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Fishout Schedule – July 2022

mobile scrollable table 

EVENT NAME EVENT DATE SPECIES FISH MASTER
Yuba River – 21 Aug 26Aug 21 - Aug 23
Alaska Kenai Peninsula Fly FishingSep 08 - Sep 15
Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 19-Oct. 3rd 2026Sep 19 - Oct 03Trout John Cook fishmaster-- (831)688-1561 or (831)234-6515
Lower Sacramento River Group Float – Hosted by the Delta Fly FishersOct 10
O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout October 15-18thOct 15 - Oct 18
Trinity River FishoutNov 13 - Nov 15

Aug 21 : Yuba River – 21 Aug 26


Yuba River - 21 Aug 26
University of California Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club (SCFFC)Lower Yuba Private Water Camp & Fishout
August 21st – 23rd 2026
(Date subject to change due to weather and flows)

The information provided below has been  modified from the Grizzly Peak Fly Fishing Club and Tri-Valley Fly Fishing Club (2022-23)

Special Notes
The outing is limited to 20 people. With a $50.00 buy in payable to the club. Jump to reservation form

Due to the limited capacity, reserving your spot is  first come first serve starting July 1st  at 9am thru the club website. Payment due at time of reservation. No refunds.

Camping will be available on the property beginning at 4 PM Friday and extending to Sunday evening. Fishing hours are dawn to dusk. Gate code will be sent out as we get closer to the Fishout date. Each angler will be responsible to close the gate behind them. The gate code will be emailed to us the week before the trip. Additional details to follow as we get closer to the date
The Lower Yuba is accessible from the sea – you must have a 2026 California Steelhead Reporting Card in addition to your fishing license. Unlike the license, the report card must be delivered in hard copy, either by snail mail or by hand from a fishing store. Plan ahead!

Location
University of California Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center, 8279 Scott Forbes Road, Browns Valley, CA 95918. Meet at the gate to the river road (N39.24672°, W121.32222°), which is on your right about 1/3 mile before you reach the research center. Note that, misleadingly, there is a sign at the gate that says “No Fishing Access”. The gate will be opened and then locked behind us. 2.5 hrs from Berkeley. Take I-80 east to Sacramento, turn onto I-5 north, then onto Hwy 70 to Marysville. Pass through downtown Marysville on 70, and as you round the lake, turn right onto Hwy 20 east. Continue 15 miles, pass the Sycamore Ranch Campground. At the sign to the UC Station, turn left onto Peoria Rd, and then at another sign, bear right onto Scott Forbes Rd (also called Long Bar Rd). The gate is just past Sicard Flat Ditch. SCFFC strongly encourages carpooling.

General Notes
Our Club event on the Yuba will be on the private property owned by the University of California and is one of their Sierra Research facilities. We have contracted for TVFF’s exclusive use of the facility for the two days over the weekend. The river is about 1.5 miles above the highway 20 bridge over the Yuba and accessible only through a locked gate for a maximum of twenty (20) anglers per day. There is approximately 2.5 miles of available river that is the tailwater section a mile or so below Englebright Dam. The river has easy and level access, so it’s ideal for those less comfortable in heavy current wading situations, although that is also available for those Euro Nymphing.

The UC facility is on many acres in a pastoral valley leading down to the river. Most of the research here is for cattle, grazing land management, and erosion control so it is very quiet with no nearby roads, ranches, or houses. There is a covered picnic area that sits above the river with 8-10 picnic tables and a porta potty restroom with hand wash station that is also available on site. No water on site, limited cell phone reception, no fires. All in all, it’s a very scenic and serene site.

Gear and Tackle Recommendations:
Yuba River fish are notoriously “hot” and frisky. They workout full time in the strong current and just love to play in it when disturbed by a sharp hook. Anticipate that you will see strong runs on hook ups and that the fish will feel like they are 4-6″ larger than you see in the net. So…
Rod & line weights/types: 5 or 6 weight rods, reels and floating lines are the norm to help control their runs. A 4 weight for Euro Nymphing should work well as long as it has a good stiff butt section to manage any runs.
Leaders and tippet: Fishing style dependent but normally I fish a 9’ 4X leader and adjust with added tippet of up to 4-6’ of 5 for the dry flies, and stick with 4X fluoro for the nymphs.
Other gear:
Note that we will not be using any watercraft as this is a walk and wade event with float takeouts way too far downstream to be of use for us.
Flies: Flies to match and we will send out a more current list as we get closer to the dates and better understand how the weather and water are impacting the hatches. Typically, you will need Skwala dries and nymphs, Pale Morning Duns, Baetis/Blue Wing Olives, Pink Alberts, Little Yellow Sallies, Pale Evening Duns, Golden Stones, and four varieties of Caddis.

Location / Date
University of California Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center, 8279 Scott Forbes Road, Browns Valley, CA 95918.
August 21st – 23rd 2026

Fishmaster
TBD – Please contact Justin Ice if interested in hosting this event justin@schwagerdavis.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Sep 08 : Alaska Kenai Peninsula Fly Fishing


Alaska Kenai Peninsula Fly Fishing
(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

Alaska Kenai Peninsula Fly Fishing Trip

September 8–15, 2026
(Additional week: September 1–8, 2026, if enough anglers)

Each week will be made up of 8 anglers, with Rick and Jesse serving as hosts. This document provides an outline of the fall Alaska fly fishing trip. All projected dates and plans are subject to change based on weather conditions.

Trip Structure & Expectations

  • For the first three days, anglers will be split into three groups:
    • Three anglers fishing with Jesse from a drift boat
    • Two anglers fishing with Rick from a drift boat
    • One group driving to a wade-fishing location
  • On the fourth day, the three groups will consolidate into two groups.
  • Groups will rotate daily to ensure all anglers have time fishing from the boats.
  • Wade fishing will take place every day, and anglers must be comfortable with wading and light hiking.

Recommended Equipment

  • 4-5 wt. Rods (Switch / Spey / Single Hand)
    • Full Sink
    • Floating
    • Sink Tips

Wade Fishing Locations

  • Russian River – Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden
  • Anchor River – Steelhead
  • Deep Creek – Steelhead

Daily Itinerary

Day 1 – Travel Day

Arrive in Anchorage. Groups will pick up Turo rental vehicles and drive to a rental cabin near Sterling (between Soldotna and Cooper Landing). Groceries and supplies will be purchased in town.

Day 2

Drift boat fishing on the Upper Kenai River with Rick and Jesse (weather permitting, possibly through the canyon). The third group will wade fish the Russian River.

Day 3

Drift boat float from Skilak Lake outlet to Bing’s Landing on the Middle Kenai for Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden, with potential Coho opportunities. The wade-fishing group will travel south to the Anchor River for Steelhead.

Day 4

Rick and Jesse’s groups will either fish the Upper Kenai again for Rainbow Trout or float the Kasilof River from Tustumena Lake to the bridge for Steelhead and Silver Salmon.

Day 5

Groups consolidate into two groups of five anglers. Fishing will take place on the Anchor River and Deep Creek for Steelhead. If weather conditions prevent fishing, the group will fish the Russian River.

Day 6

Both groups fish the Upper Kenai and Russian River together. Optional hike to the Upper Russian River to view salmon jumping the falls.

Day 7

Optional saltwater fishing charter for one group while the other group fishes for Steelhead or Trout.

Day 8 – Departure

Drive back to Anchorage, return Turo rentals in daily parking, and depart Alaska.

Trip Cost

$700 Deposit per person (Non Refundable)

$1,400 per person (Total) — Includes:

  • Rental vehicles
  • Drift boat rentals and shuttles
  • U-Haul rental for towing one drift boat
  • Lodging
  • Fishing beads

Does Not Include:

  • Airfare
  • Fishing licenses
  • Rods and fishing equipment
  • Food

Estimated Additional Costs

  • Round-trip airfare (Alaska Airlines): approximately $612
  • Alaska fishing license: approximately $45
  • Estimated food and dining: approximately $300
  • Estimated total trip cost: approximately $2,500
    (Not including optional saltwater charter)

Meals

The group will dine out in town for three dinners. The remaining four dinners will be prepared at the cabin, with two anglers paired each night to cook. Breakfast and lunch planning will be finalized once all anglers are confirmed.

Cancellation Policy

If an angler decides not to attend, they are responsible for selling their spot to another angler or forfeiting their portion of the rental costs (deposits & payments are non refundable).

Host Contact Information

Jesse Collins
C: 831-227-9987 <jesse@jcollinsproperties.com>

Rick Chace
C: 831-234-9200 <rchace@got.net>

Jesse & Rick will be hosting a table at the January SCFF meeting. At that time will take $700.00 deposits on the trip.

 

 

 



Sep 19 : Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 19-Oct. 3rd 2026


Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 19-Oct. 3rd 2026
Mammoth Lakes (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: John Cook fishmaster-- (831)688-1561 or (831)234-6515

General: We will be staying in condominiums in the town of Mammoth Lakes (Max limit 8 per week). The condo complex has a lovely hot tub, so bring your suit. Two people per bedroom. Most people bring a sleeping bag to share queen size bed or a pad and sleeping bag to sleep on floor. A private room option is possible at an increased fee.

