As the name implies, the October caddis is an insect that hatches out during October. It is particularly prolific on the upper Sacramento River. But can be found in many other places including the Merced River just outside Yosemite. If you are a beginner, you are definitely welcome and vices and tools will be available for you to use. The classes are free and materials provided. Students are encouraged to bring orange 6/0 thread or 120 denier. Thread will be available for beginners, please note if you don’t have orange thread, bring a white or light colored thread and we can use a sharpie to color it. Sign ups are important so that enough material is available for all that attend. Sign up at a club meeting or call Elaine at 831-688-1561. Please allow 24 hours advance notice.
This fly imitates a midge sending to the surface. The air bubble (bead) is making the ascension possible. Midges hatch throughout the year and most still waters and moving waters. It’s best finished using an indicator. Take this fly, and the October caddis that will be taught at the flytying class to the upper Sacramento and McLeod rivers in late October to mid November.
Hook: Size 16-24 (TMC, TFS 2487).
Thread: black 8/0
Bubble: One petite or extra small, clear glass bead plus 5X tippet.
Tail: dark rust, stiff bird, hackle
Thorax: Dark olive, super find dubbing.
Head: Black thread
1. Crimp barb. NOTE: end of shank is above barb
2. Attach thread 2/5 back on shank with about six wraps. Leave bobbin hanging at rear of wraps.
3. Slip bead onto tippet and position in the center. Fold backward and hold strands together. Place on hook shank, bead forward of eye, tippet to rear, make several thread wraps. Pull on tippet to move bed into position. Makes several snug thread wraps 1/8 inch to rear.
4. Bend tippet toward eye and snuggly tie down up to behind bead. Cut excess.
5. Cut about 12 barbs off stem of hackle keeping tips aligned. Lay on top of shank, tips extending about two hook lengths to rear of shank. Secure to shank behind bed with wraps to mid shank. Pull on barb butts positioning tips so they are hook shank length beyond shank. Attached to shank with touching wraps back to slightly beyond end of hook shank. Cut excess hackle butts behind bed.
6. Wrap thread forward, forming slender tapered body up to bead.
7. Wrap a small thorax, two wraps behind bead, one in front, two around base of bead.
8. Wrap a small thread head, whip finish, cut thread.
A few years ago, I posted an article in the newsletter with science-based conservation tips for fly anglers at: https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/tag/november-2021/#post-3950. With the trend toward increased in angling pressure, drought and higher temperatures, I thought it would be a good time to revisit this subject. I found an article on the Fly Fishers International website that presents some great principles and practices for individual anglers that can help increase the survival rate of fish. Many of these were found in my previous article, but are certainly worth repeating. I must admit I haven’t always adhered to all these best practices, but I’m trying to be aware of them and become a better conservation-minded angler.
Fly Fishing Practices
Practice catch and release to help sustain and manage the fishery. This is especially important with all the challenges fish face. Land fish quickly. The longer the fish is played the more exhausted and stressed it becomes. Keep fish in the water. When removing the fly, keep the fish in the water so it can keep breathing. This is usually easier with a aid of a net.
Handle fish with care. Wet the fish and support it horizontally with both hands. Try not to squeeze too hard. This can be difficult when trying to control a slippery, lively fish. Avoid suspending the fish by its lip. Use barbless or crimped-barb hooks as they are easier/quicker to remove with less harm to the fish. It’s easier to remove a barbless hook from your body and clothing too!. A hemostat or other hook removal tool can be useful. If the fly is deep in the fish, cut the line off close to the fly as possible. When photographing fish, minimize time out of the water. Keep the fish in the water until the photographer says they are ready. When releasing, if the fish appears sluggish, gently hold it in the stream with its head facing into the current until it is ready to swim off. Carry a stream thermometer. When fishing for cold water fish—like trout—don’t fish when the water temperature approaches 70 degrees F.
Fly Fishing Gear and Flies
Use appropriate sized rod, reel, line and tippet that will allow landing your target species as quick as possible. Carry an effective hook removal tool. Use a rubber net whenever possible to help minimize damage to the fish’s skin and gills. Always use barbless or crimped barb hooks.
Protecting Fish, Water and Environment
Eliminate lead from the environment—BB weights and wire wrap for flies. Make sure you clean and dry (or other practical and effective method) equipment that contacts water when moving to a different watershed—especially when a body of water is known to have invasive critters like quagga mussels or New Zealand Mudsnails. Check local regulations for wading boot restrictions—felt soles are not permitted in some waters. Pack out all your trash, including tippet. Avoid stepping on spawning beds and redds. Don’t target actively spawning fish. Try to practice “leave no trace”.
