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New Way to Fish Pyramid

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.

Posted on July 29th, 2024

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Upcoming Fishouts

by Justin Ice

Upcoming Fishouts –

If you have not had a chace to join one of the many clubs hosted Fishouts this year, not to worry! We have more to come.

It is a great opportunity to meet new friends and new waters.

Fishout Schedule

August 2024

Rio Del Mar State Beach Surf Fishout – Saturday August 3rd, 6am meet up

  • Location: Rio Del Mar State Beach
  • Fishmaster: Lance B.
  • Target Species: Surf Perch / Striped Bass

September 2024

Manresa State Beach Surf Fishout – Saturday September 7th, 6:25AM meet up

  • Location: Manresa State Beach
  • Fishmaster: TBD
  • Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers

Mammoth Fishout -September 21st – October 5th

  • Location: Mammoth Lakes
  • Fishmaster: John Cook
  • Target Species: Trouts
  • UPDATED – 7/20/2024 –Only two spots open first week, the second week is full.

October 2024

Palm Beach Surf Fishout – Last Surf Fishout of 2024! Saturday October 5th, 6:50AM meet up

  • Location: Palm Beach
  • Fishmaster: TBD
  • Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers

O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout – October 17th – 20th

  • Location: O’Niell Forbay
  • Fishmaster: Kevin Murdock
  • Target Species: Striped Bass

Posted on July 29th, 2024

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Outside Club Events

Date Activity Link DescriptionLocation
Oct 05 9:00 am - 5:00 pmNCCFFI'S YUBAFEST 2024

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. 

Sycamore Ranch Park
Oct 08 12:00 pm - 4:00 pmMBSTP Hatchery Volunteer Day

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.

 

Monterey Bay Salmon and Trout Project Hatchery
Nov 09 5:00 pm - 8:30 pmNCCFFI Hall of Fame dinner - EVENT

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. 

Veterans Memorial Bldg – Lafayette
Nov 24 8:00 am - 11:00 amVolunteer for Salinas River Cleanup, Sunday November 24

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.

 

Posted on July 29th, 2024

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NCCFFI Hall of Fame dinner

Dear Santa Cruz Fly Fishers,

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.

Thank You!

Ron Beltramo

NCCFFI Executive Board Member

Posted on July 29th, 2024

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July Vacation Newsletter

We will NOT have a general meeting in July and won’t have another until September 4th. Until then, there are plenty of activities for you:

  • Trout Unlimited meeting June 19th
  • Surf fishout at Palm on July 6th
  • Fly Tying class with Jesse Collins on July 9th
  • Kennedy Meadows fishout on July
  • Fly Casting in July, date TBD
  • Club BBQ on Wednesday, August 7th

Have a great summer!

Posted on June 17th, 2024

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Trout Unlimited Meeting

Jun 19 6:30 PM at the Aptos Grange
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88295626770
TU Meeting at Aptos Grange on June 19th

Trout Unlimited Steinbeck Country Chapter (Central Coast of California) membership meeting announcement.
Please join us for a hybrid General Membership meeting on June 19th.
Date:  June 19
Time:  6:30 – 8:00
In Person Location:  Aptos Grange, 2555 Mar Vista Dr, Aptos, CA  95003
Zoom option:  Join Zoom Meeting  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88295626770
Meeting ID: 882 9562 6770

Agenda:
6:00 Gather and Social Time
6:30 Call to Order and Introduction by Christy Fischer, Chapter President
7:00 Presentation: Current and Future of the Klamath River – After the Dams are Gone – Latest news and Vision for the Future Presentation by Tommy Williams, SW NOAA Science Center
7:45 Presentation: Carmel River / Rancho Canada Floodplain Project – Turning a Golf Course into a Natural River on the Central Coast Presentation by Tim Frahm, Trout Unlimited
8:00 Wrap up by Christy Fischer – What’s next for the Chapter

Our lead presenter for this meeting is Tommy Williams who is a research biologist at the National Marine Fisheries Service’s (NMFS) Southwest Fisheries Science Center (SWFSC) for the past 24 years, Tommy serves as the lead for the SWFSC on issues related to planning, and science issues regarding the removal of four dams on the Klamath River.  He knows the river, the landscape, the politics, the current conditions and the potential for recovery of cold-water fisheries.

