Caddus are one of the primary food sources for trout. They hatch widely and there is a significant hatch on the Deschutes River in Oregon during the summer which has been described as magical. Learning how to handle deer hair is important for fly tying and is incorporated twice in this fly. For you beginners, call me well ahead of time to work out how we can best assist you with vise, tools and information to get started. Everyone will need to call ahead to allow enough time for materials and directions to be assembled and for you to pick up at my home. ( about 2 days (831)688-1561 ) in addition to your tools, vise, and computer or tablet, you will need tan or brown 6/0 thread.
A truly successful pattern for many years. Ten years age this fly was featured in one of our club classes. Probably not a good pattern for beginners. Hopefully the hand drawn directions are helpful.
April is just around the corner and many of us are counting the days till the annual FishOut at Pyramid Lake NV. Those of us who experienced last years closure of the lake at the time the club was renting the trailers from Pyramid Lodge as Crosby’s Lodge sold to the Paiute tribe last year. My latest adventure (2/28-3/3) was very slow in the north half of the lake while the southern beaches were producing only one or two fish days with the rare individual who found the right spot and used the right color and fished hard all day would nail a half dozen fish with one over ten pounds.
By the time we meet in April the water will warm and more insects hatching, the numbers of fish inside casting range will increase as fish turn to eat more bugs than tui chubs. Joe Contaldi posts client catches daily on Facebook, most fish are in the 5-8 lb. range. Joe sets them up with indicators and flies like the albino wino about 6′-9′ under the surface using 2 fly set ups.
In the news from the Pebble Mine/Save Bristol Bay program, the new head of the EPA is Michael Regan. The promoters are very happy with this appointment and along with Congressmen DeFazio and Huffman (sub committee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife) who sent a letter immediately to him (Regan) to support his ending any possibility for mining in that region using the authority under section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Thank you to all members for allowing us to donate yearly to this great cause in the memory of fellow fisherman and guide who perished on the American Creek in AK only a month before his scheduled speaking engagement at the Aptos Grange in 2018. John Squires was the one who donated his speaking fee to the Alaska Fund for Trout Unlimited. We continue to donate in John’s name.
Locally, the latest report from MBSTP and the hatchery at Kingfisher Flat in Swanton says, A setback due to water problems, a large portion of this years hatch of coho salmon were lost. Still about 35,000 fish will be transferred to our hatchery from the Warm Springs hatchery in the Russian River district. The hatchery is going to com through this all, even though it did not capture any steelhead this season as the rains did not allow any operation to exist. I will let the club members know when there is a call for volunteers to help carry buckets of fish to release in the Scott Creek watershed.
Local supervisors are agreeing on taking action to clean up illegal camps along the San Lorenzo River. Fishermen especially see the problem close up, it’s disgusting and painful to realize there is such disregard for beauty in nature. As a former information/referral operator at SWITCHBOARD 426-LIFE (1970-75) or until Governor Reagan took office, we existed on a bare bone budget from the State of CA. I personally know the homeless problem began as soon as the mental hospitals were closed and inmates put on the streets. Vietnam Vets suffering severe PTSD were 70% we had walk in the office daily, all we could do was show where the bridges were located to sleep. If we can’t offer a real mental health solution, the issue will not change no matter how much money is diverted. We have to get the schools involved. Children are the best to grow a new generation who care about the environment. Fish-On Everyone, Best to all,
As fly fishermen/women and conservationists, what comes to mind when we think of dams? We all, to some degree have learned about the harmful effects they can have on fish. I found this statement on the americanrivers.org website that captures the negative impact of dams on the environment: “Few things have such a fundamental impact on a river as a dam. Dams block the movement of fish and other aquatic species, inundate river habitat, impair water quality, and alter the flow regime necessary to sustain river life. As dams age and decay, they can also become public safety hazards, presenting a failure risk and a dangerous nuisance.”
