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February 2022 Table of Contents

General Meeting……………………
  Katie Kobayashi, Local Steelhead
  Great choices for the February Raffle
President’s Line…………………….
Fly Tying……………………
  Surf Percher
  Josh’s Smelt
  GLOW BUG
Conservation Concerns……………
  SCFF Club Members Volunteer Locally
Membership Notes…………………
  176 members for the 2022 Roster
  Fly Tying Donation to Club
Fishout Schedule…………………
Reel News…………………
  2021 John Steele Award winner
  Greatest Show on Earth! Feb 25, 26, 27
  National Forest Campground Reservations (simplified)
Riddle Answer…………………………..…

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Katie Kobayashi – Steelhead research and impact of the CZU fire



Steelhead research and the impact of the CZU fire with Katie Kobayashi

Katie’s passions for science and the outdoors first collided as a college student at UC Berkeley, where her studies took her to extraordinary field sites ranging from the crystal clear South Fork Eel River to the tropical streams of French Polynesia.

 

She quickly became motivated to apply her research experience to the salmon- and trout-bearing streams she had explored on fly fishing trips with her father. After graduating, Katie began working for the NOAA Southwest Fisheries Science Center—contributing to research and monitoring efforts for endangered/threatened coho salmon and steelhead trout across Santa Cruz and San Mateo Counties.

 

Katie began her PhD with the NOAA/UCSC Fisheries Collaborative Program in 2016. Her research examines the evolutionary differences between steelhead and rainbow trout (O. mykiss), their role in stream food webs, and the effects of escalating wildfire regimes on these dynamics. She manages a highly collaborative research project in Scott Creek (Santa Cruz County, CA), working with academic, agency, and NGO partners to draw connections between natural history, evolutionary ecology, and fisheries management.

Katie strives to communicate her research to both academic and local communities through her teaching, writing, and art. She is currently a graduate fellow with California Sea  Grant and UCSC’s Center for Innovations in Teaching and Learning.

 



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

Monthly Speaker Date Excerpt
Fisheries of the Central Coast & Iceland with Dagur GuðmundssonMar 02 Fisheries of the Central Coast & Iceland with Dagur Guðmundsson

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Great choices for the February Raffle

Two good things about February, first we are nearly through winter with spring not too far off and second, it’s time to win some new gear for the upcoming season! Our raffle this month is designed to help us get on with it.

Rod and reel package
What would be better to get started this spring than a brand new 5 WT 9 ft high carbon max catch rod in a hard denier case matched with a aluminum alloy Sougayilang reel. A classic California trout outfit perfect for all skill levels.
Be a winner, buy a ticket!

Fly Box Case
We all might need to spend a little time in our gear bags organizing our varied and numerous flies. To help with this endeavor we have, from Adamsbuilt, four Super Slim Series fly boxes along with a fully padded denier textured nylon carry case. Perfect way to keep track of and access hundreds of flies.
Be a winner,buy a ticket!

Fish Whistle
Back by popular demand, we have a Simms Fish Whistle up for grabs. Tried and true, this gem will save the day when the fishing gets tough. Kit includes papers, whistle, Bic, and waterproof stash container. (Stash not included). All contained in a hard zippered cordura mini pack with carabiner clip. Endorsed by fishing guides coast to coast.  Be a winner, buy a ticket!

THE FINE PRINT:
Raffle tickets are a dollar each sold in blocks of five, twenty bucks gets you 25 tickets. Click on this link to purchase tickets:  https://santacruzflyfishing.org/raffle

Club membership not required to purchase tickets, need not be present at Zoom meeting to win. Ticket sales will open at noon on Sunday 1/30/22 and will close at noon on Wednesday, the day of the monthly zoom meeting, 2/2/22.

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President’s Letter

Hello Everyone. January was another first in SCFF’s 45 year history – a “hybrid” club meeting. Would any of us thought of the “inter-web” when this club first started? I suppose in 1977, if you said someone was using a cell phone, it was likely because they were in Jail. The internet might have been presumed to be some fancy fly-fishing term for the inside of your net, or what was in your net. Gore-Tex might have been some sort of Texas horror show.
If you’ve been around fly-fishing long enough, you will meet some of the nicest people in the world. Truly. You will also more likely meet “famous” people, who at least 99% of the fly fishing community knows, but only .0005% of the rest of the world does.