Also presenting will be Tim Frahm, TU Central Coast Steelhead Project Manager discussing the ambitious Carmel River Floodplain Restoration Project (largest such project on the California Coast) which will commence construction next summer (2-year effort).

 

Posted on June 14th, 2024

Date:  July 10th

Time:  Doors Open at 6:15pm

Place:  Place: Aptos Grange, 2555 Mar Vista Dr, Aptos 95003

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CDC Jig Style Hairs Ear Nymph

by by Instructor Jesse Collins

Description of Fly: This is my favorite all around nymph pattern. It is very versatile and has accounted for many large trout around the US. From central Pennsylvania spring creeks, Appalachian mountain streams, Putah Creek and Hamilton Branch in California, to the Beaverhead River in Montana…it just produces fish. It is perfect in smaller sizes for picky spring creek fish and in larger sizes it makes a great point fly for czech style nymphing. The jig head keeps the hook riding up which keeps the hook point sharper and reduces snags. The CDC collar traps bubbles and looks very buggy. This is a great all around pattern for mayflies, smaller stoneflies, and even caddis pupa.

Class is free

Provided: All materials except thread (some will be available for beginners), instructions, demonstration, and helpful assistance.

Bring: Olive, pink, or grey 70 denier or 8/0 thread, vise, tools, magnification, and glasses as needed. (some will be available for beginners) who are always welcome.

Sign Up: Call instructor at least 24 hrs ahead: Jesse Collins: 831-227-9987

Posted on June 14th, 2024

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Green Flashy Clouser

by Elaine Cook - fly tying chairman

The clouser fly is designed to go after stripers either our local surf, Delta, O’Neill Forbay. and other waters that hold stripers. This is a style of tying a fly, and there are many different this one has been used successfully in the past at the Forbay and since fish are going for larger fish now this pattern has been increased in size.
HOOK: Mustard 34007 size 1/0 and 2/0.     Crimp bar
THREAD: white strong thread Such as: 3/0 monocord, flat waxed nylon, Dannille 2/0, Ultra thread 140 denier    Attach 1/3 back shank. Lay down thread base halfway to eye. Position thread 1/4 back on shank.
EYES: barbell eyes, either white or red with black pupil  Sizes 1/30 or 1/40 ounce. Attached to top of shank with figure 8 wraps and snug parachute wraps. Apply superglue, or similar. Allow to dry. leave thread hanging in front barbells.
LOWER BODY: chartreuse crystal flash. NOTE: for this and other materials being used, moisten for easy handling.Place center of 14 strands on top of shank where thread hangs. Make two thread wraps, move thread to behind barbells. Fold forward strands backward over top of barbells. Wrap, snuggly and place. advance thread to in front of barbells. Cut length to 2 1/2 inches from front of hookeye.
LOWER BODY CONTINUED: Mega Baitfish Emulator, flash pearl color. Get from Hairline Dubbin Inc.    NOTE: this material comes with ends stitch to a cloth strip. Cut a 5/8 inch piece of cloth strip. Hold material as a bundle, cut off cloth drip. Lay  center of bundle on top of shank and attached the same as crystal flash. advance thread to in front of barbells. cut to length of crystal flash
LOWER BODY CONTINUED: white bucktail.    Use clump about 3/4 the diameter of a wooden matchstick. Even tips by pulling out long tip fibers and stacking them on other fibers. Position tips at rear ends of mega bait fish. Secure in place with several snug thread wraps in front of barbells. Cut butt ends at an angle behind hookeye.. Tie down butt ends and trim any whiskers. Build up a thread nose with many thread wraps. Bring bundle over barbells snuggly tied down, keeping bundle on top of shank. With finish, cut thread, apply zap gap to all thread wraps and deer hair over bar bills. Allowed to dry.
UPPER BODY: Fire Fly peacock color,   Turn hook upside down. Reattached thread behind hook eye. Place center of bundle on top of shank where thread hangs.Make 2 thread wraps. Fold forward fibers backward. With touching thread wraps, tie in place back to barbells, then forward to hookeye. Whip  finish, cut thread. Apply glue to all thread wraps. Trimfibers to length of mega beta fish.

