Volume XXXVIII Number VII September 2014 Jerry Neuburger, Editor Stockton, California In this Issue John Sherman to present, “Fly the California Delta,” at Page 2—A message from the September Meeting Steve VonBerg, filling in for John is the Simms Fishing Products door Photographer who has had his the office of club president and Hatch Outdoors Sales Representa- work published in Field and Stream, Page 2—September is Time tive for California, Arizona, and Ne- Fly , Fly Rod and Reel, Fly for Renewing Your DFF Mem- vada and HI. John was born and Fishing in Saltwaters, The Drake, Cal bership raised in Visalia, CA where he learned Fly Fisher, North West and South West how to fly fish through Buz’s, the local to name a few. He has Page 2—Fall is the Season for been documenting his expeditions with Brook Trout fly shop, at the age of 8. Since then fly -fishing has been a passion that has a camera since the age of 10. Page 3—The Water Bond, the evolved into a career. John graduated John teamed up with Captain Mike EPA review of the BDCP and from California Costello to produce California’s water policies State University the first and only Fly Page 5—Adventure in the Chico, in Northern Fishing book dedi- Land of the Midnight Sun California with a cated to the Califor- degree in Business nia Delta, “Fly Fish- Page 6—Adventure in the Administration, Land of the Midnight Sun ing the CA Delta,” Marketing in 1999. has been one of the Page 7—A float in the Florida That fall he spent top selling Fly Fish- sun (but watch out for the two months fishing ing books in 2010. mosquitoes!) British Columbia’s John lives in Discov- Page 8—Eastern Sierra Focus famed Steelhead ery Bay, Ca on the Rivers. While attending Chico State San Joaquin Sacramento River Delta John worked at Powell Fly Shop and with his wife Natih, daughter Kalum, guided on the Feather and Sacramento son Kasix and dog Portis. His favorite Calendar Rivers for Steelhead and Salmon. species to take on a fly are steelhead, stripers and any salt water flats fish. September 10—DFF General John has fished the West Coast from Alaska to the Baja Peninsula for steel- He will be presenting his slide show Membersip Meeting head, salmon, stripers, black bass, trout “Fly Fishing the Ca Delta” which will September 16-21 Bridgeport and numerous blue water species. He visually take you through this amazing from Smallmouth and Large- Outing has also hosted numerous trips all over the globe including Australia, Russia, mouth Bass to Carp and of course September 24 DFF Board Iceland, Mexico, Canada, the Bahamas, Stripers. Meeting Belize, Russia, Argentina and Indone- John R. Williams School, 9/10/14, October 8—DFF member- sia to name a few. John is also an Out- 7:30pm. Public welcome. ship meeting October 15—DFF Board Meeting October 17-19 Lower Sac Outing

A message from Steve VonBerg, filling in for the office of club president

As we ready to turn the calendar to On September 10 the club will be part of the Mokelumne Day Use September, some important infor- hosting John Sherman as our guest Area, located 15 miles east of Lodi mation needs to be passed on. Un- speaker. John is an expert guide, off Hwy 12. It is requested that you fortunately, the outing for September photographer, and published au- bring drinking water, sun screen and 6 has been cancelled, The board thor. His slide show will focus on a good sun blocking hat. If you plan felt it was too close to the Bridgeport fishing the delta for LMB, Carp, and on attending, please contact Bill Fer- outing. With that being said, the Stripers. The meeting will begin at rero at [email protected]. Bill, Bridgeport outing is a go. Leader 7:00pm at John R. Williams a local guide on the Moke, is head- Don Gillett will be leaving on Sept School. Al Smatsky says this ing this year's cleanup and needs a 14 and will set camp at Robinson should be an excellent chance to head count. learn more about our local fishery. Creek Camp Ground. The outing Finally, don't forget it is time to re- will last until the 21st---so come any- As a club dedicated to preserving new your club membership for time! Don reports that local our , we have an opportu- 2015. Contact Bob Fujimura by streams are low but the lakes are nity on September 20 to participate Aug. 31 and you will be eligible for a fishing well. For more detailed in- in the annual Mokelumne River drawing to win a Ross rod with your formation about the outing feel free Cleanup. Volunteers are needed for renewal. The winner will be an- to contact Don at redrider- this event. Bruce Rollans reports nounced at the September 10 meet- [email protected]. Don will be at the that volunteers are asked to gather ing. Bod can be reached evenings September 10 meeting. at the first parking lot off McIntire at 209-339-0683 or at deltaflyfish- Road at 8:30am. The parking lot is [email protected] September is Time for Renewing Your DFF Membership If you haven’t already it is time to regular, $25 seniors (individuals marked before September 1 will renew your 2015 Delta Fly Fishers 62 yr old or older), or $35 family. qualify for the drawing. I will an- membership. If you received this If your contact information is still nounce the winner before or at the newsletter then you know the the same then no need to submit a October general meeting. You do benefits that club membership can renewal form. not need to be present at this meet- bring you. Fishing outings, social If you were among the many ing to win this prize. activities, environmental support, members who sent in your 2015 I would also like recognize our informal instruction, and public renewal check before the end of newest club member, Bill Hogan. outreach are just start of the di- August, thank you very much for Bill lives in Manteca; let’s wel- verse ways your membership dues your prompt payment and appreci- come Bill are used for. So please take the ate your continued support. You Sincerely, time to make out your check to: are also legible for the drawing for Delta Fly Fishers and mail it to my a new fly rod. Any letter contain- Bob Fujimura, Membership Chair, attention at: PO Box 1562, Lodi, ing your full annual dues post- 209-339-0683 or deltaflyfish- CA 95241. Annual dues are $30 Fall is the Season for Brook Trout

