Starting a new section of monthly advertisers which will be of nominal cost for club members . Will also have a section for advertisers on the website. If you would like to advertise or have your business listed on the club website, send an email to info@santacruzflyfishing.org
Offering fellow SCFF club members a 10% discount on a guided trip(s) on the Trinity, either float or walk wadding so you can practice what we have learned. My guide fee is typically $500 for up to 2 anglers. This includes all equipment, including terminal tackle, flies, lunch and beverages. The Trinity River is an excellent Steelhead river with great swing water to perfect your 2 handed casting and a chance to hook a beautiful aggressive Steelhead. The majority of the fish, in the last few years have been wild. So far the returns to the Trinity have been excellent, so we are hopefully going to have a great season. If you have any questions, please give me a call or send me an email at alex.ferber74@gmail.com or 831-419-0564
Dr. Mark Rockwell has been working on environmental issues since 2001, when he retired from his Chiropractic Practice in Redwood City, CA. He’s been married 54 years and has 3 children. In 2001 he became the V.P. of Conservation for the Northern California Council, Fly Fishers International (NCCFFI). In 2005, after returning from a lobby trip to D.C. on Snake River dam removal, he was invited to be the California Organizer of the Endangered Species Coalition (ESC), working to stop the Congressional effort to rewrite the Endangered Species Act (ESA). He worked for 12 years for the ESC as the California Organizer, and then the Pacific Field Organizer in charge of California, Oregon and Washington field operations. He has been in leadership for Fly Fishers International (FFI) since joining the Board of the Northern California Council, FFI in 2003, serving as V.P. of Conservation, and then President from 2018 to 2023. He continues today as the V.P. of Conservation, and has received the coveted FFI Conservation Leadership Award twice – 2007 & 2023.
He began working on Klamath river dam removal in 2003, signing the original Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement (KBRA) & Klamath Hydropower Settlement Agreement (KHSA) agreements in 2010, and the current revised KHSA in 2015. It’s been a 20+ year collaborative
effort to provide the opportunity for the Klamath River to return to its historic greatness. In 2023 the license to operate the Klamath project was transferred and surrendered to the Klamath River Renewal Corporation, the entity formed to manage removal of the 4 dams and oversee restoration of the footprint lands of the project. As of early 2024, the Klamath is running free for the first time since 1918, and all dams will be off the river by the end of October 2024.
Mark continues to be focused on fishery & watershed conservation as his post-chiropractic life mission. “I spent my professional life treating spine and nervous system interference problems for my community in the San Francisco region for 25 years, and my post Chiropractic life working to improve our planet. Both of these efforts are done with a sense of love and caring. Conserving our great watersheds & fish is now my purpose. We owe it to our children & grandkids to pass along to them the same greatness & beauty we inherited.” ~ Dr. Mark Rockwell
Bad news first: Now that the Pandemic is over, we are no longer able to conduct our monthly raffle online.
The good news: We have a huge pile of raffle prizes and door prizes that we will be up for grabs at the regular monthly meeting to be held on Wednesday September 4th. Aptos Grange, 6 pm.
We will have a winners choice of a 5wt or 6wt or 7wt or 8wt rod and matching reel!
We also have a great Cadis float tube and a subscription to the re-born “California Fly Fisher”.
In addition to the raffle prizes there will be a bunch of great door prizes (everybody gets a free ticket) including a 6 pack of Bell’s “Two Hearted IPA”!
Don’t miss out, this will be a great start to our Fall fly fishing season.
When you go out in the morning, can you feel it? I can, it’s not a smell and it certainly isn’t the temperature because it is the hottest time of the year, but it just feels like fall. It reminds me of being a kid and waiting for a school bus. And it makes me feel like a kid because it reminds me to go fishing.
Labor Day to Thanksgiving is only about thirteen weeks long. Thirteen weeks of the best fishing of the year. So I urge you to take a few hours and plan your fall fishing. In this newsletter, there are a lot of opportunities for fall fishing.
If you are new, make sure to put the casting clinic on your schedule for a Saturday afternoon. Also, the October General Meeting will be based around members helping others learn fundamentals to improve your fishing technique and enjoyment.
For everyone, the club is offering fishouts that should meet everyone’s interest. If you are too busy for a multi-day fishing trip, stay local and fish the surf or the Forebay. For those that have the time, there are still openings for the last week of September on the Mammoth Lakes trip and a new trip has been set for the Trinity river in early November. I believe that if you don’t shoehorn the fishing trips into your calendar, the weeks will slip away and another season will be gone.
Please welcome seven new members since the beginning of July. This now brings our membership up to 251!