Cost:  Shared single:  $500/wk, $1000/2 wks.

Sign Ups: We will begin taking Mammoth reservations and money starting at 6:30 pm on Wednesday, March 4th (at the March Meeting).   Please note that you are NOT on the list until I have your check, YOUR CHECK SAVES YOUR SPOT!

Check Payable to: Scott Kitayama.   Mail:  36 Pima St, Watsonville, CA  95076

Group is limited to 8 in the condo per week. COST: $500/person . Please note that you are NOT on the list until I have your check, YOUR CHECK SAVES YOUR SPOT!

Payment of $500 is required to secure your spot.   we need people to sign up as soon as possible. Should you need to cancel, you can find someone to take your place and get your money back.

Fishmasters:Scott Kitayama:  scottkitayama@gmail.com , mobile:  650 279 5871   and  Randy Saar:  randy_saar@yahoo.com,  mobile:  650 269 6138

Dates:  This Fishout will take place over two consecutive one-week periods. You may sign up for one or both weeks. Week 1: Sept  19- Sept 26.       Week 2: Sept 26 – Oct 3.

Location: The town of Mammoth Lakes is located on the eastern side of the Sierra, 6 or 7 hours drive from Santa Cruz. There are many lakes and streams in the area to fish.

 

Food Preparation: Breakfast and lunch items will be purchased by the Fishmaster ahead of time. Each person will be assigned a Kitchen Day. On that day, tasks will include setting out breakfast and lunch items, store unused food, and preparing the evening meal and clean up afterwards.   Each person will be responsible for a dinner that you will need to purchase and prepare.   You will then be reimbursed for the cost for the dinner.



Oct 10 : Lower Sacramento River Group Float – Hosted by the Delta Fly Fishers


Lower Sacramento River Group Float - Hosted by the Delta Fly Fishers
(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

Greetings,

The Delta Fly Fishers have offered the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club the opportunity to join them on their annual guided float trip on the Lower Sacramento River.

See the information below from the Fishmaster Robert Fujimura.

Lower Sacramento River Group Float Outing with Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club– Saturday October 10, 2026

Delta Fly Fishers are happy again to invite your club to join this annual Delta Fly Fishers outing with host Scott Sugimoto of On the Riffle Guide Service and his guides and support staff for another awesome day on this famous tailwater fishery for resident rainbow trout.  Scott and his team have successfully hosted our club annually for several years during the prime fly fishing season.  The Lower Sacramento River fishing has been a reliable and renowned trophy trout fishery of the West.  Suitable for novice fly fishers but still fun and challenging for the more experienced ones.

Participants will have a full day of guided indicator nymph fishing from a drift boat with an experienced guide per two anglers.  Fishing gear, flies, shuttle service, and all you can eat group BBQ lunch are provided.  The guide fee of $300 per person (double occupancy per boat) does not include tip.

Please contact Bob Fujimura to register and pay your guide fee before August 30 or earlier (email [deltaflyfishers@gmail.com] .  Early registration will help ensure that we reserve our guides in advance – so don’t delay in registering if you are interested in this annual crowd pleaser.  Registration requires prepayment of guide fees and submission of a DFF liability waiver form.  All guide fees are non-refundable in the case of you cancel your trip – however, you can sell your spot to another club member.

Our annual outing is a fun event for our club members with a long history of repeated participation by its attendees.  Registered participants will be provided with additional detailed information (via email) on pre-event fishing conditions, recommended fishing equipment or gear for optional use during or outside of the guided day, local group dining or lodging options, and other trip activities.  On request, non-DFF club registrants can be provided with a Zoom orientation session prior to the event.  Scott also welcomes inquiries about the guided itinerary and technical questions about this event (email: scott@ontheriffle.com or phone: (530) 276-1612).

 



Oct 15 : O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout October 15-18th


O'Neill Forebay 'Stosh' Memorial Fishout October 15-18th
Medeiros Primitive Campground - Oneill Forebay (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

Event: O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout

Date: October 15th – 18th

Target Gamefish: Striped Bass

Location: Medeiros Campground located on the Southern Shoreline of the O’Neill Forebay, access off of Santa Nella Blvd. (Highway 33)

Hosts: Kevin Murdock   troutdock89@gmail.com

These are primitive campsites so bring your own water. There are tables, sun pavilions, and chemical toilets, or outhouses and fire rings. No open fires are allowed outside of the rings.

Typically we will be camping as close to site 29 as we can get. This is a first come, first serve campground, so no reservations are accepted. Float tubes can be launched near the campsites, but boats must be first inspected, then launched from the San Luis Creek Boat launch. Boats may not be left on the lake overnight. Boaters would be wise to exit prior to the closing of the entry kiosk. The ranger can place a seal on your trailer, allowing you to bypass the inspection process the next morning.

The rangers at the kiosk by the Medeiros entrance may insist that your float tubes need inspection. make sure they’re clean & dry.

Equipment: 8wt rods with fast sinking lines. Some anglers will occasionally use a floating line with a ‘gurgler’ type fly

Flies: Lee Haskins San Luis smelt, ‘Deceiver’ type patterns in red, white, chartreuse, the aforementioned gurglers and poppers.

Float tubes (may require inspection for quagga and golden mussels)

Fins, sunscreen, polarized glasses, life vest

Links: 

Fly Fishing O’Neill Forebay for Stripers

https://mengsyn.com/ A fly-fishing addict who fishes San Luis Reservoir and the Forebay.

http://www.danblanton.com/ Long time local fishing guide.

Forebay Water level:

https://cdec.water.ca.gov/dynamicapp/QueryDaily?s=Onf

There will be a signup sheet at our September meeting. We’ll also create a list for those hoping to participate in a pot luck in honor of Steve ‘Stosh’ Rudzinski.

Weather conditions can vary dramatically, so it would behoove members to check prior to departure. You could email me or just get conditions on-line. High winds can cause the lake to be closed to all vessels.

This is one of our nearest Fishouts, with the possible payoff of a double digit fish! Don’t miss out!



Nov 13 : Trinity River Fishout


Trinity River Fishout
(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

NOTE:   Contact Alex Ferber if you are interested in going on the trip.  After knowing how many people are interested, it will be easier to plan logistics (camping? motel?).    You can text Alex at (831) 419-0564  or alex.ferber74@gmail.com.  If you want to go on this trip, it is highly recommended to attend the Spey Classes.

The fishery:
Basically,  this is a Steelhead Trip. There are some resident trout, including some really nice brown trout. I  walk wade or float my raft,  depending on the river conditions. I personally use a Spey rod to swing flies.   Many people use indicators.  There are a lot of walk in spots to explore. The river can be floated with rafts or driftboats. There is a shuttle service available.
Tackle:
Single hand rods, 7-8 wt rods, using floating lines with indicator set up. Typical flies used are Egg patterns, Copper John’s, Stonefly imitations like Rubberlegs,  Dark Perdigons. Sizes ranging from Size 8-14.
Spey or Switch rods, usually 5-6 wt in the Fall, I use a 7 wt in the winter. Skagit or Scandi heads, with floating to heavy sink tips, depending on the river conditions and season. Flies that work well include leeches, intruders, HoBo Spey, Traditionals, as well as dry fly patterns ( Skaters) in the early Fall.
The River:
The Trinity River is located aprox 1 hr west of Redding on  Hwy 299. Its a beautiful tailwater fishery, with flows controlled from the Lewiston Dam. This is where the hatchery can be found. It has many different faces, including some big water as it runs west. It meets up with the Klamath River on its journey to the ocean. It has an excellent run of both wild and hatchery fish, ranging from 5-7 #, with some larger fish in the  +10-12 # range. There are fish in the system year round, but typically a push of fish starts in late September and peaks in late November, with a second run usually in late December- March. The fishing remained really good thru the end of March last season. It is very flow dependant and can run quite low in the Fall, with occasional bumps in flows when there is precipitation. It can blow out on occasion, but clears pretty fast.
Amenities:
Weaverville is the closest town, where there are good restaurants, motels and a really nice Holiday Market. It’s kinda the hub. There is an RV park in Weaverville,  but no campsites.
Camping is available in Douglas City  area as well as Junction City and further west on 299. The town of Douglas city doesn’t have much, other than a small mini mart. Indian Creek Lodge is a few miles east of Douglas City. The town of Lewiston is just below the Lewiston dam. It offers some camping and motels. There is a really nice motel west of Junction City (I believe it is called Steelhead Lodge?). It’s an excellent place to stay if one wishes to fish below Junction City.


Posted on June 27th, 2022

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July 2022 Table of Contents

No July Meeting – August BBQ……………………
President’s Line…………………….
Fly Tying……………………
  Pat’s Tungston Bead Head Rubber Legs
  Hantavirus Mouse
Conservation Concerns……………
  Stephen “Stosh” Rudzinski Remembered
Membership Notes…………………
  SCFF Scholarship Program
  New Member Spotlight – Emily Marriott
Gone Fishing…………………
Fishout Schedule…………………
Cartoon…………………………..…

Posted on June 27th, 2022

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Fly tying – July 2022


Jul 13 6:30 PM : Pat’s Tungston Bead Head Rubber Legs – JULY Fly tying
Pat’s Tungston Bead Head Rubber Legs - JULY Fly tying

IMPORTANT:  This class will be taught at the Aptos Grange.  Masks will be OPTIONAL.   NO ZOOM access.

