Some people have novel ways of finding where the fish are.
Posted on September 24th, 2024
Underwater Scout
Outside Club Events – Oct
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 05 9:00 am - 5:00 pm | NCCFFI'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 | Sycamore Ranch Park |
| Oct 08 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm | MBSTP 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 pm | NCCFFI 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 am | Volunteer 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:
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Posted on September 24th, 2024
Fishout Schedule – Oct
The newsletter provides brief fishout info. For full detail, go to the website menu and select EVENTS -> Fishout Schedule
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 05 6:50 am - 8:50 am | Last Surf Fishout of 2024! | Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers | Palm State Beach |
| Oct 17 - Oct 20 | O'Neill Forebay 'Stosh' Memorial Fishout October 17-20th | Camping and striped bass fishing at the O’Neil Forebay. | Medeiros Primitive Campground – Oneill Forebay |
| Nov 01 - Nov 04 12:00 am | 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. |
Oct 05 : Last Surf Fishout of 2024!
Location: Palm Beach Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety), Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket (If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online) Single, double & triple fly rigs Clousers to sand crabs Directions: Take W. Beach St. in Watsonville towards Pajaro Dunes. Park at the end of W. Beach St. on the right side of the road outside of the entrance to Pajaro Dunes.
| SURF FISHOUTS 2024 | Meeting Time (AM) | State Beach | Sunrise | Low tide | High tide | Moon | Tide flow | Fishmaster | |||
| MAY | 4th | Saturday | 5:55 | Rio Del Mar | 6:10 | LO 02:14 +1.1 | HI 07:58 AM +4.0 | New Jun 7 | Hi Flood to High Slack | Lance B | |
| JUNE* | 1st | Saturday | 5:35 | Beercan* | 5:50 | LO 01:12 +1.3 | HI 06:39 +3.4 | New Jun 6 | High Slack to Ebb | Sam | |
| JULY | 6th | Saturday | 5:40 | Palm | 5:56 | LO 06:03 -1.1 | HI 1:04 PM +3.7 | New Jul 5 | Low slack to Flood | Lance B | |
| AUGUST | 3rd | Saturday | 6:00 | Rio Del Mar | 6:15 | LO 05:05 -0.7 | HI 11:54 AM +3.8 | New Aug 4 | Low slack to Flood | Sam | |
| SEPT | 7th | Saturday | 6:25 | Manresa | 6:44 | LO 07:04 +1.8 | HI 1:26 PM +4.6 | New Sep 2 | Low slack to low Flood | Sam | |
| OCT | 5th | Saturday | 6:50 | Palm | 7:06 | LO 05:50 + 2.1 | HI Noon +5.0 | New Oct 2 | Low Flood | Sam | |
| Notes: Meet up times are scheduled 15 - 20 minutes before official sunrise. Locations/dates/times/Fishmasters might change, notifications on Google Groups. June 1st* Mike Lovejoy's for breakfast after fishing: 115 Driftwood Ct., Aptos | Contacts: Sam Bishop sambishop@totlcom.com, 831-274-4024 Lance Boling <clboling@gmail.com> | ||||||||||
| Locations | Rio Del Mar State Beach - Google Map location for "Platform Beach" | ||||||||||
| Beercan Beach* - Enter 1191 Via Palo Alto, Aptos. Path & Stairs between Houses (See Notes) | |||||||||||
| Palm Beach - Pajaro Dunes, end of West Beach St. | |||||||||||
| Manresa State Beach - Google it, but parking may be on Ocean View Dr, 500 yards down the road | |||||||||||
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Oct 17 : O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout October 17-20th
Event: O'Neill Forebay 'Stosh' Memorial Fishout Date: October 17th - 20th (I will be looking for a weekend with a 'skinny' moon, less night feeding for the fish) Target Gamefish: Striped Bass Location: Medeiros Campground located on the Southern Shoreline of the O'Neill Forebay, access off of Santa Nella Blvd. (Highway 33) Hosts: Kevin Murdock troutdock89@gmail.com These are primitive campsites so bring your own water. There are tables, sun pavilions, and chemical toilets, or outhouses and fire rings. No open fires are allowed outside of the rings. Typically we will be camping as close to site 29 as we can get. This is a first come, first serve campground, so no reservations are accepted. Float tubes can be launched near the campsites, but boats must be first inspected, then launched from the San Luis Creek Boat launch. Boats may not be left on the lake overnight. Boaters would be wise to exit prior to the closing of the entry kiosk. The ranger can place a seal on your trailer, allowing you to bypass the inspection process the next morning. The rangers at the kiosk by the Medeiros entrance may insist that your float tubes need inspection. make sure they're clean & dry. Equipment: 8wt rods with fast sinking lines. Some anglers will occasionally use a floating line with a 'gurgler' type fly Flies: Lee Haskins San Luis smelt, 'Deceiver' type patterns in red, white, chartreuse, the aforementioned gurglers and poppers. Float tubes (may require inspection for quagga mussels) Fins, sunscreen, polarized glasses, life vest Links: https://mengsyn.com/ A fly-fishing addict who fishes San Luis Reservoir and the Forebay. http://www.danblanton.com/ Long time local fishing guide.
Forebay Water level:
https://cdec.water.ca.gov/dynamicapp/QueryDaily?s=Onf There will be a signup sheet at our September meeting. We'll also create a list for those hoping to participate in a pot luck in honor of Steve 'Stosh' Rudzinski. Weather conditions can vary dramatically, so it would behoove members to check prior to departure. You could email me or just get conditions on-line. High winds can cause the lake to be closed to all vessels. This is one of our nearest Fishouts, with the possible payoff of a double digit fish! Don't miss out! Read MoreNov 01 : Trinity River Fishout
NOTE: Contact Alex Ferber if you are interested in going on the trip. After knowing how many people are interested, it will be easier to plan logistics (camping? motel?). You can text Alex at (831) 419-0564 or alex.ferber74@gmail.com. If you want to go on this trip, it is highly recommended to attend the Spey Classes.
The fishery:
Basically, this is a Steelhead Trip. There are some resident trout, including some really nice brown trout. I walk wade or float my raft, depending on the river conditions. I personally use a Spey rod to swing flies. Many people use indicators. There are a lot of walk in spots to explore. The river can be floated with rafts or driftboats. There is a shuttle service available.
Tackle:
Single hand rods, 7-8 wt rods, using floating lines with indicator set up. Typical flies used are Egg patterns, Copper John's, Stonefly imitations like Rubberlegs, Dark Perdigons. Sizes ranging from Size 8-14.
