Posted on October 26, 2022October 26, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

Fishout Schedule – Nov 2022

mobile scrollable table

EVENT NAME	EVENT DATE	SPECIES	FISH MASTER
Kennedy Meadows / Sonora Pass – Fish-Out 2024	Jul 21 - Jul 25	Trout	Tom Hogye - Fishmaster (831) 214 7578
Rio Del Mar State Beach Surf Fishout	Aug 03
Manresa Beach	Sep 07	Surf Perch, Stripers	Tommy Polito, Scott Kitayama
Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 21-Oct.5	Sep 21 - Oct 05	Trout	John Cook fishmaster-- (831)688-1561 or (831)234-6515
O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout (Final Date TBD)	Oct 01 - Oct 04
Last Surf Fishout of 2024!	Oct 05

Jul 21 : Kennedy Meadows / Sonora Pass – Fish-Out 2024

(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: Tom Hogye - Fishmaster (831) 214 7578

Kennedy Meadows Resort & Pack Station / Baker & Deadman campground.

http://www.kennedymeadows.com. If you want to stay in a cabin, you should try to get a reservation now.

The cabins generally roll over annually with returning guests from the previous year. The Hogye’s will be in Cabin 11. Rates range from $115 – 260 per night depending upon the size and number of rooms/beds. These are rustic cabins but have bathroom, shower, kitchen/kitchenettes depending on how big/small the cabin is. Team up!

Campgrounds immediately south of KM (1/2 a mile and 1 mile) are Deadman and Baker. They are recommended for anyone wanting to join us. Usually about $30.00 per site/per night. Some have a “golden pass” which is a sizable discount if you have that. The campgrounds are very nice and are pretty much right on the river. Mona and I have camped here for some 30 years! Yikes.

Beside fishing, the hiking and horse pack trips are available up to the reservoir which is a couple miles and 2,500 feet of elevation gain. KM sits at 6,300 feet in elevation. No internet, no cell signal. Be prepared to “disconnect” and reconnect with nature and peace of mind, completely. The lodge has a great comfort food restaurant, store, and yes, there is a bonified Saloon.

The Upper Meadow at KM is stunning. If you like to hike – the trails up to the Emigrant wilderness junction the PCT when you get ot 10,000 feet and Relief Reservoir is a great fishery at 8,800 feet.

The Middle-Fork of the Stanislaus River flows along highway 108 It is primarily a planted fishery with some “wild” fish. Excellent dry fly and wet fly fishing. Planted fish average10-12 inches, wild fish generally smaller, but pretty. Planted fish range from 12-21 inches.

Weather is generally excellent, chilly Sierra mornings great for coffee and a book, with wet wading afternoons in the 80’s.

We will have meals together, fish together or alone, hang out by the campfire. I just LOVE this place.

Reach Tom Hogye for any questions.

Santa Cruz Fly Fishing

831 / 214-7578 C

http://www.santacruzflyfishing.org

‘If we don’t save the planet – who’s gonna?’

Aug 03 : Rio Del Mar State Beach Surf Fishout

(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

Location: Rio Del Mar State Beach

Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers

Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety),

Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket

(If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online)

Single, double & triple fly rigs

Clousers to sand crabs

Directions: Take RDM Blvd all the way down to the flats (bottom), circle the round-about to the left and exit back along Beach Drive, drive half mile to the State Beach (aka Platform). DO NOT stop up by the round-about, be sure to continue on Beach Drive. Early in the morning the parking lot is closed, but there is plenty of parking outside.

SURF FISHOUTS 2024			Meeting Time (AM)	State Beach	Sunrise	Low tide	High tide	Moon	Tide flow	Fishmaster
SURF FISHOUTS 2024			Meeting Time (AM)	State Beach	Sunrise	Low tide	High tide	Moon	Tide flow	Fishmaster
MAY	4^th	Saturday	5:55	Rio Del Mar	6:10	LO 02:14 +1.1	HI 07:58 AM +4.0	New Jun 7	Hi Flood to High Slack	Lance B
JUNE*	1^st	Saturday	5:35	Beercan*	5:50	LO 01:12 +1.3	HI 06:39 +3.4	New Jun 6	High Slack to Ebb	Sam
JULY	6^th	Saturday	5:40	Palm	5:56	LO 06:03 -1.1	HI 1:04 PM +3.7	New Jul 5	Low slack to Flood	Lance B
AUGUST	3^rd	Saturday	6:00	Rio Del Mar	6:15	LO 05:05 -0.7	HI 11:54 AM +3.8	New Aug 4	Low slack to Flood	Lance B
SEPT	7^th	Saturday	6:25	Manresa	6:44	LO 07:04 +1.8	HI 1:26 PM +4.6	New Sep 2	Low slack to low Flood	Sam
OCT	5^th	Saturday	6:50	Palm	7:06	LO 05:50 + 2.1	HI Noon +5.0	New Oct 2	Low Flood	Sam

Notes: Meet up times are scheduled 15 – 20 minutes before official sunrise. Locations/dates/times/Fishmasters might change, notifications on Google Groups. June 1st* Mike Lovejoy’s for breakfast after fishing: 115 Driftwood Ct., Aptos							Contacts: Sam Bishop sambishop@totlcom.com, 831-274-4024 Lance Boling <clboling@gmail.com>


Locations	Rio Del Mar State Beach – Google Map location for “Platform Beach”
	*Beercan Beach –** Enter 1191 Via Palo Alto, Aptos. Path & Stairs between Houses (See Notes)
	Palm Beach – Pajaro Dunes, end of West Beach St.
	Manresa State Beach – Google it, but parking may be on Ocean View Dr, 500 yards down the road