For more details on this subject, go to: https://www.flyfishersinternational.org/Conservation/Ethos/Responsible-Fishing-Practices
Spey Casting clinic will be Saturday’s October 7,14 and 21. 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. It’ also has been used for Striped Bass and Shad. The first class would be ideal for those who have never casted a 2 handed rod. We will be learning the basics of casting and I will talk about the lines and their applications. It will be at the Jade St Park from 2-4 pm. We will meet on the lawn next to the Soccer field, space permitting. I will supply rods. Right now I have 2 people interested. I have enough rods for 6 folks.
Spey Casting clinic will be Saturday’s October 7,14 and 21. 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. It’ also has been used for Striped Bass and Shad. The second class will be on the San Lorenzo River.
Going to have a clinic for club members who have fished from a float tube before, but have not fished the Forebay for Stripers. To get in the class, you MUST contact scottkitayama@gmail.com. Class will be limited to about 10 people and I am also inviting some people from the Salinas Valley fish club.
-Click the title link to read more-
Spey Casting clinic will be Saturday’s October 7,14 and 21. 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. It’ also has been used for Striped Bass and Shad. The 3rd class is scheduled for October 21, but it’s not the optimal tide, so I will discuss it with the class to see what they would like to do.
SCFF volunteers will be helping Trout Unlimited remove a barrier to steelhead spawning habitat on Little Arthur Creek in the Pajaro River watershed. We currently have enough volunteers planning to help, but cancellations are possible. Contact Bob Garbarino if you are interested. rjgarbarino@gmail.com or 831-247-2045
Join the Salinas Valley Fly Fishers for the annual clean up of the Salinas River fishing access. The event will be on Sunday November 19th starting at 9:00 am. Greg Smith 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.
Join the Salinas Valley Fly Fishers for the annual clean up of the Salinas River fishing access. The event will be on Sunday November 19th starting at 9:00 am. Greg Smith 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.
Since January 2023, we have 38 new members join averaging over 4 new members a month for a total of 221 members.
This amounts to a 20% increase in membership and going forward this creates an opportunity and challenge to bring new members ideas and new ways to provide ways to adapt to changing environments. As new members, please feel free to provide any suggestions to our Board members, Board President Scott Kitayama 650-279-5871 or myself Bob Peterson 831-251-8655
https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/events/mammoth-fishout-2/ Mammoth Lakes (Click for address and map) Fishmaster: John Cook
UPDATE Both weeks of this Fishout has been filled. I am maintaining a waiting list. There are three people on the list currently. If I get enough I will think about getting another condo. Please email or contact me directly for inquires. John & Elain Cook - Fishmaster (831) 234-6515 coookin@gmail.com Dates: This Fishout will… Read More
Oct 07 : October surf fishout – Beer Can
https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/events/october-surf-fishout/ Beer Can Beach (Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Sam Bishop - Fishing; Mike Lovejoy - Breakfast
Surf fish-out Saturday October 7, followed by breakfast at Mike Lovejoy's. Important location information and breakfast information Read More
Oct 14 : Kelly Lake – Watsonville (bass, crappie) – CONFIRMED Oct 14
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Scott Kitayama
Fishmaster: Scott Kitayama Location: Kelly Lake in Watsonville (Private lake limited to 10 people) Species: bass, crappie, bluegill Duration: 1 day Registration and Cost: No Cost, but you must contact Scott as the number of people fishing is limited. Contact at scottkitayama@gmail.com. I am waiting on confirmation on this date, however I wanted to gauge… Read More
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Kevin Murdock
Event: O'Neill Forebay 'Stosh' Memorial Fishout Date: Thursday October 19 to Sunday October 22 (I chose this weekend for it's '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 … Read More
Dec 01 : 2023 Fishout Round-Up
https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/events/2023-fishout-round-up/ (Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Club Members
Greetings Club Members (Existing, new, soon to be), This though not a Fishout, but rather a year in review of 2023's great events held by our members. 19 trips planned in 2023 not all the trips planned were executed due to the high waters and weather early in the season but for some of those… Read More
Mar 15 : Upper Sacramento River Fishout (Dunsmuir) Date Postponed High Water
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Alex Ferber
Fishmaster: Alex Ferber Location: Upper Sacramento River with Potential McCloud River Side Trip Species: Trout Date / Duration: POSTPONED DUE TO HIGH WATER Tentatively March 15th - 17th, 3 Days … Read More
Apr 01 : Pyramid Lake Fish-out April 1 – April 7, 2024 – New Info
Pyramid Lake (Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Mike White - (831) 706-5556
The Pyramid Lake trip is one of the best-attended fishouts the club has, and for a good reason. Lahontan Cutthroat Trout cruise parallel to the shore in easy casting distance from shore. Read More
Apr 20 : Kelly Lake – Watsonville (bass, crappie)
https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/events/kelly-lake-watsonville-bass-crappie-date-tbd/ (Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Scott Kitayama
Updated March 25th, fish out if full. Fishmaster: Scott Kitayama Location: Kelly Lake in Watsonville (Private lake limited to 6 people) Species: bass, crappie, bluegill Duration: 1 day Registration and Cost: No Cost, but you must contact Scott as the number of people fishing is limited. Contact at scottkitayama@gmail.com. On this Fishout, priority will be… Read More
May 04 : Rio Del Mar State Beach Surf Fishout
https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/events/rio-del-mar-state-beach-surf-fishout-2/ (Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Lance B.