As I’m flying to Florida for work and to see Emily, I’m pouring through Fly Fisherman Magazine’s (hey wait, don’t they need a name change?!), 2022 Gear Guide. Wow! If you read this one, you’re sure to be seriously prompted and guilted into buying all the “necessary” gear in this issue. Seriously. They seem to hire writers who scribble in such eloquent, scientific, and perfunctory (I just like that word) manner as to make you feel that if you’re an educated person, you wouldn’t second guess or question their prescribed mandate to get out and put this stuff in your fly-fishing arsenal now, or you ain’t much of a fly-angler. That being said, I would be coming home with three pair of waders from all three vendors, fifteen new fly-rods, and equally as many fly-lines, four backpacks, a kayak, BOA wading boots (which I love by the way) that I must have, if I’m to be remotely successful in the trout or salt water fishing I might consider planning this year. No mention of two-handed Spey equipment for Steelhead or Salmon. Guess is they didn’t have enough room to publish or not enough interest.

Fly Fisherman Magazine has been one of the few publications that has outlasted many others over the last 30 years. Wonder what they will eventually do about the “erman” issue in the future.

I tried writing for the rag several years ago. They politely declined and helped me learn a bit about how one might end up being published in their rag, indicating that 90% of their readership were doctors, lawyers, and executive level subscribers, which sounded like people with a lot of money, were men and still smoked cigars (not that there’s anything wrong with that). I took that to meaning I didn’t use content within my text that would be enough of a challenge for their vocabulary, or the next winner on jeopardy.

Be that as it may, it isn’t Gray’s Journal, or Isaac Walton’s book, or that favorite Shooting Sportsman rag I used to subscribe to, and it is good to see it’s still around and writing good content. I did learn a lot about all the new gear out there and find that to be helpful especially as the end of February is the return to our Fly Fishing Show in Pleasanton, which many of our members will be going to. Jeff Goyert as even promised a tailgate party for lunch. It’s Feb 25,26, 27 – and you should definitely go – mask or no mask. It is completely worth it.

Some of us have been fishing the San Lorenzo, Soquel and Pescadero for Steelhead the last few weeks. Despite all the early rain we received, the good flows, the catch rates are very low. While I knew my chances to hook a fish were low, I went fishing. It is beautiful to be on the water, early, close to home, and it is so very peaceful. I’m grateful for that and need it. I hope the rain returns soon in the event the bigger spawning fish are still out there waiting for that

opportunity to come in and help the river survive another year. When the flows are lower than 100CFS, I tend to stay home. If you’re interested in when it might be less pressure on those fish holding in holes waiting for the flows to return, you can go to the USGS website www.waterdata.usgs.gov, and the river you fish. The San Lorenzo monitors the CFS of the river just below the rubber dam monster in Felton at the Henry Cowell Bridge. There is also a camera there shooting live video there. Some will tell you that below there other tributaries enter the San Lorenzo, so flow may actually be a bit higher, say in the lower gorge, but that measure is a good litmus for most.

Thank you all again for being such good spirited members despite the roller-coaster that Covid has been these last two years now. It has been good for us in a different way, especially with the opportunity to include members in so many activities where they couldn’t get to directly, but can enjoy via Zoom, our Instagram page and Facebook page. None of that would have happened as well as it did if it weren’t for Covid. We will get through this soon, and we are going to have fun fishing and casting, tying flies and helping to restore and preserve those waters special to you.
See you soon. Tom

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Surf Percher – Feb2022




Surf Percher

As the surf is just outside our back doors and Sam will be having club Fishouts in the surf before too long, we will be tying a fly to use for that endeavor. For you beginners this will be an easy fly. We will be using 6/0 red thread. The club has tools, vises and thread to borrow if you need them. There is no charge for the class and materials are provided. Give me a call to sign up and I’ll prepare a bag of materials and instructions for you, and put them at my front door. (831)688-1561




& March 13 Class

We will be making poppers so that we can go for those big mouthed bass. In the past the class has spanned over 2 days and involved lots of paints, epoxies, glues, solutions, along with various other supplies. It is not reasonable to assume that everyone would have everything that would be needed to craft these beauties, and not practical via Zoom. 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 later 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 me to sign up @ (831)688-1561



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

Image Date Fly Name
& March 13 ClassMar 12 & March 13 Class
Green DrakeApr 13 Green Drake
CricketMay 11 Cricket
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Josh’s Smelt

Having recently joined the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club, Joshua Wilkens was first introduced to the Lee Haskin’s San Luis Smelt by Jeff Slaboden last year. “I was kind of neurotically tying these last year so if anybody just wants a few I have probably enough for the short group that potentially wants to go.” said Josh who hosting the Del Valle fishout in March.

