WANTED: Anybody have a tricked-out Pyramid ladder that is in good shape and no longer being used? How about selling it to me so that it can get its feet back in the alkaline lake? Would like to keep the price less than $80. Call/text 650 279 5871 or email: scottkitayama@gmail.com
Posted on February 16th, 2022
Posted on February 19th, 2022
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…………………………..…
Posted on January 25th, 2022
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
Posted on January 26th, 2022
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.
Posted on January 25th, 2022
Always lots of fun to see the latest and greatest along with lots of old friends.
Let’s plan on getting together, maybe a tailgate lunch? Get on the Google Group to figure out who is planning to go which day. https://flyfishingshow.com/pleasanton-ca/
Posted on January 27th, 2022
General Meeting……………………
Annual Slideshow!!! – BBQ Postponed
Donations from the Doug Severin Estate
WINNERS GET TO PICK, PICKERS GET TO WIN!!
President’s Line…………………….
Happy Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, New Year
Fly Tying……………………
Red bead conehead
Peacock Conehead
Conservation Concerns……………
Klamath River Salmon Release
Membership Notes…………………
Updated 2022 Dues Membership
Help Lead a Fishout in 2022
Fishout Schedule…………………
Riddle…………………………..…
Posted on December 28th, 2021
Buy your tickets from home or buy them at the Posse Grounds BBQ meeting. Or both!
To celebrate our first “in person” meeting in many moons, we have a bunch of choices for our lucky raffle winners.
How do I win? Easy. Just buy tickets! There will be 3 chances to win!
Tickets are a dollar each sold in blocks of five, Twenty bucks gets you 25 tickets.
Tickets will be available starting at noon on Saturday January 1st. Click on:
https://santacruzflyfishing.org/raffle
The cutoff to purchase tickets will be at noon the day of the January meeting Wednesday 1/5/22.
Tickets will also be available that evening at the meeting. Need not be present to win.
Posted on December 22nd, 2021
Both the Fly of the Month and Fly Tying Class this month will feature bass flies the Dan Eaton highly recommends for his upcoming Fishouts in the spring.
HOOK: Saber 7246. Or. TMC 5262
BEAD: brass conehead Size 1/4 “ (large) fits size 2-4 hooks
THREAD: black 6/0
TAIL: black marabou with long barbs and Black Krystal Flash
HACKLE: black saddle hackle, barbs equal to about hook gap
BODY: small peacock crystal chenille and small grey or silver chenille
Posted on December 27th, 2021
General Meeting……………………
Gordon Tharrett – fishing the Green river in Utah
Door Prizes in December!
President’s Line…………………….
Wabbit Season. Duck Season. Steelhead Season! Bang!
Fly Tying……………………
Fly tying class – X-Caddis
Whip Finish
Conservation Concerns……………
Zayante Creek Habitat Improvement Project
Salinas River cleanup 2021
Membership Notes…………………
Thank you for the 90 members who have paid dues online
Submit your photos for the Annual Member Photo Slide Show!
SCFF logo wear on sale for Christmas
IN MEMORIAM: Douglas Severin
Fishout Schedule…………………
Gone Fishing……………………….…
Notes from site 29
Cartoon…………………………..…
Posted on November 22nd, 2021
Dec 01 6:30 PM :
Gordon Tharrett started fly fishing at 8 years old at his childhood home in the Adirondacks. At age 18 he started guiding, and over the years his resume includes guiding fishing, hunting, and climbing. Fishing has taken Gordon all over the world including New Zealand, Chile, Argentina, Canada, and Alaska.
In 1993 after a long season of guiding in Alaska and fishing his way down the west coast, Gordon ended up in Utah fishing the Green River. In his words,
“That one float down the Green was all it took to make me not go anywhere else. I thought to myself this is the best Dry Fly River I have ever seen!”
and he’s been there ever since. Gordon spent 15 years guiding with Trout Creek Flies acquiring the fly shop in 2012. In 2015 Gordon went back to guiding starting On The Fly Utah, and the fish keep coming to the net.