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zraPirPBmIU

Tides

Zen

Sep 07 : Manresa Beach

Manresa State Beach (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: Tommy Polito, Scott Kitayama

Location: Manresa State Beach

Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers

Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety),

Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket

(If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online)

Single, double & triple fly rigs

Clousers to sand crabs

SURF FISHOUTS 2024			Meeting Time (AM)	State Beach	Sunrise	Low tide	High tide	Moon	Tide flow	Fishmaster
SURF FISHOUTS 2024			Meeting Time (AM)	State Beach	Sunrise	Low tide	High tide	Moon	Tide flow	Fishmaster
MAY	4^th	Saturday	5:55	Rio Del Mar	6:10	LO 02:14 +1.1	HI 07:58 AM +4.0	New Jun 7	Hi Flood to High Slack	Lance B
JUNE*	1^st	Saturday	5:35	Beercan*	5:50	LO 01:12 +1.3	HI 06:39 +3.4	New Jun 6	High Slack to Ebb	Sam
JULY	6^th	Saturday	5:40	Palm	5:56	LO 06:03 -1.1	HI 1:04 PM +3.7	New Jul 5	Low slack to Flood	Lance B
AUGUST	3^rd	Saturday	6:00	Rio Del Mar	6:15	LO 05:05 -0.7	HI 11:54 AM +3.8	New Aug 4	Low slack to Flood	Sam
SEPT	7^th	Saturday	6:25	Manresa	6:44	LO 07:04 +1.8	HI 1:26 PM +4.6	New Sep 2	Low slack to low Flood	Sam
OCT	5^th	Saturday	6:50	Palm	7:06	LO 05:50 + 2.1	HI Noon +5.0	New Oct 2	Low Flood	Sam

Notes: Meet up times are scheduled 15 – 20 minutes before official sunrise. Locations/dates/times/Fishmasters might change, notifications on Google Groups. June 1st* Mike Lovejoy’s for breakfast after fishing: 115 Driftwood Ct., Aptos							Contacts: Sam Bishop sambishop@totlcom.com, 831-274-4024 Lance Boling <clboling@gmail.com>


Locations	Rio Del Mar State Beach – Google Map location for “Platform Beach”
	*Beercan Beach –** Enter 1191 Via Palo Alto, Aptos. Path & Stairs between Houses (See Notes)
	Palm Beach – Pajaro Dunes, end of West Beach St.
	Manresa State Beach – Google it, but parking may be on Ocean View Dr, 500 yards down the road

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zraPirPBmIU

Tides

Zen

Sep 21 : 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 – 4/24/2024 – Three spots open first week, second week is full.

Sign Ups: As a reminder, it is important to sign up early or this Fishout. Half of the spots have been filled.

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.

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.

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!

Oct 05 : Last Surf Fishout of 2024!

Palm State Beach (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

Location: Palm Beach

Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers

Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety),

Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket

(If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online)

Single, double & triple fly rigs

Clousers to sand crabs

SURF FISHOUTS 2024			Meeting Time (AM)	State Beach	Sunrise	Low tide	High tide	Moon	Tide flow	Fishmaster
SURF FISHOUTS 2024			Meeting Time (AM)	State Beach	Sunrise	Low tide	High tide	Moon	Tide flow	Fishmaster
MAY	4^th	Saturday	5:55	Rio Del Mar	6:10	LO 02:14 +1.1	HI 07:58 AM +4.0	New Jun 7	Hi Flood to High Slack	Lance B
JUNE*	1^st	Saturday	5:35	Beercan*	5:50	LO 01:12 +1.3	HI 06:39 +3.4	New Jun 6	High Slack to Ebb	Sam
JULY	6^th	Saturday	5:40	Palm	5:56	LO 06:03 -1.1	HI 1:04 PM +3.7	New Jul 5	Low slack to Flood	Lance B
AUGUST	3^rd	Saturday	6:00	Rio Del Mar	6:15	LO 05:05 -0.7	HI 11:54 AM +3.8	New Aug 4	Low slack to Flood	Sam
SEPT	7^th	Saturday	6:25	Manresa	6:44	LO 07:04 +1.8	HI 1:26 PM +4.6	New Sep 2	Low slack to low Flood	Sam
OCT	5^th	Saturday	6:50	Palm	7:06	LO 05:50 + 2.1	HI Noon +5.0	New Oct 2	Low Flood	Sam

Notes: Meet up times are scheduled 15 – 20 minutes before official sunrise. Locations/dates/times/Fishmasters might change, notifications on Google Groups. June 1st* Mike Lovejoy’s for breakfast after fishing: 115 Driftwood Ct., Aptos							Contacts: Sam Bishop sambishop@totlcom.com, 831-274-4024 Lance Boling <clboling@gmail.com>


Locations	Rio Del Mar State Beach – Google Map location for “Platform Beach”
	*Beercan Beach –** Enter 1191 Via Palo Alto, Aptos. Path & Stairs between Houses (See Notes)
	Palm Beach – Pajaro Dunes, end of West Beach St.
	Manresa State Beach – Google it, but parking may be on Ocean View Dr, 500 yards down the road

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zraPirPBmIU

Tides

Zen

Posted on October 26th, 2022

Posted on October 26, 2022October 26, 2022 by Scott Kitayama

Cartoon Throwback

This cartoon by Elaine Cook first ran in February 1922 which was also the first year that John Steele was president of the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club.