Material: I usually tie on shorter shank so less craft foul, typically octopus or drop shot hooks, 3/16 yellow eyes for my 8wt and a size or two smaller and slimmer body for 6wt. The fish dope was from last day sale at California fly shop, and the belly fat is my cats toy which I’m not sure on what pelt that is but it’s very knotted and curly like roughed up by my kitty. I think it’s like streamer hair not craft fur and it’s the parts I didn’t use at base years ago when I must of used it no clue. Then creame/tan/rootbeer craft fur (I’m subbing rootbeer for what’s usually dark brown artic fox because my cat ran off with it I can’t find it) and some pearl lengthy dubbing. I use Danville’s 210 cause it’s cheap thread.

I put two little chunks of creame up the shank towards eyes leaving room for belly. Add belly chunk behind eyes, add pearl on body tie ahead of eyes, add red stuff, fold pearl back over eyes and red stuff, flip over tie thick chunk tan, tie medium chunk rootbeer/dark brown I think. I was trying to imitate smelt last year with material I had, then I went fishing with Jeff whose friends with the smelt creator and he said something like the ginger dye he started with they stopped dying that color.

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GLOW BUG (Salmon egg pattern)

by Elaine Cook — Fly tying chairman

Steelhead and trout follow salmon as they spawn and readily eat their eggs. This pattern simulates them. The fly doesn’t sink well so use a sinking line, put weight on your leader, or trail the fly behind a fly that sinks well, or add a gold bead to the hook before tying on the yarn.

HOOK: Mustad 9174 or TMC 105 or Targus 105.  Size 6 or 8

THREAD: STRONG: white, peach, salmon or other light color. Such As: flat waxed nylon, Danville 2/0, monochord, Gudbrod Gx2 or Ultra 149 denier.

EGG: Glow Bug Yarn: comes in both thick and thin strands. bright salmon, pale salmon, orange, peach, pale yellow, and pink

1. Crimp Barb. NOTE: a hook with upturned eye also works, but material is harder to trim.
2. Attach thread 1/3 back on shank. Cover center 1/3 of shake with touching wraps. Leave thread mid shank.
3. THICK YARN:

  • Cut 3 one inch or longer pieces.
  • (optional)to simulate a developing embryo, cut a 1 inch piece of contrasting color of thin yarn.
    (See diagrams for upcoming steps.)
  • position thick yarn pieces side-by-side. If using contrasting piece, place it on top.
  • pinching center of material, place on top of shank so that they are not stacked but the three thick pieces are side-by-side and thin piece on top.
  • make three snug wraps, one on top of the other, keeping yarn on top of shank.
  • pull all material firmly upward to be sure it is all on top of shank.
  • tilt yarn to rear, make three wraps in front as close to yarn as possible.
  • pulling firmly up on yarn, make three snug wraps around base of yarn.
  • Advanced thread to eye.
  • whip finish, cut thread, apply super glue or equivalent to thread wraps ONLY behind hook eye.
  • Holding and pulling yarn upward, cut all at once in a single arc with a sharp heavy duty scissor, so that the cut corresponds to radius of egg.
  • stroke yarn downward and fluff to cover bottom of shank. Finger nail or Velcro can help.
  •  trim yarn if needed to form a round contour.

THIN YARN:

  • Cut 5 inch or slightly longer pieces.
  • (optional) to simulate a developing embryo, cut one 1 inch piece of contrasting color of yarn or separate one piece of thick yarn into 2 pieces, and use one.
  • position all five pieces of one color side-by-side. If using a contrasting piece, position four pieces of primary color side by side and contrasting color on top of them.
  • Proceed as above with the step that starts with “pinching”.


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SCFF Club Members Volunteer Locally

by Conservation Director Bob Garbarino

Our club has been active lately in supporting local conservation groups.  This is an important aspect of the club mission where we can help improve, repair and sustain the fishery—especially on a local level.  Here are a few noteworthy events.