Gordon Tharrett
On The Fly
Email: ontheflyutah@aol.com
Website: ontheflyutah.com
801-541-4113
http//www.wildlife.utah.gov/ for licensing
Future Speakers. Dates and speakers may change, please go to URL to see the current information.
| Monthly Speaker | Date | Excerpt |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Slideshow | Jan 05 7:00 PM | In January, we’re going to be back at the Sherriff’s Posse Hall for another BBQ and our annual Club Members Photo Slide Show. Submit your photos today to Tommy Polito Thomaspolito12@gmail.com then come join us the first week of January – in person!!! |
| Fisheries of the Central Coast & Iceland with Dagur Guðmundsson | Mar 02 6:30 PM | Dagur will be presenting on the Central Coast fisheries as well as touching on fishing in Iceland as he guides both. |
Posted on November 21st, 2021
Posted on November 21st, 2021
Dec 08 6:30 PM 
As caddis emerge from their nymphal stage, and just before they are ready to take flight, they are on the surface with wings up and ready, but are still attached to their nymphal shuck. Consequent they aren’t able to fly away yet and makes them very vulnerable to the trout. This fly mimics this stage. The “Fly of the Month” article this month will be directions for how to use a Matarelli tool. Knowing how to use it will help you tie off this fly. For our free Zoom class, call Elaine Cook at (831)688-1561 at least a couple days ahead to allow time for packets of material to be assembled and you to pick up at my door. Thread will be 8/0 tan or olive or both. Let me know if you need to borrow some. Beginners can also borrow vise and tools. If you have never tied before, call me soon. To join the class go to bar at top of newsletter and tap Zoom, then tap fly tying class.
Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to URL to see the current information.
| Monthly Speaker | Date | Excerpt | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Red Bead Cone Head | Jan 12 6:30 PM | – large trout and bass – appropriate for Pyramid , Los Banos Creek Reservoir, Delta and like waters – black 6/0 thread |
 | Surf Percher | Feb 09 6:30 PM | – surf fish species – local beaches – red 6/0 thread |
Posted on November 21st, 2021
About 24 volunteers showed up at the Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge this morning to clean up garbage and illegal camps. The Salinas Valley Fly Fishers, Santa Cruz Fly Fishermen, Trout Unlimited and the Carmel River Steelhead Association were represented. This year, about half of a 30-yard dumpster was collected…down from the full 30-yard dumpsters of previous years. Thanks to all who showed up and, to those who fish the refuge but couldn’t help this time, see you next November.
A special thanks to Benny and Jay Jefferson, of Jefferson Ag Management, for their continued stewardship of the refuge and use of their heavy equipment! Also, thanks are due to the Monterey Regional Waste Management District for the use of their 30-yard dumpster!
Posted on November 22nd, 2021
Just in time for Christmas, we are discounting some SCFF logo wear. This offer is only good if you are willing to pick up the items in the Aptos area. Take a look int the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Store.. After you purchase, you will coordinate a pick up place and time with Kevin Murdock.
 | SCCF Logo Tumbler | |
 | Trout Logo T-Shirt | |
 | Trout Logo Embroidered Hats |
Posted on November 24th, 2021
mobile scrollable table
| EVENT NAME | EVENT DATE | SPECIES | FISH MASTER |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pyramid Lake Fish-out April 3rd-9th 2022 | April 03, 2022 – April 09, 2022 | Lahontan Cutthroat Trout | Mike White – (831) 706-5556 |
| Mammoth Fishout – 2022 | September 24, 2022 – October 08, 2022 | Trout | John Cook fishmaster– (831)688-1561 or (831)234-6515 |
Pyramid Lake (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: Mike White – (831) 706-5556
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 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.
Mammoth Lakes (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: 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 24 – Oct 1. Week 2: Oct 1 – Oct 8.
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: TBD
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 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.
Covid Issues: TBD
Posted on November 21st, 2021
General Meeting……………………
April Vokey – Spey Casting for Steelhead
November Door Prize
President’s Line…………………….