One important example of dam removal is the long debated plan to remove four dams on the lower Klamath river in California and Oregon. This $450 million project—if it comes to fruition—will be the largest of its kind in US history. Oregon, California and the utility PacifiCorp, which operates the hydroelectric dams and is owned by billionaire Warren Buffett’s company Berkshire Hathaway, will each provide one-third of the additional funds. The current plan calls for the dams to be removed by 2024.
If completed, the decimated Chinook and Coho salmon as well as steelhead populations are expected to increase their numbers significantly.
In Coho program news, there was a major facilities problem at the NOAA FED laboratory last month, where this year’s spawning class is being incubated and ponded. Flow was lost to two of the incubator stacks that contained a large number of eggs and post-hatch fry, leading to the loss of a big portion of this year’s cohort. This was a huge let down, especially after all the hard work we put into spawning our fish at Warm Springs this season. Our production numbers are much lower than we anticipated after completing spawning.
We’ll be returning fish to our own facilities at Kingfisher Flat (the name of our hatchery) soon. These are the fish that survived the CZU fire and were moved out after the fire. it’ll be a huge accomplishment (and relief) to see these fish released to their home waters of Scott Creek. We’ll also be bringing up the ponded fry (young of year) from the NOAA lab later this summer, but sadly reduced in number due to the aforementioned loss incident at the NOAA facility.
Everybody involved with the Coho program wants to see our hatchery again capable of spawning and incubation, hopefully this winter.
Steelhead conservation program still on hold due to threatened species legal issues way beyond our control.
Our Chinook releases from Monterey & Santa Cruz into Monterey Bay should be mid to late May, same as last year.
The more I learn about fly fishing, the more I realize I didn’t know about fly fishing. Aristotle must have been an angler. While I’m not a novice to our sport, I realize daily through my involvement with the club that I have plenty of room to grow. Last weekend I tied my first bass poppers, thanks Elaine! Stosh educated me on how to get your fly to the right depth at Pyramid, Scott took me surf perch fishing, Phil gave me some good intel on a back country trip I’m doing and several of you have shared your fourth and fifth favorite fishing spots…. I know, I know you have to earn spots 1-3.
Fly fishing has become a bigger priority for me. More of my free time is spent focusing on how I can be a better and more well rounded angler. I’m reading a bit more, tying a bit more, watching more videos and connecting with more of you. Although I’m really looking forward to Spring fishing, it’s been an inspirational off-season for me. Thanks for that!
Instagram has been an extension of that angling community for me. It’s been an honor to post your content and rewarding to see the enthusiasm from 160 like minded people come back in the form of “likes” and comments. In addition to SCFF we have a diverse group of talented followers. Whenever someone new follows us I take a peek at their account and sometimes I get lost in their posts. To name a few socalflytying, truckeetroutunlimited, Californiasurfflycasters all have great content. There are also plenty of young followers of our page that make up in enthusiasm what they might lack in experience. The future of our sport is in good hands and some of them are following us! Your content is connecting us to experienced fly fishers and youth alike.
If you’re currently following SantaCruzFlyFishing you probably have noticed that we offer a wide variety of photos as content. Hero shots holding that beautiful striped bass are great but I’d like to expand our content to other categories of fly fishing. Fly tying, rod and reel shots, bugs, boats, nature, etc. Anything that’s part of the fly fishing lifestyle.
If you do not have an Instagram account, you can still see what we are doing by going to https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org website and click on the menu item INSTAGRAM. This will show the latest pictures from our account.
Please forward me some of your favorite pics through email or text. You can find my contact info in the Google Group ss or in the club roster. Let’s keep this thing moving forward. T hanks! Jerry McKeon
Let’s hope the beaches remain open so we can once again enjoy teasing the Surf Perch and Stripers (Strippers?) on Rio Del Mar Beach. We will be fishing mid-flood tide. Sunrise is just after 6 am.
Take Rio Del Mar Blvd all the way until it drops down onto the flats, take a left 180, circling left around the roundabout and drive down Beach Drive about half a mile to the State Park area and park outside. Do NOT stop near the round-a bout! You will see us.