Join Date
Name
City
July 4
M Horn
San Carlos
July 15
S. Liess
Santa Cruz
July 25
M. Bonanno
Soquel
July 27
E. Vollset
Aptos
Aug 6
T. Suzuki
Aptos
Aug 18
B. Steckler
Carmel
Aug 23
O. Kahl
Watsonville
New member since July are covered til Dec 31st 2025 Also if members are not receiving the monthly newsletter or googlegroups, please contact me robert6367@aol.com
Our class this month will feature a stillwater pattern for trout. If you’re going to Mammoth, you’ll want to have a few of these with you to fish Crowley. It’s a relatively easy fly to tie, so if you were thinking about learning to tie flies, come on down. We always have equipment available for people to borrow. All materials are provided and if you have black 8/0 and red 6/0 thread do bring them. The red will only be used for the head, so several bobbins will already have the red thread on them to share.
Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to Fly Name to see more information.
Our club member, Tommy Polito, is having much success in both the surf and forebay catching stripers using this fly.. He is also finding other fish species are attracted to the fly as well. There have been many requests for our club members to have a class for tying clousers, so I’m glad to make that happen. Please, as always, sign up at the next club meeting or call 831-234-6515. The class is always free and materials are provided. If you have flat wax nylon white, do bring it and some will be available to borrow We welcome you beginners and have equipment for you to use. ~Elaine
This dry fly pattern for trout can be tied in sizes 8 to 18, so will work in a great variety of places. I particularly like one of the larger sizes for using in the Rocky Mountains. We will use a larger hook for the class. This is not a difficult fly to tie so you beginners should feel comfortable participating. The fly includes peccary, which is seldom used for tying flies. You more experienced tyers should find the technique using this material interesting. As always all the materials are provided and if you have 6/0 black thread, please bring it. We welcome you beginners and have equipment for you to use. Please sign up at the club meeting or call me at 831-234-6515.
This great stillwater trout pattern simulates a bait fish and in the past at Crowley Lake mimics the Sacramento perch, which thrives there. It’s the yellow in the body that shows through the mallard flank feather that gives it the same coloring as the fish. Use a sinking line and alter the strip to find what works.
HOOK: TMC 5263. Sizes 6 – 12. Crimp barb.
THREAD: Black 6/0 or 8/0. Attached one quarterback on shank.
BODY: Flat silver tinsel. Tie in at slightly backward angle. Wrap to rear of shank with overlapping wraps, then forward in the same manner. Tie off, cut excess, tie down tag.
UNDER WING: Yellow marabou. Select feather with barbs equal to 1 1/2 hook shank long. NOTE: it’s easier to handle if it’s wet. Cut barbs from stem (a 1/2 inch to 1 inch section. Snugly tie, butt ends to top of shank. Tie down butt ends. Position thread 1/3 back on shank.
WING: Gray Maillard feathers. Select two mirror image feathers. At least 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 length of shank. Prepare feathers by:
1. Hold against hook so tips are at end of marabou.
2. Starting at hook eye, firmly stroke, barbs forward.
3. Cut stem at that point. Place one feather on far side and one on near side, dark sides facing outward. Cut stem right behind hook eye. Tie and place up to hook eye then 1/3 back on shank.
EYE: Imitation jungle cock feathers. Size medium (30 mm) for hook sizes 6–8, size small for hooks sizes 10–12. Remove two eyes from supporting paper. Position one on each side of body with stub beyond hook eye. See photo for positioning. Tie in place with snug wraps, cut excess tie down stubs.
HACKLE: Grizzly saddle or neck. Select feather, barbs equal to 1 1/2 hook gap. Prepare feather:
1. Cut off fuzzy end.
2. Stroke bars firmly toward cut end.
3. Cut short 5 to 6 barbs on each side of stem at butt end (butch hair cut). With shiny side facing you, tie in butch with tips of feather at end of marabou. Wrap thread forward to one hook eyed length behind hook eye. Wrap hackle forward, close wraps, forming a thick collar. (NOTE: use a second feather if needed.) Tie off, cut excess. Tie a thread head. Whip finish, cut thread. Apply glue to head.
Before I present an introduction to this month’s profile of a new organization, I want to give you an update (see last month’s President’s Line in the newsletter) on recent accomplishments by our friends just south at Carmel River Steelhead Association. Each year during summer when the creeks feeding the Carmel River start drying-up, an ambitious group of well equipped and knowledgeable core leaders, with the assistance of helper volunteers hit the water with a mission. The goal is to capture as many as possible young-of-year and juvenile (1+ year) steelies from soon to be dried-up reaches of creek that is cut off from the Carmel River. As of this writing, they have rescued over 7,000 fish and inserted over 600 PIT tags. Scott Kitayama and I were able to make it down there to help a couple of times. Hopefully some more of our club members will be able to join-in sometime. It’s very gratifying to help give these iconic fish a chance.