Coho Salmon Release with MBSTP

Late last December, Jeff Gose, Jerry McKeon and I helped the Monterey Salmon and Trout Project release adult Coho Salmon into two locations in Pescadero Creek.  These fish began life at the MBSTP at the Kingfisher Flat Hatchery near Davenport.  After the CZU fire hit, they were trucked up to the Warm Springs Hatchery in Sonoma County where they were raised to adult spawn maturity.  These fish were RFID tagged so each one can be identified in the future.  The three of us were all able to shuttle the fish from the truck and handle some as well as revive a few.   Some of the fish were in the 6 pound range.  Here is a quote from Jerry McKeon that I think expresses Jeff and my sentiments as well:

“Helping MBSTP release over a hundred Coho into Pescadero Creek was very rewarding for me.  As anglers we have the unique ability to help revive fish that don’t immediately take to the new water.  I was also very impressed by how well a group of mostly strangers worked together.  Everyone had a sense of urgency and a single focus of getting these salmon safely into the creek.  It was a real privilege to be a part of and if the opportunity arises again, I’ll happily raise my hand. “

Coastal Watershed Council January River Health Day

On January 15th, our own Elaine and John Cook, Jeff Slaboden and Camille Padilla volunteered their time to help plant and maintain native seedlings along the banks of the San Lorenzo River to increase biodiversity and revitalize the river ecosystem.  I spoke to John and Elaine and they both said it was a worthwhile and rewarding experience.  Good work and thank you all!

Coho Salmon Release with MBSTP—Part Two

On January 19th, member Sam Bishop assisted MBSTP with a follow-up release on Pescadero Creek.  Sam said “They are ripe and ready to spawn. We hope they will do that right there near the release so their kids head out to sea next year.”  Amen!  Thank you Sam helping out and for serving on the board at MBSTP.

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176 members for the 2022 Roster

by Bob

176 members have paid their 2022 dues as of the end of January. Although membership dues and donations are more than last year, they are less than the 2019 pre Covid level which included the annual fundraiser dinner. The Board will be reviewing the 2022 Budget on Feb 16th after all 2021 expenditures and revenues are finalized.  2022 Budget will be sent to members in March.

If members are not receiving the monthly newsletter, it may be included in their spam file, or  members are using an alternate email to review the newsletter, or dues have not been paid for 2022.  Please email me if there is a problem with the newsletter or googlegroups.  Robert6367@aol.com

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Fly Tying Donation to Club

by Elaine — fly tying —chairman

We’ve received another donation to share with our club members. Ed Sacks is the person we thank for his thoughtfulness and generosity. He was a club member some years ago and remembers well shopping at Ernie’s. He no longer ties flies so offers us what he had. That includes a fly tying table with vise, light and magnifier. Watch for these on the free giveaway table at an upcoming, in person club meetings.

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Fishout Schedule

mobile scrollable table 

EVENT NAME EVENT DATE SPECIES FISH MASTER
Pyramid Lake Fish-out April 1 – April 7, 2024 – New InfoApr 01 - Apr 07Lahontan Cutthroat Trout Mike White - (831) 706-5556
Kelly Lake – Watsonville (bass, crappie)Apr 20
Burney and AroundJun 07 - Jun 09
Lake Almanor/Hex Hatch -June 22nd thru 29th- 2024 -UPDATED-Jun 22 - Jun 29Trout, Bass Jeff (Yog) Goyert - Fishmaster (831)234-0033
Loreto Fly Fishing Trip *UPDATED*Jul 07 - Jul 11
Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 21-Oct.5Sep 21 - Oct 05Trout John Cook fishmaster-- (831)688-1561 or (831)234-6515
O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout (Final Date TBD)Oct 01 - Oct 04

Apr 01 : Pyramid Lake Fish-out April 1 – April 7, 2024 – New Info



Pyramid Lake (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: Mike White - (831) 706-5556

Pyramid trip starts the Monday after Easter in 2024.    SCFF will have 5 trailers which means lots of folks will be attending.  This is a bucket-list fishery.

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. 

This year we have five trailers reserved. (6,7,8,9, and 10) As of September 1st 2021 we have 5 openings available. These openings will fill up quickly, so contact Mike immediately at (831) 706-5556. Last year was an incredible experience with many fish over 15 lbs brought to the net. If you cannot commit early and make it into one of our reserved trailers you can always make your own arrangements by contacting the Pyramid Lake Lodge at (775) 476-0400.

Mike White (831) 706-5556, lumberguy73@hotmail.com

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.