Posted on October 26th, 2022

Posted on September 27, 2022September 27, 2022 by Scott Kitayama

October 2022 Table of Contents

October General Meeting……………………
Claire Buchanan ~ Bay Area Senior Project Manager for California Trout
October Raffle
President’s Line…………………….
Fly Tying……………………
Cicada – Fly Tying Class
Olive, gold and white clouser
Conservation Concerns……………
Conservation Organizations Thank Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club
Fishout Schedule…………………
Cartoon…………………………..…

Posted on September 27th, 2022

Posted on September 26, 2022September 27, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

Claire Buchanan ~ Bay Area Senior Project Manager for California Trout

Oct 05 6:30 PM Aptos Grange (in-person) and Zoom (online)

Claire is the new Senior Project Manager for the Bay Area Region of California Trout. She came on board to help add capacity specifically in the South Bay as well as Santa Cruz and Monterey counties. She comes to Caltrout with a broad range of fisheries experience, from agency work to ecological consulting, and has a passion for fishing and the outdoors. Her expertise is California native trout. She has had the privilege to be involved with the management and conservation of all eleven of California’s native trout…has caught a few of them too.

Posted on September 26th, 2022

Posted on September 27, 2022September 27, 2022 by Carly Blanchard

October Raffle

End of Summer Raffle! This month we have three great prizes. Winners get the choice of a 4-piece 9-foot rod & reel set (5 WT, 6WT, or & WT), hand-tied striper flies by Lee Haskin (Perfect for the Forebay), or a set of Motorola Walkie-Talkie units with batteries included!

The ticket sales are open and close at noon 10/5 the day of the meeting.

Click on this link to purchase tickets: https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/product-category/raffle-prizes/

Tickets are a dollar each, $20 bucks get you 25. The drawing of tickets will take place at the monthly meeting. Club membership is not required to participate, need not be present to win.

Support your club, buy a raffle ticket!

Posted on September 27th, 2022

Posted on September 26, 2022September 27, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

Getting Through the Storm, Planning the Future

by Getting Through the Storm, Planning the Future!

Well at this writing, Mona and I are in Florida helping Emily batten down the hatches for Hurricane Ian which is set to bring heavy rains and winds to her community near Ocala. It is practically a divine appointment, because this trip was a last-minute plan, no hurricane in the picture, just some time to get out to help our daughter with her place and visit. Getting out may be equally as interesting since we’re supposed to leave right as it grazes Gainesville with heavy rain.

Planning. How many times have we planned something and then it doesn’t happen, or something changes our plans – like COVID?! Well, that’s what happened to our Annual Dinner / Fundraiser many of us have cherished and looked forward to for decades. That event is so much fun, most of us who plan, volunteer, and participate, know it is a full day of fun together – and the very next best thing to fishing together. All the prep beforehand, coffee and donuts in the morning – just like fishing together. Covid really put a damper on this for the last couple of years, which seems like centuries – BUT – no more. Hang on to your britches family – we are going to have the Annual Fundraiser again – on February 18^th. Mark your calendars. More to follow, but plan for an event that starts early in the day, is full food, fun, the installation and acknowledgement of our members, board members and other fun stuff, AND the raffle!! This has normally been our largest fundraising event for our facility, conservation funds, events, and our scholarship fund. So stay tuned for more.

The fly-tying classes are back in full swing at the Grange, the second Wednesday of the month. If you are interested in taking some wintertime to tie up some bugs – get to the basics and other good foundational techniques and tools to use for your own fly-tying. I love tying flies on those shorter winter rainy days and evenings. If you haven’t ever taken a class – great! Reach out to Elaine Cook and you’re in. We all started with ugly bugs that still caught fish!

We will have another casting class at Jade Street Park last Saturday in October, so please stay tuned. We can work on single hand Spey techniques which are excellent for some of our local Steelhead waters when that time comes this fall and winter. And for those of you wanting to work on anything else – we’re game – bring it!!

Fish-outs for the 2023 year are already getting on the calendar. Check it out. Make a plan ahead of time. If you want to join us at Kennedy Meadows on Sonora Pass next year and you want to stay in a cabin – even a small one – get on the list with them now. Most cabins book nearly a year in advance. It’s a beautiful place to be in the summer.

I am super grateful for our board – your board, and all they have done to help you make the very best of your own fly-fishing dreams. We are continuing to develop our “hybrid-meetings” and kudos needs to go out to Scott Kitayama and Tommy Polito for continuing to improve this experience, despite some of the pitfalls. We are still working on getting speakers to physically come to the meetings, but some of them are just so good we will likely continue to have some of our speakers via zoom.

Thanks, Jeff Goyert, for making the best raffle in all the Northern California clubs. The prizes are awesome and the opportunity for every member to participate is the best thing we can offer the membership. Don’t forget – those raffle dollars go directly into the clubs scholarship and conservation funding, amongst other club necessities.

I’ve read a couple of good books lately. Of course, they revolve around that which makes our fly-fishing enjoyable. Both books are eye openers. One more scientific; the other more passionate, deep, compelling, mysterious. Both a very good read. First one, “Salmon Without Rivers”, by Jim Lichatowich. An easy-to-read scientific write about the history of salmon and steelhead and her delicate and vital habitat. Thank you, Carly Blanchard, for allowing me this good read. If you don’t know what we did to the rivers, habitat and other species just barely 150 years ago – you need to read this. Another good one is “My Story as Told by Water”, David James Duncan. A series of chapters around all forms of trout, steelhead, salmon, some deep passionate and activist revelations, some significant successes, and some interesting takes on Salmon from the perspective of how they were perceived long before we turned them into an industry. Thank you Jeff Goyert for this one. I highly recommend both books. Would love to hear what you guys read as I’m needing a new one. I suppose if you write to me with a suggestion, it means you read this President’s message!