Saved by Nature
https://www.savedbynature.org/
ABOUT SAVED BY NATURE
Founder Richard Tejeda worked with MBSTP (one of their community partners). They organize outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, backpacking, boat tours, camping for all ages including adult reentry for incarcerated people.
Their mission is to expose and connect people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and abilities to the natural wonders & recreational opportunities of the outdoors. We collaborate with partners to ensure mental, physical, and spiritual healing in nature. Their vision is to create a world free of barriers and equitable access to nature for all. We inspire environmental and social justice and advocate for the protection of our earth through outdoor education.
Saved By Nature works within our parks and preserves to provide a variety of unique environmental programs that educate residents about climate change, and protecting the air that we breathe and water that we drink. Providing a cohesive system of support for Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Mateo, Alameda, Monterey, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, Solano, and Sonoma counties. Ensuring residents have a high quality, multilingual and multicultural outdoor nature experience.
Saved By Nature’s Dock of the Bay project is set to involve 600 individuals from underrepresented communities of color, across all age groups, in 20 exciting excursions along the breathtaking coasts of San Francisco and Monterey Bay. Participants will have the opportunity to partake in a diverse range of activities such as fishing, crabbing, kayaking, camping, boat tours, backpacking, kite flying, and hiking adventures.
This initiative has been carefully designed to bring people of different generations together, enabling them to explore and appreciate the scenic coastal region while empowering them with the necessary skills and confidence to become stewards of the area and engage in restorative practices that foster joy and healing. A sampling of some activities this year included;
Santa Cruz Wharf – Halibut Fishing on Santa Cruz Wharf
Manresa State Beach – Hike In Tent Camping and Surf Fishing
Oyster Point Park – Pier fishing for Sturgeon and Bar-b-que
Cooley Landing Park – Bay Fishing for Shark and Bat Ray
The SCFF conservation committee believes that Saved By Nature, with their commitment to engaging all generations—including those that may have limited opportunities—to get out in nature and hopefully learn to be stewards of the environment—including our fisheries.
Continue working on improving casts. We will be working on dominant and non dominant side casting, as well as river right and left presentations.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
Continue working on improving casts. We will be working on dominant and non dominant side casting, as well as river right and left presentations.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
Continue working on improving casts. Discuss Scandi and Switch casts for those interesred. If time allows, we may discuss some touch and go casts, such as Single Spey and Snake Roll.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
Continue working on improving casts. We will be working on dominant and non dominant side casting, as well as river right and left presentations.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
All are welcome from beginners to experienced casters. This is a good time to continue working on and enjoying your progress with effectively casting your fly-line -whether it’s 25, 35, 40, or 50 feet – 90% of your fishing casting. We will continue to work on this foundation for everyone who wants to successfully and enjoyably pickup their fly rod and cast exactly where you want – time after time. Bring your rod and reel if appropriate, and I will also have the nice club rods we have so you can toss one of those around too.
This class will be for anyone, preferably those who have no experience were able to attend the first class. We will review the basics, and then work on the Double Spey cast using Skagit heads.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
Continue to work on Spey basics, and also work the Snap-T / Circle C.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
All are welcome from beginners to experienced casters. This is a good time to continue working on and enjoying your progress with effectively casting your fly-line -whether it’s 25, 35, 40, or 50 feet – 90% of your fishing casting. We will continue to work on this foundation for everyone who wants to successfully and enjoyably pickup their fly rod and cast exactly where you want – time after time. Bring your rod and reel if appropriate, and I will also have the nice club rods we have so you can toss one of those around too.
Note: These series of classes are NOT for beginning fly casters. You should be proficient with a one-handed rod before advancing to a two handed rod. The club still has the monthly one-handed casting clinics at Jade street. Please look at the club activities schedule for date and time.
Spey Casting is a style of presenting a fly in a down and across manner ( aka Swinging Flies)It utilizes special lines and facilitates casting in tight quarters. It enables one to use sinking lines and throwing larger flies with ease. It’s a technique used in fishing for Salmon, tout and Steelhead. The first class would be ideal for those who have never casted a 2 handed rod. This class will be for beginners, or those with minimal experience. Maximum of 6 folks. I will provide rods for those who need a rod.