Sign Up Now! Experience a new HIGH! Fish for Dorado, and many other salt-water fish, including Bonito, Roosters, Yellowtail and Sailfish on a fly! Join the group going to Loreto in Baja from Tuesday, July 13th through Saturday, July 17th. This trip includes:
Four nights at the beautiful Hotel La Mision, on the water-front next to Loreto Harbor.
Three days of fishing on 24-foot Super Pangas, with fly fish-ing guides.
Ground transfers and fishing licenses.
It does not include meals, because there are some nice restaurants (A lot of fresh seafood!) in town or if you prefer, eat at the hotel, where they will cook your catch.
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: $950.00 per person (double occupancy). Interested? Please contact Rich Hughett, 831-757-5709, for all the details. You will need to book airline flights* as soon as possible. No advance payment needed.
*Southwest Airlines from San Jose and Alaska Airlines from Los Angeles to Loreto. Rich will help with your airline reservations
by John Cook fishmaster-- (831)688-1561 or (831)234-6515
Dates: This fishout will take place over two consecutive one-week periods. You may sign up for one or both weeks. Week 1: Sept 18 – 25. Week 2: Sept 26 – Oct 2.
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.
General: We will be staying in condominiums in the town of Mammoth Lakes. Condo has a lovely hot tub, so bring your suit. Two people per bedroom. Most people bring a sleeping bag to share king size bed or a pad and sleeping bag to sleep on floor. A private room option is possible at an increased fee.
Cost: Covers 7 night’s lodging and 3 meals per day. $320/week, $640/two weeks. $535/week for a private room. $ is not refundable unless someone takes your place. Any unused funds will be used for prizes at the annual fund raiser.
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.
SignUps: Call John Cook letting him know which week or both or private room. ASAP or up to May 1st. We will be leaving town mid May, so need to put things together and confirm reservation by then. Receiving your $ will reserve your spot. I will maintain a waiting list and, if space becomes available you will be notified by phone, even while we are on summer vacation. Deliver your $ by mail ( PO Box 2822, Aptos, Ca. 95001 ) or deliver in person. (215 Treasure Island Ave., Aptos , Ca. )
Covid Issues: All participants must have completed the vaccine regiment at least one month prior. Must be free of symptoms. If negative public health issues arrive, the fishout will be canceled and $ returned.
Roy Gunter writes: I am offering to sponsor a fishout to the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska leaving on September 4, 2021 and returning on September 12, 2021. Limited to 4 participants including Roy. We will stay in the Riverside Cabin at the Eagle Landing Resort in Cooper Landing, AK (go to eaglelandingresort.com to check out Resort and Cabin). Trip will be fishing the Kenai River, Russian River and nearby creeks, targeting rainbows and dolly varden, but catching many salmon along the way. Trip includes 2 guided trips on the Kenai River, including at least one boat trip down the Kenai River Canyon to the delta of Skilak Lake. You will have to provide your own airfare to Anchorage and return, which can be arrange for virtually no charge if you obtain an Alaska Airlines Credit Card. Alaska Airlines now flies out of Monterey. However, a rental car is included in the trip. Food and beverages are included and obtained from Costco and Carrs Supermarket for preparation at the cabin. Since I am cooking for the most part, meals are gourmet including wine and/or other beverages. Since I am an Alaska Air card holder, over the last 20 years I have never exceeded $2,000 for the entire trip, including the cost of a motel before flying out, and once paid only $770. Couples are welcome, but there is only one queen bed in a separate bedroom. Other Club Members who have accompanied me include: Bob Monaco, Steve Rawson, Milana Rawson, Daneen Gunter, Don Foskett, Gary Hazelton, Harry Petrakis, Mark Traugott and Gil Santos. Requirements: $1,000 deposit subject to forfeit unless you find a substitute fisherman to accept your spot and you must have recieved all of your covid vaccinations at least 14 days prior to departure. Prior participants have priority. If interested please contact Roy Gunter at 831-809-0316 or email at rgunteriii@yahoo.com.