First Surf Fishout of 2024!
Saturday May 4th 2024 5:55AM
Location: Rio Del Mar State Beach Read More
The fishout on the upper Sac was from Sept 8th – 10th. Members stayed at the Sims Flat campground and in Dunsmuir. The days were warm, but in the early morning, you could feel fall in the air and the stream water temperature had cooled down. According to fish master, Alex Ferber, the upper Sac can be a fickle stream and the fishing was tough. Fish were mainly caught nymphing though there were dry fly opportunities in the evening.
Rob H, Scott A, Greg F, Bob G, Alex F
Greg F, Scott K, Bob G
Greg nymphing
Sims Flat
New members that took advantage of the fishout included: Alex F, Scott A, Robert H, Clark C. Other members included: Scott C, Greg F, Bob G and Scott K.
by Elaine Cook - your your fellow mental mind teaser
It’s a puzzle instead of a cartoon this month.
All good fly fishermen should tune in next month to see how astute they are.
Find a word that is common to each group of three definitions below. HINT: each word can be associated with fishing.
1. telephone part.
the purpose of a commercial
a boxer’s punch
2. unsteady
motion picture film
a sewing machine bobbin
3. tent door
part of a man’s trousers
part of a flight attendant’s job
4. words of an actor
an element of poetry
a facial feature we all get
Sep 06 6:00 PM at the Aptos Grange No Zoom for September and October meetings.
The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club presents the Fly Fishing Film Tours 2023 film line up in a 2 part series showing at the Aptos Grange during the September and October general meetings. We want this to be a fun and exciting event and as a way of recruiting new club members. Please invite friends to come and watch the movie with you. No food and or drinks during the movie since we cannot have them in the main room of the Grange. However, we will have time after the film to visit and snack in the side room. We will have sodas and water for sale, if you want anything else, you need to bring it.
17th annual FLY FISHING FILM TOUR (F3T)
The 2023 show will feature locations from Cuba to Patagonia, Mexico to Australia, Alaska, Wyoming, the Deep South, Massachusetts and beyond. Experience the achievement of a permit slam, follow one man’s journey from Mexico to the waters of Wyoming, explore the best international waters and compete for the legendary belt buckle. Join us for a journey of adventure, friendship and the best fly fishing action.
The F3T is the original and largest fly fishing film event of its kind. Come for the action and stay for the giveaways and camaraderie that will feed your fishing addiction.
Our September meeting is going to feature our big Fly Fishing FilmTour (F3T) so we figured we should have some special raffle prizes and door prizes. Click on the link below to visit our online store to purchase your lucky raffle tickets!
WINNERS CHOICE RODS AND REELS We are going to be giving away a couple of rods and reels to a couple of our lucky winners. First we have a 10 ft. 2 wt. Euro-nymph rod, perfect for our challenging Sierra streams. The second will be a V-Access 9 ft . 6 wt. rod with 5/6 CNC machine cut reel. Both rods are four piece and include a cordura covered hard tube case.
5 GALLON YETI LOAD-OUT BUCKET How about a load of Yeti? We start out with a 5 Gallon Yeti Load-out bucket packed with a Yeti Rambler Bottle, Yeti 750 ML Yonder, and Yeti Thin Ice block. Great quality stuff to make your next outdoor adventure totally enjoyable.
DRY CREEK Z GEAR POUCH If you are heading to the great outdoors you are going to need something to stash all your goodies. We have a Simms DRY CREEK Z GEAR POUCH. It`s totally waterproof with a self-healing zipper and has clear view accessibility. Also includes a really cool Simms slate Captain`s Cap.
The online raffle ticket sales office will close at noon on Wednesday the day of the monthly meeting (9/6/23). Club membership is not required to participate, need not be present to win. The prize drawing will take place at the regular monthly meeting.
Since my roles as a parent and at work have lightened, I welcome the upcoming fall season as a perfect time for fishing. With Sierra streams returning to their normal levels, cooler weather offering better conditions in local lakes, and a potentially lower risk of heat and fire hazards, the potential is high to turn this season into a wonderful opportunity for fly fishing. Now, how can we all maximize this experience?
Let’s Ignite the Enthusiasm!