Reserve your spots Alex Ferber, 831-419-0564 alex.ferber74@gmail.com
This class will be for anyone, preferably those who have no experience were able to attend the first class. We will review the basics, and then work on the Double Spey cast using Skagit heads.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
Continue to work on Spey basics, and also work the Snap-T / Circle C.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
Continue working on improving casts. We will be working on dominant and non dominant side casting, as well as river right and left presentations.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
Continue working on improving casts. We will be working on dominant and non dominant side casting, as well as river right and left presentations.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
Continue working on improving casts. Discuss Scandi and Switch casts for those interesred. If time allows, we may discuss some touch and go casts, such as Single Spey and Snake Roll.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
Continue working on improving casts. We will be working on dominant and non dominant side casting, as well as river right and left presentations.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
Central Coast Fly Fishing is moving to it’s new location at the Reindollar Crest Commercial Center at 218 Reindollar Ave., in Marina. Geoff Malloway is expecting to be open by August 31st. Call 831-298-0690 to make sure the shop is open.
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
Directions (updated): Take San Andreas Road off Highway 1 all the way past the Manresa State Park entrance and keep going another 300 yards and turn right on Oceanview Dr. Follow that around to the right to the parking lot.
SURF FISHOUTS 2024
Meeting Time (AM)
State Beach
Sunrise
Low tide
High tide
Moon
Tide flow
Fishmaster
MAY
4th
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*
1st
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
6th
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
3rd
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
7th
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
5th
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
UPDATED - 9/16/2024 - first week is full, second week is full.Sign Ups: As a reminder, it is important to sign up early or this Fishout.
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.
Read More
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
Directions: Take W. Beach St. in Watsonville towards Pajaro Dunes. Park at the end of W. Beach St. on the right side of the road outside of the entrance to Pajaro Dunes.
SURF FISHOUTS 2024
Meeting Time (AM)
State Beach
Sunrise
Low tide
High tide
Moon
Tide flow
Fishmaster
MAY
4th
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*
1st
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
6th
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
3rd
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
7th
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
5th
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
Event: O'Neill Forebay 'Stosh' Memorial Fishout
Date: October 17th - 20th
(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: 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! Read More
NOTE: Contact Alex Ferber if you are interested in going on the trip. After knowing how many people are interested, it will be easier to plan logistics (camping? motel?). You can text Alex at (831) 419-0564 or alex.ferber74@gmail.com. If you want to go on this trip, it is highly recommended to attend the Spey Classes.
The fishery:
Basically, this is a Steelhead Trip. There are some resident trout, including some really nice brown trout. I walk wade or float my raft, depending on the river conditions. I personally use a Spey rod to swing flies. Many people use indicators. There are a lot of walk in spots to explore. The river can be floated with rafts or driftboats. There is a shuttle service available.
Tackle:
Single hand rods, 7-8 wt rods, using floating lines with indicator set up. Typical flies used are Egg patterns, Copper John's, Stonefly imitations like Rubberlegs, Dark Perdigons. Sizes ranging from Size 8-14.
Spey or Switch rods, usually 5-6 wt in the Fall, I use a 7 wt in the winter. Skagit or Scandi heads, with floating to heavy sink tips, depending on the river conditions and season. Flies that work well include leeches, intruders, HoBo Spey, Traditionals, as well as dry fly patterns ( Skaters) in the early Fall.
The River:
The Trinity River is located aprox 1 hr west of Redding on Hwy 299. Its a beautiful tailwater fishery, with flows controlled from the Lewiston Dam. This is where the hatchery can be found. It has many different faces, including some big water as it runs west. It meets up with the Klamath River on its journey to the ocean. It has an excellent run of both wild and hatchery fish, ranging from 5-7 #, with some larger fish in the +10-12 # range. There are fish in the system year round, but typically a push of fish starts in late September and peaks in late November, with a second run usually in late December- March. The fishing remained really good thru the end of March last season. It is very flow dependant and can run quite low in the Fall, with occasional bumps in flows when there is precipitation. It can blow out on occasion, but clears pretty fast.
Amenities:
Weaverville is the closest town, where there are good restaurants, motels and a really nice Holiday Market. It's kinda the hub. There is an RV park in Weaverville, but no campsites.
Camping is available in Douglas City area as well as Junction City and further west on 299. The town of Douglas city doesn't have much, other than a small mini mart. Indian Creek Lodge is a few miles east of Douglas City. The town of Lewiston is just below the Lewiston dam. It offers some camping and motels. There is a really nice motel west of Junction City (I believe it is called Steelhead Lodge?). It's an excellent place to stay if one wishes to fish below Junction City.
Yuba Fest 2024, a one-day event, will take place on Saturday, October 5th, celebrating the Lower Yuba River watershed. NorCal Fly Clubs, including members and participants in fly
fishing, conservation, education, and community-building, are encouraged to attend.
