. There are numerous educational resources on all things related to fly fishing that are available, especially if you become an individual member at FFI.

And since we’re concerned with conservation, I want to highlight what role NCCFFI plays in conservation in Northern California. As noted above in their Vision, Mission and Purpose Statement, conservation is a large focus. Mark Rockwell has been VP of Conservation NCCFFI since 2021. You may recall he spoke to our club in September of 2024 about the effort to remove the dams on the Klamath River of which he has been involved since 2003. Mark has been active in several other conservation initiatives in Northern California. Below are a few examples.

Yuba River watershed enhancement and dam relicensing effort
Protection of the S.F. Bay-Deltawatershed and fishery
Update of the S.F. Bay-Delta Water Quality Control Plan & Voluntary Agreements
Toulomne River flow standards & SFPUC commitment to sustainable flow levels
South Santa Clara County watershed enhancement – FAHCE Agreement
Salmon & Steelhead recovery in Northern California rivers

As are many of us who are advocates for protecting and improving our fisheries, Mark is alarmed by the chaotic disregard for the environment by the the federal administration by stopping funding and eliminating jobs at the US Fish and Wildlife Service, NOAA Fisheries, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Reclamation, Bureau of Land Management and Bureau of Indian Affairs. This includes impact to ongoing work to restore the Klamath Basin. I encourage you to read Mark’s April 2025 report that describes the issues and expresses his outrage at what is taking place. I share his concerns as well.

https://mcusercontent.com/6c782b03fd5c840efe8ac5c88/files/bb810988-5577-71c1-ed4a-3e148d21a09f/April_2025_Conservation_Report.pdf

On a more positive note, did you know our own beloved Tom Hogye is NCCFFI 2nd Vice President? For those of you that are new to SCFF, Tom was our president for many years and filled other roles, including Conservation Chair. I the latest NCCFFI newsletter, Tom has an article titled “Conservation Motivation” where he talks about what steps were taken at SCFF to expand our membership with an emphasis on younger members. He also offers some ideas on reaching out and encouraging new ideas and perspectives on what will make a club thrive. If we feel we are valued, it’s a wonderful feeling that is a great beginning taking ownership in improving the club and developing friendships.  It has been said that each converted fly fisher is on the path to learning about and becoming a conservationist. For a link to Tom’s article, to the link below.

https://mcusercontent.com/6c782b03fd5c840efe8ac5c88/files/7441814a-0fea-f41e-d1e2-80974c9f2f51/Youthinism.pdf

If you are interested in learning about the benefits of becoming a member of FFI, go to:
https://www.flyfishersinternational.org/Join-Renew

 

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Club Activities – May thru July

Date Activity Link DescriptionLocation
May 07 6:15 pm - 6:45 pmIntroductory 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 1:30 pm - 3:30 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
May 17 9:00 am - 1:00 pmSwap Meet at Aptos Grange - 2025

Swap meet at the Aptos Grange parking lot. 9am to 1 pm. All things fishing/outdoors!
BUY-SELL-TRADE

Aptos Grange
Jun 14 1:30 pm - 3:30 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
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Sun Protection for Fly Fishers

by David South

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.

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21 new memberships for 2025

by Bob

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

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Roostercomb Ranch, April 2025

by Cecilia Stipes: Fishmaster

What could be more fun than 11 bass-fishing enthusiasts spending 3 days at the Roostercomb Ranch situated within the Henry Coe State Park. Sprawled among its nearly 6,000 acres are 8 ponds filled with bass and blue gill. Those present were Mark Traugott, Keith Munger, Michael Sherwood, Angela Johnson, Elaine and John Cook, Bill Seaman, Scott Kitayama, Dan Eaton, Jon Wolfe and Cecilia Stipes. So many fish were caught, it was one for the records. By Saturday Dan said it was the best fishing day he had ever had at the ranch. Hard to stop when it’s so good. He and Jon were the last to show up for dinner that evening! Scott was personally escorted around the ranch by Cecilia and discovered it was way too much fun sight-fishing the bass from shore to get into his float tube. He nailed a whopper (aka “toilet flush”) on his first cast at “Shadow” pond and before that, a series of aggressive large bass at “Secret” to start his day. By 3rd day, Elaine was gleefully teasing a series of bullfrogs (I believe 15) with her homemade poppers at “Buzzard”. Keith pulled out a bass measuring 20 in. (afraid no photo) from “Mustang”. Angela and I spent 5 hrs at “Harvey”, the farthest pond from ranch house driven by ATV over hill and dale to get there, where we caught countless bass with girth and weight. I found that the bigger popper I used (deer-hair mouse or frog), created a bigger incentive to encourage the largest bass to attack. My theory worked!