.Brook trout are actually a typically spawn in streams and char and native to the East springs in late summer or early Coast. Populations in its na- fall. In some locations they are an tive waters are declining but invasive species that can out- they are doing well in western compete native cutthroat or other high elevation streams and salmonids. Because of these con- lakes. Its breeding coloration cerns, CA has generous or "bonus" is quite striking...orange bel- bag limits for the take of the spe- lies and red ventral paired fins with white leading markings. They cies in some locations.

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The Water Bond, the EPA review of the BDCP and California’s water policies Calling Fly Fishing a hobby is like for construction of new dams. We ately. Water from the proposed dams calling Brain Surgery a job. have over 1400 dams in California would require months if not years with the prime sites for dams already of study before building could begin. - - Paul Schullery taken. The sites left are marginal at Sites will have to be found, the land The Water Bond best, will be prohibitively expensive acquired, long detailed geological to build, and provide marginal studies preformed. Dams will require California's legislature has twice de- amounts of water. The dam construc- decades of time to yield even mar- layed putting a water bond on the bal- tion cost/acre feet ratios are poor. We ginal amounts of water. We need wa- lot for fear of failure. The initial bond will spend much more to get less wa- ter immediately, not in the distance would have cost us almost 12 billion ter under the bond. California Sport- future. Building minimally productive dollars and was loaded with self- dams at high cost serving pork for is not the answer the legislature. It for a drought. was a regressive measure that State water con- would not solved tractors, West- California's ongo- lands Water Dis- ing water issues. trict, the Kern Unfortunately, two County Water Dis- years later, we trict, and others have been pre- who will bene- sented another fit from twin tun- bond that is again nels are insisting regressive and will on millions of dol- in not solve our lars of public state's water cri- money to buy wa- ses. The bond ter to add to the (Prop.1 ) will con- water they take tinue to use the from the Delta. failed policies of Why should tax- the last 100 years payers continue to and not add one subsidize their drop of new water profits? This bond will continue their subsidies. The for the state. Prop 1 will exacerbate fishing Protective Alliance (CSPA) drought has shown that the south val- the state's current water crises. Gov. points out that recycling water for ley is not sustainable for permanent Brown realizes that a $12 billion pork "new" water not only will cost less agriculture. Why should we continue -filled bond would have no possibility but make water available rapidly and to make them more wealthy by grow- of passing in California so he pro- at less cost than a dam. And recycling posed a $6 billion bond only to will create new jobs immedi- have the legislature again add pork to the bond. Now the bond stands to cost taxpayers $9 billion. DeltaStripers.Com To garner support for the proposition, fly fishing for stripers and Brown refers to the bond as "tunnel large mouth bass on the San Joaquin Delta neutral". Not only is the bond NOT "Our mission is to provide you with a total tunnel neutral, it will provide mas- Kelseyexperience, Bass Ranch, not just aMulege fishing Baja,trip." Isla sive, taxpayer-supported funds for Blanca, Pesca Maya, Xcalak, Picacho Lodge, water that can and would be used for Chile, Trinity & Klamath River Steelhead, Yuba, Feather & American River Shad, the tunnels. Nowhere in the bond is Club Presentations and Clinics water for the proposed twin tunnels Captain Jerry Neuburger project specifically excluded. [email protected] www.excellentadventures.org Another major flaw with the water www.deltastipers.com Al Smatsky, Proprietor 619 W. Pine Street, Lodi, CA 95240 bond is that it provides $2.7 billion 209-327-5993 1/14 (209) 368-9261, (209) 601-0819 cell 1/14