 

 

Posted on June 17th, 2024

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Stanislaus Fly Fishers Swap Meet Announcement

by Paul Wallace Stanislaus Fly Fishers Board Member

Stanislaus Fly Fishers is having a Swap Meet instead of their July Meeting.

The event is Tuesday July 9th, 6pm at the Tuolumne River Lodge (comes up on Google maps) (across the river from the Modesto Airport). There is more information on our webpage, and a registration form. Please pre register so we have enough tables.

www.stanislausflyfishers.org

Please let me know if there is any further info you’d like!

Paul Wallace

1st Annual SFF Swap Meet – July 9, 2024 6PM
Our July 9, 2024 general meeting will feature a Fly Fishing Gear Swap. Have excess gear you’re looking to turn into cash? Have cash and are looking to buy some pre-owned gear fished only by a little old lady on Sundays after church? (Okay … that’s a stretch.) If you’ve got gear to clear, register now and reserve a table (or two) or half-table. Note: All sellers are solely responsible for conducting their own transactions. The Stanislaus Fly Fishers will not act as a third party in any transactions.

Posted on June 14th, 2024

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Fishout Schedule – July

The newsletter provides brief fishout info.  For full detail, go to the website menu and select EVENTS -> Fishout Schedule

Jul 06 : Palm Beach Surf Fishout – Updated 6/11



Location: Palm Beach State Park  Species: Surf Perch, Striped Bass  Min./Max Participants: NO Limit Cali Surf Style 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… Read More

Jul 07 : Loreto Fly Fishing Trip *UPDATED*


Loreto Fly Fishing Trip *UPDATED*
Sign Up Now! Experience a new HIGH! Fish for Dorado, and many other salt-water fish, including Bonito, Roosters, Yellowtail and Sailfish on a fly! Join the group going to Loreto in Baja July 7th through the 11th This trip includes: Four nights at the beautiful Hotel La Mission, on the water-front next to the Loreto… Read More

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


Kennedy Meadows / Sonora Pass - Fish-Out 2024
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… Read More

Aug 03 : Rio Del Mar State Beach Surf Fishout


Rio Del Mar State Beach Surf Fishout
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… Read More

Sep 07 : Manresa Beach



Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers Read More

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


Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 21-Oct.5
Fall trout fishing in streams and lakes. Trip is for seven days and the participants share a condo in Mammoth Lakes. Read More

Oct 05 : Last Surf Fishout of 2024!



Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers Read More

Oct 17 : O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout October 17-20th


O'Neill Forebay 'Stosh' Memorial Fishout October 17-20th
Camping and striped bass fishing at the O'Neil Forebay. Read More

Nov 01 : Trinity River Fishout


Trinity River Fishout
Target: Steelhead and trout.  Contact Alex Ferber if you are interested in going on the trip, text Alex at (831) 419-0564  or alex.ferber74@gmail.com.  Read More

Posted on June 17th, 2024

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June 2024 Table of Contents

June Meeting: Matt – Truckee River………………
June Raffle……………………
Trout Unlimited Meeting…………………
President’s Line……………………
Fly Tying……………………
 June Class: X-Caddis
 Fly of the Month: Hemingway Caddis
Conservation Concerns……………
 Profile: Carmel River Steelhead Association
Membership Notes…………………
 Club Activities – June
 Online Merchandise Store is Now Open
 Help Disabled Veterans Learn to Fly Fish
 238 Members Including 7 New Members
Gearing Up…………………
  Fishout Schedule – June
Cartoon ……………………

Posted on May 29th, 2024

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Matt: Truckee River

Jun 05 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

Matt began fly fishing the waters of the Tahoe-Truckee region when he was a kid. As a guide, Gilligan brings to the river over 35 years of experience fly fishing and tying flies for Truckee River trout. A veteran guide, Gill loves to guide anglers of all abilities. Gill lives on the banks of the Truckee River in Hirschdale Ca, and has a familiarity with river that he will present to you.

www.gilligansguideservice.com

Posted on May 29th, 2024

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June Raffle Items

NOTICE: There will be no pre-meeting sales of raffle tickets this month, all raffle tickets will be sold at the monthly June meeting, 6/6/24, held at the Aptos Grange.