Thank you to everyone who has been active in the club. I love seeing all the enthusiasm, new ideas, new members. I love getting to know you even if I only see you once or twice a month. For me, the club is a respite from the storm I look forward to so often. And as we are getting back to the Grange in person, it sure is fun seeing you now more often or even the very first time.

Spread the word – the plan is it keeps getting better and better because of you. See you soon.

Tom

Posted on September 26th, 2022

Posted on September 26, 2022September 27, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

Fly Tying Class – October

Oct 12 6:15 PM : Cicada

If you plan to dry fly fish for trout anywhere in the world it’s a good idea to have a few of these flies in your box. A lot of club members fish the Green River in Utah and if you go there in the spring, this is a must have fly. To protect people from Covid during our class, if you are not vaccinated and boosted wear a mask. Otherwise wearing a mask is recommended for all. Please bring your vice tools and light. Also 6/0 black thread. Some tools, vices and thread will be available for beginners who are always welcome. The class is free and all other materials are provided.

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

	Fly for Class	Date	Excerpt
	Nov 09	Blow Torch - November Fly Tying Class	A must have steelhead fly.

Posted on September 26th, 2022

Posted on August 25, 2022September 27, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

Olive, gold and white clouser

by Elaine Cook, fly tying chairman

HOOK: Mustad 34007 size 1/0 or 2/0
THREAD: white flat waxed nylon
EYES: barbell eyes-white with black pupil
BELLY: 1.Doug’s Bugs Motion Flash-pearl (similar to Krystal Flash or Mega Baitfish Emulator. These are thicker strands. So use fewer.)
2. Gold craft fur.
3. White or cream craft fur.
BACK: Zap-A-Gap or similar glue.

Crimp barb.
Attached thread behind eye. With touching wraps, cover front 1/2 of shank. Position thread 1/2 way between hook eye and point.
Attach eyes to top of shank with figure 8 wraps and wraps around base of barbells. Apply glue to thread wraps. Advanced thread to in front of eyes.
Using about 15 strands of flash, cut in half, bundle. NOTE: If using other materials, they at thicker strands, so use less. Also when fibers bundled they should be 5 inches long. Place center of bundle in front of eyes, tie in place with two wraps. Fold forward strands rearward and tie in place with 2 wraps behind eyes.
Advance thread to in front of eyes. Cut patch, about 1/2 inch by 3/4 inch, of gold craft fur and clean out fuzz. Tie in butt ends snuggly up against eyes. Then wrap down with two wraps behind eyes.
Advanced thread to in front of eyes. Cut and prepare patch of white craft fur, about 3/4 inch by 3/4 inch, as above. Tie in as above.
Advance thread to in front of eyes. Tie a half hitch. Reposition hook upside down vise.
Prepare olive craft for, 1/2 inch by three-quarter inch, as above. Tie in only in front of eyes. Wrap down but ends forming a tapered nose.
Whip finish, cut thread, apply glue to nose and fibers between eyes.
Trim extra long fibers to shape fly. Overall length of fly should be about 3 inches.

Having clousers to fish for stripers is essential. Here’s one to try next time you go for these powerful fish.

Posted on August 25th, 2022

Posted on September 27, 2022September 27, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

Conservation Organizations Thank Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club

by Bob Garbarino

In case you missed the September meeting, I want to revisit one of the important annual SCFF traditions: donations to support conservation organizations. Two of these organizations, CalTrout and the Coastal Watershed Council, received donations. I wanted to share with you thank you letters from them. Through your membership and participation in our fundraising activities, our club is able to support CalTrout, Coastal Watershed Council and other conservation organizations that help repair, enhance and preserve our fisheries. Thank you!

From the CalTrout website:
“At California Trout, we work to ensure healthy waters and resilient wild fish for a better California. It’s our belief that abundant wild fish indicate healthy waters and that healthy waters benefit all Californians. With more than sixty large-scale conservation projects underway, in tandem with public policy efforts in Sacramento, our six regional offices work tirelessly to advance our cause through a three-pillared approach to conservation.”

Letter from CalTrout:

Dear Bob,
Thank you so much for your gift of $500.00 received on 09/08/2022. Our vision of a California with healthy waters flowing from headwater to sea, where the diversity and resilience of our waters and fish match that of the people throughout our state, is achievable.
We are working harder than ever! Your contribution directly supports:
Removal of Rindge Dam and upstream barriers to restore Malibu Creek watershed which includes critical habitat for endangered Southern steelhead.
Working to establish baseline science on the Klamath River to capture variability and response in the post-dam removal era.
Recreating a healthy ecosystem in Humboldt Bay by restoring Cochran Creek estuary, which has been cut off from the ocean and no longer provides quality habitat to native fish and other wildlife.
Tracking coho and more in Walker Creek while monitoring water quality and temperature to better understand conditions for endangered salmon and threatened steelhead.
Expanding our presence in two new regions critical to habitat recovery and statewide impact: Battle Creek and Sacramento.
Building our Outreach and Education Program to effectively foster the next generation of conservationists, one that mirrors the diversity of our state.
Together, we will leave California a better place for future generations.
Yours in resilience,

Casey O’Sullivan
Membership Manager

From the Coastal Watershed Council website:

“The Coastal Watershed Council is transforming the lower San Lorenzo River into a community destination by inspiring people to explore, enhance and protect this critical natural resource.”