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(Continued from page 3) lic comment period to follow. In our Agency (EPA). The EPA condemns ing water-intensive crops at the pub- Delta Fly Fishing Newsletter, I have the BDCP in a 43 page letter to the lic's expense. pointed out the many flaws in the DWR and others. In their press re- BDCP and how it would destroy the lease, CSPA noted 3 major legal and Bill Jennings, the Executive Director Delta not restore it would and deci- environmental issues the BDCP vio- of CSPA, sums Prop. 1 well by say- mate our fisheries, infrastructure, ag- lates. ing, "Legislative sausage-making is riculture, and economy. Evidentially, always messy but last minute sausage "It would contribute to increased and many other groups from many diverse making ends up making baloney and persistent violations of water quality backgrounds agreed. In a press re- this bond is a subsidized truckload of standards in the Delta, set under the lease from CSPA released August 29, pork baloney. The Governor inexpli- Clean Water Act." over 4,500 pages from counties, cit- cably continues to turn his back in the ies, and water agencies were strongly The twin tunnels "would not protect 21st century demand side strategies to negative of the BDCP. They felt the beneficial uses for aquatic life, embrace 19th Century supply side BDCP would adversely affect their thereby violating the Clean Water approaches that have brought us to interest. This followed close to 2,000 Act. our present crisis. California deserves pages of criticism from environmental better." The EIR/EIS assumes a 100% success rate for habitat restora- We have just come out of tion which is not con- our state's biggest financial sistent with our experi- disaster. Now Gov. Brown ence, or sup- seems intent on putting us ported restoration ecol- in deeper financial disas- ogy and conservation ters. The twin tunnels pro- biology academic lit- ject will cost a minimum of erature and scientific $69 billion (principal plus investigation" and de- interest). The Water Bond tailed the the likeli- will add another $9 billon hood that proposed res- to our debt. Every man, toration would exacer- woman, and child of our bate the production and state's 38 million population transport of methlmer- already carries a debt cury. $8,500 per person. Prop.1 will do nothing to solve our The EPA is also very drought crises. But it Lake Oroville this August critical of the failure of will serve the interest of the BDCP to discuss or our special interest groups. I and fishing groups. There were hun- analyze up or downstream impacts the WILL VOTE NO ON THE WATER dreds of pages of sharp criticism from plan will cause. One of the most seri- BOND ! variety independent scientific groups. ous and critical flaws among many, the EPA finds that existing water flow A major nail in the Bay Delta Conser- Bill Jennings never seems to be at a in the Delta is "insufficient" to protect vation Plan's coffin loss for colorful descriptions of situa- either the ecosystem or the species of When the public comment period for tions. In his press release, Bill de- fish in the Delta. They find that both the Bay Delta Conservation Plan scribes the BDCP as a patient who is aquatic habitat restoration and in- (BDCP) ended, many of us wondered on life support and suffers a poor creased fresh water are needed to re- about the next step and how rapidly prognosis. He feels the the DWR de- store the Delta and its 750 species of the state would try to push the BDCP lays are "unlikely to enable the BDCP flora and fauna. In other words the down our collective throats. Earlier to recover from congenital terminal EPA totally disagrees with the BDCP this week, the Dept. of Water Re- illness."Bill continues by explaining to add 100,000 acres of prime farm- sources (DWR) sent out a letter to that, "The BDCP was doomed from land for habitat restoration and con- address the issues of the responses to the beginning because it was con- tinue to pump 1000's of acre feet of the public comment period on the ceived on the fatal premise that you freshwater out of the Delta. The EPA BDCP. The letter advised us there can restore an estuary hemorrhaging letter to DWR is a very caustic rebut- will be a revised BDCP Environ- from lack of flow by depriving it of tal of everything the 40,000 plus page mental Impact Report/Environmental another 2.5 million acre-feet of flow." BDCP advocated. Impact Statement (EIR/EIS) submit- The major nail in the BDCP's coffin The south valley corporate agriculture ted "early in 2015" with another pub- is from the Environmental Protection groups, state water contractors, and