Sam Bishops adds some insight on the Alaska Airlines Credit Card opportunity: “Buy a new Alaska Airline card and get 50,000 miles if you spend $2,000 in 2 or 3 months. $75 for the card, but you get a free bag. Without it the first bag is $40. I just got a new card for about the fourth time. I let the old one expire and get a new one for the mileage. I paid the house insurance on the new one and bingo I am covered.”
Spring steelhead fishing on Alaska’s outer coastal rivers is a unique challenge. Cameo and Brooks will go through the geography and ecology of river systems in the region, a little steelhead biology, flies and fishing techniques. We will share what we’ve picked up on our local rivers and fishing tips from us and our local fly fishing community.
Want to prep for the presentation with some fly tying? Here are two great steelhead flies and tutorials from the SE Alaska Fly Fishing Company:
Cameo Padilla and Brooks Areson own and operate the Equinox, a 53-foot charter yacht based out of Sitka, Alaska in the heart of the Tongass National Forest. Each year, they host small groups on custom 5-day expeditions to explore the outer coast and Inside Passage of Southeast Alaska guiding fresh and saltwater fishing excursions, as well as other outdoor pursuits. The rest of the year you can find them out on the water or in the mountains fishing, hiking, hunting, diving, skiing and generally exploring the wilds of Southeast Alaska.
Cameo and Brooks of Equinox Alaska are not only are putting on a great Zoom presentation about Southeast Alaska, they have donated a great box of custom tied steelhead flies and a really cool Equinox hat for our monthly raffle. Two important things to remember; don’t miss their presentation and make sure you buy a bunch of raffle tickets.
Another great raffle prize this month is an Echo 9 foot 4 wt rod. It is their 4 section Carbon XL model which includes a fabric soft case inside a zipper top hard storage tube. A matching Echo Ion large arbor disc drag reel is also included. This is a sweet package for our smaller waters that sometimes require a lighter touch and a bit of delicate finesse.
It is one thing to get your gear ready for an adventure, it is another thing is to have something to stow said gear in. Adamsbuilt gear puts out their Klamath wet/dry bag that has room for just about everything. It has a rugged moulded waterproof bottom, velcro rod tube holder, waterproof interior compartment for waders and boots, five interior pockets, and a rugged padded shoulder strap. It has room for just about everything and feels right at home in the back of the float plane or your . wagon.
Tickets are a dollar each, 20 bucks get you 25. You will be able to allocate your tickets toward each specific prize. Club membership is not required to purchase tickets, need not be present at the Zoom meeting to win.
Remember the words of that famous Fly Fisherman, Albert Einstein, “the more tickets you buy, the more prizes you win”
Posted on February 18th, 2021
Date: March 13th (Sat.) AND. March 14th (Sun.)
Time: Noon to 3pm both days
Place: Zoom - To join in, tap Zoom in the bar at the top of the newsletter.
March’s fly tying class is going to be a two day event on March 13 and 14th from noon until 3 pm each day. In order to not miss out this year, a simplified method has been devised which will give everyone reasonable and useful poppers. The only thing you will need to complete your popper fly is clear nail polish and Supper Glue or equivalent. If you have 30 min epoxi, a variety of acrylic paints and rubbing alcohol, your finished fly will be more like the ones we usually craft. Some lead time for prepping and putting supplies together will be needed. So please sign up soon but no latter than Mar. 5th. It will still be a 2 day class, but fewer hours than usual. We’ll start at noon. Allow 2-3 hours each day. You beginners to fly tying should feel comfortable doing this class. As always, the class is free and materials provided. Very strong thread, any color, such as flat waxed nylon or monocord will be needed. If you need thread, or tools and vise if you are a beginner, the club can loan them to you. Materials , directions and tips for bass fishing will bagged for you to be picked up at my door. Call Elaine to sign up @ (831)688-1561
This last year, and, the start of this year, has led us all to contemplate, react and respond in ways we’d otherwise never considered, much less attempted, or even accomplished if it weren’t for the opportunities thrown at us like a Tom Brady bullet.
Most of us just put our hands out, closed our eyes and were just as surprised as anyone, that we caught the pass and made a touchdown. Agree?