Rain! Steelhead! April on November 2nd. December and January BBQ Slide Show
Fly Tying……………………
Bug Eye Nymph – Instructor: Dan Eaton
Kilowatt Fly
Conservation Concerns……………
Fish Handling–Best Practices
November River Cleanup Days
Membership Notes…………………
2022 Membership Renewal Oct/Nov/Online
A gift suggestion
Fishout Schedule…………………
Gone Fishing……………………….…
ForeBay FishOut results
Reel News……………………….…
Smith River now has a fisher Monitoring Program
Cartoon…………………………..…
Posted on October 29th, 2021
April Vokey will be talking about the British Columbia waters where she grew up chasing the salmon and steelhead migration that frequented BC’s coastal waters. She began her guiding career on the Fraser and Harrison rivers for sturgeon and salmon, but left after several season to found her own guiding operation, Fly Gal Ventures, in 2007 at age 24. The company was built on the basis of the promotion of education and encouragement to those who looked to chase their dreams. She has since established herself as a respected authority in the sport and has traveled the globe in pursuit of gamefish on a fly rod.
Her writing has appeared in numerous industry leading publications including Fly Fisherman, Fly Rod & Reel, and Fly Fusion magazines. In July 2012, April became the first fly angler to be featured in Outside magazine for their “XX-Factor” segment. She is in the process of authoring her first book.
Also a popular TV personality, April has been featured on the Outdoor Channel’s Buccaneers and Bones series, 60 Minutes Sports, The Steve Harvey show, Discovery Channel’s Refined, Discovery’s/OLN’s Close Up Kings, and WFN’s Fly Nation TV.
Most recently, Vokey proudly wrote and hosted her own exclusive series, ShoreLines with April Vokey, as shown on the World Fishing Network. The series focuses on fly-fishing’s rich history and the people it consists of. Feeling limited by airtime, she has since branched out with her podcast, Anchored with April Vokey, an uncensored series dedicated to archiving the stories and personalities from some of fly-fishing’s most influential people. The show is one of the only fishing podcasts solely recorded in a face to face environment where April ensures to ask questions apart from the norm. It evolved into Anchored Outdoors in January, 2020.
In 2013, April chose to pursue her passion for saltwater species (and a blue-eyed Aussie bloke), and therefore surrendered her Canadian winters for Australia’s & New Zealand’s summers. She now resides in Canada for six months of the year, and in Australia for the other six. Her dog, Colby, travels with her between countries, keeping her safe from grizzlies and kangaroos alike.
She is a FFF certified casting instructor, a fly-tying instructor, traveling speaker and an eternal student of life, love, and conservation. Please contact info@aprilvokey.com to enquire about bookings.
Future Speakers. Dates and speakers may change, please go to URL to see the current information.
| Monthly Speaker | Date | Excerpt |
|---|---|---|
| Gordon Tharrett – fishing the Green river in Utah | Dec 01 6:30 PM | Gordon Tharrett will be sharing with us the remarkable fly-fishing around Utah and the Green River, where what some of the members call “The 20/20 club” – a size 20″ trout on a size 20 fly” |
| Annual Slideshow | Jan 05 7:00 PM | In January, we’re going to be back at the Sherriff’s Posse Hall for another BBQ and our annual Club Members Photo Slide Show. Submit your photos today to Tommy Polito thomaspolito12@gmail.com then come join us the first week of January – in person!!! |
Posted on October 28th, 2021
Posted on October 28th, 2021
We have some great door prizes for lucky meeting attendees. Take a look! A really cool Trout Unlimited sling pack to carry all your goodies, An Adamsbuilt wader safety belt, great for you or for your fishing partner if they forget theirs, and a pair of lucky fishing socks, who doesn’t need a little extra luck.
No tickets to buy, just show up at the Zoom meeting.
Posted on October 23rd, 2021
This fly is my number one choice for bass subsurface. I normally use an intermediate sink line and trail this fly 24”-48” behind a green or black Woolybugger. I’ve also caught trout and Stripers using the same system. Use a slow retrieve . Don’t be without this fly!
Please call Dan Eaton at (831) 336-2933 to sign up and I’ll get your packet of material together for you at my front door. There is no charge for the class and all materials are provided except olive 8/0 and 6/0 thread. Or at least 8/0. If you need to borrow club thread, let me know. Beginners are welcome but you will have to contact Elaine Cook at (831)688-1561 well ahead of time to borrow vice , and tools.
If you would like to tune in to watch, that’s fine.
Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to URL to see the current information.
| Monthly Speaker | Date | Excerpt | |
|---|---|---|---|
| X-Caddis | Dec 08 6:30 PM | – dry fly for trout – streams and lakes throughout the West – Olive 8/0 thread. | |
| Red Bead Cone Head | Jan 12 6:30 PM | – large trout and bass – appropriate for Pyramid , Los Banos Creek Reservoir, Delta and like waters – black 6/0 thread |
Posted on October 28th, 2021
Posted on October 28th, 2021
Hi SCFF club members,
There are three river cleanup days scheduled in November. This is a great way to provide community service in a hands-on fashion. Volunteering for these events could be an opportunity for those members with children needing community service credits for school.
Posted on October 29th, 2021
Its just about that time when my loved ones say, “I don’t know what to get him, he buys all the fishing stuff he wants when he wants.”
Maybe a hint would be for to look at the items from the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Store. For your holiday shopping, we are going to set up pickup in Aptos for the items. After you purchase, you will coordinate a pick up place and time with Kevin Murdock.
Or maybe if you can’t wait until Christmas, just buy some stuff yourself.
Posted on October 29th, 2021
mobile scrollable table
| EVENT NAME | EVENT DATE | SPECIES | FISH MASTER |
|---|---|---|---|
| O’Neill Forebay – Nov 4 – 7 2021 | November 04, 2021 – November 07, 2021 | Striped Bass | Kevin Murdock (831) 238 -3037 |
| Pyramid Lake Fish-out April 3rd-9th 2022 | April 03, 2022 – April 09, 2022 | Lahontan Cutthroat Trout | Mike White – (831) 706-5556 |
| Mammoth Fishout – 2022 | September 24, 2022 – October 08, 2022 | Trout | John Cook fishmaster– (831)688-1561 or (831)234-6515 |
Islands Oneill Forebay (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: Kevin Murdock (831) 238 -3037
We will camp at the same place again at Medeiros Campground site #23 I will try to get again, there are 4 sites there and more than one car per site is okay. New people should contact me personally for details. Bring everything to camp bare bones style, only a single vault style toilet which is not too bad compared to the other porta potties throughout the campground. Bring water, and food and cooking gear, there will be a camp stove or two to use or cook over the camp fire.
Gear to use: 7 or 8 wt rod, full sinking line like Rio Outbound Short or Tungsten T-11 shooting head with a good running line. 15 lb test fluorocarbon leader (6′ is long enough so the fly gets down deeper). Lee Haskins or Jim Hall has flies for sale. Both are listed in our club roster and you can make an order directly with them. Float tubes of course or small craft like flat bottom dingy’s and some kayaks work okay except when windy. (It can really BLOW you away there and we hope for good conditions but we have had big rainstorms in years past so prepare for the worst).
One thing we never have enough of is firewood for the evening rap sessions, the size of wood that comes in a box at the grocery store is perfect for our portable fire tubs.
The camp is only 70 miles from Santa Cruz and directions can be easily be found on your GPS system. Call or email me @ (831) 238 -3037 or troutdock89@gmail.com to be on the list so I have a good idea of how many will attend. We always have a good time at this event. See you there, Kevin
Pyramid Lake (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: Mike White – (831) 706-5556
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 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.
Mammoth Lakes (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: 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 24 – Oct 1. Week 2: Oct 1 – Oct 8.
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: TBD
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 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.
Covid Issues: TBD
Posted on October 28th, 2021
Posted on October 28th, 2021
It is with great pride I report to you that after 4 years of effort we have achieved what once seemed to be impossible – a continuously run fishery monitoring plan for the Smith River, with a focus on sonar counting both Chinook salmon & Steelhead. As most know, the Smith is the last remaining anadromous fish river in California that is free flowing from source to sea. It is also the crown jewel of steelhead, with the California State record for size. It measured 42” X 23”, which calculates to somewhere between 29 & 32 pounds. At record weighting it topped the scale at more than 27 pounds.
Here’s a shortened version of the story. Ben Taylor, Chuck Bucaria, Lowell Ashbaugh and I began working on the Smith more than 10 years ago. We achieved a change in leader length to stop the “flossing-type” snagging of Chinook, and we worked with the Fish & Game Commission to stop the take of wild Steelhead. Both of these changes were necessary to preserve both species. Then, more than 6 years ago we began a dialogue with CDFW on how they monitor the runs of anadromous fish. As it turned out, they had no credible data other than to say “we know the Smith has healthy runs of Chinook & Steelhead”. Well, we thought that simply was unacceptable.