Come up to the Monterey Bay Salmon and Trout Project hatchery and volunteer for a few hours. You will likely get a chance to check out the hatchery operation that rears Coho salmon.
Where: MBSTP Hatchery 825 Big Creek Rd, Davenport, CA 95017
When: October 8th @ 12:00 PM
Contact: Bob Garbarino 831-247-2045 rjgarbarino@gmail.com
If you plan on going, contact Bob so we can coordinate access into the hatchery.
The Winner of the 2024 Hall of Fame Award is: Mike Mercer! Working with the NCCFFI board and with the help of September speaker, Mark Rockwell, the price of a seat for the HOF at the SCFF table is $115 which is a $45 saving compared to the ticket price on the NCCFFI website.
Join the Salinas Valley Fly Fishers for the annual clean up of the Salinas River fishing access. The event will be on Sunday November 24 starting at 9:00 am. Jay Jefferson is the Salinas Valley Fly Fishers representative for this event. Wear clothing for the weather of that day and if you can, bring gloves and a three prong hoe, as it’s the best tool.
Directions:
Go South on Highway 1 towards Monterey
Follow CA-1 S to Molera Rd. Take exit 414 from CA-1 S and take Nashua Rd over the highway
Take the first right on Monte Road 1.6 miles to your destination. This is a dirt parking lot on the left side of the road before the twin bridges.
UDPATE: Working with the NCCFFI board and with the help of September speaker, Mark Rockwell, the price of a seat for the HOF at the SCFF table is $115 which is a $45 saving compared to the ticket price on the NCCFFI website. To take advantage of this great offer, please send an email note to scottkitayama@gmail.com and send a check to Jim Tolonen c/o Santa Cruz Fly Fishing, PO Box 2008, Santa Cruz, CA 95065.
The Winner of the 2024 Hall of Fame Award is: Mike Mercer
Starting a new section of monthly advertisers which will be of nominal cost for club members . Will also have a section for advertisers on the website. If you would like to advertise or have your business listed on the club website, send an email to info@santacruzflyfishing.org
Offering fellow SCFF club members a 10% discount on a guided trip(s) on the Trinity, either float or walk wadding so you can practice what we have learned. My guide fee is typically $500 for up to 2 anglers. This includes all equipment, including terminal tackle, flies, lunch and beverages. The Trinity River is an excellent Steelhead river with great swing water to perfect your 2 handed casting and a chance to hook a beautiful aggressive Steelhead. The majority of the fish, in the last few years have been wild. So far the returns to the Trinity have been excellent, so we are hopefully going to have a great season. If you have any questions, please give me a call or send me an email at alex.ferber74@gmail.com or 831-419-0564
For our August meeting, we’ll get together for our annual summer B-B-Q. This year, we’ll meet at 6:00 pm at the Aptos Grange. The club will host a burger and hot-dog cookout with all the fixings along chips, water and sodas. We suggest a $5 donation for the dinner.
Adult beverages will not be offered. Feel free to bring your own. This meeting is a great opportunity to meet and greet in person.
A couple of Wednesday’s ago, I caught more steelhead than ever in my life. Instead of a fly rod, an electroshock rod was put in the water and we scooped up 2 inch “Young of the Year” to move them from a “soon-to-be-dried-up-tributary” to the main section of the Carmel River. On that day, the Carmel River Steelhead Association and volunteers gave over 300 fish a chance to survive. They are doing a few rescues over the next few weeks if you want to volunteer.
image by Sage Ono, @sageonophotography on instagram
We live in the best place. On Sunday morning, my wife put on a down coat and I put on a sweater so that we could walk the beach. By noon, blue sky was starting to appear and the high temperature at my house was 68 degrees. Perfect. Earlier in the week, I was in Tahoe and was shocked that the low temperature was 68 degrees and then it got hot! Tried fishing some streams flowing into Lake Tahoe, but stopped by 10:00 am because the water was getting too warm.
I was able to attend July’s fly tying class where Jesse Collins taught a beaded nymph pattern and it was nice to see new members there. Also saw new members taking advantage of the Fly Casting clinic which was run by Alex Ferber with assistance from Sam Bishop. Relatively new to the club, both Jesse and Alex have really helped the club in teaching classes and hosting fishouts.
On August 7th, we will have the annual summer BBQ at the Aptos Grange starting at 6:00 pm. Hope to see you there!
Summer and fall are the best times to use this trout fly. It’s best used in small streams where the water is not real turbulent. The Sierras are great for this fly. It also works well in stillwater and quiet parts of rivers.
The class is free and materials provided. If you have 8/0 black thread, please bring it. As always, bring your vice and tools.
For you beginners, there will be what you need to participate and you are always welcome and encouraged to come. Be sure to bring prescription glasses and if you have magnification, bring that as well.