We’ve all indulged in fly fishing videos on platforms like YouTube. While some are undeniably captivating, much like action films, they lack the immersive experience of sitting amidst an animated theater crowd, feeling the collective thrill and vitality. The memory may still linger of the Fly Fishing Film Tour’s past appearance at the Rio Theater in Santa Cruz. Regrettably, the tour skipped Santa Cruz in recent years and last year, its Bay Area screenings were a no-show. Yet, Justin Ice, a dedicated SCFF Board member, took it upon himself to resurrect the film’s presence in Santa Cruz. As a result, the 2023 film will grace our September and October fly fishing meetings. The decision was made to make the screening open and free for all attendees, fostering a packed house and igniting a sense of festivity and dynamism. Anticipate fantastic door prizes and an array of appealing raffle items.
Even the mere trailers of the film have me itching to head out fishing.
Following that, let’s plan our excursions
From September onwards, I’ve marked my calendar for seven out of eight consecutive weekends for fishing. Am I boasting? Well, guilty as charged. However, the noteworthy detail is that each of these trips is a part of SCFF fishouts, and among them, four are conveniently local (Beach, Beach, Kelly Lake, Forebay). A few years ago, a survey aimed at gauging the most valuable club activities for members—such as education, guest speakers, casting workshops, fly tying sessions, and fishouts—revealed that fishouts took the lead. This year, the club has significantly ramped up the number of fishouts on offer. If you haven’t yet taken part in a club fishout, I highly encourage you to do so. It’s the simplest path to acquainting yourself with fellow club members and discovering new territories or styles of fly fishing.
Share your escapades post-trip
Whether your fishing adventure yields a Personal Best or Personal Bust, your fellow club members would greatly appreciate hearing about it. If you’ve captured an impressive shot and wish to showcase it to the world, simply forward your photo to Jerry McKeon at metropolitantrout@gmail.com. Alternatively, if you’ve got an anecdote or an image to share exclusively with club members, you can submit it to info@santacruzflyfishing.com to feature it in the newsletter. Alternatively, dispatch it to santacruzflyfishing@googlegroups.com to ensure its delivery to all club members.
My sincere hope is that you leverage the meetings, the fishouts, and the insights, camaraderie, and feedback from your fellow club members to make this fall season your most memorable one yet.
Wishing you tight lines and looking forward to meeting you soon,
Here we are getting ready for the Fishout in October at the forebay. Of course, the forebay can be fished anytime from now to into it November. As always, the class is free, and all materials are provided, except for the thread which will be white: flat wax nylon, Big Fly, monocord or similar. We welcome beginners and provide them with tools, thread and advice. It’s always helpful to bring magnification and a table lamp. Some lamps are always provided, but not enough to go around usually. Elaine Cook will be assisting beginners. Sign ups are important and can be done at the September club meeting or calling Michael at 831-234-2244 or Elaine at 831-234-6515. Please allow at least 24 hours notice ahead.
Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to Fly Name to see more information.
This fly originated in England, and became extremely popular until they outlawed because it was too successful. It is now becoming very popular in the states, and having the same results including at Pyramid Lake. We will be having a club fish out there in early April so be sure and bring a few of these flies with you. It’s tied in a variety of ways and we will be tying one that was particularly successful at Pyramid this last year. For those of you who are new to our club, the classes are always free with materials provided.For people who are new to fly tying, tools, vices, and thread are made available. For those who have thread bring white flat waxed nylon or similar. Our annual fundraiser of Salmon and big ralffle on the 3rd of February is taking the place of our club meeting so you will need to sign up by calling or emailing me. 831-234-6515, coookin@gmail.com
MARCH FLY TYING CLASS: We will be doing our annual popper class and space is limited. It will be held the weekend of March 16 and 17th at my home. Two days are required, each about four hours, due to drying of paints and epoxies. No particular fly tying skill is needed for this class. If you wish to attend this class, you can sign up now to assure your place. Do call if you have questions.
It’s time to get ready for the bass and bluegill season with some of these top water creations. This is a two day class that is a very artsy crafty and beginners should feel comfortable in attending. All the materials will be provided including the thread. Vises and tools will be available for beginners. There is limited space, so only sign up if you are committed to attend and do so no later than March 11. You can sign up at the club meeting or by calling me at 831-234-6515
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.
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
This dry fly is an absolute must for the upcoming fishout to Mammoth Lakes. Be sure to use this in the high Sierra streams, Hot Creek,, and the upper Owens. don’t hesitate to use this fly throughout the west and the north east as well. The fish in the Rockies particularly like the larger flies. This thorax fly tying style was developed around 75 years ago by Vince Marinaro for the limestone streams of the Northeast.