The tungsten bead head Rubber Legs is a heavily weighted nymph pattern that makes a great point fly for a euro nymphing rig, and can also be used to sink an indicator rig deep into the water column.  This fly imitates medium to large species of stoneflies—particularly skwalas, and can be tied in a variety of colors to imitate other species of stoneflies.  Rubber Legs Patterns are generally used to target trout but can also be used to target black bass and other freshwater species.  This is a particularly useful pattern for fishing the Yuba and Truckee rivers. 

Contact Dar to attend the class.  mendsandbends@gmail.com

Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to URL to see the current information.

Date More Info Excerpt
Fluke Fly - Aug Fly tyingAug 10 Fluke Fly - Aug Fly tying

Greg Foy, Instructor – Fluke Fly is a jig to target Black Bass and Sunfish

Foam Run CaddisSep 14 Foam Run Caddis

A simple great drive fly pattern for this month.

CicadaOct 12 Cicada

Fly for bass, trout and carp!

Blow Torch - November Fly Tying ClassNov 09 Blow Torch - November Fly Tying Class

A must have steelhead fly.

Posted on June 27th, 2022

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Hantavirus Mouse

by Elaine Cook — fly tying chairman

This is a large fly that can target large brown trout or large mouth bass. These flies can be fished during the day but will prove most effective at night with both these types of fish. This fly can be tied in either brown or tan. The fly was designed by Brett Smith who you can find on YouTube.
HOOK: Partridge D3ST size 4.
Crimp Barb.
THREAD: Flad wax nylon. Brown or tan
Attach mid shank. Wrap back to above hook point.
TAIL: Black rubber bracelet material that can be found at Walmart or hobby stores.
Using a 3 inch piece of material, tie in tip mid shank, while pulling a little on material,  wrap back to above hook point.
BODY: Brown or tan foam. 5 mm thick. Can be found in fly shops and hobby shops.
Cut a strip one half inch wide and 4-5 inches long. At one end cut a tapered, blunt point.
Apply Zap-A-Gap or similar glue to entire shank. Advance thread to two hook eye lengths behind eye. Position foam on top of shank, pointed end two eye lengths behind hook eye. Attach and spiral wrap, with only moderate tension (don’t compress), using about 6 spirals, back to tail. Hold foam upright to be sure it’s wrapped far enough back. There should be no thread wraps visible on tail. Spiral wrap thread forward in about six wraps up to two eye lengths behind eye.
LARGE KRYSTAL HACKLE – BROWN OR DUN
Return thread back to tail. Tie in hackle.. Advance thread up to two eye lengths behind eye. Wrap hackle forward using touching wraps and stroking fibers to the rear with each wrap. Tie off, cut access. Brush hackle to get out excess fibers. Stroke fibers out to each side so that they are in the same plane.
BODY continued:
Place glue on top rib of body. Pull on foam and bring it forward. Pinch it from side to side were thread hangs hold it for a minute. Make two snug thread wraps, then let glue set a little longer. Make several more thread wraps around neck. Brush hackle out to sides again.

ARTIC FOX: grey or tan.
Turn hook upside down. Cut hide side of arctic fox into peace 3/16 of an inch by 3/4 of an inch. Position hide against under side of body with one end at neck. Attach with several snug thread wraps. Apply glue to underside of body. Press hide down and hold until glue sets.
LEGS: Magnum Predator Legs -Grizzly Barred – Root Beer Colored or Dun.
turn hook right side up. Using two legs on each side, attached centers to neck area. Trim legs so that they extend a little beyond hook bend. Tie off behind Eye. Apply glue.
HEAD: Continuation of foam body.
Cut a blunted pointed head. See picture.
Finish by stroking hackle to rear.

Posted on June 27th, 2022

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Happy Summer – We Want to Hear from YOU!

by Tom Hogye

 

Happy Summer – I hope you are getting out to do some fishing, hiking, exploring, resting, and taking good care of yourself wherever you are these days.

I just returned from a brief respite in the Eastern Sierra and while it was a plan to fish as much as I could, I was just happy to be away from the hustle and bustle of life’s daily activities, in remote wilderness with my best friend, and adventurer wife, Mona.     While Mona is a pretty good fly-angler and loves the water, she’s also really engaged in finding minerals, crystals, and semiprecious stones when we’re out and about.    I’m always just looking for gold.   And no – haven’t found any yet.   But it sure does take us to some of the most beautiful places in California.

I want all of you to know that this Newsletter is for you.  Part of what makes this club so fun and such a terrific resource is all of YOU!

If you look on the website, you’ll see the Newsletter “button” and under that button, you’ll see a place where YOU – yes – YOU – can Submit an article, a photo, a short snippet of something about you, about fly-fishing, maybe even searching for gold!   AND, you can add really cool things like pictures, just like I get to do every month.  You can too!!    It’s easy and we want to hear from you.   Who knows, you might just be the next Norman MaClean, Steinbeck, David James Duncan, …  or you might just be the member another member would love to hear from.

It’s easy.  Go to the Newsletter Button -> Article Submission -> Submit Page.   Don’t be scared – It won’t bite!

There really aren’t that many rules, just your name, email address, month you might want this published.   It’s not necessary to write a note to the Newsletter editor, but if you want to – go ahead!   You cannot make a mistake.

You do have to pick an Article Category.  But don’t worry, if you make a mistake, we’ll fix it – easy.

Article Title – Be Creative!  Or just be simple!

Author Byline – It’s really just your name.  Or if you go by another name as a writer, then feel free to express yourself.    I sometimes go by Brad Pitt!  Or Pauly!

Article Text – Now this is maybe a bit tricky.   I always type my note in a Word Document.  I save it then “Select All” – copy and paste in to the “Article Text” area.   Now you don’t have to do that, but it bears mentioning that if you are writing some really good stuff and think you might win a Pulitzer Prize or think it will then get published in Gray’s Journal or Fly-Fishing Magazine – you should save it as a Word document.   If you don’t and your just typing free text in the Article Text field, and PG&E decides it’s time for a PSBS (Power Safety Bull…) and the power goes out.  Well, there goes yer Pulitzer Prize.  Or it’s like havin a Rogue River Steelhead on your line for about 15 seconds, long enough to get excited thinkin the God’s have just answered yer prayers, only to see the thing jump in the air and send yer Hobo Spey into the Stratosphere.  Trust me.  Save your stuff in Word, copy, and paste into the body of the Article Text.    Oh, and don’t worry about all the Bold, Italics, Font, bullet stuff at the top.  I never use that.   Just copy and paste or if yer gutsy, free text in that space and go for it!

Saving in Word will also help you with your editing especially if you have a newer Word version that alerts you to all the spelling errors yer makin  – like these I leave here intentionamentally.

Article Summary – you don’t really need one of these, but it’s okay to put something there – in the event you’re creating the next best seller and need a “Foreward” maybe stated as said by someone the likes of Brad Pitt.    But not necessary.

Source – It’s pretty self explanatory.  I never use it.   Mostly because I’m not plagiarizing anyone – at least not that I know of!

Featured Photo – Now this is where I get excited!  Every month I get to post another picture of myself, loving where I am, who I am with, and just plain love looking at pictures of me with other people I like in places I like to be.  Okay – you guessed it – I just like lookin at pictures of me!

Okay – seriously.  The photos should be saved somewhere on your computer, and it should be simple.   Click on the “Choose File” button.   Go to the folder where that beautiful photo is and “Select” it.   You can add a simple caption.  Easy – but not necessary.

Additional Photos –   You can also “drag and drop” up to 6 more photos, that our illustrious editor will carefully place within the article.

Then “Submit” – and be patient – wait for your computer to catch up and that’s it!  You are now officially a published author and potentially the next Pulitzer Prize winner!

It is much simpler than I’ve written – a short – hey we went fishing here, I had a great time, love the club and think Tom Hogye is the best …., put a couple photos in there and presto you’re in.

So next month I’m hoping I see a wonderful selection of work from all of you.  Because without YOU, we would not be!

Grateful for all of you.   Hogye

P.S.   You can’t submit a President’s Line – until yer President!! 🙂  But it sure is fun when you can!

 

Posted on June 27th, 2022

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SCFF Scholarship Program

by Scholarship Chairperson David South

Sam Bishop with recipient Matt Levie

Our future fishing depends on conservation of our watersheds and shoreline.  Looking forward, SCFF has provided scholarships to deserving seniors who will be majoring in Environmental Science while attending college. This year SCFF provided $200 scholarships to a deserving student at each of our eight local high schools. The recipients are: San Lorenzo H.S.- William Bowers (Point Loma University) Harbor H.S.- Shea Egan (Western Washington University) Watsonville H.S.- Wendolyn Garcia Flores (Cabrillo College) Aptos H.S.-Marissa Camacho (Cabrillo College) Pajaro Valley H.S.-Melissa Roman Fernandez (UC Berkeley) Santa Cruz H.S.-Rell Haywood (Cal Poly SLO) Soquel H.S.-Matt Levie (Cabrillo College) Scotts Valley H.S.- Jessica Hill Roddick (Cal Poly Humboldt)

Special recognition to : Bob Peterson (logistics), Presenters- Kevin Murdock, Kathy Powers, Sam Bishop and Tom Hogye, and treasurer Jim Tolonen

Posted on June 21st, 2022

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June surf fishing

by Sam Bishop

We had a great turn out of ten fly fishermen on Saturday June 6. Almost everyone caught fish. This was way better than the month before when we were skunked! Here were the attendees, and it is always great to see those who show up so often. We were talking about getting up very early to go fishing and Greg Smith said “Once you get out here it is beautiful!”.