Looks like we have some great stuff up for grabs this month!
The Predator 8wt rod at 10 ft is perfect for the surf, big river Steelhead, Pyramid Lake,  or warm water big game fish.
It is a four piece rod that features a IM 10-30T Carbon blank, aluminum reel seat, and titanium guides. It is a fast action rod designed to throw big streamers and flies under rugged conditions.
We have a great little Fly-Tying Tool Kit from White River. Includes all your standard tools plus a vise, all packaged in a classic wooden case.
George Revel of Lost Coast Outfitters has donated a great wax canvas hat plus $60 in gift cards to be used at his San Francisco store or online through his website. Time for Fly Gear shopping!
Raffle tickets are a dollar each, twenty bucks gets you 25. Tickets will be sold at the club meeting, need not be a club member to participate. Raffle proceeds are used to support the the Club’s conservation efforts and our local scholarship program.

Posted on May 29th, 2024

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Trout Unlimited Meeting

Jun 19 6:30 PM at the Aptos Grange
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939
TU Meeting at Aptos Grange on June 19th

Trout Unlimited Steinbeck Country Chapter (Central Coast of California) membership meeting announcement.
Please join us for a hybrid General Membership meeting on June 19th.
Date:  June 19
Time:  6:30 – 8:00
In Person Location:  Aptos Grange, 2555 Mar Vista Dr, Aptos, CA  95003
Zoom option:  Join Zoom Meeting  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88295626770
Meeting ID: 882 9562 6770

Agenda:
6:00 Gather and Social Time
6:30 Call to Order and Introduction by Christy Fischer, Chapter President
7:00 Presentation: Current and Future of the Klamath River – After the Dams are Gone – Latest news and Vision for the Future Presentation by Tommy Williams, SW NOAA Science Center
7:45 Presentation: Carmel River / Rancho Canada Floodplain Project – Turning a Golf Course into a Natural River on the Central Coast Presentation by Tim Frahm, Trout Unlimited
8:00 Wrap up by Christy Fischer – What’s next for the Chapter

Our lead presenter for this meeting is Tommy Williams who is a research biologist at the National Marine Fisheries Service’s (NMFS) Southwest Fisheries Science Center (SWFSC) for the past 24 years, Tommy serves as the lead for the SWFSC on issues related to planning, and science issues regarding the removal of four dams on the Klamath River.  He knows the river, the landscape, the politics, the current conditions and the potential for recovery of cold-water fisheries.

Also presenting will be Tim Frahm, TU Central Coast Steelhead Project Manager discussing the ambitious Carmel River Floodplain Restoration Project (largest such project on the California Coast) which will commence construction next summer (2-year effort).

 

Posted on May 29th, 2024

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Reaching out to other organizations

Santa Cruz Fly Fishing has been busy the past few months and doesn’t seem to be stopping. One of the exciting areas is that we are doing more and more with other organizations n the area. Some are looking towards us for resources, others are wanting to share knowledge and try and grow both organizations. I am encouraging these types of relationships to provide opportunities for our members. I am highlighting some of the organizations with articles in this month’s newsletter:

Fishout Exchanges with the Stanislaus Fly Fishers:
Fishout Committee chair, Justin Ice, continues to come up with ways to increase the number of available fishouts for the club. His latest brainstorm is to form alliances with other fly fishing clubs and do fishout exchanges. The first one is with the Stanislaus club out of Modesto and we are invited to attend their fishout on the Clarks Fork of the Stanislaus River . And in exchange, we will be providing a Zoom presentation on fishing the surf and invite them to join us for the July 6th fishout at Palm Beach .