Spey or Switch rods, usually 5-6 wt in the Fall, I use a 7 wt in the winter. Skagit or Scandi heads, with floating to heavy sink tips, depending on the river conditions and season. Flies that work well include leeches, intruders, HoBo Spey, Traditionals, as well as dry fly patterns ( Skaters) in the early Fall.
The River:
The Trinity River is located aprox 1 hr west of Redding on Hwy 299. Its a beautiful tailwater fishery, with flows controlled from the Lewiston Dam. This is where the hatchery can be found. It has many different faces, including some big water as it runs west. It meets up with the Klamath River on its journey to the ocean. It has an excellent run of both wild and hatchery fish, ranging from 5-7 #, with some larger fish in the +10-12 # range. There are fish in the system year round, but typically a push of fish starts in late September and peaks in late November, with a second run usually in late December- March. The fishing remained really good thru the end of March last season. It is very flow dependant and can run quite low in the Fall, with occasional bumps in flows when there is precipitation. It can blow out on occasion, but clears pretty fast.
Amenities:
Weaverville is the closest town, where there are good restaurants, motels and a really nice Holiday Market. It's kinda the hub. There is an RV park in Weaverville, but no campsites.
Camping is available in Douglas City area as well as Junction City and further west on 299. The town of Douglas city doesn't have much, other than a small mini mart. Indian Creek Lodge is a few miles east of Douglas City. The town of Lewiston is just below the Lewiston dam. It offers some camping and motels. There is a really nice motel west of Junction City (I believe it is called Steelhead Lodge?). It's an excellent place to stay if one wishes to fish below Junction City.
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Posted on September 24th, 2024
Profile–Eastern Sierra Land Trust
This month, we continue our profile series on one of the conservation organizations our club supports: Eastern Sierra Land Trust
This organization is relevant in that the area affected by Eastern Sierra Land Trust’s efforts helps protect the fishery where one of our club fishouts takes place in the Mammoth Lakes and surrounding area. In fact several members of Santa Cruz Fly Fishing club will be there when this article is released.
Eastern Sierra Land Trust works with willing landowners to protect vital lands in the Eastern Sierra region for their scenic, agricultural, natural, recreational, historical, and watershed values. Rich in natural beauty, home to abundant wildlife, and steeped with history, the Eastern Sierra is a magnificent and complex region. Wildlife habitat is plentiful and diverse, supporting fisheries, migrating deer herds, and important bird flyways. Historic working farms and ranches are scenic, productive, and an integral part of our local economy.
By partnering with forward-thinking landowners and conservation supporters like you, ESLT is able to permanently protect the land, water, and wildlife that make the Eastern Sierra so special. Since their founding in 2001, they have successfully conserved over 23,000 acres on 26 unique properties that provide important resources to wildlife and the local community.
What does a land trust do?
Land trusts work with private landowners and the public to conserve working farms and ranches, natural areas, and cultural and biological resources for the benefit of their communities. They may acquire lands through donation or purchase; set up voluntary land protection agreements (conservation easements) with willing landowners; or mediate land trades between landowners and public agencies.
Land trusts have existed for over 100 years; today, more than 1,300 are operating in the United States. Funded primarily by charitable donations and private or government grants, land trusts across the nation have cumulatively conserved more than 56 million acres – including scenic areas, hiking trails, critical wildlife habitats, farms and ranches, and historic landmarks. Most land trusts operate locally, providing crucial land-use tools for property owners and citizens concerned with conservation on private lands.
Working Farms & Ranches
The Working Farms and Ranches Program helps local families set up voluntary land conservation agreements that permanently protect their working lands from the threat of subdivision. The Eastern Sierra’s working farms and ranches are scenic, historic, and a vital part of the regional economy. They also offer important habitat to wildlife: many iconic or rare species use the Eastern Sierra’s irrigated meadows and open pastures as a place to roam, forage, and raise their young. Yet many families following the ranching traditions of their parents and grandparents are struggling. Rising pressures to subdivide are putting these productive lands at risk. They don’t want to see their land developed, but many are running out of options. Fortunately, conservation provides a solution – and a growing number of ranchers and farmers in the area are choosing to partner with Eastern Sierra Land Trust to conserve their land for the future. This is usually accomplished by using one of their primary conservation tools: the conservation easement. Under a conservation easement, landowners retain title and management of their property, while designating how their land may be used now and in the future. For example, landowners may want to protect their land’s current agricultural use in perpetuity by prohibiting any subdivision or land use that would compromise those protected qualities, while retaining all other property rights. Landowners also may benefit from significant tax advantages currently and for future generations.
Critical Habitats
Eastern Sierra Land Trust’s Critical Habitats Program helps protect and restore lands that wildlife need to survive – providing them with safe, healthy homes forever. As our population grows, poorly-planned development puts wildlife at risk. Subdivision of open lands chops up migration corridors, wetlands, and breeding grounds, leaving wild creatures with nowhere to go. The Critical Habitats Program helps ensure that the Eastern Sierra’s wild inhabitants will always have a place to thrive. They accomplish this through public education; habitat restoration and land stewardship; and legally-binding agreements, such as the conservation easement, that protect important habitat from the threat of future development. Concerned property owners in the Eastern Sierra are working with ESLT to conserve and restore wildlife habitat on their land. For example, in the community of Swall Meadows, several landowners have partnered with ESLT to protect a critical migration corridor for the Round Valley mule deer herd.
Community Connections
Eastern Sierra Land Trust’s Community Connections Program works to build bonds between families and the land. By getting people of all ages outdoors and educating them about the natural world, they cultivate a deep appreciation for our region and all that it offers.
At Eastern Sierra Land Trust, they know that preserving the Eastern Sierra goes beyond protecting land with legal tools. By introducing people of all ages to the value of conservation and by helping them develop deep bonds with this land, you’re ensuring that the work we do today will last long into the future. Outings such as the annual field trip to our local Mule Deer Migration Corridor, wildflower walks, birdwatching opportunities, and hands-on volunteer days get families out in nature, where they get to know the places and wildlife species that make the Eastern Sierra unique.
One recent activity was The Great Sierra River Cleanup—part of California Coastal Cleanup day. ESLT, Friends of the Inyo, and volunteers will remove trash along the Owens River on LADWP land near the Artesian Springs.
Posted on September 24th, 2024
Embracing the Challenge of Fly Fishing
A couple of weeks ago, I had the pleasure of fishing the Fall River with club members Alex Ferber and Wilson Taguinod. Having previously fished this big, slow-moving spring creek, we thought it would be a good opportunity to try our hand at dry flies. With Alex guiding on the river, Wilson and I felt confident in our technique. However, when it comes to achieving the perfect downstream drift with a size 20 fly on an 18-foot leader, things can get tricky!