Letter from the Coastal Watershed Council:

Dear Bob and members of the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club,

Thank you for being among the growing group of people committed to transforming the lower San Lorenzo River into a place where all Santa Cruzans can connect to nature in their daily lives.

Your donation of $250, received on August 31, 2022, matters so much. Together, we’re enhancing native habitat, improving water quality, and engaging thousands of youth through environmental education and leadership development. With your gift to the Coastal Watershed Council, we’re increasing positive activity along the river and the Santa Cruz Riverwalk, an urban park that lines its banks.

l’d welcome an opportunity to walk along the Riverwalk, meet for a chat, or schedule a call to learn more about why you care about the watershed. Let’s talk!

Every day, l’m inspired by our vision of a thriving urban riverfront and the support of people like you. Thank you.

ln gratitude,

Laurie Egan
Executive Director

Posted on September 27th, 2022

Posted on September 26, 2022September 27, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

Fishout Schedule – Oct 2022

mobile scrollable table

EVENT NAME	EVENT DATE	SPECIES	FISH MASTER
Kennedy Meadows / Sonora Pass – Fish-Out 2024	Jul 21 - Jul 25	Trout	Tom Hogye - Fishmaster (831) 214 7578
Rio Del Mar State Beach Surf Fishout	Aug 03
Manresa Beach	Sep 07	Surf Perch, Stripers	Tommy Polito, Scott Kitayama
Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 21-Oct.5	Sep 21 - Oct 05	Trout	John Cook fishmaster-- (831)688-1561 or (831)234-6515
O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout (Final Date TBD)	Oct 01 - Oct 04
Last Surf Fishout of 2024!	Oct 05

Jul 21 : Kennedy Meadows / Sonora Pass – Fish-Out 2024

(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: Tom Hogye - Fishmaster (831) 214 7578

Kennedy Meadows Resort & Pack Station / Baker & Deadman campground.

http://www.kennedymeadows.com. If you want to stay in a cabin, you should try to get a reservation now.

Weather is generally excellent, chilly Sierra mornings great for coffee and a book, with wet wading afternoons in the 80’s.

We will have meals together, fish together or alone, hang out by the campfire. I just LOVE this place.

Reach Tom Hogye for any questions.

Santa Cruz Fly Fishing

831 / 214-7578 C

http://www.santacruzflyfishing.org

‘If we don’t save the planet – who’s gonna?’

Aug 03 : Rio Del Mar State Beach Surf Fishout

(Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

Location: Rio Del Mar State Beach

Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers

Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety),

Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket

(If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online)

Single, double & triple fly rigs

Clousers to sand crabs

SURF FISHOUTS 2024			Meeting Time (AM)	State Beach	Sunrise	Low tide	High tide	Moon	Tide flow	Fishmaster
SURF FISHOUTS 2024			Meeting Time (AM)	State Beach	Sunrise	Low tide	High tide	Moon	Tide flow	Fishmaster
MAY	4^th	Saturday	5:55	Rio Del Mar	6:10	LO 02:14 +1.1	HI 07:58 AM +4.0	New Jun 7	Hi Flood to High Slack	Lance B
JUNE*	1^st	Saturday	5:35	Beercan*	5:50	LO 01:12 +1.3	HI 06:39 +3.4	New Jun 6	High Slack to Ebb	Sam
JULY	6^th	Saturday	5:40	Palm	5:56	LO 06:03 -1.1	HI 1:04 PM +3.7	New Jul 5	Low slack to Flood	Lance B
AUGUST	3^rd	Saturday	6:00	Rio Del Mar	6:15	LO 05:05 -0.7	HI 11:54 AM +3.8	New Aug 4	Low slack to Flood	Lance B
SEPT	7^th	Saturday	6:25	Manresa	6:44	LO 07:04 +1.8	HI 1:26 PM +4.6	New Sep 2	Low slack to low Flood	Sam
OCT	5^th	Saturday	6:50	Palm	7:06	LO 05:50 + 2.1	HI Noon +5.0	New Oct 2	Low Flood	Sam

Notes: Meet up times are scheduled 15 – 20 minutes before official sunrise. Locations/dates/times/Fishmasters might change, notifications on Google Groups. June 1st* Mike Lovejoy’s for breakfast after fishing: 115 Driftwood Ct., Aptos							Contacts: Sam Bishop sambishop@totlcom.com, 831-274-4024 Lance Boling <clboling@gmail.com>


Locations	Rio Del Mar State Beach – Google Map location for “Platform Beach”
	*Beercan Beach –** Enter 1191 Via Palo Alto, Aptos. Path & Stairs between Houses (See Notes)
	Palm Beach – Pajaro Dunes, end of West Beach St.
	Manresa State Beach – Google it, but parking may be on Ocean View Dr, 500 yards down the road

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zraPirPBmIU

Tides

Zen

Sep 07 : Manresa Beach

Manresa State Beach (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster: Tommy Polito, Scott Kitayama

Location: Manresa State Beach

Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers

Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety),

Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket

(If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online)