Project Healing Waters
At the last casting clinic, I was talking to club member, Derek Whitmer, about a local Project Healing Waters (PHWFF) being started in Monterey Peninsula to help disabled veterans using the magic of fly fishing. Derek became enthused and contacted the coordinators to see how what they needed. They already have veterans who have signed up to learn how to fish and go fishing, now they need volunteers. Read the article in Membership Notes to learn how to help.

Steinbeck Country Trout Unlimited: Last month, SCFF member, Kevin Morrison, contacted me to start a conversation between SCFF and our local Trout Unlimited chapter, Steinbeck Country TU. Covering an area from the San Mateo down San Louis Obispo, Trout Unlimited has thousands of local members and almost none of them know about the local chapter. The Steinbeck Country TU Board’s strategy is to leverage the fly fishing clubs within the Central Coast area to quickly build up momentum. To help them, the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club will be hosting the TU Chapter meeting at the Aptos Grange on Wednesday, June 19th.

Profile: Wild Steelheaders United
Who are the organization’s that SCFF gives conservations dollar to and why? These are the questions that Conservation Committee Chair, Bob Garbarino, is answering with “profile” series to let us know more aobut the organizations that we are financially supporting. The May 2024 newsletter highlights the work of the Wild Steelheaders United.

Profile: Carmel River Steelhead Association
The June 2024 newsletter is highlighting the work of Carmel River Steelhead which member, Rich Hughett, has been supporting since the start. (see link)

Student Scholarship:
Finally by providing scholarships, our relationship with the local public high schools continues to flourish. I had the pleasure of presenting a $500 check to Ruby from Pajaro Valley High School (PVHS) who will be attending Brown University in Rhode Island and majoring in Environmental Studies. Another benefit from providing scholarships is that we get our club’s name out to the community. For example, a teacher from PVHS, Nathan Hokie, saw us presenting last year and joined the club!

I hope that you get out and fish this summer!

Scott Kitayama

Posted on May 29th, 2024

Date:  Wednesday, June 12

Time:  Doors open 6:15 PM, class begins at 6:30

Place:  Aptos Grange Hall

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X-Caddis

by Elaine Cook - fly tying chairman

This dry fly caddis pattern was featured last month as the fly of the month. If you tied this on your own Great, and if you’d like some further instruction come join the class. This class will feature how to handle deer hair as a wing. Greg Foy will be the instructor and I will be there to assist as my foot is still healing and limits my mobility. As usual, the class is free and all material materials are provided. If you have tan 6/0 or 8/0 thread do bring it. For you beginners tools and vises are available to borrow. Please sign up at the club meeting or call, with at least 24 hours notice, either Greg at 831-239-8780, or Elaine at 831-234-6515

Posted on May 29th, 2024

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Hemingway caddis

by Elaine Cook - fly tying chairman

This adult caddis is very similar to a Henryville Caddis. The larger sizes can be used pretty much anywhere and particularly in the Rocky Mountains. The very small ones are great in tail waters and spring creeks. Apply floating before fishing. Using a light dun hackle and quill wing make the fly easier to see.
HOOK: TMC 100 SIZES 12 TO 18. (I also tie size 20).    Crimp bar.
THREAD: gray or olive, 6/0 for larger flies, 8/0 for medium, or 10/0  or 14/0 for small. Attached 1/3 back, wrap to rear of shank.
HACKLE: Dun barbs equal to one hook gap.
Remove any fuzz at end of feather. Cut five or six barbs short on each side of butt end of steam (crew cut). Tie in crewcut with dull side feather facing you, tip of feather to rear.