While we managed to catch a few fish by stripping some bugs, we couldn’t land a single one on a dry fly. Later, as we discussed the day, it became clear: if we wanted to improve our chances of success, we needed to practice and refine our techniques.
Upon returning to Santa Cruz, I attended a fly casting clinic to work on my presentation skills. Here’s the truth I’m learning: regardless of your skill level, fly fishing can be a challenge if you want it to be. It involves solving many little puzzles—finding the right location, determining what the fish are eating, and figuring out how to present the fly. It’s crucial to gauge how much challenge you want without letting frustration lead you to give up.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Santa Cruz club is excited to offer more educational and fishing opportunities. We have some new volunteers on board who will help us broaden our offerings, catering to novices and providing challenges for experts alike.
Over the past five months, Alex Ferber has been instrumental in our casting clinic, and I’m pleased to announce that he has been voted onto the SCFF Board as our casting instructor. Alex’s passion for teaching is evident—whether casting on the grass, practicing with yarn on the San Lorenzo, or fishing rivers up north, he is dedicated to helping you improve. In 2025, Alex will design casting classes that culminate in fishing trips. For instance, his current spey casting clinic will conclude with a steelhead outing on the Trinity River.
Another valuable addition to our team is Jesse Collins. Jesse previously gave a presentation about his experiences as a professional guide in Alaska. In late August, he, Bob Garbarino, and Kevin Murdock ventured to Alaska to fish. Jesse will join the board in 2025 and is already planning advanced fly tying sessions, adventure trips to Alaska, and greater outreach to the fishing community in Santa Cruz.
Do you remember this quote from JFK?
“We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard…”
I choose to fly fish and explore different techniques, species, and situations because it is a challenge—and because it’s hard. I’m grateful for the club and its members who help me navigate these challenges. I hope you find similar benefits through our community.
Fish hard, my friends,
Scott Kitayama, President
Posted on September 24th, 2024
October Raffle
The second best thing about Fall is that Summer is over, mornings are crisper, and there is sometimes a chance of rain. The first best thing about this time of year is that it is the start of the Fall fishing season! The streams, lakes,and even the surf are different, for many of us it is our favorite time of the year to fish.
It is also a good time of the year to buy some lucky raffle tickets. Take a look at some of these great prizes.
We have a really nice V-Access rod/reel package, 4 piece 9 foot, in 5wt, 6wt, 7wt, or 8wt. Take your pick, it is winners choice.
Take a look at the greatest float tube pump ever built! This the famous K-Pump made in the USA. No hoses, simple adapters, and can be used on the water. Quick and simple.
“Striper flies from Lee Haskin” What more do we need to say? Here we have a handful of Lee’s classic Forebay Striper flies, both Gurglers and Smelt. Great flies tied by the master himself.
Raffle tickets will be available for sale at the meeting, Wednesday 10/2, a dollar each, $20 bucks gets you 25. Don’t miss out, buy a ticket and be a winner.
Posted on September 24th, 2024
Local Surf Fly Fishing
Oct 02 6:45 AM at the Aptos Grange
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939
The ocean is the closest fishery that we have in Santa Cruz. Luckily for us in the area, our beaches provide ample access for those to take advantage of this fishery year-round.
Club members Jerry McKeon, Tommy Polito, and Lance Boiling will discuss fly fishing on our local beaches. We will chat about everything from tides and conditions to gear and tips. Whether you’re new to fishing the surf, or an experienced feather chucker; come share stories and learn why our closest fishery is one of our favorites.
Posted on September 24th, 2024
Club Activities – October
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 05 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting on the water (limited spots) - Part 4 San Lorenzo River | Continue working on improving casts. We will be working on dominant and non dominant side casting, as well as river right and left presentations.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
| Santa Cruz Skate Park |
| Oct 06 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting on the water (limited spots) - San Lorenzo River | Continue working on improving casts. We will be working on dominant and non dominant side casting, as well as river right and left presentations.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
| Santa Cruz Skate Park |
| Oct 07 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting on the water (limited spots) - Part 5 San Lorenzo River | Continue working on improving casts. Discuss Scandi and Switch casts for those interesred. If time allows, we may discuss some touch and go casts, such as Single Spey and Snake Roll.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
| Santa Cruz Skate Park |
| Oct 08 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting on the water (limited spots) - San Lorenzo River | Continue working on improving casts. We will be working on dominant and non dominant side casting, as well as river right and left presentations.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
| Santa Cruz Skate Park |
| Oct 26 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly 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 September 20th, 2024
Black Smut Midge
Midges are the main source of food for trout throughout the winter and even though they are very small, they are usually abundant. If you’re going to a spring creek or tailwater, you will want to have some in either this pattern or others. This is an adult midge, not easy to see on the water, so best to trail it off of a fly that you can see. You will be needing to use thin tippet such as 6X.
HOOK: TMC 101 size 20. This is a straight eye hook. Crimp barb.
THREAD: 12/0 or 14/0 black Attached behind eye. Touching wraps to rear of shank.
BODY: beaver, black. Wrap a non-tapered body forward to one eye length behind eye. Make one thread wrap backward onto body and let thread hang.
WINGS: 2 dark dun hackle tips from size 16 neck feathers. Position one on the far side of body with dark side outward and tips hook shank length. Tie in place. Repeat with other hackle tip on near side.
HACKLE: Grizzly saddle, hackle size 20. Prepare butt end with “crew cut”. Tie in “crew cut” with light side facing you. Several wraps of hackle in place. Tie off cut access.
HEAD: Whip finish forming head. Cut thread.