 



Apr 20 : Kelly Lake – Watsonville (bass, crappie)


Kelly Lake - Watsonville (bass, crappie)
(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

 

Fishmaster: Scott Kitayama
Location: Kelly Lake in Watsonville (Private lake limited to 6 people)
Species: bass,  crappie, bluegill
Duration: 1 day
Registration and Cost: No Cost, but you must contact Scott as the number of people fishing is limited.  Contact at scottkitayama@gmail.com.

On this Fishout, priority will be given to new members (limited to 6 participants). The cutoff for “New member” registration is March 17th. If all 6 spots have not been filled at this time the registration will be open to all members.

This posting will be updated on the 18th of March

Meeting time and place: Scott will directly be in contact with those that are coming on the Fishout.
Equipment: Need to have float tube or kayak to fish the lake.    PFD required and walkie talkie encouraged.
6 wt with intermediate line for stripping leaches or bait patterns.

6 or 7 wt floating line for poppers or float-n-fly

Flies: Topwater:  frog pattern, sliders,  gurglers, poppers

Stripping:  bunny leach, midnight cowboy, micro-clouser

Indicator:  balanced leach, crappie jigs,  hares ear (sz 10 and larger)

What To Expect: This is a private warm water lake in Watsonville. Surrounded by private residences and the Pajaro Rod & Gun Club. The club has gained access to the water thru the Rod and Gun Club. Bass and Crappie are the predominant species here.
Food: Bring lunch
Fishmaster Contact info: Scott Kitayama

650 279 5871

scottkitayama@gmail.com

 



Jun 07 : Burney and Around


Burney and Around
(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:
Fishmaster: Alex Ferber
Location: Lakes, rivers and streams of the Burney area
Species: Trout
Duration: 3 Days
Cost: No Cost
Meet Up: Hat Creek Park off Hy 299

https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hat+Creek+Park/@40.9771021,-121.560662,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x54cd08aece187a3b:0x1df2125da7e183fd!8m2!3d40.9770981!4d-121.5580871!16s%2Fg%2F1trxdffb?entry=ttu

This meet up will be a general discussion with your Fishmaster Alex Ferber. Here he will be discussing the local fishery, access points, general information and answering any questions you might have about making this a successful outing.

Equipment: Typical Trout Set Up 9′, 4-6wt Rods w/ Floating Lines Ideal
Euro Nymphing, and Trout Spey conditions available
Nymphs: Pheasant Tail, Hairs Ear, Prince Nymph, Wooly Buggers, Perdigon, Copper Johns, Zebra Midge, Micro May, Golden Stones
Drys: Caddis Patterns 12-16, Upright wing vs. Emerges, Missing Link, Stone Flys, Parachute Adams, Comparaduns (various sizes 16-12)
Misc.: Soft Hackles, Streamers, Leaches
What To Expect: This Fishout is DIY Fishout with your Fishmaster acting as a resource person helping with any questions regarding where to fish, access, use of personal watercraft, fishery history, etc. Depending on interest there is potential of a pre Fishout presentation (TBD) and or tour of any one of the local areas with the most interest.
Local Waters: Hat Creek: Spring creek with plenty of easy access, walk and wading. There are 3 distict sections from the Power House Riffle, to The Lower Freestone Section. There are an abundence of hatches year round and daily from mayflies, caddis, and stone flies with the potential of a trico or green drake hatch.

Burney Creek: Spring creek with access around the McArthur Burney Falls State Park. The waterfall is a must see. This is great water for a dry/dropper set up as well as traditional dry and nymph fishing. Above the falls the creek is stocked and below the fish are wild.

Pit River: Classic tailwater freestone fishery. This river is known for its hard fighting wild rainbows. There is great walk and wade access but the terrain is difficult with large snot covered bowling balls covering the river bed. Those with strong wading skills and a stout wading stick only need apply.  The river is broken up by multiple power houses each with their own characters. Primary a nymphing river either by indicator or tight line. Rubber legs and dark lords and lots of weight (bring lots of both).

Baum Lake: Stocked and great for a small float tube or kayak. Excellent dry fly and streamer fishing.

Lake Britton: Primarily a motorized boat lake. Warm water fishery with small mouth bass, and potential for bull trout.

Ahjumawi / Big Lake Lava Springs State Park: Launch at “Rat Farm”

Fall River: Iconic spring creek with an abundance of large wild rainbows. No shore access. Non motorized boats can be launched at the Cal Trout public access or a kayak/motor boat at the “Rat Farm” (Big Lake/Ahjjumawi launch). Awesome dry fly, streamer and indicator fishing.