Greg Smith and Lance Boling from the Salinas Club, Mark Coor guest, Scott Kitayama, Jeff Zischke, Dennis Robbins “Newbie” to our club, Robert Eberle (the master catcher), Adam Altoff,  Scott Councilman, Sam Bishop

Posted on June 21st, 2022

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Stephen “Stosh” Rudzinski Remembered

by Conservation Chair Bob Garbarino

This edition of Conservation Concerns is dedicated to Steve “Stosh” Rudzinski. A self-described “tree hugger” who contributed in so may ways to our club. He actively served the club in many roles including President, Conservation Chair, Fly Casting Master, Facilities Coordinator, Fishout Master—just to name a few. I had the pleasure of spending time with him caravanning up to Pyramid Lake at 4 AM, having a brew at Beer 30, shuttling buckets of steelhead fry on Bean Creek, sharing fish stories at over breakfast at the Cookhouse and sitting next to him at his favorite “spot” at Blockhouse.  When you were at Blockhouse it was only right that you yield the “spot” to Stosh. Those of us who had an opportunity to fish with him came to appreciate his angling knowledge and curiosity in all things fishy. The guy could flat-out fish. Those of us who spent time with him got to experience his unique views on a wide range of subjects. But what I remember most about Stosh was his witty sense of humor and big heart. He always had time for people and liked to engage in conversation. And if you didn’t have a nickname,  he would conjure up one!  Thank you Stosh for all the good times. You are missed!

Your pal Bob Grababurrito.

NOTE:

Steve Rudzinski Memorial Celebration – July 6th / 12th Avenue Beach area – Santa Cruz- 5-7 P.M.

There will be a potluck on the beach coordinated by Steve’s daughter, Renee.  If you are going, please let Tom Hogye (thomashogye@yahoo.com) know  so that he can pass the information to Renee.

Posted on June 21st, 2022

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New Member Spotlight – Emily Marriott

Hi all, 

I recently joined the club, and missed the June meeting so I hopped on the Google group to say hello and next thing I knew I was at a board meeting raising my hand to serve as the new Secretary. I’m not sure exactly what happened but I’m definitely pointing fingers at Bob Peterson, Tom Hogye and Kathy Powers. 🙂 How can you say no to such a charming group? Kidding aside, I’m super excited to be a part of the club and looking forward to being involved.

I’m a bike industry nerd with a background in event marketing & project management. I grew up on the lower Westside of Santa Cruz and worked as a local bartender for a decade, so I’m pretty reliable for making a mean Bloody Mary too. I’m a lifelong lover of the outdoors but I’m brand, brand new to fly fishing – as green as you can get. I’m currently nose down in books, practicing casting and learning the basics, and having a great time making a fool of myself off the docks at Loch Lomond. 

One of my long term goals is to learn surf casting as that’s such an accessible option in our area. I haven’t learned the double haul yet so I’ve got a long way to go. 

Sadly I’ll be on a work trip during the August BBQ, but hope to meet many of you at the casting meet-ups and fly tying classes. I’ll be the overly enthusiastic one with the clear need for help. 

All the best,

Emily Marriott

Editor’s Note:   Don’t be shy, we would love to highlight you as a featured club member.   If you are interested, take a look at Tom’s President’s note and send in a spotlight!

Posted on June 21st, 2022

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June Raffle

by JEFF GOYERT

As they say “June is busting out all over” and we say it’s time to get serious about fly fishing!  To that end we have some great raffle prizes up for grabs.

How about a little change up in your game with your choice between two speciality rods.
     How about a Spey rod to spice things up a bit? Think swinging flies on big Steelhead waters! This SalmonFly rod is 13ft 7in and rated as a 9/10 weight.
                             Or
     Plan B,  an Intouch competition 10ft 6in euro-nymph rod in 3 weight. Perfect for our Sierra trout streams
The winning ticket holder gets their pick.
Everybody needs an extra reel loaded with maybe an intermediate line or maybe a full sink line or some other specialty line that is needed to save the day. This Sougayilang machined aluminium reel in 5/6 weight will fill the bill. It is light weight with a large arbor and can be set up with either right or left hand retrieve.
Like the old TV commercial used to say”don’t go out without it”, don’t go wading on any of our trout streams without a sturdy wading staff. This ‘third leg’ not only helps keep you upright in the slippery rock streams, it also makes it easier to scramble down the bank to get to the stream. This collapsible staff comes with both a quiet rubber tip as well as a soft bottom basket tip along with a carabiner clip and neoprene belt sheath.
The fine print:
Raffle tickets are available for sale online up until noon on the day of the meeting June 1st.  Click on this link to purchase tickets:
Tickets cost one dollar each, 20 bucks get you 25 tickets. The raffle will be held at the June 1st meeting at the Grange Hall in Aptos.  Club membership not required, need not be present to win.

Posted on May 26th, 2022

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June 2022 Table of Contents

General Meeting……………………
  Striper Fishing on the Lower Sac with Hogan Brown
  June Raffle Prizes
President’s Line…………………….
Fly Tying……………………
  Dali Lama
  CDC One Feather Fly Cripple
Conservation Concerns……………
  Endangered California Salmon Returned To Safer Waters After More Than A Century 
Membership Notes…………………
  UFO Meetup – Jade Park
Fishout Schedule…………………
Cartoon…………………………..…

Posted on May 24th, 2022

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Vapor Trails, UFOs and the Love of Fly Fishing

The absolute most difficult part of being President of this Club, especially after so many years getting to know so many of you, calling you family, friends, is when we lose someone to an untimely passing.    This isn’t supposed to happen in a fly-fishing club – is it?

As many of you know already and by the extraordinary outpouring of your hearts on the club mail account is the untimely passing of our beloved Steve Rudzinski.    So many of you described Steve and his character in the most beautiful of ways.  A staple at the Pyramid Lake fish-out always rallying everyone together.  A consistent O’Neil Forebay Fish-out master who would do everything to set up a successful adventure for everyone and especially newcomers, before he began catching is first fish – which he did very well.    And the Casting classes he came up with on his own, that turned into one of the most successful monthly events and fun gatherings on the lawns at Jade Street Park.   If there was an activity, an event, a gathering, at SCFF, or MBSTP, Steve was one of the first to volunteer.  As many of you heard me say – we will never see a vapor trail ever the same way again, and I guess in a cool way, they will always remind me of Steve.   And the UFO’s.    How wonderful to be so transparent and so genuine.     I really wanted to go bowling with him.

The ole saying is better to have loved and lost than never loved at all.

And so it goes.    Until we meet again Steve, thank you for your heart and soul my friend.

June is upon us.

The fishing will be good, the summer hot, and plenty of comradery to be had with all at SCFF.   I hope you have all you need to be fishing from the surf to the Sierra and beyond.     Mona and I will be heading east to dabble in the Sierra rivers this weekend and I’m looking forward to that solace one finds out on the water, in the environ as natural, untouched, and far away as possible.   If that’s possible.

These next couple of weeks, we’re handing out scholarships to the high-school students as part of our commitment to the future of the environment, fly-fishing and the club.   Hopefully, these long-term investments will pay dividends for the benefit of our environment, even if it’s long after we’re gone, but hopefully sooner.

I saw a sign the other day that stated, “The planet was far better without us”.    True.    I hope as the future becomes more diverse, more aware of what we’ve done in the name of progress, those youth of today will shape tomorrow a bit better for the fish.    If the fish can thrive, anything can.    I’ve often said the fish are today’s canary in the coal mine.     Sure, they aren’t all warm and cuddly like a puppy, cat or stuffed bear, but not much on the planet can survive if the fish aren’t here.    Steve had his vapor trails and UFO’s; I have my beef with development and water.   Oh well – Lani Waller once told me, we each have our fights and to keep fighting the good ones.

Our June meeting will be at the Grange and on Zoom.  Yay!    So much fun being back together and at the same time giving those who can’t make it to the grange, an opportunity to hang out with us, even if we’re still ironing out the bumps of making it all happen together.    Come to the June meeting with a chance to see each other.    As many of you know, we don’t have a July meeting because of the 4th of July week, and August will be our annual club BBQ, Swap Meet and Raffle again at the Sherriff’s Posse Hall.

Elaine is having fly-tying classes in person at the Grange, which is great, so check in and learn all you need to know about the foundation for tying flies at the vice, or vices for fly tiers!     Materials are provided, check in with Elaine for any other particulars by class.