Sign ups are important so that the amount of material will be adequate. You can do that at the club meeting or calling by the day before the class. 831-234-6515 or 831-688-1561.
Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to Fly Name to see more information.
Our class this month will feature a stillwater pattern for trout. If you’re going to Mammoth, you’ll want to have a few of these with you to fish Crowley. It’s a relatively easy fly to tie, so if you were thinking about learning to tie flies, come on down. We always have equipment available for people to borrow. All materials are provided and if you have black 8/0 and red 6/0 thread do bring them. The red will only be used for the head, so several bobbins will already have the red thread on them to share.
Our club member, Tommy Polito, is having much success in both the surf and forebay catching stripers using this fly.. He is also finding other fish species are attracted to the fly as well. There have been many requests for our club members to have a class for tying clousers, so I’m glad to make that happen. Please, as always, sign up at the next club meeting or call 831-234-6515. The class is always free and materials are provided. If you have flat wax nylon white, do bring it and some will be available to borrow We welcome you beginners and have equipment for you to use. ~Elaine
As summer wears on hoppers are getting bigger and become available to trout as the grass dries and the only green left, that the hoppers eat, is near water. Needless to say they are a big source of protein which makes them particularly attractive to trout and bass. There is a good demonstration on the web for tying this fly, but it’s without any sound. Watching the video and reading my helpful hints below I believe you will be able to successfully tie the fly. Look it up by name: “Tying an easy foam hopper”
HOOK: TMC 5263 size 10.
THREAD: 6/0 color to match body (tan, yellow, green, brown, and even blue).
BODY: 2mm foam. Cut strip slightly wider than hook gap. Position rounded end hook shank beyond rear of hook. Poke both holes using a bodkin instead of scissors. Apply glue to the thread wraps on the shank, as well as the foam on each side of those thread wraps. After folding foam backward to form the head, squeeze to prevent gap between layers.
OVER WING: EP fibers or spooled Antron work well. My picture is made with EP fibers.
INDICATOR: White 2 mm foam. Cut strip slightly narrower than body.
LEGS: Round rubber legs, color to match body or have some fun with stripes and a different colors. Take a look at the samples. Please note: I didn’t do a great job with positioning the knot in the legs. Look at sample in the video. Rubber legs need some explanation. Use about 6 inches, fold in half, tie a knot near the fold and cinch down tight. Cut the loop near the knot. The doubled up rubber legs will be tied in, and position the knot beyond the end of the hook. After tying in, cut short one leg on each side in front. Don’t forget when completing the fly to add a dab of glue to the knots in the legs.
This month, as part of our mission to inform our membership about conservation organizations we support, we have a look into Restore the Delta. https://restorethedelta.org/
Mission: To ensure the health of the San Francisco Bay-Delta estuary and Delta communities.
ABOUT RESTORE THE DELTA
Restore the Delta works in the areas of public education, program and policy development, and outreach so that all Californians recognize the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay Delta as part of California’s natural heritage, deserving of restoration. They interface with local, state and federal agencies.
They envision the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta as a place where a vibrant local economy, tourism, recreation, farming, wildlife, and fisheries thrive as a result of resident efforts to protect our waterways. They seek water quality protections for all communities, particularly environmental justice communities and California tribes, as well as community protections from flood and drought impacts.
Their goal is to connect communities to regional rivers and to empower communities to become the guardians of the estuary through participation in government planning, community science and waterway monitoring, and a sustainable local economy. They work to build the next generation of water leaders by developing programs in science, land and water management, and the green economy. They work for a Delta with waters that are fishable, swimmable, and drinkable, and farmable. They envision improvements in the Delta as opportunities for Delta tribes, Delta farming communities, and environmental justice communities to gain greater equity in decision making and to share in the benefits from area natural resources management.
Based in the Delta, California, Restore the Delta has worked since 2006 in the areas of public education and outreach and has grown to over 75,000 regular followers throughout California.
PRIMARY AREA OF FOCUS
Delta Conveyance Project—The Delta tunnel has taken the form of previous water conveyance projects in the past, like the Peripheral Canal idea that was rejected by California voters way back in 1982 and California WaterFix that died in 2019. Currently known as the Delta Conveyance Project, the proposal would construct two new water intake facilities on the Sacramento River in the North Delta to fill a single tunnel that would divert freshwater flows. That water would be shipped to large farming operations and water wholesalers south of the Delta. The Delta Conveyance project would divert up to 6,000 cubic feet of water per second. The project is estimated to cost between $16-40 billion and won’t be completed until at least 2040. The California Department of Water Resources published the final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) for the Delta Conveyance Project on December 8, 2023, and published a Notice of Determination (NOD) on December 21, 2023. The NOD is the final administrative published record for a proposed project by the lead agency, which in this case is the Department of Water Resources.