Lodging: Camping  – Too many to list, this is an outdoors paridise with options from unimproved to glamping. Plenty of places for RV hookups and KOA camping
Hotels & Motels: Various options available in the Burney area
Food: DIY, with potential of potluck as details emerge
Fishmaster Contact info: Alex Ferber
831-419-0564
alex.ferber74@gmail.com
https://sites.google.com/view/adventureflyfishingsantacruz/home
Links: https://www.theflyshop.com/streamreport.html
https://www.shastaangler.com/
Burney Sporting Goods – 37427 CA-299, Burney, CA 96013
 

 



Jun 22 : Lake Almanor/Hex Hatch -June 22nd thru 29th- 2024 -UPDATED-


Lake Almanor/Hex Hatch -June 22nd thru 29th- 2024 -UPDATED-
(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: Jeff (Yog) Goyert - Fishmaster (831)234-0033

Fishmaster: Tim Loomis – 831- 345-8411 / bigsurstyles@att.net

The Lake Almanor fishout is typically scheduled for the last weeks of June (22nd – 29th). This time period is, hopefully, the peak of the annual Hexagenia hatch that begins generally mid-June and runs through mid-July. The most productive fishing takes place early evenings on into past dark between Lake Almanor West to Canyon Dam on the SouthWest side of the lake. Most of the fishing is done from float tubes as well as small boats or even from shore.

In addition to the evening “Hex” hatch, a multitude of opportunities exist for fishing throughout the day to include Little Crater Lake, Manzanita Lake, Baum Lake, Eagle Lake, Butt Valley Reservoir, Deer Creek, Clear Creek, Feather River, Yellow Creek, plus many more.

Lodging will be the responsibility of individual attendees. A popular campground operated by PG&E is the Rocky Point Campground, for reservation information call 916-386-5164. Many USFS campgrounds are in the area. Reservations are available through www.recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. Make use of internet resources to acquire the actual campground names. There are also many resorts and rental cabins available in the area. A few examples are Wilson’s Camp/530-259-2267 and Plumas Pines Resort/530-259-4343. Other options are available via online research. Be advised that due to the popularity of fishing at this time of year reservations fill up early.

Sierra Fly and Tackle, stores in Chester and Hamilton Branch, is a great resource for current conditions and reports along with a large invantory flies and equipment. A must stop for all visiting fly fishers if only to get one of their cool tee-shirts. Both first time and veteran “Hex” Anglers could well benefit from the expertise provided by a knowledgeable and experienced guide. Lance Gray (530-517-2204) or Tim Loomis (831-345-8411) both offer instructional packages to help achieve success during the “Hex”.



Jul 07 : Loreto Fly Fishing Trip *UPDATED*


Loreto Fly Fishing Trip *UPDATED*
(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

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

July 7th through the 11th

This trip includes:

  • Four nights at the beautiful Hotel La Mission, on the water-front next to the Loreto Harbor.
  • Three days of fishing on 24-foot Super Pangas, with fly fishing guides.
  • Ground transfers and fishing licenses.

The fishing day starts around 6:00 a.m. and we usually get back to the harbor between 1:30 and 2:00 p.m. Spend the rest of the afternoon fishing from the beach, having a cool drink in the pool, exploring Loreto, or just sitting around telling some tall fish stories. And, you will have many exciting moments on the Sea of Cortez to talk about.

The approximate cost for everything but meals and airfare is: *$995.00 per person, double occupancy; around $460.00 for a non-fishing guest.

It does not include 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 also cook your catch to your preference. Interested?

Please contact Rich Hughett, 831-757-5709, for all the details. You will need to book airline flights* as soon as possible.

*No money will be collected in advance. Southwest Airlines and Alaska Airlines from San Jose to  Los Angeles and Alaska Airlines to Loreto. Rich will help with your airline reservations.

Gear: The minimum size rod for Dorado is a 10 weight, with a corresponding size reel with plenty of backing.  I suggest everyone take floating, intermediate and full sink lines, such as T-14.  Most fish down there are not leader shy, so I use about a 5 foot leader with a 20 pound tippet.  For Dorado, the main fly is a Sarmulmac.  Clousers also work.  In fact a variety of flies work for salt water fish, as long as they represent a smaller baitfish.