 

All in all, 3 days at the Roostercomb was a great success. Great fishing, wonderful camaraderie, delicious food, and of course, a great trip into the back country surrounded by Nature’s beauty and wildlife.

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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
May 10 5:45 am - 10:00 amRio Del Mar State Beach Surf FishoutFirst Surf Fishout of 2025! Saturday May 10th 2025 5:45AM Location: Rio Del Mar State Beach
May 16 - May 19 Upper Sacramento River / McCloud Fishout – UPDATED –This Fishout’s final date is still TBD and subject to river flows as we get closer to spring. The upper Sac. has excellent access via. Hwy 5 and by walking the railway tracks. Euro/High Stick/Indicator Nymphing is the go to.
Jun 02 - Jun 04 Pyramid Lake FishoutFishmaster: 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. However the past three years have been very challenging and we have not caught very many fish and people have come away disappointed with the outcome. That leads me to a new discovery about how to fish Pyramid Lake. Jeff Goyertte, a club member and our raffle coordinator took a trip to the lake and fished with Rob Anderson, a [...]
Jun 07 5:15 am - 10:00 amManresa State Beach Surf FishoutLocation: Manresa State Beach (Upper Parking Lot) Fish Master: Lance Boiling  / clboling@gmail.com / 408-728-0548  Species: Surf Perch, Striped Bass  Min./Max Participants: NO Limit Cali Surf Style Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety), Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket (If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online) Flies: Clousers, wooly buggers, sand crabs, etc. https://www.lostcoastoutfitters.com/collections/surf-flies What to Expect: Manresa State Beach (Upper parking lot) Meet at 5:15AM Sunrise is 5:47AM and we [...]
Jun 20 - Jun 22 Burney and Around – UPDATED –Date and description subject to change due to seasonal conditions Please Stay Tuned Fishmaster: Alex Ferber Location: Lakes, rivers and streams of the Burney area Species: Trout Duration: 3 Days Cost: No Cost Meet Up: Date of Fishout TBD and subject to change due seasonal conditions Hat Creek Park off Hy 299 (See the map below). The park is approximately 10 minutes from the highway 299/80 junction. The park is on the left hand side going east on 299. If you google Hat Creek Park, it should show up. This meet up will be a general discussion with your Fishmaster [...]
Jun 22 - Jun 28 12:00 amLake Almanor/Hex Hatch – Jun 22th – 28th 2025The Lake Almanor Fishout is scheduled for the last week of June, 6/22 thru 28th, 2025. This time period is, hopefully, the peak of the annual Hexagenia hatch that begins generally mid-June and runs through mid-July. The most productive fishing takes place early evenings on into past dark between Lake Almanor West to Canyon Dam on the Southwest side of the lake. Most of the fishing is done from float tubes as well as small boats or even from shore. In addition to the evening "Hex" hatch, a multitude of opportunities exist for fishing throughout the day to include Little [...]
Jul 05 5:20 am - 10:00 amBeer Can Beach Surf FishingLocation: Beer Can Beach (AKA Summer Beach) - Staircase at 1191 Via Palo Alto, Aptos Fish Master: Lance Boiling  / clboling@gmail.com / 408-728-0548  Species: Surf Perch, Striped Bass  Min./Max Participants: Breakfast RSVP Required 5:00pm July 3. 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: Beer [...]
Jul 07 12:00 amLoreto Fly Fishing TripLoreto Mexico Details to be finalized and date to be confirmed  The fishing day starts around 6:00 a.m. and we usually get back to the harbor between 1:30 and 2:00 p.m. Spend the rest of the afternoon fishing from the beach, having a cool drink in the pool, exploring Loreto, or just sitting around telling some tall fish stories. And, you will have many exciting moments on the Sea of Cortez to talk about. The approximate cost for everything but meals and airfare is: *$995.00 per person, double occupancy; around $460.00 for a non-fishing guest. -  It does not include [...]
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 16 - Oct 19 O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout October 17-20thCamping and striped bass fishing at the O'Neil Forebay.
Oct 31 - Nov 02 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. 