If you would like to be more involved with the club, come to a Board meeting.   We have fun, don’t bite, and could use your help.  Plenty of good opportunities to make a difference in the world, lead, be part of change, fun activities, and the opportunity to Promote, Educate and Enjoy the sport of fly fishing.   If you’re interested, reach out to me, or any of our esteemed board members, we’d love to have you.

Lots of fishing opportunities in the Fish-Out schedule, but if you still don’t see what you’re looking for, be sure to use the Club Google group email and put out a few feelers where you might want to fish, what you want to fish for.  You will get a wealth of information from your fellow members.  Where to fish, what to fish with, when, …    You might even find yourself with a few companions go to with you.

Get out there -have Fun.   Make a new friend.   Life is too short.

Peace out.   Tom

Posted on May 23rd, 2022

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Endangered California Salmon Returned To Safer Waters After More Than A Century

by Conservation Chair Bob

Teams from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) have begun relocating endangered winter-run Chinook salmon to upper Battle Creek and threatened spring-run Chinook salmon to Clear Creek. The last time this relocation took place was 110 years ago. The fish are being moved from the Sacramento River below Shasta and Keswick Dams. The hope is that the colder water in the new environment will support spawning conditions and increased egg survival. The lasting drought, higher water temperatures, thiamine deficiency, predators and other stressors have devastated the Chinook over the last two years in this region. For additional details, go to the website below.

Posted on May 19th, 2022

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Carey Special

by Elaine Cook — fly tying instructor

The Carrie is a searching wet fly. Extremely successful in lakes. Use on a sinking line and twitch or strip to entice the mighty fish. It’s a good fly to use with a trailer. There are various options in tying this fly. I personally prefer sizes 10 or 12 on 3X long hooks, with back feathers of the Ring neck Pheasant for tail and hackle.
HOOK: Many hooks will work. TMC 5262, 5263, 300.  Mustad 9672.
Crimp barb.
THREAD: Black 6/0
Attach to mid hook and wrap to rear of shank.
TAIL: Ring neck pheasant. Rear feathers for a brown fly, back feathers for an olive blue fly.  NOTE: Rear feathers are longer than back feathers.
Remove fuzz from stem of one feather. Stroke all barbs toward tip and feather. Measure from tips to 1/2 hook length. Attach that spot to rear of shank. Tips will extend beyond hook bend. Attach feather to hook shank up to two eyed lengths behind eye. Cut  access in front of thread wraps.
RIB: Medium sized copper wire which is optional.
Attached to top of mid shank, allowing a short tip to be bent backward. Snuggly attach back to rear of shank.
BODY: Dark olive chenille
Strip 1/4 inch of chenille off inner threads.  Attach threads to rear of shank. Wrap thread forward to 2 eye lengths behind eye. Wrap chenille forward using  touching wraps. Tie off, cut excess. Wrap wire forward, in opposite direction as chenille, in about six wraps. Then 2 final wraps of wire on shank, 1 on top of the other.  Twist to break.
HACKLE: Ringneck Pheasant — Rear feather for brown Carrie. Back feather for olive/blue Carey. NOTE:Rear  feathers are longer than back feathers.
Select feather with barbs at least a little longer than hook shank but up to 1 1/2 times hook length. Remove fuzz from stem. Cut stem short to one 8th inch from barbs. Attached stem behind eye with shinny side towards you. Positions thread behind eye. Tie one or two have hitches, let’s thread hang. Attach heckle pliers to several barbs at tip. Wrap hackle around shank 2-3 times, stroking barbs to rear with each  wrap. Tie off, DON’T cut excess. Stroke all barbs to rear then wrap in place by forming a thread head. With finish, cut thread.

Posted on May 15th, 2022

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Wabbit Season! Duck Season! No – it’s Trout Season!

The days are getting lighter longer – my favorite time of the year, when you think you overslept because it’s light out, but realize its only 6:30.    At least on the weekends.

Last month I mentioned pilgrimages. That trip to the Rogue with Mike Diciano (Rich had to cancel last minute unfortunately) and with Humble Heron Fly Fishing – James and Kait Sampsel, was as it should have been, with the only exception being a selfish desire to get a trophy shot with a big steelhead.   While we had several hookups over the 3 days, and Mike did land a nice size fish, you saw on the club page, the trip was epic.  I’d say one of the nicest parts was being completely disconnected from all news, cell, internet, even newspaper – for almost 4 full days.

Boy if you didn’t have a chance to hear Gordon Tharrett’s presentation on the Green River, you’ve got to explore that.    No wonder we’ve had a fish-out there for the last 30+ years.   And the fishing (catching) is still as good as it ever has been.   Thank God for some watershed stewardship especially around healthy fish population and fly-fishing.   Stay tuned for some follow up information on fly-fishing the Green River – where to stay, costs, …

At this writing I come off of celebrating 60 years on this planet.   When I first joined the club in the fall of ’91, most of the Board called me “kid”.   I’m glad some still do.   30 years goes by fast doesn’t it!   And to make things interesting, it was 40 years ago I moved myself from my home in East Cleveland (Wickliffe) to the Santa Cruz area, all in the pursuit of a crazy horse sport called Vaulting.   We just had a bunch of those friends at the house and I’m glad so many of us are still close after 40 years.

I suppose if I never kept track of years in numbers, I’m grateful there are times I still feel like I’m 12, 25, 35, or 42.  Particularly physically and mentally.  It’s really just a number, isn’t it?    While I’ve had a couple of ball joints that need replacement, the regular maintenance, fuel in the tank, and keeping things in order – for the most part, has provided that sort of outlook on life.    My most favorite way to wade is just as I did when I was a kid – shorts and sandals – in the summer of course.    And I don’t mind the cold, the rain, or slogging for more than a couple miles to cover some good water and the environment that water flows through.   I can still cast like I did when I was 30, maybe even a little better, and I’ve learned spey casting techniques, which while super fun with a big two-handed rod, are also very good to use at times when fishing with a single-hand rod.    You might wonder why “42”, well, that’s when I think I was mentally and physically at my highest fitness.    I could still run like a gazelle, and I was riding my bike like a crazy person, racing and just getting out for long fast rides with a bunch of people.    12?  Its how I feel most when I retire at night, reading before I go to sleep, remembering when I was just that age, thanking God for my family, my friends, what I had and what I wanted to have in the future.   Not so much, material things, but health, safety, and well being for me, my friends and family.   So I still feel that same way.    25 and 35 were just good years.   I was still made of rubber at 25, and 35 was just sort of normal – I could build stuff all day long – which I did, when Mona and I bought our place in Ben Lomond, and were in the midst of figuring out how to be parents.   Yes, there were times later when fly fishing took a back seat to all those responsibilities raising a family, building a home, making the most of my work, but it was always still there.    It still is and likely will always be.  There will always be that calling for the great outdoors, the solace fly-fishing, those beautiful trips we take with those we love and friends we’ve met along the way.    Those trips where we explore new places on this planet we’ve never been to before, and the people we meet along the way.   The gear and the flies we get to use, get to save up for, and which become a part of the memories in our lives.

And so it goes.   It’s not about the numbers that add up, but the experiences, memories, family, friends we keep adding to this thing called life.   I’m grateful to be where I am now, with all of you, my fam, friends and what is yet to come.

These next few months are going to be fun.   I hope you will join us, both at the Aptos Grange, and on Zoom.  Yep, we’re still going to have our speakers on Zoom, for those of you who just can’t make it to the Grange – AND, we’re still holding the raffle on-line, so you don’t have to be present to win something awesome for your fly-fishing needs.

May is going to be the legendary Al Quatrocchi.   He is going to be showing us what you can do for salt water fly fishing for Corbino, and other species.    We’ll be meeting at the Grange, but Al is going to present so everyone even on Zoom will be able to attend.

We have Casting classes at Jade Street park the last Saturday of every month – 1:30 p.m. now. With an opportunity to grab a beverage and something to eat after over at Carpo’s and Beer Thirty.   Come join us. Stosh and company do a great job of providing you with everything you need to hone your casting.

July we don’t typically have a club meeting because it’s around the 4th of July – and that will be the same this year.

August – mark your calendars – we’ll be having a fun outdoor club barbeque, raffle and swap meet at the Sherriff’s Posse Hall again, which should be an awesome time to be together.

Thanks for all you do for the club, and if you’re inclined, the Board could use your help.   We currently have openings for Secretary, Web Master, Facilities and more.   Don’t be shy – we’d love to have your help.

See you in a couple weeks.

 

Posted on April 26th, 2022

Date:  June 25, 2022

Time:  1:30 PM

Place:  Jade Park, Capitola

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United Fly-Casting Outdoors (UFO) Meetup – Jade Park

by Tom Hogye -

Where: Jade Park, Capitola

When: June 25th,  1:30 – 3:00 pm  (beer thirty afterward?)

Bring your lawn chair, and fly rod to practice casting with other SCFF club members.  Casual atmosphere with plenty of room for social distancing!

If you have any questions, please contact Tom Hogye.  thomashogye@yahoo.com

Posted on April 22nd, 2022

Date:  May 28, 2022

Time:  1:30 PM

Place:  Jade Park, Capitola

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United Fly-Casting Outdoors (UFO) Meetup – Jade Park (new time date)

by Steve Rudzinski - Casting Chairman

Where: Jade Park, Capitola

When: May 29th by,  2:00 – 3:30 pm  (beer thirty afterward?)