Posted on September 18th, 2024
October Fly Tying Class: Adachi Clouser
Oct 09 6:30 PM @ Aptos Grange
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
Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to Fly Name to see more information.
| Date | Fly | Excerpt | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Nov 13 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm | Colorado King Caddis |
This dry fly pattern for trout can be tied in sizes 8 to 18, so will work in a great variety of places. I particularly like one of the larger sizes for using in the Rocky Mountains. We will use a larger hook for the class. This is not a difficult fly to tie so you beginners should feel comfortable participating. The fly includes peccary, which is seldom used for tying flies. You more experienced tyers should find the technique using this material interesting. As always all the materials are provided and if you have 6/0 black thread, please bring it. We welcome you beginners and have equipment for you to use. Please sign up at the club meeting or call me at 831-234-6515. |
 | Dec 11 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm | BWO Thorax Style | This dry fly pattern is an adult mayfly. These insects hatch all over the United States, very readily in the spring and summer. The “BWO” stands for blue wing olive. If you are one of the people going to the green river in April, this fly is an absolute must. We will be tying the fly in a size 16, so bring your glasses, magnification if you have it and a table light. The club has quite a few lights, but usually not enough to go around. As always, the class is free and all materials are provided. If you have black 6/0 thread do bring it. We love to have beginners and have equipment for you to use and plenty of instruction. Also, don’t forget to sign up at the club meeting or call with at least 24 hours notice. 831-688-1561 or 831-234-6515. Elaine |
Posted on September 18th, 2024
September 2024 Table of Contents
September Virtual Speaker: Restoring the Klamath River………………
September Raffle & Door Prizes……………………
President’s Line……………………
Fly Tying……………………
September Class: Punk Perch
Fly of the Month: Hornberg
Conservation Concerns……………
Profile: Saved By Nature
Membership Notes…………………
Club Activities – September
Spey Casting Series
Central Coast Fly Fishing Moves
Gearing Up…………………
Upcoming Fishouts
Outside Club Events…………………
NCCFFI Hall of Fame Dinner
Cartoon ……………………
SCFF Advertisers ……………………
Posted on August 27th, 2024
Fin Flutter
The “Sparse”
Posted on August 27th, 2024
Fishout Schedule – September
The newsletter provides brief fishout info. For full detail, go to the website menu and select EVENTS -> Fishout Schedule
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 07 6:25 am - 9:25 am | Manresa Beach | Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers | Manresa State Beach |
| Sep 21 - Oct 05 12:00 am | 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. | Mammoth Lakes |
| Oct 05 6:50 am - 8:50 am | Last Surf Fishout of 2024! | Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers | Palm State Beach |
| Oct 17 - Oct 20 | O'Neill Forebay 'Stosh' Memorial Fishout October 17-20th | Camping and striped bass fishing at the O’Neil Forebay. | Medeiros Primitive Campground – Oneill Forebay |
| Nov 01 - Nov 04 12:00 am | 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. |
Sep 07 : Manresa Beach
Location: Manresa State Beach Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety), Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket (If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online) Single, double & triple fly rigs Clousers to sand crabs Directions (updated): Take San Andreas Road off Highway 1 all the way past the Manresa State Park entrance and keep going another 300 yards and turn right on Oceanview Dr. Follow that around to the right to the parking lot.
| SURF FISHOUTS 2024 | Meeting Time (AM) | State Beach | Sunrise | Low tide | High tide | Moon | Tide flow | Fishmaster | |||
| MAY | 4th | Saturday | 5:55 | Rio Del Mar | 6:10 | LO 02:14 +1.1 | HI 07:58 AM +4.0 | New Jun 7 | Hi Flood to High Slack | Lance B | |
| JUNE* | 1st | Saturday | 5:35 | Beercan* | 5:50 | LO 01:12 +1.3 | HI 06:39 +3.4 | New Jun 6 | High Slack to Ebb | Sam | |
| JULY | 6th | Saturday | 5:40 | Palm | 5:56 | LO 06:03 -1.1 | HI 1:04 PM +3.7 | New Jul 5 | Low slack to Flood | Lance B | |
| AUGUST | 3rd | Saturday | 6:00 | Rio Del Mar | 6:15 | LO 05:05 -0.7 | HI 11:54 AM +3.8 | New Aug 4 | Low slack to Flood | Sam | |
| SEPT | 7th | Saturday | 6:25 | Manresa | 6:44 | LO 07:04 +1.8 | HI 1:26 PM +4.6 | New Sep 2 | Low slack to low Flood | Sam | |
| OCT | 5th | Saturday | 6:50 | Palm | 7:06 | LO 05:50 + 2.1 | HI Noon +5.0 | New Oct 2 | Low Flood | Sam | |
| Notes: Meet up times are scheduled 15 - 20 minutes before official sunrise. Locations/dates/times/Fishmasters might change, notifications on Google Groups. June 1st* Mike Lovejoy's for breakfast after fishing: 115 Driftwood Ct., Aptos | Contacts: Sam Bishop sambishop@totlcom.com, 831-274-4024 Lance Boling <clboling@gmail.com> | ||||||||||
| Locations | Rio Del Mar State Beach - Google Map location for "Platform Beach" | ||||||||||
| Beercan Beach* - Enter 1191 Via Palo Alto, Aptos. Path & Stairs between Houses (See Notes) | |||||||||||
| Palm Beach - Pajaro Dunes, end of West Beach St. | |||||||||||
| Manresa State Beach - Google it, but parking may be on Ocean View Dr, 500 yards down the road | |||||||||||
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Sep 21 : Mammoth Fishout -Sept. 21-Oct.5
UPDATED - 9/16/2024 - first week is full, second week is full. Sign Ups: As a reminder, it is important to sign up early or this Fishout. Call John Cook letting him know which week, both or private room. Payment is required to secure our spot we need people to sign up as soon as possible. Should you need to cancel, you can find someone to take your place and get your money back. Contact Ph # (831) 234-6515 Fishmasters: John & Elaine Cook Dates: This Fishout will take place over two consecutive one-week periods. You may sign up for one or both weeks. Week 1: Sept 21 - Sept 28 . Week 2: Sept 28 - Oct 5. Location: The town of Mammoth Lakes is located on the eastern side of the Sierra, 6 or 7 hours drive from Santa Cruz. There are many lakes and streams in the area to fish. General: We will be staying in condominiums in the town of Mammoth Lakes. Condo has a lovely hot tub, so bring your suit. Two people per bedroom. Most people bring a sleeping bag to share queen size bed or a pad and sleeping bag to sleep on floor. A private room option is possible at an increased fee. Cost: Shared single: $450/wk, $900/2 wks, Private room: $800/wk, $1,600/2 wks. Dinner guests: $20/meal Food Preparation: Breakfast and lunch items will be purchased by the Fishmaster ahead of time. Each person will be assigned a Kitchen Day. On that day, tasks will include setting out breakfast and lunch items, store unused food, and preparing the evening meal and clean up afterwards. Each person will be assigned a dinner that you will need to purchase and prepare. You will then be reimbursed for the cost for the dinner. Read More
Oct 05 : Last Surf Fishout of 2024!