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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.

No upcoming events scheduled - check back soon!

Date Fly Excerpt

Help

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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.

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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.

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March Brown Spotlight

by Elaine Cook – fly tying chairman

There are around 200 species of mayflies in the western USA alone. This one has brown coloring. This pattern can be tied to represent many species by changing color and size. This fly is best tied by experienced tiers.
HOOK: TMC 2487.  Sizes 14–22. Crimp barb.
THREAD: Brown 12/0 or 14/0 is best.  Attach 1/3 back on shank.
POST: Closed cell foam cylinders 1/16” thick for the larger hooks. Thinner for the small hooks.  Lay on top of shank with end extending a little forward of hook eye. Make 4 snug wraps, one on top of the last. Make two wraps on shank in front of post. Pull foam to the rear and cut very close to thread wraps. Snugly tie down cut end of foam. Make several thread wraps in front of post to stand it upright.  Make several thread wraps around base of post to make base for hackle.
TAIL: Brownish gold spooled Antron.  Using bodkin separate 6 to 8 fibers from strand. Lay on top of shank, butted up against post and extended to the rear. Touching thread wraps back to a little beyond rear of shank. Cut tail fibers equal to 1/2 body length.
BODY: Super fine or X-dub dubbing, brown color.  Dub a very thin tapered body forward to base of post. Reposition hook so that post faces upright.
HACKLE:  Grizzly dyed golden brown. Barbs equal to 2x hook gap.  Cut about six barbs short on each side of butt end of stem “crew cut”. With dark side facing you tie crew cut in at base of post then raise hackle upright, make 2 to 3 wraps around hackle stem and base of post to keep it upright.
THORAX: same material as body.  Dub a small thorax around base of post. Position thread hanging on your side in front of post.
HACKLE CONTINUED: Wrap hackle around base of post 2 to 3 times. Hold hackle down with left hand, bring thread up in front of hackle stem to shank level in front of stem. Wrap thread around base of post between hackle and thorax 3 times. Make 3 half hitches behind eye. Cut excess hackle.
HEAD: Thread. Using a bodkin, make enough half hitches behind eye to form a small thread head. Complete fly by cutting foam post a little above hackle to form a spotlight.
NOTE: sometimes a post of a different color is easier to see. Use a Sharpie to color it pink or orange or chartreuse if desired.

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June Fly Tying Class: Royal Trude

by Greg Foy



Royal Trude

Jun 11 6:30 PM @ Aptos Grange

The fly for the June fly tying class is the Royal Trude. Participants will need black thread.
The Royal Trude is a classic, versatile attractor fly pattern known for its bold appearance and ability to float well in rough water, featuring a calf hair wing, golden pheasant tail, peacock body, and a heavy brown hackle. We use it to imitate caddis and ants, as well as a general attractor. The royal trude is still one of the most versatile attractors in the west.

There will be a sign-up sheet at the monthly club meeting the week prior to this fly tying class (June 4th).  Greg will also be present at the May club meeting with the sign up sheet.

If you are unable to sign up at the club meeting, Greg can be reached for sign-ups at (831) 239-8780

The class will start at 6:30pm, doors open at 6:15pm.


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

Date Fly Excerpt
Royal TrudeJun 11 6:30 pm - 8:30 pmRoyal Trude

The fly for the June fly tying class is the Royal Trude. Participants will need black thread.
The Royal Trude is a classic, versatile attractor fly pattern known for its bold appearance and ability to float well in rough water, featuring a calf hair wing, golden pheasant tail, peacock body, and a heavy brown hackle. We use it to imitate caddis and ants, as well as a general attractor. The royal trude is still one of the most versatile attractors in the west.

There will be a sign-up sheet at the monthly club meeting the week prior to this fly tying class (June 4th).  Greg will also be present at the May club meeting with the sign up sheet.

If you are unable to sign up at the club meeting, Greg can be reached for sign-ups at (831) 239-8780

The class will start at 6:30pm, doors open at 6:15pm.