After a year talking with the CDFW Fisheries Branch Chief, we secured a meeting with Chuck Bonham, CDFW Director, shortly after his appointment under Governor Brown. We made a plea to he and the Fishery Chief that we’d write a Fisheries Management Plan for the Smith as a draft and work with their fishery biologist on the North Coast to make it an acceptable document to implement on the river. We offered to write the draft plan, pay costs to get it into a reviewable draft ($35,000), and get it into implementation. That started a nearly 3 year process but finished in 2019 with an approved Fisheries Monitoring Plan, which is where we are today.
Following that effort we worked with CDFW to obtain 3 DIDSON sonar monitoring devices, which CDFW said they had, but weren’t sure if they could authorize them for the Smith. As it turned out, more than 18 months went by without CDFW making the devices available. They said the equipment was not available and they had no funding for personnel to manage the program. They had no idea when it could be started.
We then decided to work with NOAA fisheries and the Tolowa Dee ni’ (TDN) Tribe which lives on the estuary of the river, and runs a small hatchery there. TDN applied for and received a grant from the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) for staffing the project for 2 years, but was promised by CDFW that it would provide the DIDSON equipment. After nearly a year CDFW was not able to come up with the sonar equipment. TDN then applied to BIA again, this time for 2 sonar units, at a cost of $170,000. I also communicated to Director Bonham that CDFW was losing face and reputation with us and the Tribe. To his credit he pushed the state and regional Tribal Liaisons to work with the Tribe and the regional director to get the equipment to the Tribe. They then worked out a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to loan 2 DIDSON units to the Tribe.
Today, October 2021 we’ll have 2 DIDSON sonar counting units in the water for the migration seasons of both Chinook and Steelhead. The Tribe also has 2 additional units as spares in case of a failure. This program will be run totally by Tolowa Dee ni’ for both installation & maintenance of the sonar as well as staffing to do the monitoring and reporting to CDFW. This program will be run annually into the future. We need 2 life cycles of Chinook to have scientifically credible information that will be used to manage that fishery. This is a huge win for the fish and for those of us who love Chinook & Steelhead, and the Smith.
For those of you who have not fished the Smith, a most historic river in fly fishing lore, you should consider it. I’ve fished it only once, in February, and was able to land 2 bright Smith River Steelhead in the 12-15 pound range. I saw several others rolling that were larger. They are magnificent fish, and the Smith is one of our most beautiful rivers. Zack Larson, who I fished with, does guide, and Zack helped us write some of the fishery plan. Give him a call: 707-954-1085. BTW, the Smith receives significant rain in the winter, and flows can be very high. The day before I fished it was running at 16,000 cfs, but clarity as fishable. The next day the flows were down to 7,000 cfs, and the day I landed the 2 fish it was at 5,000 cfs. Hence, though it gets lots of water, it drops and clears quickly. If you love Steelhead or Chinook, this is California’s best place.
Posted on October 29th, 2021
General Meeting……………………
Michael Malekos – Float tubing
October Door Prize
President’s Line…………………….
Hang In There – We’re Almost There!
Fly Tying……………………
Sierra Bright Dot
Tips For Fly Tying
Conservation Concerns……………
Welcome Robert ‘Bob’ Garbarino
CalTrout News – California Budget, Water and Fish
Membership Notes…………………
BRIAN O’KEEFE’S PRO FISHING PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
Reminder: Palm Beach Oct. 2- where are the Palms?
Reminder: FishOut for striped bass Oct 7-10 O’Neill Forebay
Fishout Schedule…………………
Gone Fishing……………………….…
Sons (and Daughters) of the beaches
Reel News……………………….…
CSPA September 21st Report to NCCFFI
Cartoon…………………………..…
Posted on September 21st, 2021
For October’s meeting we welcome Mike Malekos. Mike is the Founder and Administrator of The Casting A Rise Foundation. Casting A Rise raises money for charitable, educational, and nonprofit organizations through fly fishing. Please take a look at www.castingarise.com and consider supporting this impactful 501(C)(3) organization.