HOOK: TMC 10o (standard dry fly) size is 12–18. The small flies work well in spring creeks and tail waters.
Crimp Barb.
THREAD: Olive 8/0.
Attach thread, mid shank, and leave hanging 1/3 back from eye.
WING: light, gray, turkey flat.
Select a bunch of turkey, flat, barbs, lining up tips and cutting from stem. Measure turkey flat barbs equal in length to hook shank and tie and on top of shank with Tips extending beyond eye. Cut bar butts off at an angle. Stand wing upright, making several wraps as a dam to hold barbs vertical. Return thread to cut Barb butts.
TAIL: light dun hackle fibers. (Side feather from chicken neck that has stiffer barbs).
Select 10–12 hackle barbs, line up tips, tie in so tips are one hook shank length beyond the end of the shank. Last wrap under tail to keep from bending downward. Cut, butts even with cut wing butts.
BODY: Olive, superfine dubbing. ( the natural insect varies in color from olive, to pale olive gray, to yellow olive green, to rusty olive).
Dub a slender body up to mid shank.
HACKLE: light dun neck, or saddle
Select hackle with barbs 1 1/2 hook gap long. Remove any fuzz at butt end, stroke barbs against grain at butt end. Cut several barbs short off each side of butt end. Lay that section on side of shank, tip to rear and tie in place. dub remainder of hook to one eye length behind eye. Spiral hackle forward in three turns behind wing and three turns in front of wing. Tie off cut access. Wrap, a small thread head, whip finish, cut thread, and seal with his cement, if desired.
In the May newsletter this year I wrote about a study that found introducing hatchery fish into streams with wild fish populations actually destabilized and reduced the wild fish population. This month I came across another article about how costly efforts to support and increase native salmon populations in the Columbia River has failed. This conclusion was based on a report published by an economics professor at Oregon State University and a biologist with the U.S. Geological Survey and the University of Washington. They analyzed data collected over 50 years with counts of native and hatchery salmon and steelhead return runs at Bonneville Dam. The data indicated hatchery fish numbers had increased slightly, while wild salmon and steelhead populations had not. In fact, the introduction of hatchery fish have in some cases been found to have a harmful effect on the wild population. They also reported that over the last four decades, about $9 billion have been spent by federal and state agencies to run and maintain about 200 salmon hatchery programs in the Columbia River Basin.
While overfishing and the construction of 14 dams are the primary contributors to the declining numbers, others are farming pollution and diversion of water for irrigation, climate change, as well as habitat loss from logging and mining. An average of 1.5 million salmon and steelhead have run up the Columbia over the last decade—far short of the goal of 5 million by 2025. State of Oregon officials are moving forward with a third-party investigation of the hatchery operations, including the cost vs benefits. The Conservation Angler, an organization that focuses on protection of wild Pacific anadromous fish populations throughout the Northwest, is active in reforming hatchery practices including those on the Columbia/Snake River basin. This is another example of an angling group getting involved in conservation.
For more information about this subject got to: https://www.opb.org/article/2023/08/05/columbia-river-salmon-habitat-spending-study/
The 17th annual FLY FISHING FILM TOUR (F3T) The 2023 show will feature locations from Cuba to Patagonia, Mexico to Australia, Alaska, Wyoming, the Deep South, Massachusetts and beyond. Experience the achievement of a permit slam, follow one man’s journey from Mexico to the waters of Wyoming, explore the best international waters and compete for the legendary belt buckle. Join us for a journey of adventure, friendship and the best fly fishing action.
The F3T is the original and largest fly fishing film event of its kind. Come for the action and stay for the giveaways and camaraderie that will feed your fishing addiction.
Spey Casting clinic will be Saturday’s October 7,14 and 21. 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. It’ also has been used for Striped Bass and Shad. The first class would be ideal for those who have never casted a 2 handed rod. We will be learning the basics of casting and I will talk about the lines and their applications. It will be at the Jade St Park from 2-4 pm. We will meet on the lawn next to the Soccer field, space permitting. I will supply rods. Right now I have 2 people interested. I have enough rods for 6 folks.
Spey Casting clinic will be Saturday’s October 7,14 and 21. 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. It’ also has been used for Striped Bass and Shad. The second class will be on the San Lorenzo River.
Going to have a clinic for club members who have fished from a float tube before, but have not fished the Forebay for Stripers. To get in the class, you MUST contact scottkitayama@gmail.com. Class will be limited to about 10 people and I am also inviting some people from the Salinas Valley fish club.
-Click the title link to read more-
Spey Casting clinic will be Saturday’s October 7,14 and 21. 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. It’ also has been used for Striped Bass and Shad. The 3rd class is scheduled for October 21, but it’s not the optimal tide, so I will discuss it with the class to see what they would like to do.