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

Help

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Antron Caddis

by Elaine Cook – fly tying chairman

This is a high floater that never wants to sink. Use a floating line and floatant. There are over 300 species of caddis in the western USA so vary your fly colors and sizes. Good colors would be gray, brown, or dark gold.
HOOK: TMC 100  size 16-20   Crimp barb.
THREAD: 8/0 or smaller, pick a color from above. Attach 1/3 back on shank. Wrap to rear of shank.
BODY: Super fine dubbing, same color. Wrap generous body forward to tie in.
WINGS: Spooned Antron, same color.  Cut two pieces 1 1/2 inches long. Fold in half. Place on top of shank with loop extending forward over front of eye. Attached to top of shank with three wrap then lift loop and make three wraps right in front of tie in, then make three more wraps over original three wraps. Divide wing and half and figure 8 wraps to hold wings out to the side with tips slightly up. One or two wraps around base of wing will help hold them in place. Cut wings to length of hook. Wrap thread forward binding to one eye length behind eye.
HACKLE: Grizzly dyed color as above, barbs equal to 1 1/2 hook gap.  Stroke barbs against grain at base at butt end.. Cut 4 to 5 barbs short on each side of stem. Lay on top of shank with shiny side up. Tie in place and wrap thread forward to one eye length behind eye. Wrap hackle forward in 3 to 4  wraps,  tie off, cut excess.
HEAD: Extended wing material.   Advance thread to behind hook eye. Make 3-4 Half hitched knots. Cut thread. Hold Antron loop up and cut short equal to two eye lengths.
LEGS: Cut hackle  tips off at the bottom to the level of hook point.

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April 2025 Table of Contents

April: Rob Anderson – Bucket list fish………………
Temporary Suspension of Raffles……………………
F3T Film – Santa Cruz, April 23……………………
My Turn: Let’s Talk Fishouts……………………………
Conservation Concerns……………………………
Fly Tying……………………
 April Fly Tying Class: Cicada
 Fly of the Month: Mosquito
 April Lost and Found
Membership Notes…………………
  Club Activities – April thru June
  2025 roster available at April Meeting!
Gearing Up ……………………
  Fishout Schedule
Cartoon ……………………

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April: Rob Anderson – Bucket list fish

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

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

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

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

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

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





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


FUTURE SPEAKERS

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

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F3T Film – Santa Cruz, April 23

Apr 23 6:00 PM at the Woodhouse Brewery
Fly Fishing Film Tour 2025

Woodhouse Brewery
119 Madrone St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
April 23rd @ 6:00PM
The 2025 Tour is Proudly Presented by the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club

The 19th annual FLY FISHING FILM TOUR (F3T) is back on the road for 2025 with a top notch selection of short films that are sure to get you fired up for the season ahead!The F3T is the original and largest fly fishing film event of its kind and we are proud to be an annual community event for all anglers. Come for the action,  buy a beer and snacks,  and stay for the prizes.

Sorry. This form is no longer available.

More info: https://flyfilmtour.com





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Let’s Talk Fishouts

by Fishout Committee Chair Justin Ice

Currently in 2025 the club has roughly 18 Fishouts on the calendar from still water to the surf.

A primary reason I joined the club was to participate in the Fishouts. We are fortunate to have members here who are and have been willing to share some of their favorite places with those in the club. We have members that have been hosting the same trip for over 15 years and every year they sell out with a waiting list. As a club we have the unique opportunity to utilize the vast experiences and knowledge those in the club share. This goes with out saying that with larger groups we are able negotiate better pricing for most of these trips making them much more affordable and accessible to those who might not be able to make such trips a reality. As an example take a look at Rich Hughett’s Loreto trip in Mexico coming up in July. This is a smoking deal with almost all expenses paid with your buy in. All one has to do there after is save the date.  Here you join group of anglers that have visited the same location for over 20 years and they are more than willing to share their advise and help getting you to their honey hole.

I recently hosted my first Fishout. The Yuba River Private Water trip. For those of you who were on the originally scheduled date and those of you who were able to attend, you know that this was a trip 3 years in the making! Due to high waters and weather we had to postpone the trip and reschedule, but it happened and it was a blast.  Granted the fishing was not great, but it was my first camping trip of the year and I am grateful for that alone. Besides that, I was able hang out and talk with folks from the club that during meetings or online has been fleeting at best. During the Fishout there is no hurry or expectations share a drink or a meal and you really get to know your fellow club members.