Bring your lawn chair, and fly rod to practice casting with other SCFF club members.  Casual atmosphere with plenty of room for social distancing!

Posted on April 22nd, 2022

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May 2022 NCCFFI Report to Clubs

by Mark Rockwell - NCFFI President

We have been working to bring added value to all of our clubs and members with a focus on fly fishing education, events in the months ahead, as well as continuing to support all of you in 2022. We are developing an easy to use and conduct Fly Fishing 101 program, developed by Clay Hash of Fly Fishing Traditions. Clay is on our Board and a dedicated fly fisher, with a focus on educating people about fly fishing and how it is done. Clay has developed a series of teaching modules that we are preparing to make available to all of our member clubs. We hope to have it completed soon. Watch for it in May or June.

In addition to this program on fly fishing, Clay is also working on another easy to use program for clubs on teaching fly casting. It, too, will be easy to use and present. We hope to have it available in the summer.

The beauty of both the Fly Fishing 101 and Fly Casting programs is that they don’t take an expert to present. They will provide a complete process clubs can use to educate members & take to your community. We realize that most clubs offer similar programs, but the beauty of this program is it is complete and easy to deliver. It’s not necessary for a club teacher to be an expert. They will come in a format that can be carried forward year after year, can be tweaked and adjusted to meet club needs, and organized in an easy-to-understand sequence.
Lastly, we’re in the development process of re-starting our YubaFest event held for the first time 3 years ago. COVID interrupted the last 2 years. It is designed to be a celebration of the western Sierra watershed rivers, and the Yuba is the Queen of these rivers due to its continuous and controllable cool and consistent flows. Additionally, it is a river many of our members fish nearly year round.

We see this as a Celebration and a party, with learning and education included. It will be a family event with food, music, casting games & instruction, river education and some limited fishing opportunities. We will partner with the South Yuba River Citizens League (SYRCL), a longtime river partner and advocate for the Yuba. We hope to provide those who attend the opportunity to join the SYRCL salmon river tours to lean about the river and where and how salmon spawn. This will be a full day of fun events and activities, so look forward to hearing more from us as this comes together. It will be a Fall event, likely in October.

Posted on April 22nd, 2022

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Fishout Schedule – May 2022

mobile scrollable table 

EVENT NAME EVENT DATE SPECIES FISH MASTER
Yuba River – 21 Aug 26Aug 21 - Aug 23
Alaska Kenai Peninsula Fly FishingSep 08 - Sep 15
Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 19-Oct. 3rd 2026Sep 19 - Oct 03Trout John Cook fishmaster-- (831)688-1561 or (831)234-6515
Lower Sacramento River Group Float – Hosted by the Delta Fly FishersOct 10
O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout October 15-18thOct 15 - Oct 18
Trinity River FishoutNov 13 - Nov 15

Aug 21 : Yuba River – 21 Aug 26


Yuba River - 21 Aug 26
University of California Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club (SCFFC)Lower Yuba Private Water Camp & Fishout
August 21st – 23rd 2026
(Date subject to change due to weather and flows)

The information provided below has been  modified from the Grizzly Peak Fly Fishing Club and Tri-Valley Fly Fishing Club (2022-23)

Special Notes
The outing is limited to 20 people. With a $50.00 buy in payable to the club. Jump to reservation form

Due to the limited capacity, reserving your spot is  first come first serve starting July 1st  at 9am thru the club website. Payment due at time of reservation. No refunds.

Camping will be available on the property beginning at 4 PM Friday and extending to Sunday evening. Fishing hours are dawn to dusk. Gate code will be sent out as we get closer to the Fishout date. Each angler will be responsible to close the gate behind them. The gate code will be emailed to us the week before the trip. Additional details to follow as we get closer to the date
The Lower Yuba is accessible from the sea – you must have a 2026 California Steelhead Reporting Card in addition to your fishing license. Unlike the license, the report card must be delivered in hard copy, either by snail mail or by hand from a fishing store. Plan ahead!

Location
University of California Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center, 8279 Scott Forbes Road, Browns Valley, CA 95918. Meet at the gate to the river road (N39.24672°, W121.32222°), which is on your right about 1/3 mile before you reach the research center. Note that, misleadingly, there is a sign at the gate that says “No Fishing Access”. The gate will be opened and then locked behind us. 2.5 hrs from Berkeley. Take I-80 east to Sacramento, turn onto I-5 north, then onto Hwy 70 to Marysville. Pass through downtown Marysville on 70, and as you round the lake, turn right onto Hwy 20 east. Continue 15 miles, pass the Sycamore Ranch Campground. At the sign to the UC Station, turn left onto Peoria Rd, and then at another sign, bear right onto Scott Forbes Rd (also called Long Bar Rd). The gate is just past Sicard Flat Ditch. SCFFC strongly encourages carpooling.

General Notes
Our Club event on the Yuba will be on the private property owned by the University of California and is one of their Sierra Research facilities. We have contracted for TVFF’s exclusive use of the facility for the two days over the weekend. The river is about 1.5 miles above the highway 20 bridge over the Yuba and accessible only through a locked gate for a maximum of twenty (20) anglers per day. There is approximately 2.5 miles of available river that is the tailwater section a mile or so below Englebright Dam. The river has easy and level access, so it’s ideal for those less comfortable in heavy current wading situations, although that is also available for those Euro Nymphing.

The UC facility is on many acres in a pastoral valley leading down to the river. Most of the research here is for cattle, grazing land management, and erosion control so it is very quiet with no nearby roads, ranches, or houses. There is a covered picnic area that sits above the river with 8-10 picnic tables and a porta potty restroom with hand wash station that is also available on site. No water on site, limited cell phone reception, no fires. All in all, it’s a very scenic and serene site.

Gear and Tackle Recommendations:
Yuba River fish are notoriously “hot” and frisky. They workout full time in the strong current and just love to play in it when disturbed by a sharp hook. Anticipate that you will see strong runs on hook ups and that the fish will feel like they are 4-6″ larger than you see in the net. So…
Rod & line weights/types: 5 or 6 weight rods, reels and floating lines are the norm to help control their runs. A 4 weight for Euro Nymphing should work well as long as it has a good stiff butt section to manage any runs.
Leaders and tippet: Fishing style dependent but normally I fish a 9’ 4X leader and adjust with added tippet of up to 4-6’ of 5 for the dry flies, and stick with 4X fluoro for the nymphs.
Other gear:
Note that we will not be using any watercraft as this is a walk and wade event with float takeouts way too far downstream to be of use for us.
Flies: Flies to match and we will send out a more current list as we get closer to the dates and better understand how the weather and water are impacting the hatches. Typically, you will need Skwala dries and nymphs, Pale Morning Duns, Baetis/Blue Wing Olives, Pink Alberts, Little Yellow Sallies, Pale Evening Duns, Golden Stones, and four varieties of Caddis.

Location / Date
University of California Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center, 8279 Scott Forbes Road, Browns Valley, CA 95918.
August 21st – 23rd 2026

Fishmaster
TBD – Please contact Justin Ice if interested in hosting this event justin@schwagerdavis.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Sep 08 : Alaska Kenai Peninsula Fly Fishing


Alaska Kenai Peninsula Fly Fishing
(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

Alaska Kenai Peninsula Fly Fishing Trip

September 8–15, 2026
(Additional week: September 1–8, 2026, if enough anglers)

Each week will be made up of 8 anglers, with Rick and Jesse serving as hosts. This document provides an outline of the fall Alaska fly fishing trip. All projected dates and plans are subject to change based on weather conditions.

Trip Structure & Expectations

  • For the first three days, anglers will be split into three groups:
    • Three anglers fishing with Jesse from a drift boat
    • Two anglers fishing with Rick from a drift boat
    • One group driving to a wade-fishing location
  • On the fourth day, the three groups will consolidate into two groups.
  • Groups will rotate daily to ensure all anglers have time fishing from the boats.
  • Wade fishing will take place every day, and anglers must be comfortable with wading and light hiking.

Recommended Equipment

  • 4-5 wt. Rods (Switch / Spey / Single Hand)
    • Full Sink
    • Floating
    • Sink Tips

Wade Fishing Locations

  • Russian River – Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden
  • Anchor River – Steelhead
  • Deep Creek – Steelhead

Daily Itinerary

Day 1 – Travel Day

Arrive in Anchorage. Groups will pick up Turo rental vehicles and drive to a rental cabin near Sterling (between Soldotna and Cooper Landing). Groceries and supplies will be purchased in town.

Day 2

Drift boat fishing on the Upper Kenai River with Rick and Jesse (weather permitting, possibly through the canyon). The third group will wade fish the Russian River.

Day 3

Drift boat float from Skilak Lake outlet to Bing’s Landing on the Middle Kenai for Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden, with potential Coho opportunities. The wade-fishing group will travel south to the Anchor River for Steelhead.

Day 4

Rick and Jesse’s groups will either fish the Upper Kenai again for Rainbow Trout or float the Kasilof River from Tustumena Lake to the bridge for Steelhead and Silver Salmon.