Reviewing the prior Draft EIR, Restore the Delta identified 17 significant and unavoidable impacts of the proposed tunnel project on the environment that were not accounted for in the Draft EIR. Among these impacts will be the loss of prime agricultural farmland, loss of local non-tribal cultural resources, transportation and air quality impacts, and painful loss of tribal cultural resources.
The recently certified final EIR still largely ignores the project’s impacts on Delta urban environmental justice communities, how construction will ruin small Delta farming towns, and the natural resources essential to the cultural and spiritual practices of Delta tribes.
On January 22, 2023, Restore the Delta with a coalition of environmental and Tribal organizations took legal action against the California Department of Water Resources following the certification and approval of the FEIR for its violation of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The CEQA case includes 13 CEQA violations. The groups claim that after the approval of the project from the agency, it failed to consider the extensive, disparate effects the project would inflict upon communities and wildlife, such as Tribal and other historically marginalized communities and endangered fish species, including Chinook salmon and steelhead.
The groups taking legal action against the Department of Water Resources include The Bay Institute, California Indian Environmental Alliance, Golden State Salmon Association, Restore the Delta, San Francisco Baykeeper, and the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians.
Because the delta is such crucial component that impacts the health of many the fisheries in California, in makes sense for SCFF to support Restore the Delta. Thanks to member Robert Ransdell for suggesting that we consider Restore the Delta.
All are welcome from beginners to experienced casters. This is a good time to continue working on and enjoying your progress with effectively casting your fly-line -whether it’s 25, 35, 40, or 50 feet – 90% of your fishing casting. We will continue to work on this foundation for everyone who wants to successfully and enjoyably pickup their fly rod and cast exactly where you want – time after time. Bring your rod and reel if appropriate, and I will also have the nice club rods we have so you can toss one of those around too.
Spey Casting is a style of presenting a fly in a down and across manner ( aka Swinging Flies)It utilizes special lines and facilitates casting in tight quarters. It enables one to use sinking lines and throwing larger flies with ease. It’s a technique used in fishing for Salmon, tout and Steelhead. The first class would be ideal for those who have never casted a 2 handed rod. This class will be for beginners, or those with minimal experience. Maximum of 6 folks. I will provide rods for those who need a rod.
Reserve your spots Alex Ferber, 831-419-0564 alex.ferber74@gmail.com
We now have the online Merchandise store linked to the website. Just go to the menu “Store” and click on the picture of the items, it will take you to an external website. Please note, if you have issues with your purchase, you will need to work it out with “the “FN Simple Uniforms”.
Update JUL-’24 feedback from SCFF members: Ordering is simple and any issues were ironed out (pin intended). Quality of items such as hat, t-shirt, sun shirt and button down shirt are great!
Greetings fellow Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club Members,
I have been leading the Pyramid Lake fishing trip for the past ten years. It has always been a remarkable fish out, and one of the best attended too. However the past three years have been very challenging and we have not caught very many fish and people have come away disappointed with the outcome.
I have fished the lake for twenty five years and the recent lack of success over the past few years have made me really think about whether or not it is worth the effort to fish Pyramid. Years past I would make multiple trips to the lake at all different times of the year. It is winter fishery opening October 1st and closing June 30th. I have always had success and the hunt for a big Lahontan trout always motivated me to get out there and fish. So, fast forward to today and I have had to rethink my whole approach to fishing Pyramid.
That leads me to a new discovery about how to fish Pyramid Lake. Jeff Goyertte, a club member and our raffle coordinator took a recent trip to the lake and fished with Rob Anderson, a long time guide on Pyramid. He went on the trip in early to mid June of this year. They fished from float tubes, and with fly gear that was not the typical set up that we are accustomed to using to catch these big trout . Well he did extremely well and when he told me about his experience, it peaked my curiosity.
Jeff was kind enough to put me in touch with Rob Anderson. I had a good conversation with him and I think it is worth exploring a fish out with Rob in June of 2025. He can take out as many as 15 people on float tubes. It is $350 for two and a half days. The first day people arrive at a beach along the lake where Rob sets up a camp. This first day is really a prep day where the guides provide training on how to fish from your float tube for these big trout. You would be responsible for your own lodging whether you camp on the beach or go back to a hotel or stay at Pyramid Lodge. Rob provides breakfast and lunch for your $350 fee. We would more than likely go in early June.
I have attached a couple of videos that are very helpful in explaining Rob’s whole approach to fishing Pyramid Lake. They are done quite well and worth watching.