In March of last year, we shut down, got scared and hid for a few days. But our resolve to thrive was greater than the fear of being carpet bombed. Every time the bombs missed, we cheered, came out of our cellars and shook our fists at the enemy. Just like the Brits did in WWII.
Fly-Fishing turned the corner quickly and began to get busy. Ask any guide and they will say they had a very busy 2020. Simms Fishing Products, went from shutdown, to making gowns, and right back to making products, because they couldn’t keep up with the spike in on-line sales. Every other vendor – similar reaction.
Staying “connected” or finding ways to connect, have been interesting. Many of you have heard me talk about “social media” like Facebook, Instagram, and our Google Groups Club Mail as ways of reaching each other. My own Facebook page and the club Facebook page have been ways for me to stay connected with my mom and dad, other family members, friends, who are thousands of miles away. And yes, at times it’s been a vehicle for me to raise awareness.
Getting connected has even let to having a blast on Zoom. I know – enough about Zoom already – but I look forward to our club meeting, the fly-tying class (even if I’m not tying a fly), and our board meetings. All of them you too can join from our web-site under the “Zoom” link on the page – easy!
Some of us have even been considering getting rid of their flip phones!
I have to say that as a few weeks ago, I didn’t much pay attention to Instagram. When Phil Kowal said last year that Instagram was where it’s at, I was on the hunt to see what we could do. Then, just like that, after reaching out to you, our membership, Jerry McKeon came on board, joined forces with Scott Kitayama, got our Instagram page up in 20 minutes and soon I was our second “follower”. Santacruzflyfishing.
Lord Have Mercy. Have you seen the fly-fishing pictures and videos on Instagram? AMAZING. I especially LOVE the fly-tying demonstrations. They are set in fast motion and make for a very cool summary. Stunning. The way I was ogling and staring at these photos and videos, Mona was getting a little nervous! Wow!
Now I know a lot of our members are beyond technology and may poo-poo the thought because you’re actually out there doing, what the rest of us wish we were doing. You may not be into all this techy stuff – but let me remind you that technology gave you your carbon/graphite rods, lightweight reels, “Goretex”(remember that word?!) breathable waders, and the GPS you might use in your car/truck… this is just an extension of that technology and one that reached a bit further, to help us quickly get out of the panic.
We are already excited about 2021. Your board is actively engaging our responsibility to the membership as things slowly improve. When we do actually get together this year, we are still planning to do Zoom video as a means of helping those who just can’t make it to the meeting.
The website, Facebook page and Instagram account are also helping us focus on what we are doing as a club to “Give Back” – to the community, the environment and the future of this club. Our high-school scholarship program will continue and hopefully grow. With that our outreach to the youth of the world, showing them how critically important wild fish are to the health of our planet, and the enjoyment we can experience in a healthy environment fly-fishing. Our conservation budget is our way of also contributing financially to important areas. We are going to do a little more outreach in this area for the good of the organization, raising awareness and because we simply need more “good” everywhere!
Fly-Fishing will be an active sport again this year. Even though we often fish for solitude, it’s good to be connected. If you need help “connecting”, please reach out to me, or anyone you know. Do not be afraid and don’t feel bad. We will help you make the best of technology when you need it, or have a little extra time to see what’s going on, when Covid might be keeping you a bit confined.
We are still looking for those of you who would like to contribute to the club in more or less of an official way as Board Members / Committee Chairs. If you have ideas and a desire to keep us going well into the 21st Century, let me know. We’d love to have you.
Fishmaster: Mike White – (831) 706-5556, lumberguy73@hotmail.com
We are planning on having a Pyramid Lake 2021 fish out. The dates are April 5th through the 11th. We have 4 mobile homes reserved so far, and currently they are all full. If you are interested in attending please contact Mike White immediately and he will help you find accommodations preferably at Pyramid Lake Lodge at (775) 476-0400. This has been an unusual time for all, and trying to arrange a fish out under these conditions has been challenging. However, at this point we have confirmation that everyone on the list of current attendees understand the risk, and are still committed to going on the trip. So, if you are in that camp contact Mike White.