BODY:  gray or olive super fine dubbing: Gray muskrat fur can also be used.
Dub a cigar shaped body up to thread tie in. Palmer hackle forward in about five wraps. tie cut excess.
UNDERWING: Wood duck or mallard flank feather.
Lineup tips of barbs. Using the hook gap as a guide cut that many from the stem. Tie to top of shank with tips, extending hook gap length beyond rear of body.
WING: mallard quill feather or secondary feathers of other birds also work. Apply silicon to feather ahead of time which will help keep the barbs from separating. If they do when fishing, the fish still respond to the fly readily.
Using the hook gap as a guide, use a Bodkin to separate the barbs. Cut section nearest the stem straight across, then fold in half length wise and cut a diagonal notch. ( See diagram). Position butt end on top of body with tips extending hook gap beyond rear of body. Pinch wing in half length wise and tie in place with several wraps. Cut excess and tie down butt ends.
HACKLE: dun hackle. Size, prep, and tie in the same as above.
THORAX: Peacock hurl.
Cut barbs from stem. Approximately four for larger hooks, three for medium, and one or two for small flies. Tie in tips make, dubbing loop. Advance thread to one eye length behind eye. Make chenille with dubbing tool. Close wraps to one eye behind eye. Tie off cut excess. Palmer hackle forward to one eye length behind eye. Tie off cut access. With finish. Apply glue to tie off threads.

Posted on May 29th, 2024

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Profile: Carmel River Steelhead Association

by Bob Garbarino

Last month I started a series of profiles on conservation organizations Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club is supporting this year with cash donations. The goal of these articles is to keep you all informed and hopefully inspires you to learn more about conservation. This month I will continue with another outfit that is new on our list this year— Carmel River Steelhead Association (CRSA). CRSA is a good fit because steelhead are listed as either threatened or endangered throughout most (if not all) of the Pacific coast, and it is local.

The mission of CRSA is the restoration and conservation of the federally threatened steelhead fishery on the Carmel River and its watershed. The primary goal is to return the Carmel River watershed to as natural a state as possible so that it will maintain an annual run of adult steelhead in excess of 2,000 fish.

The association was formed in 1974. It appears that Richard Hughett (a long-time SCFF member) and Ray Wermuth are principally credited with the formation of the association. They are primarily an important advocacy voice for steelhead recovery on the Carmel and contribute matching funds to some of Tim Frahm’s Trout Unlimited projects on the Carmel River.

CRSA focuses their work in three main areas to recover steelhead populations in the Carmel River—Fish Rescues, Water Advocacy and Habitat Improvement.

Fish Rescues—Every year parts of the Carmel River and most of its tributaries go dry because of excessive pumping of water to meet the needs of humans. When this happens fish stranded in these drying reaches will die without intervention by caring people. CRSA is very integral to an ongoing juvenile rescue program in the upper watershed. They have agreements with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) who accompanies them to electroshock reaches which are drying back.  The captured juveniles are moved to the main stem. CRSA members have volunteered an average of 500 hours and rescued approximately 10,000 young steelhead per year.

Water Advocacy—While there are many reasons Carmel River Steelhead are endangered, lack of adequate water ranks number one. The Carmel River has been the primary source of water for the Monterey area resulting in over-pumping of the aquifer, thus drying the river. Similarly, local pumping for housing and vineyards results in the drying of most of the river’s tributaries.
With so many people wanting a portion of our limited amount of water, it has been a primary function of CRSA to be an advocate for adequate water for fish.

Habitat Improvement—In 1997 American Rivers listed the Carmel River as one of the 10 most endangered rivers in the United States. A lot has been done since that time to improve conditions on the Carmel River and a lot more must still be done. Whether it is a simple river trash removal or the installation of woody debris, CRSA has and will continue to work to improve the habitat from Los Padres Dam to the lagoon for steelhead.

For the SCFF conservation committee, Carmel River Steelhead Association is a great fit to complement our mission and worthy of our support. With their continued dedication and effort, we look forward to seeing some positive results in the recovery of our local steelhead.

For more information on CRSA, go to: https://www.carmelsteelhead.org/

Posted on May 29th, 2024

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Club Activities – June

Date Activity Link DescriptionLocation
Jun 22 1:30 pm - 3:00 pmFly Casting Meetup

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.