So this is a whole new deal. The old fish out would be replaced by this one. And it would be a different experience. If you have any interest please contact me at 831 706-5556 or email at lumberguy73@hotmail.com.
Yuba Fest 2024, a one-day event, will take place on Saturday, October 5th, celebrating the Lower Yuba River watershed. NorCal Fly Clubs, including members and participants in fly
fishing, conservation, education, and community-building, are encouraged to attend.
Come up to the Monterey Bay Salmon and Trout Project hatchery and volunteer for a few hours. You will likely get a chance to check out the hatchery operation that rears Coho salmon.
Where: MBSTP Hatchery 825 Big Creek Rd, Davenport, CA 95017
When: October 8th @ 12:00 PM
Contact: Bob Garbarino 831-247-2045 rjgarbarino@gmail.com
If you plan on going, contact Bob so we can coordinate access into the hatchery.
The Winner of the 2024 Hall of Fame Award is: Mike Mercer! Working with the NCCFFI board and with the help of September speaker, Mark Rockwell, the price of a seat for the HOF at the SCFF table is $115 which is a $45 saving compared to the ticket price on the NCCFFI website.
Join the Salinas Valley Fly Fishers for the annual clean up of the Salinas River fishing access. The event will be on Sunday November 24 starting at 9:00 am. Jay Jefferson is the Salinas Valley Fly Fishers representative for this event. Wear clothing for the weather of that day and if you can, bring gloves and a three prong hoe, as it’s the best tool.
Directions:
Go South on Highway 1 towards Monterey
Follow CA-1 S to Molera Rd. Take exit 414 from CA-1 S and take Nashua Rd over the highway
Take the first right on Monte Road 1.6 miles to your destination. This is a dirt parking lot on the left side of the road before the twin bridges.
This letter is to inform you about the upcoming NCCFFI event, the 2024 Hall of Fame dinner, and ask for your support. This year’s selectee is Mike Mercer, the acclaimed fly tyer from Redding. The event will be on Saturday, November 9th, 2024, at the Veterans Memorial building in Lafayette, near Walnut Creek.
This event was started back in 1987, with Jack Horner & E.C. Powell being inducted. It had been an annual event until 2015 when the Council stopped having it. After several years of requests to start it again, we are doing so this year.
Many of your members are likely not even aware of Hall of Fame since many are new to the club since 2015 or have simply forgotten about it. We believe strongly they would at least like to know it is happening and be able to attend.
The primary reasons for filling the venue – 200 people – is to once again honor one of fly fishing’s greats – Mike Mercer – and to support the sport of fly fishing and the Northern California Council. It’s especially important that we take a moment to honor our industrious fly-fishing celebrities, and just have a fun evening together, telling stories, meeting other greats who will attend, and supporting our Council.
HOF Dinner
Trip Auction
Will you help us get the word out to your club members? Here is our plan:
Each month we will send to you an article about the Hall of Fame, and we ask that you get it printed in your newsletter, and please post it to your website and social media. (Send them the August article – Attached)
At each of your club meetings from here until November 9th, please discuss it, reminding people of the date & location, as well as why it will be fun to attend.
The $150 price per ticket may seem relatively high, but our goal is to have an elegant event, in a great location, with many great prizes to be auctioned off to those attending.
The goal of the event is to raise money for NCCFFI so we can keep our doors open and continue to represent fly fishing with state and federal agencies, oversee and participate in Conservation work like the Klamath River, and continue the FFI traditions on teaching fly casting, fly tying, and coordinating a national program.
This is our major annual fundraiser, and we want to make it a success, and we can’t do that without you and your club.
Purchasing a Table representing your club.
We’d also ask you to consider buying a club table for 8. We are offering an $80.00 discount ($10 per ticket) if you do this. We also know if you come as a club everyone will have more fun together and have interplay with the other clubs who come. It’s just more fun!
Purchasing a table: Get your members who want to come to pay your club the discounted ticket cost – $140 each – send one check ($1,120) to our treasurer, Tom Smith, NCCFFI Treasurer, P.O. Box 7231, Reno, NV, 89510-7231. We will need all names for check in at the dinner (we will send a form to fill out names, e-mail addresses & phone numbers for the 8 attendees) once your club signs up for a table.
We’ll look forward to seeing you at the event. We promise, you’ll really enjoy the evening, and you’ll be supporting fly fishing greatness, as well as supporting our Council. Check out the attached details about the event & auction items.
Summer and fall are the best times to use this trout fly. It’s best used in small streams where the water is not real turbulent. The Sierras are great for this fly. It also works well in stillwater and quiet parts of rivers.