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster: To Be Determined
Location: Manresa State Beach 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 Fishmaster ahead of… Read More
Sep 08 : Upper Sacramento River Fishout (Dunsmuir)
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Alex Ferber
Fishmaster: Alex Ferber Location: Upper Sacramento River with Potential McCloud River Side Trip Species: Trout Duration: 3 Days Cost: No Cost https://goo.gl/maps/qC5QbdWhMStgX27X9 Equipment: Typical Trout Set Up 9', 4-6wt Rods w/ Floating Lines Ideal Euro Nymphing, and Trout Spey conditions available Nymphs: Pheasant Tail, Hairs Ear, Prince Nymph, Wooly Buggers, Perdigon, Copper Johns, Zebra Midge,… Read More
Sep 23 : Mammoth Fishout – UPDATED –
https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/events/mammoth-fishout-2/ Mammoth Lakes (Click for address and map) Fishmaster: John Cook
UPDATE Both weeks of this Fishout has been filled. I am maintaining a waiting list. There are three people on the list currently. If I get enough I will think about getting another condo. Please email or contact me directly for inquires. John & Elain Cook - Fishmaster (831) 234-6515 coookin@gmail.com Dates: This Fishout will… Read More
Oct 07 : October surf fishout – Beer Can
https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/events/october-surf-fishout/ Beer Can Beach (Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Sam Bishop - Fishing; Mike Lovejoy - Breakfast
Surf fish-out Saturday October 7, followed by breakfast at Mike Lovejoy's. Important location information and breakfast information Read More
Oct 14 : Kelly Lake – Watsonville (bass, crappie) – CONFIRMED Oct 14
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Scott Kitayama
Fishmaster: Scott Kitayama Location: Kelly Lake in Watsonville (Private lake limited to 10 people) Species: bass, crappie, bluegill Duration: 1 day Registration and Cost: No Cost, but you must contact Scott as the number of people fishing is limited. Contact at scottkitayama@gmail.com. I am waiting on confirmation on this date, however I wanted to gauge… Read More
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Kevin Murdock
Event: O'Neill Forebay 'Stosh' Memorial Fishout Date: Thursday October 19 to Sunday October 22 (I chose this weekend for it's '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 … Read More
Dec 01 : 2023 Fishout Round-Up
https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/events/2023-fishout-round-up/ (Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Club Members
Greetings Club Members (Existing, new, soon to be), This though not a Fishout, but rather a year in review of 2023's great events held by our members. 19 trips planned in 2023 not all the trips planned were executed due to the high waters and weather early in the season but for some of those… Read More
Mar 15 : Upper Sacramento River Fishout (Dunsmuir) Date Postponed High Water
(Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Alex Ferber
Fishmaster: Alex Ferber Location: Upper Sacramento River with Potential McCloud River Side Trip Species: Trout Date / Duration: POSTPONED DUE TO HIGH WATER Tentatively March 15th - 17th, 3 Days … Read More
Apr 01 : Pyramid Lake Fish-out April 1 – April 7, 2024 – New Info
Pyramid Lake (Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Mike White - (831) 706-5556
The Pyramid Lake trip is one of the best-attended fishouts the club has, and for a good reason. Lahontan Cutthroat Trout cruise parallel to the shore in easy casting distance from shore. Read More
Apr 20 : Kelly Lake – Watsonville (bass, crappie)
https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/events/kelly-lake-watsonville-bass-crappie-date-tbd/ (Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Scott Kitayama
Updated March 25th, fish out if full. Fishmaster: Scott Kitayama Location: Kelly Lake in Watsonville (Private lake limited to 6 people) Species: bass, crappie, bluegill Duration: 1 day Registration and Cost: No Cost, but you must contact Scott as the number of people fishing is limited. Contact at scottkitayama@gmail.com. On this Fishout, priority will be… Read More
May 04 : Rio Del Mar State Beach Surf Fishout
https://www.santacruzflyfishing.org/events/rio-del-mar-state-beach-surf-fishout-2/ (Click for address and map) Fishmaster: Lance B.
First Surf Fishout of 2024!
Saturday May 4th 2024 5:55AM
Location: Rio Del Mar State Beach Read More
Saturday, August 5, 2023 was another foggy summer morning at Rio Del Mar Beach. Our surf fish-out was to start at 0600, so being the organizer and wanting to be early, I showed up at 0530. There was only one good parking spot left because so many guys showed up even earlier than me! An eager group for sure, ready to fish a minus low, slack tide as we started. As we worked our way down the beach (the fish don’t come to you, you have to keep moving to find them) we started picking up more bites as the tide began to change. Most of us picked up between 1 and 10 fish, but I know of that were “write home about it” size.
And I met a couple other people on the beach that have serious interest in our Club, so I hope we get a couple new members too!