Jade Street Park baseball field

Posted on May 16th, 2024

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Online Merchandise Store is now Open

Greetings from the Marketing Chair,

The link I have included is our club link https://fnsimple.com/collections/santa-cruz-fly-fishing?ls=zsISFlwH5YMmYAnelhYTH .
This will take you to Our Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club Store. As of today we have 13 items (many of the items come in different colors), including women’s and men’s specifically in the store with our logo. You may order and have your order shipped direct to your home with a shipping fee of $7.40.

The Club can ask for other garments to be included in the store. If any one has a request please send a link to the Item to me at rchace@got.net. I will have some sample garments for the June Club meeting to check out . I will also have cards printed up with this link out at the meetings. Check out new swag garments on display.

Tight Lines
Rick Chace

Posted on May 29th, 2024

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Help disabled veterans learn to fly fish with Project Healing Waters

Wanted to let you know about an opportunity to get involved with a local chapter of “Project Healing Waters” (PHW).    PHW is dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of injured and disabled military service personnel and disabled veterans through fly fishing and associated activities including education and outings.
Our contact for PHW is Brian Steckler.  Brian’s email is  PHWFF.SF…@gmail.com  and phone is (831) 402-1584.  Please contact Brian ASAP if you can help, especially with the June 1st event and the July outing.  I have enclosed Project Healing Waters FAQ.
Below are some of the activities they will be doing this summer and need  volunteers.
  1. Next outdoor class (knot tying, typical nymph and dry fly rigs, what to expect on a one-day and/or overnight outing for camping and fishing):   June 1 from 1 to 4 PM,  in Carmel Valley Village. PHWFF SF – Monterey Peninsula Extension Event June 1 2024 v2 (1)
  2. July overnight outing y), Mokelumne River east of Stockton (3.5 hour drive from Monterey).  Camping at Lake Amador Campground.  July 13-16.  PVH can take only 4-5 vets and they must have participated in two events by June 2nd.  Volunteers needed.
  3. Next outdoor class (reading the water, entomology (study of bugs/flies), casting practice – roll and double haul casting):  Wednesday July 10th from 7-9 PM.  Location TBD.
  4. August overnight outing (note this is a newly announced event).  Location TBD based on some recon trips I’m doing prior to this event.   PVH   can only take 4-5 vets and they must have participated in two events by July 2nd to be considered.
  5. August outdoor class (repeat of June knot tying, typical nymph and dry fly rigs, what to expect on a one-day and/or overnight outing for camping and fishing):  Wednesday August 7th from 7-9 PM.

Posted on May 29th, 2024

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Fishout Schedule – June

The newsletter provides brief fishout info.  For full detail, go to the website menu and select EVENTS -> Fishout Schedule

Jun 01 : June Surf Fishout – Beer Can Beach


June Surf Fishout - Beer Can Beach
Surf fish-out Saturday June 1st, followed by breakfast at Mike Lovejoy's. Important location information and breakfast information RSVP Required for breakfast Read More

Jun 07 : Burney and Around – UPDATED-



Fishmaster: Alex Ferber Location: Lakes, rivers and streams of the Burney area Species: Trout Duration: 3 Days Cost: No Cost Meet Up: 8am - Friday 6/07 Hat Creek Park off Hy 299 (See the map below). The park is approximately 10 minutes from the highway 299/80 junction. The park is on the left hand side… Read More

Jun 14 : Clarks Fork Stanislaus River – Fishout (Stanislaus Fly Fishing Club) – UPDATED 6/11 –


Clarks Fork Stanislaus River - Fishout (Stanislaus Fly Fishing Club) - UPDATED 6/11 -
June 14th-16th, is a weekend outing to Clark Fork with an option for Beardsley Afterbay. This can also be a one-day trip for those who can’t make the whole weekend.  Trailer access available, and Stillwater opportunities for those with kayaks, drift boats, or float tubes.  Casual trip to finish and have fun. Read More

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


Lake Almanor/Hex Hatch -June 22nd thru 29th- 2024 -UPDATED-
Fishmaster: Tim Loomis - 831- 345-8411 / bigsurstyles@att.net The Lake Almanor fishout is typically scheduled for the last weeks of June (22nd - 29th). This time period is, hopefully, the peak of the annual Hexagenia hatch that begins generally mid-June and runs through mid-July. The most productive fishing takes place early evenings on into past… Read More