The Pyramid Lake trip is one of the best-attended fishouts the club has, and for a good reason. Lahontan Cutthroat Trout cruise parallel to the shore in easy casting distance from shore. Cost for the week including meals and lodging and is around $300+ per person depending on the number in attendance. You need not fish all six days as there may be openings (usually later in the week.) Contact Mike for more details (831) 706-5556, to check on openings, or be put on a waiting list. First come first served.
You can also make your own arrangements either by bringing your own RV (Pyramid Lake Lodge has hook-ups and sells permits to park on the any of the beaches along the lake) or staying in Reno. Reno is 45 minutes away. Call Pyramid Lake Lodge to inquire about last minute cancellations in their cabins as well (775) 476-0400 and check out their website to see what the cabins look like at www.pyramidlakelodge.com. The General Store in Sutcliff offers meals on selected nights only to those who call in before 2:00 PM. Check at the General Store for details.
Equipment: 6-9 weight rods with hi-speed, hi-D shooting heads or fast sink integrated lines to fish the bottom in 6 to 9 feet of water, and a floating line for indicator fishing. You should bring a stripping basket and a ladder that will accommodate it. A ladder helps to get you up out of the cold water and enable you to cast out to where the fish are. You can still catch fish without one but not with near as much consistency.
Flies: Woolly buggers in black, white, purple, olive, midge, caddis and mayfly nymphs to name a few. If as in years past the Confab in February is offering the opportunity to see how some of the best Pyramid patterns are made plan to attend and bring a vise and tie some yourself. Flies may also available from club member Jim Hall who ties some very good flies specific to Pyramid cutthroat as well as other species at reasonable cost. His number is (831) 713-6835. There is a general store with provisions as well as tackle and an assortment of flies.
How to get there: Take US 80 to Reno-Sparks, take the Pyramid Blvd. off ramp and go north about 35 miles. Crosby Lodge is at Sutcliff, near the Ranger Station.
If you have any questions about equipment or how to get there, check the “Gearing up” columns in the March 2007-2009 archives on our great club website, or call Mike White at (831) 706-5556.
If you are considering going to Pyramid again this year with the club and you have not already done so, please contact the person who is booking the trailer you stayed in last year. Trailer-masters, if your trailer has gaps or cancellations, you can call Mike so he can pass the names of members who don’t have lodging to fill the empty spots.
Fishing, Camping, and New Ladder Regulation:
Fishing and camping permits can be purchased online prior to the fish-out. We would highly recommend doing this. Go to www.plpt.nsn.us to obtain your licenses. There is also an RV Park available at (775) 476-1155.
As with any great fishery there are always a long list of rules and regulations. We would recommend you review them on the website above. Suffice to say those of us who have been going to Pyramid Lake for many years are a good source of information as well. We will help inform and guide all newcomers.
15.6 USE OF LADDERS, ETC. Any ladders, milk crates, boxes or other objects used in the water as a fishing aid must be occupied or closely attended (i.e. remain in the area) by fishermen at all times. Any person who leaves such objects unoccupied in the water for more than one hour will be deemed guilty of littering. 15.6.1 Fishing aids described above must have a permanent tag affixed that has the name, address, and phone number of the owner of the fishing aid. If the permitted angler using the fishing aid is not the owner, the owner will be the responsible party for any infractions by the permitted angler.
NOTE: Due to insurance regulations, all attendees must be paid up members of Santa Cruz Fly fishermen, so get your membership paid up if you haven’t done so yet.
Los Banos Creek Reservoir has Bass and Bluegill and the option of fishing Stripers and Bass in the O’Neill Forebay 20 miles away. As of early February, the campground ARE OPEN along with the choices to get a nearby motel or go for day trips. This Fishout is limited to the first 10 members who contact – Dan Eaton (831) 336-2933
Gear: Float tube and fins. Fly line include floating, intermediate, and fast sinking. For fly suggestions contact Dan.