Mike is also a contributing Columnist at California Fly Fisher magazine. His “Snapshot” articles are short, informative pieces discussing how to fly fish various fisheries within our state. Through his commentary Mike shares how to get there, how to fish there, and most importantly, why he fishes each body of water the way he does. The written synopsis of his fly fishing experience is intended to shorten an angler’s learning curve and to serve as a starting point for someone who has never visited the profiled fishery. Among other things, Mike touches on the area, equipment selection, and how he found fish to behave. During his presentation, Mike will share his views regarding float tube safety, selection, essential gear, and profile several still water trout fishing destinations Santa Cruz Fly Fishing members should consider visiting.
Future Speakers. Dates and speakers may change, please go to URL to see the current information.
| Monthly Speaker | Date | Excerpt | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | April Vokey – Spey Casting for Steelhead | Nov 02 6:30 PM | Dame Juliana of Steelhead spey Casting- April Vokey |
 | Gordon Tharrett – fishing the Green river in Utah | Dec 01 6:30 PM | Gordon Tharrett will be sharing with us the remarkable fly-fishing around Utah and the Green River, where what some of the members call “The 20/20 club” – a size 20″ trout on a size 20 fly” |
Posted on September 21st, 2021
Posted on September 21st, 2021
This dry fly is an attractor pattern for trout. And attract it does. I will challenge you by tying a small fly , size 16, but on the other hand it is a very simple tie. So don’t hesitate to join in. Please set up a good light, manification and prescription glasses if you wear them. The class is always free, materials provided and we welcome beginners. If you have never tied before or haven’t tools or vise, you will need to call me ASAP to get you set up. To the rest of you, I will be out of town from Oct. 6th and return on the 10th. So call me soon if you want material before I leave. Otherwise leave me a message letting me know if you need to borrow black 8/0 thread and I’ll get the bag of materials at my door sometime on Monday the 11th. To sign up call: (831)688-1561 or (831)251-4741 or (831)234-6515. NO text messages please.
Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to URL to see the current information.
| Monthly Fly | Date | Excerpt |
|---|---|---|
| Bug Eye Nymph | Nov 10 6:30 PM | – bass and trout -Taught by Dan Eaton. Very effective last spring at Los Banos Creek Reservoir for bass. |
| X-Caddis | Dec 08 6:30 PM | – dry fly for trout – streams and lakes throughout the West – Olive 8/0 thread. |
| Red Bead Cone Head | Jan 12 6:30 PM | – large trout and bass – appropriate for Pyramid , Los Banos Creek Reservoir, Delta and like waters – black 6/0 thread |
| Surf Percher | Feb 09 6:30 PM | – surf fish species – local beaches – red 6/0 thread |
| Poppers | Mar 12 9:00 AM | – bass – top water lakes and ponds, primarily in spring – very strong thread, any color. NOTE: Let Elaine know early if you want to attend. Class is VERY popular. |
| Green Drake | Apr 13 6:30 PM | – dry fly for trout – spring in the Rocky Mountains and other Western streams and rivers – tan 6/0 thread |
| Cricket | May 11 6:30 PM | – dry fly for trout – streams and rivers thought the West – black 6/0 thread |
Posted on September 21st, 2021Edit
Posted on September 21st, 2021
mobile scrollable table
| EVENT NAME | EVENT DATE | SPECIES | FISH MASTER |
|---|---|---|---|
| Palm Beach | October 02, 2021 | Surf Perch and other species | Sam Bishop (831) 476-6451 |
| O’Neill Forebay – Oct 7 – 10 2021 | October 07, 2021 – October 10, 2021 | Striped Bass | Steve Rudzinski ssrudzinski@gmail.com |
| O’Neill Forebay – Nov 4 – 7 2021 | November 04, 2021 – November 07, 2021 | Striped Bass | Steve Rudzinski ssrudzinski@gmail.com |
| Pyramid Lake Fish-out April 3rd-9th 2022 | April 03, 2022 – April 09, 2022 | Lahontan Cutthroat Trout | Mike White – (831) 706-5556 |
Palm State Beach (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: Sam Bishop (831) 476-6451
The Forebay fish-out Stosh organized is the second weekend of October, so I have moved our surf fish-out to the first Saturday in October (2nd) so everyone can participate in both.