Location: Palm Beach Target Species: Surf Perch and Stripers Gear: 6-8wt. Rods with full sinking lines or shooting heads to match the rod. Polarized glasses (safety), Mandatory Accessories: Wader Belt & Stripping Basket (If a basket is needed, some maybe available to borrow or purchase. Please contact the Fishmaster ahead of time. Also there are many DIY Stripping Basket making tutorials online) Single, double & triple fly rigs Clousers to sand crabs Directions: Take W. Beach St. in Watsonville towards Pajaro Dunes. Park at the end of W. Beach St. on the right side of the road outside of the entrance to Pajaro Dunes.
| SURF FISHOUTS 2024 | Meeting Time (AM) | State Beach | Sunrise | Low tide | High tide | Moon | Tide flow | Fishmaster | |||
| MAY | 4th | Saturday | 5:55 | Rio Del Mar | 6:10 | LO 02:14 +1.1 | HI 07:58 AM +4.0 | New Jun 7 | Hi Flood to High Slack | Lance B | |
| JUNE* | 1st | Saturday | 5:35 | Beercan* | 5:50 | LO 01:12 +1.3 | HI 06:39 +3.4 | New Jun 6 | High Slack to Ebb | Sam | |
| JULY | 6th | Saturday | 5:40 | Palm | 5:56 | LO 06:03 -1.1 | HI 1:04 PM +3.7 | New Jul 5 | Low slack to Flood | Lance B | |
| AUGUST | 3rd | Saturday | 6:00 | Rio Del Mar | 6:15 | LO 05:05 -0.7 | HI 11:54 AM +3.8 | New Aug 4 | Low slack to Flood | Sam | |
| SEPT | 7th | Saturday | 6:25 | Manresa | 6:44 | LO 07:04 +1.8 | HI 1:26 PM +4.6 | New Sep 2 | Low slack to low Flood | Sam | |
| OCT | 5th | Saturday | 6:50 | Palm | 7:06 | LO 05:50 + 2.1 | HI Noon +5.0 | New Oct 2 | Low Flood | Sam | |
| Notes: Meet up times are scheduled 15 - 20 minutes before official sunrise. Locations/dates/times/Fishmasters might change, notifications on Google Groups. June 1st* Mike Lovejoy's for breakfast after fishing: 115 Driftwood Ct., Aptos | Contacts: Sam Bishop sambishop@totlcom.com, 831-274-4024 Lance Boling <clboling@gmail.com> | ||||||||||
| Locations | Rio Del Mar State Beach - Google Map location for "Platform Beach" | ||||||||||
| Beercan Beach* - Enter 1191 Via Palo Alto, Aptos. Path & Stairs between Houses (See Notes) | |||||||||||
| Palm Beach - Pajaro Dunes, end of West Beach St. | |||||||||||
| Manresa State Beach - Google it, but parking may be on Ocean View Dr, 500 yards down the road | |||||||||||
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Oct 17 : O’Neill Forebay ‘Stosh’ Memorial Fishout October 17-20th
Event: O'Neill Forebay 'Stosh' Memorial Fishout Date: October 17th - 20th (I will be looking for a weekend with a 'skinny' moon, less night feeding for the fish) Target Gamefish: Striped Bass Location: Medeiros Campground located on the Southern Shoreline of the O'Neill Forebay, access off of Santa Nella Blvd. (Highway 33) Hosts: Kevin Murdock troutdock89@gmail.com These are primitive campsites so bring your own water. There are tables, sun pavilions, and chemical toilets, or outhouses and fire rings. No open fires are allowed outside of the rings. Typically we will be camping as close to site 29 as we can get. This is a first come, first serve campground, so no reservations are accepted. Float tubes can be launched near the campsites, but boats must be first inspected, then launched from the San Luis Creek Boat launch. Boats may not be left on the lake overnight. Boaters would be wise to exit prior to the closing of the entry kiosk. The ranger can place a seal on your trailer, allowing you to bypass the inspection process the next morning. The rangers at the kiosk by the Medeiros entrance may insist that your float tubes need inspection. make sure they're clean & dry. Equipment: 8wt rods with fast sinking lines. Some anglers will occasionally use a floating line with a 'gurgler' type fly Flies: Lee Haskins San Luis smelt, 'Deceiver' type patterns in red, white, chartreuse, the aforementioned gurglers and poppers. Float tubes (may require inspection for quagga mussels) Fins, sunscreen, polarized glasses, life vest Links: https://mengsyn.com/ A fly-fishing addict who fishes San Luis Reservoir and the Forebay. http://www.danblanton.com/ Long time local fishing guide.
Forebay Water level:
https://cdec.water.ca.gov/dynamicapp/QueryDaily?s=Onf There will be a signup sheet at our September meeting. We'll also create a list for those hoping to participate in a pot luck in honor of Steve 'Stosh' Rudzinski. Weather conditions can vary dramatically, so it would behoove members to check prior to departure. You could email me or just get conditions on-line. High winds can cause the lake to be closed to all vessels. This is one of our nearest Fishouts, with the possible payoff of a double digit fish! Don't miss out! Read MoreNov 01 : Trinity River Fishout
NOTE: Contact Alex Ferber if you are interested in going on the trip. After knowing how many people are interested, it will be easier to plan logistics (camping? motel?). You can text Alex at (831) 419-0564 or alex.ferber74@gmail.com. If you want to go on this trip, it is highly recommended to attend the Spey Classes.
The fishery:
Basically, this is a Steelhead Trip. There are some resident trout, including some really nice brown trout. I walk wade or float my raft, depending on the river conditions. I personally use a Spey rod to swing flies. Many people use indicators. There are a lot of walk in spots to explore. The river can be floated with rafts or driftboats. There is a shuttle service available.
Tackle:
Single hand rods, 7-8 wt rods, using floating lines with indicator set up. Typical flies used are Egg patterns, Copper John's, Stonefly imitations like Rubberlegs, Dark Perdigons. Sizes ranging from Size 8-14.
Spey or Switch rods, usually 5-6 wt in the Fall, I use a 7 wt in the winter. Skagit or Scandi heads, with floating to heavy sink tips, depending on the river conditions and season. Flies that work well include leeches, intruders, HoBo Spey, Traditionals, as well as dry fly patterns ( Skaters) in the early Fall.
The River:
The Trinity River is located aprox 1 hr west of Redding on Hwy 299. Its a beautiful tailwater fishery, with flows controlled from the Lewiston Dam. This is where the hatchery can be found. It has many different faces, including some big water as it runs west. It meets up with the Klamath River on its journey to the ocean. It has an excellent run of both wild and hatchery fish, ranging from 5-7 #, with some larger fish in the +10-12 # range. There are fish in the system year round, but typically a push of fish starts in late September and peaks in late November, with a second run usually in late December- March. The fishing remained really good thru the end of March last season. It is very flow dependant and can run quite low in the Fall, with occasional bumps in flows when there is precipitation. It can blow out on occasion, but clears pretty fast.