Day 5

Groups consolidate into two groups of five anglers. Fishing will take place on the Anchor River and Deep Creek for Steelhead. If weather conditions prevent fishing, the group will fish the Russian River.

Day 6

Both groups fish the Upper Kenai and Russian River together. Optional hike to the Upper Russian River to view salmon jumping the falls.

Day 7

Optional saltwater fishing charter for one group while the other group fishes for Steelhead or Trout.

Day 8 – Departure

Drive back to Anchorage, return Turo rentals in daily parking, and depart Alaska.

Trip Cost

$700 Deposit per person (Non Refundable)

$1,400 per person (Total) — Includes:

  • Rental vehicles
  • Drift boat rentals and shuttles
  • U-Haul rental for towing one drift boat
  • Lodging
  • Fishing beads

Does Not Include:

  • Airfare
  • Fishing licenses
  • Rods and fishing equipment
  • Food

Estimated Additional Costs

  • Round-trip airfare (Alaska Airlines): approximately $612
  • Alaska fishing license: approximately $45
  • Estimated food and dining: approximately $300
  • Estimated total trip cost: approximately $2,500
    (Not including optional saltwater charter)

Meals

The group will dine out in town for three dinners. The remaining four dinners will be prepared at the cabin, with two anglers paired each night to cook. Breakfast and lunch planning will be finalized once all anglers are confirmed.

Cancellation Policy

If an angler decides not to attend, they are responsible for selling their spot to another angler or forfeiting their portion of the rental costs (deposits & payments are non refundable).

Host Contact Information

Jesse Collins
C: 831-227-9987 <jesse@jcollinsproperties.com>

Rick Chace
C: 831-234-9200 <rchace@got.net>

Jesse & Rick will be hosting a table at the January SCFF meeting. At that time will take $700.00 deposits on the trip.

 

 

 



Sep 19 : Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 19-Oct. 3rd 2026


Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 19-Oct. 3rd 2026
Mammoth Lakes (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: John Cook fishmaster-- (831)688-1561 or (831)234-6515

General: We will be staying in condominiums in the town of Mammoth Lakes (Max limit 8 per week). The condo complex has a lovely hot tub, so bring your suit. Two people per bedroom. Most people bring a sleeping bag to share queen size bed or a pad and sleeping bag to sleep on floor. A private room option is possible at an increased fee.

Cost:  Shared single:  $500/wk, $1000/2 wks.

Sign Ups: We will begin taking Mammoth reservations and money starting at 6:30 pm on Wednesday, March 4th (at the March Meeting).   Please note that you are NOT on the list until I have your check, YOUR CHECK SAVES YOUR SPOT!

Check Payable to: Scott Kitayama.   Mail:  36 Pima St, Watsonville, CA  95076

Group is limited to 8 in the condo per week. COST: $500/person . Please note that you are NOT on the list until I have your check, YOUR CHECK SAVES YOUR SPOT!

Payment of $500 is required to secure your spot.   we need people to sign up as soon as possible. Should you need to cancel, you can find someone to take your place and get your money back.

Fishmasters:Scott Kitayama:  scottkitayama@gmail.com , mobile:  650 279 5871   and  Randy Saar:  randy_saar@yahoo.com,  mobile:  650 269 6138

Dates:  This Fishout will take place over two consecutive one-week periods. You may sign up for one or both weeks. Week 1: Sept  19- Sept 26.       Week 2: Sept 26 – Oct 3.

Location: The town of Mammoth Lakes is located on the eastern side of the Sierra, 6 or 7 hours drive from Santa Cruz. There are many lakes and streams in the area to fish.

 

Food Preparation: Breakfast and lunch items will be purchased by the Fishmaster ahead of time. Each person will be assigned a Kitchen Day. On that day, tasks will include setting out breakfast and lunch items, store unused food, and preparing the evening meal and clean up afterwards.   Each person will be responsible for a dinner that you will need to purchase and prepare.   You will then be reimbursed for the cost for the dinner.



Oct 10 : Lower Sacramento River Group Float – Hosted by the Delta Fly Fishers


Lower Sacramento River Group Float - Hosted by the Delta Fly Fishers
(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

Greetings,

The Delta Fly Fishers have offered the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club the opportunity to join them on their annual guided float trip on the Lower Sacramento River.

See the information below from the Fishmaster Robert Fujimura.

Lower Sacramento River Group Float Outing with Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club– Saturday October 10, 2026

Delta Fly Fishers are happy again to invite your club to join this annual Delta Fly Fishers outing with host Scott Sugimoto of On the Riffle Guide Service and his guides and support staff for another awesome day on this famous tailwater fishery for resident rainbow trout.  Scott and his team have successfully hosted our club annually for several years during the prime fly fishing season.  The Lower Sacramento River fishing has been a reliable and renowned trophy trout fishery of the West.  Suitable for novice fly fishers but still fun and challenging for the more experienced ones.

Participants will have a full day of guided indicator nymph fishing from a drift boat with an experienced guide per two anglers.  Fishing gear, flies, shuttle service, and all you can eat group BBQ lunch are provided.  The guide fee of $300 per person (double occupancy per boat) does not include tip.

Please contact Bob Fujimura to register and pay your guide fee before August 30 or earlier (email [deltaflyfishers@gmail.com] .  Early registration will help ensure that we reserve our guides in advance – so don’t delay in registering if you are interested in this annual crowd pleaser.  Registration requires prepayment of guide fees and submission of a DFF liability waiver form.  All guide fees are non-refundable in the case of you cancel your trip – however, you can sell your spot to another club member.

Our annual outing is a fun event for our club members with a long history of repeated participation by its attendees.  Registered participants will be provided with additional detailed information (via email) on pre-event fishing conditions, recommended fishing equipment or gear for optional use during or outside of the guided day, local group dining or lodging options, and other trip activities.  On request, non-DFF club registrants can be provided with a Zoom orientation session prior to the event.  Scott also welcomes inquiries about the guided itinerary and technical questions about this event (email: scott@ontheriffle.com or phone: (530) 276-1612).

 



Oct 15 : O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout October 15-18th


O'Neill Forebay 'Stosh' Memorial Fishout October 15-18th
Medeiros Primitive Campground - Oneill Forebay (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

Event: O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout

Date: October 15th – 18th

Target Gamefish: Striped Bass

Location: Medeiros Campground located on the Southern Shoreline of the O’Neill Forebay, access off of Santa Nella Blvd. (Highway 33)

Hosts: Kevin Murdock   troutdock89@gmail.com

These are primitive campsites so bring your own water. There are tables, sun pavilions, and chemical toilets, or outhouses and fire rings. No open fires are allowed outside of the rings.

Typically we will be camping as close to site 29 as we can get. This is a first come, first serve campground, so no reservations are accepted. Float tubes can be launched near the campsites, but boats must be first inspected, then launched from the San Luis Creek Boat launch. Boats may not be left on the lake overnight. Boaters would be wise to exit prior to the closing of the entry kiosk. The ranger can place a seal on your trailer, allowing you to bypass the inspection process the next morning.

The rangers at the kiosk by the Medeiros entrance may insist that your float tubes need inspection. make sure they’re clean & dry.

Equipment: 8wt rods with fast sinking lines. Some anglers will occasionally use a floating line with a ‘gurgler’ type fly

Flies: Lee Haskins San Luis smelt, ‘Deceiver’ type patterns in red, white, chartreuse, the aforementioned gurglers and poppers.

Float tubes (may require inspection for quagga and golden mussels)

Fins, sunscreen, polarized glasses, life vest

Links: 

Fly Fishing O’Neill Forebay for Stripers

https://mengsyn.com/ A fly-fishing addict who fishes San Luis Reservoir and the Forebay.

http://www.danblanton.com/ Long time local fishing guide.

Forebay Water level:

https://cdec.water.ca.gov/dynamicapp/QueryDaily?s=Onf

There will be a signup sheet at our September meeting. We’ll also create a list for those hoping to participate in a pot luck in honor of Steve ‘Stosh’ Rudzinski.

Weather conditions can vary dramatically, so it would behoove members to check prior to departure. You could email me or just get conditions on-line. High winds can cause the lake to be closed to all vessels.

This is one of our nearest Fishouts, with the possible payoff of a double digit fish! Don’t miss out!



Nov 13 : Trinity River Fishout


Trinity River Fishout
(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

NOTE:   Contact Alex Ferber if you are interested in going on the trip.  After knowing how many people are interested, it will be easier to plan logistics (camping? motel?).    You can text Alex at (831) 419-0564  or alex.ferber74@gmail.com.  If you want to go on this trip, it is highly recommended to attend the Spey Classes.