Single, double & triple fly rigs

Clousers to sand crabs

SURF FISHOUTS 2024			Meeting Time (AM)	State Beach	Sunrise	Low tide	High tide	Moon	Tide flow	Fishmaster
SURF FISHOUTS 2024			Meeting Time (AM)	State Beach	Sunrise	Low tide	High tide	Moon	Tide flow	Fishmaster
MAY	4^th	Saturday	5:55	Rio Del Mar	6:10	LO 02:14 +1.1	HI 07:58 AM +4.0	New Jun 7	Hi Flood to High Slack	Lance B
JUNE*	1^st	Saturday	5:35	Beercan*	5:50	LO 01:12 +1.3	HI 06:39 +3.4	New Jun 6	High Slack to Ebb	Sam
JULY	6^th	Saturday	5:40	Palm	5:56	LO 06:03 -1.1	HI 1:04 PM +3.7	New Jul 5	Low slack to Flood	Lance B
AUGUST	3^rd	Saturday	6:00	Rio Del Mar	6:15	LO 05:05 -0.7	HI 11:54 AM +3.8	New Aug 4	Low slack to Flood	Sam
SEPT	7^th	Saturday	6:25	Manresa	6:44	LO 07:04 +1.8	HI 1:26 PM +4.6	New Sep 2	Low slack to low Flood	Sam
OCT	5^th	Saturday	6:50	Palm	7:06	LO 05:50 + 2.1	HI Noon +5.0	New Oct 2	Low Flood	Sam

Notes: Meet up times are scheduled 15 – 20 minutes before official sunrise. Locations/dates/times/Fishmasters might change, notifications on Google Groups. June 1st* Mike Lovejoy’s for breakfast after fishing: 115 Driftwood Ct., Aptos							Contacts: Sam Bishop sambishop@totlcom.com, 831-274-4024 Lance Boling <clboling@gmail.com>


Locations	Rio Del Mar State Beach – Google Map location for “Platform Beach”
	*Beercan Beach –** Enter 1191 Via Palo Alto, Aptos. Path & Stairs between Houses (See Notes)
	Palm Beach – Pajaro Dunes, end of West Beach St.
	Manresa State Beach – Google it, but parking may be on Ocean View Dr, 500 yards down the road

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zraPirPBmIU

Tides

Zen

Sep 21 : 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 – 4/24/2024 – Three spots open first week, second week is full.

Sign Ups: As a reminder, it is important to sign up early or this Fishout. Half of the spots have been filled.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

Oct 05 : Last Surf Fishout of 2024!

Palm State Beach (Click for address and map)
Fishmaster:

Location: Palm Beach

Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers

Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety),

Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket

(If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online)

Single, double & triple fly rigs

Clousers to sand crabs

SURF FISHOUTS 2024			Meeting Time (AM)	State Beach	Sunrise	Low tide	High tide	Moon	Tide flow	Fishmaster
SURF FISHOUTS 2024			Meeting Time (AM)	State Beach	Sunrise	Low tide	High tide	Moon	Tide flow	Fishmaster
MAY	4^th	Saturday	5:55	Rio Del Mar	6:10	LO 02:14 +1.1	HI 07:58 AM +4.0	New Jun 7	Hi Flood to High Slack	Lance B
JUNE*	1^st	Saturday	5:35	Beercan*	5:50	LO 01:12 +1.3	HI 06:39 +3.4	New Jun 6	High Slack to Ebb	Sam
JULY	6^th	Saturday	5:40	Palm	5:56	LO 06:03 -1.1	HI 1:04 PM +3.7	New Jul 5	Low slack to Flood	Lance B
AUGUST	3^rd	Saturday	6:00	Rio Del Mar	6:15	LO 05:05 -0.7	HI 11:54 AM +3.8	New Aug 4	Low slack to Flood	Sam
SEPT	7^th	Saturday	6:25	Manresa	6:44	LO 07:04 +1.8	HI 1:26 PM +4.6	New Sep 2	Low slack to low Flood	Sam
OCT	5^th	Saturday	6:50	Palm	7:06	LO 05:50 + 2.1	HI Noon +5.0	New Oct 2	Low Flood	Sam

Notes: Meet up times are scheduled 15 – 20 minutes before official sunrise. Locations/dates/times/Fishmasters might change, notifications on Google Groups. June 1st* Mike Lovejoy’s for breakfast after fishing: 115 Driftwood Ct., Aptos							Contacts: Sam Bishop sambishop@totlcom.com, 831-274-4024 Lance Boling <clboling@gmail.com>


Locations	Rio Del Mar State Beach – Google Map location for “Platform Beach”
	*Beercan Beach –** Enter 1191 Via Palo Alto, Aptos. Path & Stairs between Houses (See Notes)
	Palm Beach – Pajaro Dunes, end of West Beach St.
	Manresa State Beach – Google it, but parking may be on Ocean View Dr, 500 yards down the road

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zraPirPBmIU

Tides

Zen

Posted on September 26th, 2022

Posted on September 26, 2022September 27, 2022 by Scott Kitayama

Cartoon

Posted on September 26th, 2022

Posted on August 22, 2022August 26, 2022 by Scott Kitayama

September 2022 Table of Contents

September General Meeting……………………
Protecting and Enhancing Wild Steelhead Populations
Meeting Raffle
President’s Line…………………….
Fly Tying……………………
Foam Run Caddis
Carey Special
Conservation Concerns……………
The Drought—Lake Shasta and Downstream
Membership Notes…………………
Roster update
Palm Beach Fishout
Casting Classes for Aug 27 and Sep 24
Gone Fishing…………………
Manresa Fishout Results – August 6th
Quick Montana Trip
Fishout Schedule…………………
Cartoon…………………………..…

Posted on August 22nd, 2022

Posted on August 22, 2022August 26, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

Protecting and Enhancing Wild Steelhead Populations with Tim Frahm

Sep 07 6:30 PM Aptos Grange (in-person) and Zoom (online)

Tim Frahm, Trout Unlimited’s Central Coast Steelhead Coordinator, will be speaking with the club about the conservation of wild Steelhead on California’s Central Coast. He will be discussing ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance wild steelhead populations on the Central Coast such as eliminating fish barriers, improvement of summer flows, and floodplain restoration.