Amenities:
Weaverville is the closest town, where there are good restaurants, motels and a really nice Holiday Market. It's kinda the hub. There is an RV park in Weaverville, but no campsites.
Camping is available in Douglas City area as well as Junction City and further west on 299. The town of Douglas city doesn't have much, other than a small mini mart. Indian Creek Lodge is a few miles east of Douglas City. The town of Lewiston is just below the Lewiston dam. It offers some camping and motels. There is a really nice motel west of Junction City (I believe it is called Steelhead Lodge?). It's an excellent place to stay if one wishes to fish below Junction City.
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Posted on August 27th, 2024
Outside Club Events – Sept
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 05 9:00 am - 5:00 pm | NCCFFI'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 | Sycamore Ranch Park |
| Oct 08 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm | MBSTP 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 pm | NCCFFI 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 am | Volunteer 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:
|
Posted on August 27th, 2024
Central Coast Fly Fishing Moves
Central Coast Fly Fishing is moving to it’s new location at the Reindollar Crest Commercial Center at 218 Reindollar Ave., in Marina. Geoff Malloway is expecting to be open by August 31st. Call 831-298-0690 to make sure the shop is open.
Posted on August 27th, 2024
Club Activities – September
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 07 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting on the water (limited spots) - Part 2 San Lorenzo River | This class will be for anyone, preferably those who have no experience were able to attend the first class. We will review the basics, and then work on the Double Spey cast using Skagit heads.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
| Santa Cruz Skate Park |
| Sep 14 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting on the water (limited spots) - Part 3 San Lorenzo River | Continue to work on Spey basics, and also work the Snap-T / Circle C.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
| Santa Cruz Skate Park |
| Sep 14 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm | Fly 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 August 27th, 2024
Conservation Profile–Saved By Nature
Before I present an introduction to this month’s profile of a new organization, I want to give you an update (see last month’s President’s Line in the newsletter) on recent accomplishments by our friends just south at Carmel River Steelhead Association. Each year during summer when the creeks feeding the Carmel River start drying-up, an ambitious group of well equipped and knowledgeable core leaders, with the assistance of helper volunteers hit the water with a mission. The goal is to capture as many as possible young-of-year and juvenile (1+ year) steelies from soon to be dried-up reaches of creek that is cut off from the Carmel River. As of this writing, they have rescued over 7,000 fish and inserted over 600 PIT tags. Scott Kitayama and I were able to make it down there to help a couple of times. Hopefully some more of our club members will be able to join-in sometime. It’s very gratifying to help give these iconic fish a chance.
Saved by Nature
https://www.savedbynature.org/
ABOUT SAVED BY NATURE
Founder Richard Tejeda worked with MBSTP (one of their community partners). They organize outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, backpacking, boat tours, camping for all ages including adult reentry for incarcerated people.
Their mission is to expose and connect people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and abilities to the natural wonders & recreational opportunities of the outdoors. We collaborate with partners to ensure mental, physical, and spiritual healing in nature.
Their vision is to create a world free of barriers and equitable access to nature for all. We inspire environmental and social justice and advocate for the protection of our earth through outdoor education.
Saved By Nature works within our parks and preserves to provide a variety of unique environmental programs that educate residents about climate change, and protecting the air that we breathe and water that we drink. Providing a cohesive system of support for Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Mateo, Alameda, Monterey, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, Solano, and Sonoma counties. Ensuring residents have a high quality, multilingual and multicultural outdoor nature experience.
Saved By Nature’s Dock of the Bay project is set to involve 600 individuals from underrepresented communities of color, across all age groups, in 20 exciting excursions along the breathtaking coasts of San Francisco and Monterey Bay. Participants will have the opportunity to partake in a diverse range of activities such as fishing, crabbing, kayaking, camping, boat tours, backpacking, kite flying, and hiking adventures.
This initiative has been carefully designed to bring people of different generations together, enabling them to explore and appreciate the scenic coastal region while empowering them with the necessary skills and confidence to become stewards of the area and engage in restorative practices that foster joy and healing. A sampling of some activities this year included;
Santa Cruz Wharf – Halibut Fishing on Santa Cruz Wharf
Manresa State Beach – Hike In Tent Camping and Surf Fishing
Oyster Point Park – Pier fishing for Sturgeon and Bar-b-que
Cooley Landing Park – Bay Fishing for Shark and Bat Ray
The SCFF conservation committee believes that Saved By Nature, with their commitment to engaging all generations—including those that may have limited opportunities—to get out in nature and hopefully learn to be stewards of the environment—including our fisheries.
Posted on August 27th, 2024
September Raffle and Door Prizes
Bad news first: Now that the Pandemic is over, we are no longer able to conduct our monthly raffle online.
The good news: We have a huge pile of raffle prizes and door prizes that we will be up for grabs at the regular monthly meeting to be held on Wednesday September 4th. Aptos Grange, 6 pm.
- We will have a winners choice of a 5wt or 6wt or 7wt or 8wt rod and matching reel!
- We also have a great Cadis float tube and a subscription to the re-born “California Fly Fisher”.
- In addition to the raffle prizes there will be a bunch of great door prizes (everybody gets a free ticket) including a 6 pack of Bell’s “Two Hearted IPA”!
Don’t miss out, this will be a great start to our Fall fly fishing season.
Posted on August 27th, 2024
Restoring the Klamath River – Virtual Speaker
Sep 04 6:45 PM at the Aptos Grange
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89352294939
Dr. Mark Rockwell has been working on environmental issues since 2001, when he retired from his Chiropractic Practice in Redwood City, CA. He’s been married 54 years and has 3 children. In 2001 he became the V.P. of Conservation for the Northern California Council, Fly Fishers International (NCCFFI). In 2005, after returning from a lobby trip to D.C. on Snake River dam removal, he was invited to be the California Organizer of the Endangered Species Coalition (ESC), working to stop the Congressional effort to rewrite the Endangered Species Act (ESA). He worked for 12 years for the ESC as the California Organizer, and then the Pacific Field Organizer in charge of California, Oregon and Washington field operations. He has been in leadership for Fly Fishers International (FFI) since joining the Board of the Northern California Council, FFI in 2003, serving as V.P. of Conservation, and then President from 2018 to 2023. He continues today as the V.P. of Conservation, and has received the coveted FFI Conservation Leadership Award twice – 2007 & 2023.