The fishery:
Basically,  this is a Steelhead Trip. There are some resident trout, including some really nice brown trout. I  walk wade or float my raft,  depending on the river conditions. I personally use a Spey rod to swing flies.   Many people use indicators.  There are a lot of walk in spots to explore. The river can be floated with rafts or driftboats. There is a shuttle service available.
Tackle:
Single hand rods, 7-8 wt rods, using floating lines with indicator set up. Typical flies used are Egg patterns, Copper John’s, Stonefly imitations like Rubberlegs,  Dark Perdigons. Sizes ranging from Size 8-14.
Spey or Switch rods, usually 5-6 wt in the Fall, I use a 7 wt in the winter. Skagit or Scandi heads, with floating to heavy sink tips, depending on the river conditions and season. Flies that work well include leeches, intruders, HoBo Spey, Traditionals, as well as dry fly patterns ( Skaters) in the early Fall.
The River:
The Trinity River is located aprox 1 hr west of Redding on  Hwy 299. Its a beautiful tailwater fishery, with flows controlled from the Lewiston Dam. This is where the hatchery can be found. It has many different faces, including some big water as it runs west. It meets up with the Klamath River on its journey to the ocean. It has an excellent run of both wild and hatchery fish, ranging from 5-7 #, with some larger fish in the  +10-12 # range. There are fish in the system year round, but typically a push of fish starts in late September and peaks in late November, with a second run usually in late December- March. The fishing remained really good thru the end of March last season. It is very flow dependant and can run quite low in the Fall, with occasional bumps in flows when there is precipitation. It can blow out on occasion, but clears pretty fast.
Amenities:
Weaverville is the closest town, where there are good restaurants, motels and a really nice Holiday Market. It’s kinda the hub. There is an RV park in Weaverville,  but no campsites.
Camping is available in Douglas City  area as well as Junction City and further west on 299. The town of Douglas city doesn’t have much, other than a small mini mart. Indian Creek Lodge is a few miles east of Douglas City. The town of Lewiston is just below the Lewiston dam. It offers some camping and motels. There is a really nice motel west of Junction City (I believe it is called Steelhead Lodge?). It’s an excellent place to stay if one wishes to fish below Junction City.


Posted on April 22nd, 2022

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Fly fishing for Corbina with Al Quadrattro


May 04 6:30 PM : Virtual Speaker: Fly fishing for Corbina with Al Q

Al Quattrocchi (aka Al Q) has been a saltwater fly angler, fly tier, and fly fishing advocate for over thirty-five years. He has been an advocate for education and the environment by creating fly fishing events along the West Coast of California with the hope of introducing new anglers to this great passion he has for saltwater flyfishing. His personal mentors include Neal Taylor, Lefty Kreh, Nick Curcione, and Bob Popovics.

Al is a two-time, IGFA world record holder. Both of his saltwater records were accomplished in a single day with a 12-pound tippet record for Calico bass and a twenty-pound tippet record for White Seabass. He was recently awarded the Ross Allen Merigold Complete Angler Award by the historic Pasadena Fly Casting Club. His articles, illustrations, photography, and fly patterns have been published in many prominent fly fishing magazines across the country. Al is a licensed and bonded fly fishing guide that prefers teaching casting and fishing techniques to new anglers around the world.

Al founded the popular One Surf Fly in So Cal which lasted nine seasons and raised thousands of dollars for non-profits, supporting local fly shops up and down the west coast.. Al and Conway Bowman teamed up to host the Carp Throw Down at Lake Henshaw in San Diego. This was the first fly-only, catch-and-release carp event in Southern California that supported many non-profit organizations with their annual raffle. Al and master FFF MCI instructor, Jim Solomon, teach fly casting techniques to many anglers around the world through a program entitled The FlyZone. One of Al’s most famous fly fishing students is Jimmy Kimmel.

Al is currently the west coast regional editor of Tail Magazine. Tail is a bi-monthy publication and the premiere saltwater flyfishing magazine in the country. Al just became the west coast ambassador to the American Fly Fishing Museum located in Manchester Vermont. Although Al has fished in many places around the globe, his passion is still sight-fishing his local Southern California beaches in search of the elusive, corbina. He has recently self-published his first fly fishing book entitled, The Corbina Diaries which is published by Love2FlyFish Media.

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

Monthly Speaker Date Excerpt
Jun 01 Striper Fishing on the Lower Sac with Hogan Brown

Posted on April 21st, 2022

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Volunteer needed for Newsletter Editor

by Bob Peterson

Club needs a Monthly Newsletter Editor to replace Scott Kitayama who has volunteered to be Club President.  Member should be interested in Club activities and web based communication.  Scott will assist in training in the transition and it would be a great opportunity for any new member to be involved in all the club activities.  Please contact me , or Scott at scottkitayama@gmail.com…650-279-5871

Membership is up to 180 dues paying members including 20 new members!

Posted on April 21st, 2022

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Fly tying – June 2022


Jun 08 6:30 PM : Dali Lama
Dali Lama

IMPORTANT:  This class will be taught at the Aptos Grange.  Masks will be OPTIONAL for this session.   NO ZOOM access.

The Dali Lama is our go to fly on the Tsiu for silver salmon. It would work for steelhead or large trout.  We will be tying 2 sizes one for salmon and a size 2 fo streamer fishing for trout. The salmon one uses a cut off hook in front with a stinger hook in back.

Contact John Steele to let him know that you will be attending:  owlspad@icloud.com

Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to URL to see the current information.

Monthly Speaker Date Excerpt
Pat’s Tungston Bead Head Rubber Legs - JULY Fly tyingJul 13 Pat’s Tungston Bead Head Rubber Legs - JULY Fly tying

Dar Naghshineh, Instructor – Pat’s Tungston Bead Head Rubber Legs is primarily for trout, but also black bass.

Fluke Fly - Aug Fly tyingAug 10 Fluke Fly - Aug Fly tying

Greg Foy, Instructor – Fluke Fly is a jig to target Black Bass and Sunfish

Foam Run CaddisSep 14 Foam Run Caddis

A simple great drive fly pattern for this month.

CicadaOct 12 Cicada

Fly for bass, trout and carp!

Posted on April 21st, 2022

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Fly tying – May 2022


May 11 6:30 PM : Cricket
Cricket

IMPORTANT:  This class will be taught at the Aptos Grange.  Masks will be REQUIRED for this session.   NO ZOOM access.

Terrestrials become available to trout beginning in the spring and on into the fall. Trout tend to gobbled them up. This is a good pattern to imitate them. We will be using 6/0 black thread. The club has tools, vices and thread to borrow if you need them. There is no charge for the class and materials are all provided.

You must call Elaine Cook at  (831)688-1561 to reserve your spot and ensure that she has the materials for the class.

Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to URL to see the current information.

Monthly Speaker Date Excerpt
Dali LamaJun 08 Dali Lama

John Steele, Instructore – The Dali Lama is our go to fly on the Tsiu for silver salmon.

Pat’s Tungston Bead Head Rubber Legs - JULY Fly tyingJul 13 Pat’s Tungston Bead Head Rubber Legs - JULY Fly tying

Dar Naghshineh, Instructor – Pat’s Tungston Bead Head Rubber Legs is primarily for trout, but also black bass.

Fluke Fly - Aug Fly tyingAug 10 Fluke Fly - Aug Fly tying

Greg Foy, Instructor – Fluke Fly is a jig to target Black Bass and Sunfish

Foam Run CaddisSep 14 Foam Run Caddis

A simple great drive fly pattern for this month.

CicadaOct 12 Cicada

Fly for bass, trout and carp!

Posted on April 21st, 2022

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Notes from Pyramid

Note from Stosh:
The lake was stingy with rewarding us after many hours on a ladder or chair or other this last week. Diligence and more time with the fly in the water always pays off with at least one fish a day instead of ‘skunkdom’. The fish you could see follow the fly and turn away, maybe flipping its tail at it or the fly hooking a side fin happened a lot (and counted as a fish landed) ?

A guide told me that they did not stock the lake the 2 years of C-19 and next year should be a lot better so there is always hope for the future fishing there. I caught all but one fish on a black midge with a white bead which was partially worn away and brassy and still catching fish, they only took the balanced leech on the lower hook one time. (more than fifteen).

Thanks to all who attended and let’s make it happen again next year.   I only landed one fish stripping beetles and leeches. They call it ‘midging’ now.

Note from Scott:
This was my first time on the Pyramid trip and have a few thoughts to share for those who haven’t gone:

  • If you have ever dreamed of big trout in New Zealand or Argentina, stop dreaming and do this trip. The fish are getting bigger each year and there are lots of people who can show you where and how to fish. And the cost? Ha, I was gone for eight days and it cost about $500 for everything.
  • The Pyramid fishout is really “a loose confederation of trailers” all with different personalities banning together under Santa Cruz Fly Fishing.  Mike White and Jim Hall put on a club-wide dinner commemorating long-time club member, Gary Hazelton,  which provides a great way for everyone to bond. Otherwise the members mainly sleep, fish, and eat with others in their trailer.
  • I met a club member, Patrick, who is busy at work, was recently married, and has a new child.  Right now a full week fishing is impossible, but Patrick has figured how to miss a few days of work, appease his family and squeeze it into his life. I think he has made a wise life choice.
  • And the Pyramid trip is not just for guys. Elaine was there from our club, Elizabeth from the Salinas club and this group of women who annoyingly caught all the fish at Windless one day.

My suggestion is to get out of your comfort zone and throw yourself into the experience:  Get up at 4:00 am and fish until 6:30 pm,  Get on that ladder and howl back at the wind,   Have a drink or five with your fellow club members.    I think it is a wise life choice.

Pyramid 2023:  March 26th – April 1st, 2023.

Posted on April 21st, 2022