Here is a list of those I know were there. I missed a couple who did not sign in. My apologies for spelling I couldn’t read.
Adam and Peter Althoff, Jerry McKeon, Matt Bohn, Jeff Zeische, Bob Garbarino, Pete Soderstron, Lance Boling
And Jerry McKeon has already posted pictures on Instagram.
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. (Adult beverages will not be offered. Feel free to bring your own.)
We’ll also hold a fishing swap-meet/flea market. Bring your gently or un-used gear to the meeting for cash or trade. Be sure to bring your own display table.
Also, bring your favorite rod and join the cast for cash competition. This meeting is a great opportunity to meet and greet in person.
Future Speakers. Dates and speakers may change, please go to URL to see the current information.
The Fly Club raffle is taking a short break for the summer. There will be no meeting or raffle in July, in lieu of the August meeting we will be holding our annual summer BBQ. No raffle but we will have some great door prizes. Don’t miss out.
September will see our regular meeting with both online and in-person raffle ticket sales.
Many thanks to all who participate in our raffles, your support is greatly appreciated.
We are going to have the Annual BBQ and Swap meet at the Aptos Grange on Wednesday, August 2nd at 6:00 pm. I kind of think of this event as a gift from David South and Kevin Murdock to the club members. They do all of the purchase of the food, prep and cook it for us. All they want is that we show up, eat some food, and have a good time. Its that easy to make them happy.
Bucket-List Fishing
In June, I joined club members, Elaine and John Cook, Kathy Powers and Michael Sherwood as we camped and fished our way through Yellowstone NP, Cody WY and Dutch John UT. With guides costing upwards of $700 a day, it was an honor to fish and learn from fellow club members who have been fishing these waters annually for upwards of 25 years. We had lots-of-fish days and no-fish days, sunny days and God-is-going-to-blow-our-camper-two-states-east days. After two and a half weeks, I was sated; I could have fished more, but I didn’t need to fish more. And that might be the best way to end a trip.
Goodbye and thank you Emily Marriott
Just last year, Emily Marriott joined the SCFF club and the Board by volunteering for the Secretary and the Marketing positions. Without any prior experience in fly fishing, Emily learned quickly and became a regular at the fly tying classes and the surf fishouts. In August, Emily and Adam are moving to central Illinois to help care for aging parents and be closer to their daughter and grandchild. We are going to miss Emily’s smile, purple hair, and great work she did on behalf of the club. Thank you so much Emily!
Welcome Carly Blanchard to the SCFF Board
For the rest of the 2023, Carly Blanchard has stepped in to be the Secretary for the club. Carly has been helping behind the scenes with the monthly online raffle and she is going to be a real help with conservation issues as she is the Environmental Programs Manager for the San Lorenzo Valley Watershed District. You can read about one of her projects, “Fall Creek Fish Ladder”, in the conservations section of the newsletter. We are lucky to have her join the Board!
We still have an opening on the Board for Marketing and Merchandise position. If you have a creative flair, like designing and selling logo items, and want to help spread the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing brand than let’s talk!
This fly just works. It makes a great hopper/dropper top fly and it catches fish on it’s own. No dry fly hackle or other expensive materials and it can be tied and just about any color. We’ll be tying this one in purple which is probably my favorite version. It’s also not too difficult to tie making it great for beginners.
Purple, black or dark thread in 6/0 or 70 denier works well but anything close will do. I’ll have some extra thread. Another thing to bring, if you have it is super glue. All materials provided. Please bring your vise and tools but if you need anything, let me know.
No need to RSVP.
Hope to see you there! Jerry
Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to Fly Name to see more information.
There are many ant patterns, most of which are hard to see on the surface of the water. Posting them makes them far easier to see, particularly if post is orange in color. Ant patterns are most effective mid summer on, and are more available to fish on windy days. Add floatant and fish with a drag free presentation. Good in still water as well.
HOOK: TMC 100 – sizes 12 to 16.
Crimp barb.
THREAD: black 8/0.
Attach mid shank. Make a few wraps toward the rear.
BACK: Orange spooled Antron.
Using about a 2 inch strand, attach to top of shank back to above barb.
REAR BODY: Black, superfine dubbing — black Sharpie marking pen.
Dub bulbous rear body up to mid shank. Pull Antron forward and tie down.
MID BODY: Antron, and black thread.
With touching wraps, attach Antron to top of shank up to 1/4 back on shank. If tying size 14 or 16 hooks, additional touching thread
wraps back to rear body, then forward again. Using Sharpie pen, darken Antron over rear body.
POST: continuation of orange Antron.
Holding Antron upright, wrap, touching thread wraps around Antron in 5 to 6 wraps up, then down in 5 to 6 to shank. Make a
couple of wraps in front of post to hold it upright. Trim Antron equal to hook length.