He began working on Klamath river dam removal in 2003, signing the original Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement (KBRA) & Klamath Hydropower Settlement Agreement (KHSA) agreements in 2010, and the current revised KHSA in 2015. It’s been a 20+ year collaborative
effort to provide the opportunity for the Klamath River to return to its historic greatness. In 2023 the license to operate the Klamath project was transferred and surrendered to the Klamath River Renewal Corporation, the entity formed to manage removal of the 4 dams and oversee restoration of the footprint lands of the project. As of early 2024, the Klamath is running free for the first time since 1918, and all dams will be off the river by the end of October 2024.
Mark continues to be focused on fishery & watershed conservation as his post-chiropractic life mission. “I spent my professional life treating spine and nervous system interference problems for my community in the San Francisco region for 25 years, and my post Chiropractic life working to improve our planet. Both of these efforts are done with a sense of love and caring. Conserving our great watersheds & fish is now my purpose. We owe it to our children & grandkids to pass along to them the same greatness & beauty we inherited.” ~ Dr. Mark Rockwell
Posted on August 27th, 2024
Don’t let Fall pass you by.
When you go out in the morning, can you feel it? I can, it’s not a smell and it certainly isn’t the temperature because it is the hottest time of the year, but it just feels like fall. It reminds me of being a kid and waiting for a school bus. And it makes me feel like a kid because it reminds me to go fishing.
Labor Day to Thanksgiving is only about thirteen weeks long. Thirteen weeks of the best fishing of the year. So I urge you to take a few hours and plan your fall fishing. In this newsletter, there are a lot of opportunities for fall fishing.
If you are new, make sure to put the casting clinic on your schedule for a Saturday afternoon. Also, the October General Meeting will be based around members helping others learn fundamentals to improve your fishing technique and enjoyment.
For everyone, the club is offering fishouts that should meet everyone’s interest. If you are too busy for a multi-day fishing trip, stay local and fish the surf or the Forebay. For those that have the time, there are still openings for the last week of September on the Mammoth Lakes trip and a new trip has been set for the Trinity river in early November. I believe that if you don’t shoehorn the fishing trips into your calendar, the weeks will slip away and another season will be gone.
Please welcome seven new members since the beginning of July. This now brings our membership up to 251!
| Join Date | Name | City |
| July 4 | M Horn | San Carlos |
| July 15 | S. Liess | Santa Cruz |
| July 25 | M. Bonanno | Soquel |
| July 27 | E. Vollset | Aptos |
| Aug 6 | T. Suzuki | Aptos |
| Aug 18 | B. Steckler | Carmel |
| Aug 23 | O. Kahl | Watsonville |
Also if members are not receiving the monthly newsletter or googlegroups, please contact me robert6367@aol.com
Posted on August 26th, 2024
NCCFFI Hall of Fame dinner, Nov 9th
UDPATE: Working with the NCCFFI board and with the help of September speaker, Mark Rockwell, the price of a seat for the HOF at the SCFF table is $115 which is a $45 saving compared to the ticket price on the NCCFFI website. To take advantage of this great offer, please send an email note to scottkitayama@gmail.com and send a check to Jim Tolonen c/o Santa Cruz Fly Fishing, PO Box 2008, Santa Cruz, CA 95065.
The Winner of the 2024 Hall of Fame Award is: Mike Mercer
Continue reading NCCFFI Hall of Fame dinner, Nov 9th
Posted on August 26th, 2024
Fall 2024 – Spey Casting Series
Note: These series of classes are NOT for beginning fly casters. You should be proficient with a one-handed rod before advancing to a two handed rod. The club still has the monthly one-handed casting clinics at Jade street. Please look at the club activities schedule for date and time.
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 31 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Intro to Spey Casting (limited spots) - Part 1 Jade Park | Spey Casting is a style of presenting a fly in a down and across manner ( aka Swinging Flies)It utilizes special lines and facilitates casting in tight quarters. It enables one to use sinking lines and throwing larger flies with ease. It’s a technique used in fishing for Salmon, tout and Steelhead. The first class would be ideal for those who have never casted a 2 handed rod. This class will be for beginners, or those with minimal experience. Maximum of 6 folks. I will provide rods for those who need a rod. Reserve your spots Alex Ferber, 831-419-0564 alex.ferber74@gmail.com | Jade Street Park baseball field |
| Sep 07 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting on the water (limited spots) - Part 2 San Lorenzo River | This class will be for anyone, preferably those who have no experience were able to attend the first class. We will review the basics, and then work on the Double Spey cast using Skagit heads.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
| Santa Cruz Skate Park |
| Sep 14 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting on the water (limited spots) - Part 3 San Lorenzo River | Continue to work on Spey basics, and also work the Snap-T / Circle C.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
| Santa Cruz Skate Park |
| Oct 05 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting on the water (limited spots) - Part 4 San Lorenzo River | Continue working on improving casts. We will be working on dominant and non dominant side casting, as well as river right and left presentations.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
| Santa Cruz Skate Park |
| Oct 06 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting on the water (limited spots) - San Lorenzo River | Continue working on improving casts. We will be working on dominant and non dominant side casting, as well as river right and left presentations.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
| Santa Cruz Skate Park |
| Oct 07 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting on the water (limited spots) - Part 5 San Lorenzo River | Continue working on improving casts. Discuss Scandi and Switch casts for those interesred. If time allows, we may discuss some touch and go casts, such as Single Spey and Snake Roll.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
| Santa Cruz Skate Park |
| Oct 08 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Spey Casting on the water (limited spots) - San Lorenzo River | Continue working on improving casts. We will be working on dominant and non dominant side casting, as well as river right and left presentations.
Max 8 folks ( please bring a 2 handed rod if you have one with a Skagit type head). We will meet at the Skate Park on the left-hand side of the street. Parking is very limited.
| Santa Cruz Skate Park |
Posted on August 20th, 2024
SCFF Advertisers – Sept24
Starting a new section of monthly advertisers which will be of nominal cost for club members . Will also have a section for advertisers on the website. If you would like to advertise or have your business listed on the club website, send an email to info@santacruzflyfishing.org
website: https://sites.google.com/view/adventureflyfishingsantacruz/home
Offering fellow SCFF club members a 10% discount on a guided trip(s) on the Trinity, either float or walk wadding so you can practice what we have learned. My guide fee is typically $500 for up to 2 anglers. This includes all equipment, including terminal tackle, flies, lunch and beverages. The Trinity River is an excellent Steelhead river with great swing water to perfect your 2 handed casting and a chance to hook a beautiful aggressive Steelhead. The majority of the fish, in the last few years have been wild. So far the returns to the Trinity have been excellent, so we are hopefully going to have a great season.