Jul 06 : Palm Beach Surf Fishout – Updated 6/11



Location: Palm Beach State Park  Species: Surf Perch, Striped Bass  Min./Max Participants: NO Limit Cali Surf Style 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… Read More

Jul 07 : Loreto Fly Fishing Trip *UPDATED*


Loreto Fly Fishing Trip *UPDATED*
Sign Up Now! Experience a new HIGH! Fish for Dorado, and many other salt-water fish, including Bonito, Roosters, Yellowtail and Sailfish on a fly! Join the group going to Loreto in Baja July 7th through the 11th This trip includes: Four nights at the beautiful Hotel La Mission, on the water-front next to the Loreto… Read More

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


Kennedy Meadows / Sonora Pass - Fish-Out 2024
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… Read More

Aug 03 : Rio Del Mar State Beach Surf Fishout


Rio Del Mar State Beach Surf Fishout
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… Read More

Sep 07 : Manresa Beach



Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers Read More

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


Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 21-Oct.5
Fall trout fishing in streams and lakes. Trip is for seven days and the participants share a condo in Mammoth Lakes. Read More

Oct 05 : Last Surf Fishout of 2024!



Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers Read More

Oct 17 : O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout October 17-20th


O'Neill Forebay 'Stosh' Memorial Fishout October 17-20th
Camping and striped bass fishing at the O'Neil Forebay. Read More

Nov 01 : Trinity River Fishout


Trinity River Fishout
Target: Steelhead and trout.  Contact Alex Ferber if you are interested in going on the trip, text Alex at (831) 419-0564  or alex.ferber74@gmail.com.  Read More

Posted on May 23rd, 2024

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May 2024 Table of Contents

May Meeting: Alaska………………
May Raffle……………………
President’s Line……………………
Fly Tying……………………
 May Class: Foam Beetle
 Fly of the Month: X-Caddis
Conservation Concerns……………
 Profile: Wild Steelheaders United
Membership Notes…………………
 May 11 – Swap Meet
 Club Activities – May
 2024 Roster Available @ May Meeting
Gearing Up…………………
  Fishout Schedule – May
Cartoon ……………………

Posted on April 24th, 2024

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Jesse Collins: Fishing Alaska

May 01 6:30 PM at the Aptos Grange
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939

 

Club Member Jesse Collins is a former guide who first started guiding on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula in 2007. He grew up within walking distance of the Chattahoochee River and started flyfishing when his grandfather took him to see the premier of “River Runs Through It” in 1992. For over 30 years Jesse has been tying flies and fly fishing and has fished all over America from the southeast tailwaters like the Taccoa, Chattahoochee, and South Holston Rivers, to the Great Lakes Tributaries, Pennsylvania Spring Creeks, Appalachian Freestones, Western rivers like the Madison, Yellowstone, and the Beaverhead, all the way to Alaska. He is passionate about all things fly fishing and one of his favorite places in the world is Alaska where he makes it back every year.

Posted on April 24th, 2024

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May Meeting Raffle

by Jeff Goyert

PRIZES! PRIZES! PRIZES!
DOOR PRIZES & RAFFLE PRIZES

Spring is here in full bloom, the rains are over, Summer is just around the corner. Sounds like it is time to get serious about fishing! With that in mind we have some great raffle prizes up for grabs. This month choose between an Euro-Nympth Fly Rod/DVD set, an Echo 6/7 Arbor Reel, or a Mokelumne Gear Bag.

Don’t miss out, buy your lucky raffle tickets. The online ticket sales office will close at noon on 5/01/24.

Raffle tickets cost a dollar each, $20 bucks gets you 25. Click on the following link to  purchase your lucky raffle tickets:

https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/product-category/raffle-prizes/

Participation in the monthly raffle helps the Club’s conservation and scholarship programs, your support is greatly appreciated. 

Posted on April 24th, 2024