HACKLE: grizzly equal to one and a half to 2 times hook gap.
Prepare hackle by cutting off fuzzy end, then cut about six barbs short on each side at bottom of stem. Place shiny side against shank, tip to rear, and cut barbs at base of post. Tie in place in front and behind post. Hold hackle upright, post upward with 4 to 5 wraps then back down again.
FORE-BODY: Black, super fine dubbing.
Dub a small fore-body from eye back to the middle of the mid body.
HACKLE continued.
Reposition thread by wrapping around base of post. Start behind post and let thread hang in front of post on your side. Using
hackle pliers, wrap hackle around base of post about 3-4 times and leave hanging down from shank on your side. Bring the thread up in-front of hackle, parallel to table, and wrap around post through hackle 3 to 4 times. Half hitch 3 to 4 times behind eye. Cut thread. Cut excess hackle. Cut Antron so it is hook shank length above shank. Push up on hackle barbs from beneath to be sure they are parallel to the table. Cut any that hang below.
The San Lorenzo Valley Water District has announced that work has begun in Felton to improve fish migration up into Fall Creek—a tributary of San Lorenzo River. Early last year, our club submitted a letter in support of this project. This was in response to a request from one of our members, Carly Blanchard, who happens to be The San Lorenzo Valley Water District Environmental Programs Manager. The existing fish ladder—built thirty years ago—had steps too tall to allow the fish to easily move up the creek. The re-design incorporates lowering the ladder steps from eighteen to twelve inch steps. This is critical to make the trip upstream easier for steelhead and coho salmon. The water district has been working with the National Marine Fisheries Services and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife on the design to meet current accepted standards. The budget for the project is about $2.3 million with $1.1 million coming by way of a grant from the CDFW Watershed Restoration Grant Program. Completion date is expected to be October 2023. Great work Carly! By the way, there is a trail that follows Fall Creek in the Fall Creek Unit of Henry Cowell State Park that is beautiful, especially this year after all the rain. Check it out if you get a chance. For more information, go to: https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2023/07/10/fish-ladder-upgrades-underway-at-fall-creek-in-felton/
The 17th annual FLY FISHING FILM TOUR (F3T) The 2023 show will feature locations from Cuba to Patagonia, Mexico to Australia, Alaska, Wyoming, the Deep South, Massachusetts and beyond. Experience the achievement of a permit slam, follow one man’s journey from Mexico to the waters of Wyoming, explore the best international waters and compete for the legendary belt buckle. Join us for a journey of adventure, friendship and the best fly fishing action.
The F3T is the original and largest fly fishing film event of its kind. Come for the action and stay for the giveaways and camaraderie that will feed your fishing addiction.
If you are new to fly fishing and want some hands-on learning, here are some local resources.The first is our club’s casting clinic held the last Saturday of the month at Jade Park in Capitola.(Check the club activity list in the newsletter or the monthly calendar on the website).Another option is to check the schedule at Central Coast Flyfishing and see what Geoff Malloway is offering: https://www.centralcoastflyfishing.com/
Local Recreation Classes Taught by SCFF Members
This fall, we have club members offering classes through the local recreation department.This might be a good class for some of our brand new members or for friends who are interested in an introduction to fly fishing.
Discover Fly Fishing Capitola Park & Recreation Alex Ferber
It will be 5 consecutive Saturdays starting September 23- October 21. It will be held at the Jade St Park in Capitola and we will use the recreation building for our classroom sessions. The class is for those with little or no experience in Fly Fishing. It will cover basic casting on the lawn, as well as classroom instruction on knot tying, rigging rods for various fishing situations, reading water, basic entomology, conservation and an overview of the equipment one might need to get staying fly fishing. It is geared to those wanting to get into fly fishing or to those just getting into fly fishing who would like a formal introduction to what it takes to fly fish. I will supply all the equipment, including rods, reels etc.you can sign up for it at:https://www.cityofcapitola.org/recreation
Fly Fishing 101 –Oct 17 and Oct 21 Santa Cruz Park & Recreation Tim Loomis
Fly fishing demystified! This class will cover the basics of fly fishing along with the history of the sport from its evolution of tree branches as poles to state of the art graphite rods. Learn about two of the commonly used types of fly fishing along with the ABCs of casting with all the various knots, materials and gear available. Then we will head outside to practice the skills learned. Discover a lifelong hobby that will take you into the great outdoors. Tuesday’s class is instructional and Saturday’s class will be held outdoors. Rods, reels and gear are all provided. A material fee of $30.00 is due to the instructor at the first class. Tuesday’s class will take place at 7pm at the LNCC, Saturday’s class will take place at 10:00am at DeLaveaga Park Meadow.
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.