When I first took on the position of Fishout Committee Chair my predecessor John Cook would advise me to make sure I let everyone know that the Fishouts are the best way to meet new friends, get to know others in the club in a relaxed environment and that there is no better ice breaker than sharing a beer and talking about “the skunk that followed you around all day”.

I personally have always considered myself an introvert. I fish and camp alone or with my dog and or maybe a friend. Taking on the Fishout was a step out of my comfort zone, but I am glad I did it and plan on organizing another soon.

I hope this article inspires some of you to join a Fishout, offer to host one or even offer suggestions on a great location for a Fishout.  New to the sport or a salty dog, you can’t catch a fish if you don’t get your line wet.

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A Free Flowing Eel River? Let’s Hope So!

by Bob Garbarino

As I write this article, I’m hopeful I’ll make a trip to the Eel River to fish for steelhead before the season ends the end of March. This will be my first time to fish this river and I’m looking forward to learning about this fishery. I remember driving past the Eel many years ago when I lived in the Arcata/Eureka area and being struck by its beautiful deep green color. Not only am I excited about the prospect of getting up there and experiencing the natural beauty of the area, I’m also encouraged by the progress being made to improve the health of the river.

Eel River History
The Eel River once supported the third largest runs of salmon and steelhead in California. Salmon were so plentiful canneries operated on the river in the late 1800s and early 1900s. But, over the years a number of factors have contributed to a severe decline to a small fraction of historical numbers:
Commercial overfishing
Erosion from clear cut timber harvesting, cattle ranching and road building
Introduction of invasive pikeminnow
Floods and drought
Water quality issues
Dam construction
Water diversions

Dam Removal
One of the key developments that have experts encouraged is the planned license surrender and decommissioning of the Scott and Cape Horn Dams by PG&E. This will open the opportunity to completely remove the dams. The result will be to open up 288 miles of spawning and rearing habitat for salmon and steelhead all the way to the river headwaters. The removal of the dams is currently projected to begin in 2028.

Water Diversion to the Russian River
The other related aspect of the dam removal is what to do with the water diversion tunnel at Cape Horn Dam. This is a tunnel that has been sending water to the Russian River watershed since 1908. Earlier this year, a complex Memorandum of Understanding was established by numerous stakeholders: California Department of Fish and Wildlife, California Trout, Eel-Russian Project Authority, Humboldt County, Mendocino County Inland Water and Power Commission , Round Valley Indian Tribes, Sonoma County Water Agency, and Trout Unlimited. This memorandum defines the requirements and infrastructure to allow water to be diverted from the Eel River to the the Russian River. One of the key requirements outlined in this document is that diversions will not negatively impact fish restoration progress. Let’s hope that is the case.

Santa Cruz Fly Fishing provides contributions to Cal Trout, Trout Unlimited and Friends of the Eel River—all of whom have been instrumental in having a positive impact on helping the Eel River making a comeback.

For more insight into the Eel River restoration, have a look at Cal Trout’s Vision Book

and Friends of the River.

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April Fly Tying Class: Cicada

by Elaine Cook - Fly Tying Chairman



Apr 09 6:30 PM @ Aptos Grange

Cicadas are a large insect, are not aquatic, and hatch out in spring throughout the United States. They end up in the water on windy days in particular, but also, they are very poor pilots and are hatching out in the trees around rivers and streams. Trout and bass truly love these bugs. They’re made out of foam so are a high floaters. For those going to the Green River you will want to have a few of these in your box. It may be just a little too early for the cicadas to be out, but the fish have not forgotten about them.
As always, the class is free and materials provided. If you have black six on thread do bring it. We welcome you beginners and have vice and tools and thread for you to borrow. Sign ups are important so that enough material is there for those attending. Please sign up at the next club meeting or call me no later than the day before the class. 831-234-6515.