These projects require massive effort in locating, designing, permitting, funding, and finally construction. The price around such restoration often ranges in the millions. Please join September’s meeting to learn about the past, present, and future efforts to give wild steelhead a fighting chance in their historical, native watersheds on the Central Coast.

Posted on August 22nd, 2022

Posted on August 25, 2022September 4, 2022 by Carly Blanchard

September Fly Club Raffle

This month’s lucky winners have a chance to win their choice of one of three rod and reel packages (5wt, 6wt, or 8wt) from our friends at Rajeff Sports, a heavy-duty folding chair (local pick-up only), or a collapsible walking staff.

The ticket sales office opens on the Sunday before the meeting(9/4) at noon. Click on the following link: https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/product-category/raffle-prizes/ – Tickets are a buck each, $20 gets you 25.

Posted on August 25th, 2022

Posted on August 22, 2022August 25, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

A Time To Remember- September!

by Tom Hogye

Well, here we are entering September! Wow! What a year getting back to “normal”.

I don’t want to rub it in, but if you missed the August Club BBQ for any reason in excusable, we really missed you. What fun it was to see more than sixty of you at the Sherriff’s Posse Hall and how fun it was.

Shout out to Kevin Murdock and David South for working their magic at the BBQ and for taking the time to go to the store, get all the food, condiments, utensils, set up, and tear down/clean up at the end. If any of you enjoyed the squash, those were Tromboncino and Green Squash from my garden. Yum. Yum.

To all of you who brought items for the swap portion, that was really awesome. Those funds will be going toward our high school scholarships. And thank you to Elaine Cook for carefully organizing all of Doug Severin’s fly-tying materials into specific categories of which I think each bag easily had a life-time of fly-tying materials for each. To say that I have so much fun doing the raffle with Jeff Goyert – who is expert at orchestrating the raffle and who easily and willingly takes your money – understatement. It’s a blast calling out the numbers messing with you guys. Just glad you play along nicely. Way to go Ester and Dar for triple winnings and coincidently being great fly-tiers who helped Elaine last month. You couldn’t stage this better.

Ernie Kinzli, our founding father – so to speak – was present and I was grateful to introduce him to a number of you who weren’t around during the days when he ran his fly-shop in Santa Cruz, then in Soquel right at the bridge of Soquel Creek, Ernie’s favorite haunt for Steelhead and Coho, back in the day. Ernie donated a classic mix between a float tube and a raft that breaks down into it’s own carrying pack. Watch for it in upcoming events. The proceeds for that will be going to the scholarship fund. Thank you, Ernie!

I cannot begin to say thank you enough to everyone. When they say distance makes the heart grow fonder, that could not be more true. I was just happy to finally see so many of you after this war we’ve been waging for far too long.

As my second, and unprecedented, term as your President begins to wind down, I am going to be at a loss for words given all the emotion, memories, and support I have to be thankful for. Okay – kidding about the ‘loss for words’ part! But anyhow, I’m not going anywhere and will be around to continue supporting the club, you, and doing some other fun stuff – like teaching the casting classes!

I LOVE casting. I’m probably a better “caster” than I am an angler – or one who catches fish. I’ve just loved learning all the way back to 1992 when Mona and I saw a couple of guys fly-fishing on the Stanislaus, and when we went to the Fly Fishing Show, I tried out a Sage SP (which I still have), and got my first “lesson” from Randy Swisher, none other than the infamous Doug Swisher’s son.

I practiced in the grasses at Ed Levin Park in Milpitas during my lunch breaks practically till my arm fell off. Then when we had the “Con-Fab” in February – which I’m hoping we’ll bring back – I just had to beat Kathy Powers at the distance casting. Nothin doin. Kathy is an amazing caster, and probably the best dressed of all of us – any day of the week. But I loved casting.

Then Walt Robinson, who was a member of this club and the San Jose club, was a Master Casting Instructor and fly-tier, gave me some lessons and helped me rig my reel with backing, line, butt section with a nail knot, and blood know to tippet so my line would turn over as beautifully as it should, provided I did what I was supposed to.

Walt suggested I go for my Casting Certification – which I did at the following years Fly-Fishing Show. I was so new back then, and I still wasn’t as good as I really needed to be. Ironically, that morning when I was casting on the casting pond, it was frozen over. Burrr. You should have seen my roll cast – more like a whip and a splat.

But I digress. I love casting and while I’m far from expert, I enjoy seeing you improve, get it, and how you start controlling line so you know exactly where you can put a fly no matter the conditions. Sure distance is a part of casting as the good fish always seem to be on the other side, or just a little bit farther. And you will get there, working your way from the closest water first, and the farthest water last. Often stopping somewhere in between, hitting the honey hole.

So come join me and the rest at Jade Street Park for the rest of the summer, last Saturday of the month – 1:30. When winter comes, and we get some good water on the San Lorenzo, we can do some spey casting in the estuary, or some “chuck n duck” in the gorge. And when Spring comes again, we can pull out the shooting heads for Pyramid and Surf Perch Striper fishing. Can you say double haul?