Notes: Further discussion of dates, gear and preparations to be had as interest develops



Sep 21 : Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 21-Oct.5


Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 21-Oct.5
Mammoth Lakes (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: John Cook fishmaster-- (831)688-1561 or (831)234-6515

UPDATED – 2/17/2024

SignUps: As a reminder, it is important to sign up early or this Fishout. Half of the spots have been filled. Also sign ups must be completed by May 1 as the Fishmasters will be traveling mid May and all arrangements will have to have been completed prior to their departure.

Call John Cook letting him know which week, both or private room. Payment is required to secure our 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.

Contact Ph # (831) 234-6515

Fishmasters: John & Elaine Cook

Dates:  This Fishout will take place over two consecutive one-week periods. You may sign up for one or both weeks. Week 1: Sept  21 – Sept 28 .       Week 2: Sept 28 – Oct 5.

Sign up cut off – May 1st 2024

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 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:  $450/wk, $900/2 wks,   Private room:  $800/wk,  $1,600/2 wks.   Dinner guests:  $20/meal

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 assigned a dinner that you will need to purchase and prepare.   You will then be reimbursed for the cost for the dinner.

Covid Issues: TBD



Oct 01 : O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout (Final Date TBD)



(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

Event: O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout

Date: Date to be updated as we get closer to October

(I will be looking for a weekend with a ‘skinny’ moon, less night feeding for the fish)

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 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!



Posted on

2021 John Steele Award winner

by K Murdock; SCFF V/P

2021 John Steele Award Winner

In 2021, 12 club Members were nominated to receive the coveted John Steele Award. The reasons were as varied as they could be.

Sam Bishop was nominated for hosting the Beach Fish outs, described by one member as “The most important SCFF activity during Covid”.

Dan Eaton was nominated for hosting the Los Banos Creek fish out and giving largemouth bass fishing advice, and for hosting a fly tying class.

Robert Eberly apparently adopted a novice surf fisherman and schooled him throughout the day, eventually convincing our neophyte angler to join the SCFF club!

Jeff Goyert (Yog) helped a member get acquainted with the O-Neil Fore bay striper fishing techniques.

Scott Kitayama (Last year’s Steele award recipient) was nominated for helping a member while perch fishing, and again for just being friendly and helpful.

Phil Kowal has been helpful in e-mail and text for equipment questions and has also introduced club members to San Lois reservoir.

Jerry McKeon was nominated for his prodigious work on our Instagram account, which has grown both our membership, and our club’s reputation in the Fly Fishing hierarchy. He also received a nod for pitching in and helping set up Zoom Fly-tying.

Lord knows why Kevin Murdock was nominated; I suspect graft…

Steve Rudzinski (Stosh) was remembered for his work on the Jade St Park casting classes, and helping members with Pyramid and San Louis fishing techniques.

Bill Seamoa was able to facilitate transportation for one of our favorite couples to San Lois Reservoir when they were having difficulty driving in the dark.

Cecilia Stipes effervescent personality, and her willingness to share knowledge, as well as her efforts as one of our fish masters has made her a nominee again this year.

And finally, Mark Tragout was nominated for his casting classes in boulder creek, and for towing a tuber out of the weeds, and finally, for gifting the book “Home Waters” by John Mclean, to a member, which indirectly led to the marriage of a pair of our club members.

As you can see, Steele Award nominations can be for literally anything. We have numerous fish outs through the year where 20 or 30 of our members are present for up to a week. You can’t tell me that you can fish for a week without a club member sharing a tip, a fly, a spot, netting a monster, an incredible meal, emotional support or just plain good fellowship.

I should be getting 20 or 30 nominations after each fish out. The easiest way to make a nomination in this time of zoom and distance is to just e-mail me at troutdock89@gmail.com. That way I can just move the e-mail into my John Steele folder and count em up at the beginning of next year.

This year’s winner of the 2021 John Steele award is Mark Tragout.

Congratulations Mark. We are grateful to you and all our nominees.

Respectfully submitted 01/10/22

K Murdock

Posted on

National Forest Campground Reservations (simplified)

by Elaine Cook

Reservations can be made for national forest campgrounds and for other national recreational lands through recreation.gov. However, a much simpler way is to call on the phone ( 877-444-6777 ). You will actually get a live person. The website is extremely confusing as far as I’m concerned and many others I have talked to as well. The phone line is open from 9 AM till midnight (eastern time), every day including weekends. Give it a try, you’ll love it. Just a word to the wise, since Covid began there are way more people out there recreating, so make your reservations well ahead.