If you have any questions, please give me a call or send me an email at alex.ferber74@gmail.com or 831-419-0564
Posted on August 19th, 2024
September Fly Tying Class: Punk Perch
Sep 11 6:30 PM @ Aptos Grange
Our class this month will feature a stillwater pattern for trout. If you’re going to Mammoth, you’ll want to have a few of these with you to fish Crowley. It’s a relatively easy fly to tie, so if you were thinking about learning to tie flies, come on down. We always have equipment available for people to borrow. All materials are provided and if you have black 8/0 and red 6/0 thread do bring them. The red will only be used for the head, so several bobbins will already have the red thread on them to share.
Future tying classes. Dates and subject may change, please go to Fly Name to see more information.
| Date | Fly | Excerpt | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Oct 09 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm | October Fly Tying Class: Adachi clouser | 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 |
| Nov 13 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm | Colorado King Caddis |
This dry fly pattern for trout can be tied in sizes 8 to 18, so will work in a great variety of places. I particularly like one of the larger sizes for using in the Rocky Mountains. We will use a larger hook for the class. This is not a difficult fly to tie so you beginners should feel comfortable participating. The fly includes peccary, which is seldom used for tying flies. You more experienced tyers should find the technique using this material interesting. As always all the materials are provided and if you have 6/0 black thread, please bring it. We welcome you beginners and have equipment for you to use. Please sign up at the club meeting or call me at 831-234-6515. |
Posted on August 19th, 2024
August 2024 Table of Contents
August BBQ 2024………………
President’s Line……………………
Fly Tying……………………
August Class: Sierra Bright Dot
Fly of the Month: Easy Foam Hopper
Conservation Concerns……………
Profile: Restore the Delta
Membership Notes…………………
Club Activities – August
SCFF Website linked to Merchandise Store
New Way to Fish Pyramid
Gearing Up…………………
Upcoming Fishouts
Outside Club Events…………………
NCCFFI Hall of Fame Dinner
Cartoon ……………………
Posted on July 29th, 2024
Upcoming Fishouts
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.
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
Outside Club Events
| Date | Activity Link | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 05 9:00 am - 5:00 pm | NCCFFI'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 | Sycamore Ranch Park |
| Oct 08 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm | MBSTP 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 pm | NCCFFI 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 am | Volunteer 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:
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Posted on July 29th, 2024
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
SCFF website linked to Merchandise Store
We now have the online Merchandise store linked to the website. Just go to the menu “Store” and click on the picture of the items, it will take you to an external website. Please note, if you have issues with your purchase, you will need to work it out with “the “FN Simple Uniforms”.
Update JUL-’24 feedback from SCFF members: Ordering is simple and any issues were ironed out (pin intended). Quality of items such as hat, t-shirt, sun shirt and button down shirt are great!
Posted on July 29th, 2024
Profile–Restore the Delta
This month, as part of our mission to inform our membership about conservation organizations we support, we have a look into Restore the Delta. https://restorethedelta.org/
Mission: To ensure the health of the San Francisco Bay-Delta estuary and Delta communities.
ABOUT RESTORE THE DELTA
Restore the Delta works in the areas of public education, program and policy development, and outreach so that all Californians recognize the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay Delta as part of California’s natural heritage, deserving of restoration. They interface with local, state and federal agencies.
They envision the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta as a place where a vibrant local economy, tourism, recreation, farming, wildlife, and fisheries thrive as a result of resident efforts to protect our waterways. They seek water quality protections for all communities, particularly environmental justice communities and California tribes, as well as community protections from flood and drought impacts.
Their goal is to connect communities to regional rivers and to empower communities to become the guardians of the estuary through participation in government planning, community science and waterway monitoring, and a sustainable local economy. They work to build the next generation of water leaders by developing programs in science, land and water management, and the green economy. They work for a Delta with waters that are fishable, swimmable, and drinkable, and farmable. They envision improvements in the Delta as opportunities for Delta tribes, Delta farming communities, and environmental justice communities to gain greater equity in decision making and to share in the benefits from area natural resources management.
Based in the Delta, California, Restore the Delta has worked since 2006 in the areas of public education and outreach and has grown to over 75,000 regular followers throughout California.
PRIMARY AREA OF FOCUS
Delta Conveyance Project—The Delta tunnel has taken the form of previous water conveyance projects in the past, like the Peripheral Canal idea that was rejected by California voters way back in 1982 and California WaterFix that died in 2019. Currently known as the Delta Conveyance Project, the proposal would construct two new water intake facilities on the Sacramento River in the North Delta to fill a single tunnel that would divert freshwater flows. That water would be shipped to large farming operations and water wholesalers south of the Delta. The Delta Conveyance project would divert up to 6,000 cubic feet of water per second. The project is estimated to cost between $16-40 billion and won’t be completed until at least 2040. The California Department of Water Resources published the final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) for the Delta Conveyance Project on December 8, 2023, and published a Notice of Determination (NOD) on December 21, 2023. The NOD is the final administrative published record for a proposed project by the lead agency, which in this case is the Department of Water Resources.
Reviewing the prior Draft EIR, Restore the Delta identified 17 significant and unavoidable impacts of the proposed tunnel project on the environment that were not accounted for in the Draft EIR. Among these impacts will be the loss of prime agricultural farmland, loss of local non-tribal cultural resources, transportation and air quality impacts, and painful loss of tribal cultural resources.
The recently certified final EIR still largely ignores the project’s impacts on Delta urban environmental justice communities, how construction will ruin small Delta farming towns, and the natural resources essential to the cultural and spiritual practices of Delta tribes.
On January 22, 2023, Restore the Delta with a coalition of environmental and Tribal organizations took legal action against the California Department of Water Resources following the certification and approval of the FEIR for its violation of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The CEQA case includes 13 CEQA violations. The groups claim that after the approval of the project from the agency, it failed to consider the extensive, disparate effects the project would inflict upon communities and wildlife, such as Tribal and other historically marginalized communities and endangered fish species, including Chinook salmon and steelhead.
The groups taking legal action against the Department of Water Resources include The Bay Institute, California Indian Environmental Alliance, Golden State Salmon Association, Restore the Delta, San Francisco Baykeeper, and the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians.
Because the delta is such crucial component that impacts the health of many the fisheries in California, in makes sense for SCFF to support Restore the Delta. Thanks to member Robert Ransdell for suggesting that we consider Restore the Delta.
Posted on July 29th, 2024