See you at the Grange for an informative gig with Trout Unlimited and what we’re all working to do to restore salmon and steelhead habitat in the most challenging of times.

Keep em wet people. Peace out. Tom

Posted on August 22nd, 2022

Posted on August 22, 2022August 25, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

Fly Tying Class – September

Sep 14 6:15 PM : Foam Run Caddis

IMPORTANT: This class will be taught at the Aptos Grange Hall. Masks will be required for this session. No zoom access.
If you are looking for an easy dry fly trout pattern, here it is for you. And certainly great for beginners, who are always welcome. Caddis are one of the most important food sources for trout and should be included in anybody’s fly box. The upcoming Mammouth fishout will be one of those places that you can readily use this fly.The classes are always free and all materials are provided except for the thread if you have it available. This time we will be using olive 8/0 thread.The club has tools, vises and thread to borrow if you need them.
Please call Elaine Cook at 831-688-15612 reserve your spot and ensure that there are enough materials for the class.

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

	Fly for Class	Date	Excerpt
	Oct 12	Cicada	Fly for bass, trout and carp!

Posted on August 22nd, 2022

Posted on May 15, 2022August 25, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

Carey Special

by Elaine Cook — fly tying instructor

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

Posted on May 15th, 2022

Posted on August 22, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

The Drought—Lake Shasta and Downstream

by Bob Garbarino

Lake Shasta, the largest reservoir in California is 124 feet below its fill line. It is at 36% of total capacity. The last three years have been the worst in the history of the reservoir, which was formed in 1948. While many of California’s reservoirs receive water from snowmelt, Lake Shasta gets 90% from rainfall. Power generation, fish, farmers, municipal water departments are all negatively impacted by restricted flows from Shasta. Central Valley farmers have been reduced to 18% of a normal year’s allocation. However, with one good year of rain, the reservoir can almost fully recover as it did in 1977 when it was down 230 feet. For more on this ongoing story and a short news video go to: https://www.ktvu.com/news/drought-critically-low-water-levels-at-lake-shasta-californias-largest-reservoir

In other news related to the drought and the Sacramento River, the Bureau of Land Management and the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service are working together to help the winter-run Chinook salmon in the midst of the ongoing drought. The work is taking place at the Livingston Stone National Fish Hatchery directly below Shasta Dam. One of the projects is the installation of chillers to maintain the cold water temperature required for rearing Chinook at the hatchery as the lake water supply warms. For more information, go to: https://goldrushcam.com/sierrasuntimes/index.php/news/local-news/39957-in-california-reclamation-and-u-s-fish-wildlife-service-launch-innovative-plan-to-aid-winter-run-chinook-salmon-amid-extreme-drought

Posted on August 22nd, 2022

Posted on August 22, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

Membership is over 200 and Instagram has 500 followers

by Bob

This month membership is over 200 dues paying members largely with new online members averaging 2 new members a month. Another milestone is that Jerry Mckeon has over 500 followers on Instagram which has increased significantly since Jerry has been aggressively marketing the activity. He reminds members, including new members to submit photos to him thru his email metropolitantrout@gmail.com. Thank you to those who have contributed photos.

Posted on August 22nd, 2022

Posted on August 26, 2022August 26, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

We can’t go to Florida, but we certainly can go to Palm Beach!

by Sam Bishop

FLY FISH THE SURF!!

Take West Beach out of Watsonville to the west until you hit the sand dune, then back up and park. No RSVP required, just show up with a smile on your face. Guests are welcome, so bring friends.

Let’s meet at 0620, the days are getting shorter with sunrise at 0640, so we can meet later than before. High tide will have been at 05:20.

Parking is just outside the State Park. I tend to pick State Park beaches among other things, because there is a shower there to wash the sand off and do a first rinse of your salt laden rods and reels.

If you haven’t been out in a long time or are new to the game, you might want to review the surf fishing article on our website www.santacruzflyfishing.org. It is under the “knowledge” drop down menu.

I will have extra flies and stripping baskets. We are almost out of the baskets I make, there are maybe 5 left.

Everyone is welcome, so bring guests. See you Saturday, September 3 at 0620.

And BTW, yes we catch bigger fish than the one in the picture that Tom Bradley caught one day, but this perch was almost smaller than the fly he hit. Dreams of grandeur I suppose.

Posted on August 26th, 2022

Posted on August 25, 2022August 25, 2022 by santacruzflyfishing_gia1ac

Casting Classes for Aug 27 and Sep 24

Howdy –

Want to work on your double haul or just simply presenting a fly right where you want it every time and not necessarily 80′ away from you?

Maybe you want to know more about a shooting head for Pyramid Lahontans, Surf Perch and Stripers in the surf

Maybe you just want to know how to cast in virtually any situation which is simply understanding line control and what you can do when the line is moving – hopefully under your control!

Maybe you want to add some Spey casting to your single hand rod skills in situations where there is no “back cast”.

Or maybe you just want to hang out with a bunch of people flingin big sticks with colorful lines on them.

Then come to Jade Street Park on 8/27 at 1:30 , and again on 9/24. We’ll cast for a couple hours then talk about how awesome we are at Carpo’s and Beer Thirty.

See you then!! Bring what you have – or grab one of the club rods we’ll bring. Bring a friend!!! Any questions prior, please don’t hesitate to give me a call or write. Fish on. Tom 831-214-7578 / thomashogye@yahoo.com

Posted on August 25th, 2022