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

Date Fly Excerpt
No Mess MouseMay 14 6:30 pm - 8:30 pmNo Mess Mouse

Mouse patterns are becoming popular for bass and even trout fisherman. This is an easy fly to tie and good size. Please bring brown 6/0 thread. If you don’t have this thread, bring another 6/0 and there will be a Sharpie pen to color your thread. If you are a beginner, which we always welcome, there will be thread, vice, and tools for you to use. Please sign up at the club meeting or call me with at least 24 hours notice. 831-234-6515. As always the class is free and all materials provided. We never seem to have enough table lights, so if you have one, please bring it.

Royal TrudeJun 11 6:30 pm - 8:30 pmRoyal Trude

The fly for the June fly tying class is the Royal Trude. Participants will need black thread.
The Royal Trude is a classic, versatile attractor fly pattern known for its bold appearance and ability to float well in rough water, featuring a calf hair wing, golden pheasant tail, peacock body, and a heavy brown hackle. We use it to imitate caddis and ants, as well as a general attractor. The royal trude is still one of the most versatile attractors in the west.

There will be a sign-up sheet at the monthly club meeting the week prior to this fly tying class (June 4th).  Greg will also be present at the May club meeting with the sign up sheet.

If you are unable to sign up at the club meeting, Greg can be reached for sign-ups at (831) 239-8780

The class will start at 6:30pm, doors open at 6:15pm.

Help

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Mosquito

by Elaine Cook -fly tying chairman

The mosquito pattern has been around for decades and is a good old standby. Use for trout, apply floatant, and fish dead drift. The traditional mosquito uses the natural grizzly feather, which is black and white. Don’t hesitate to use grizzly that has been dyed brown, cream, or dun.
1. HOOK: TMC 100 size 12 to 18    Crimp barb.
2. THREAD: Black 6/0 for larger flies, 8/0 for smaller.   Attach 1/3 back on shank.
3. WINGS: Grizzly neck     Select two feathers from side that have rounded tips and width of feather just a little below the tip equals 2/3 width of the shank. Note location on stem that is the equal to hook length. Stroke all barbs from that point back on stem. Position feathers with tips forward, separation of barbs mid shank, bend of feathers going away from each other. Tie in place, cut excess. NOTE: WINGS SHOULD BE 1/3 BACK ON SHANK.  Several wraps of thread in front of wings to hold them upright. One wrap of thread between wings too slightly separate. Cut any excess barbs, extending forward over eye of hook.
4. TAIL: Grizzly Hackle Neck. Feathers from the side of the neck have stiff barbs that are straight. Select one that has long barbs. Stroke barbs against the grain to line up the tips. Cut 10 to 12 from stem. Lay on hook shank with tips extending hook shank length beyond shank. Tie in place with touching wraps, up to wings. Cut excess.
5. BODY: Moose mane.  Cut one dark and one light strand from stem. Lay strands on top of hook shank with tips just behind wings and butts to rear. Secure to top of shank with touching thread wraps up to wings. Wrap both strands forward at the same time forming a barber pole effect. Cut excess.
6. HACKLE: Grizzly.  Select feather with barbs equal to 1/2  length of hook gap. Cut several barbs short on but end of stem. Tie in crew cut behind wings. Wrap thread forward to one eye length behind eye. Wrap hackle around hook  shank, twice behind wings and twice in front of wings. Cut excess.
7. HEAD: Wrap thread head. Whip finish. Cut thread.

Date:  Not applicable

Time:  Not applicable

Place:  Not applicable

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Lost and found at Poppers Class

by Elaine Cook, 831-234-6515

The pliers on the left look very similar to my pliers, which I have misplaced. Have you seen them? They probably have a piece of yellow tape on them. The pliers on the right were left behind at the proper class. Please call if you can help solve this mystery. Sherlock Holmes. 831-234-6515. AKA ELAINE

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Club Activities – April thru June

Date Activity Link DescriptionLocation
Apr 02 6:00 pm - 6:30 pmIntroductory 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 pmIntroductory 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 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
Apr 23 6:00 pm - 9:30 pmFly 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 pmIntroductory 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 1:30 pm - 3:30 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
May 17 9:00 am - 1:00 pmSwap Meet at Aptos Grange - 2025

Swap meet at the Aptos Grange parking lot. 9am to 1 pm. All things fishing/outdoors!
BUY-SELL-TRADE

Aptos Grange
Jun 14 1:30 pm - 3:30 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
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40 copies of the 2025 roster available at the April Monthly Meeting

by Bob Peterson

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.