Sunrise is at 07:04, and we will meet at 0640. High tide (+4.2’) is at 09:17, so we will fish a flood tide. Some people believe this is the best tide to fish as the fish will be coming in to feed on critters untouched in the sand for several hours. I can’t personally say one way or the other, as I have caught fish in the surf at all stages of tide. It seems to be more a case of whether or not they see what I am offering and are they biting it?
I will have flies (free), stripping baskets ($20 to the Club) and brand new wading belts ($10 to repay my cost) available.
Getting there: Take West Beach out of Watsonville all the way towards the ocean until you are mired in the sand. You went just a bit too far, so back up your 4WD about 100 feet and park on the right under the Eucalyptus trees that drip and stain your vehicle when they are wet. (Hint: Wash it off right away when you get home.)
BTW, I like the State Beaches, because when you are done, there is a shower nearby to wash the sand off your waders and salt off your gear before heading home.
This is our last “organized” surf fish-out for 2021. Last month most everyone caught fish or had hook-ups. Let’s do it again!
Islands Oneill Forebay (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: Steve Rudzinski ssrudzinski@gmail.com
The annual O’Neill ForeBay Striped Bass FishOut has been scheduled for Oct 7-10 and Nov 4-7 (Thurs-Sunday). I made it during the dark phase of the moon this year.
We will camp at the same place again at Medeiros Campground site #23 I will try to get again, there are 4 sites there and more than one car per site is okay. New people should contact me personally for details. Bring everything to camp bare bones style, only a single vault style toilet which is not too bad compared to the other porta potties throughout the campground. Bring water, and food and cooking gear, there will be a camp stove or two to use or cook over the camp fire.
Gear to use: 7 or 8 wt rod, full sinking line like Rio Outbound Short or Tungsten T-11 shooting head with a good running line. 15 lb test fluorocarbon leader (6′ is long enough so the fly gets down deeper). Lee Haskins or Jim Hall has flies for sale. Both are listed in our club roster and you can make an order directly with them. Float tubes of course or small craft like flat bottom dingy’s and some kayaks work okay except when windy. (It can really BLOW you away there and we hope for good conditions but we have had big rainstorms in years past so prepare for the worst).
One thing we never have enough of is firewood for the evening rap sessions, the size of wood that comes in a box at the grocery store is perfect for our portable fire tubs.
The camp is only 70 miles from Santa Cruz and directions can be easily be found on your GPS system. Call or email me @ 831 462 4532 or ssrudzinski@gmail.com to be on the list so I have a good idea of how many will attend. We always have a good time at this event. See you there, Stosh
Islands Oneill Forebay (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: Steve Rudzinski ssrudzinski@gmail.com
Target Species:
Pyramid Lake (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: Mike White – (831) 706-5556
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 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.
Posted on September 21st, 2021
The California Sportfishing Protection Alliance (CSPA) has been in the trenches fighting for fisheries and water quality on multiple fronts during this historic 2021 drought. Here is a link to our website for the most current news https://calsport.org/news
Recent activities include:
[S]tart now to keep the present condition from getting worse. Specifically, the Board should act now to end the ongoing water transfers that BOR is making on behalf of Sacramento River Settlement Contractors from water sourced in Shasta Reservoir. The Board should not allow it to get worse by allowing BOR to complete these transfers in the balance of September and in October. The August Addendum currently anticipates Shasta storage to be 728 thousand acre-feet. That storage level is reckless.
Posted on September 22nd, 2021
General Meeting……………………
Women-focused Flyfishing, Travel and Finatical Flyfishing
September Door Prize
Photo Raffle – drawing 9/1 at Sept SCFF Meeting
President’s Line…………………….
Hang In There – We’re Almost There!
Fly Tying……………………
Yellow Clouser
Red and White Bead Chain Whistler
Conservation Concerns……………
Klamath River story
Membership Notes…………………
Invitation for new members to try Striper fishing
2021 Membership Rosters available by email request
Fishout Schedule…………………
Gone Fishing……………………….…
Fishing in Montana
August fly fishing the surf
Traveling the West
Reel News……………………….…
Redding Flyshop 43 yr Labor Day luncheon Fri 10am Sept 3
September NCCFFI update
Cartoon…………………………..…
Posted on August 26th, 2021