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(Continued from page 4) pect in 3 normal years. Also the the Metropolitan Water District of salmon/steelhead run in the Moke- Los Angeles have spent over a quar- lumne was over 19,500 fish as op- ter of a billion dollars financing their posed to much lower numbers in the people to write the BDCP only to the red column years. In the last 13 DFF Officers have the EPA shred the document. years we have had less water than President Basically the EPA said the plan not normal averaging from between 10% only violates the law but is scientifi- to 65% less than normal. Despite im- cally indefensible. The EPA's letter to pending drought, over 230,00 acre Vice President DWR is a major nail in the BDCP's feet of water was sent to the south John Highsmith 209-369-3251 coffin. valley early last spring. Our current Secretary critical drought situation is not only Karen Keagy Sometimes a picture is worth a thou- caused by nature but made far worse Treasurer sand words by the Bureau of Reclamation (BR) Jason Stapleton 209-334-9201 For the last several years I have been and the DWR. Directors reading articles published by the Pa- Joe Balderston 209-649-0291 The LA Times just published an arti- cific Institute (PI) of Oakland. They Ron Forbes 209-368-5767 cle on the 50 % possibility of a 30 Jerry Neuburger 209-369-5752 write excellent, progressive articles year drought in the Southwest with a Larry Schmidt 209-482-8742 about our state's water issues and the Bob Fujimura 209-339-0683 80% chance of a 10year drought. Re- continuing failure of California's wa- Gil Parker 209 951-7154 cent pictures of Lake Mead show it to Earl Summers 209-957-6756 ter policies. Water has, of course a be at its lowest level since Hoover Jason Stapleton 209-334-9201 direct 1:1 correlation to our fisheries. Steve VonBerg 209-327-6161 Dam was built. It is felt that Califor- Recently PI published an article on nia will continue the drought espe- Committees California Runoff as of May 1st for cially in the south state. If these pre- Bob McMillan Trout Bout the last 13 years. When you look at Steve Cooper 209-956-1032 dictions will occur is uncertain, but the graph, the first impression is of Catfish Derby (June) the risk is high. Early this year an El the number of red columns as op- Earl Summers 209-957-6756 Nino was predicted with an 87% posed to the blue columns. The graph Conservation/NCCFFF chance we would have a wet winter. shows our water runoff between 2002 Ron Forbes 209-368-5767 However, recently the prediction has to present. Only in the year 2003 did Education been down-graded with much less Joe Balderston 209-649-0291 we have had a "normal" or "average" rain/snow expected. runoff year. Both in 2006 and 2011 Fishing Mentor Program Gil Parker 209-951-7154 were above average years that gave Ron Forbes Membership us the amount of water we would ex- Bob Fujimura 209-339-0683 Outings Adventure in the Land of the Midnight Sun Steve VonBerg, Gil Parker Programs By Steve von Berg arriving at our first campsite at 9:00 pm- Al Smatsky 209-368-9261 Bob Sousa 209-368-2683 This is just a brief overview of my two --sunsets around 11:00 pm. DFF mem- week trip to Alaska in mid August 2014. ber and Against the Flow Adventures Property/Historian John Highsmith 209-369-3251 I was joined by club member Randy owner, John Squires, was our guide. Viglienzone, friends Argust Smith, John immediately set up his kitchen as Publicity Steve VonBerg 209-327-6161 Mike Manassero, and guides John we set up our tents and collected wood Squires and Joe Hauner. for a much needed fire. John provided Raffles excellent meals for the entire trip. This Vacant After spending two days in Anchorage, camp routine of set up and breakdown Trout Bout (November) we arrived at Lake Iliamna. Our float would be done six times as we spent Charlie Reames 209-642-6704 plane took us to the Koktuli Pond drop only two nights twice on our 60 mile Webmaster/Newsletter off point. This was the beginning of our float down the Koktuli and Mulchatna Jerry Neuburger 209-369-5752 10 day river float and adventure. Rivers to our final destination at the Rx Fly Fishing! is the monthly publication of We unloaded the plane and began a mouth of the Stuyahok River. the Delta Fly Fishers, Inc. Delta Fly Fishers, three hour portage to the Koktuli River. At its headwaters, the Koktuli was quite Inc. is a public benefit 501c3 non-profit cor- All of our gear and rafts had to be car- small, flowing through tundra and wil- poration registered with the California ried nearly ¾ of a mile--- this was a tir- Secretary of State. lows; in the midsection it reminded me ing way to begin our adventure. of the Moke, though it had a gravel bot- Any correspondence regarding this After blowing up and loading the two publication should be directed to: rafts, we began our float at 6:00 pm, (Continued on page 6) The Delta Fly Fishers Inc. PO Box 77862

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(Continued from page 5) more. night. However, the ease of catching the tom and undercut banks with willows, The lower river provided good fishing night before became a distant memory. spruce and alders; and in its lower for Silvers, Char and Dollies. At one Fish were caught but not with regular reaches, it was a much broader river, point, Argust caught 7 char on 7casts. frequency. Apparently, the run had lined with willows and spruce trees. We Rainbows were caught but not very big-- moved up river that night. The fish were had two days of very heavy rains that -Randy was the Rainbow guru. The Sil- big, bright, and fought ferociously. caused the river to rise and become very vers were found in slack water and back Many jumps were followed by numer- off colored. This pretty much shut down eddies. We used 6- 8wt rods, with 2X- ous runs. These fish were really hot and fishing for two days. Unfortunately, this 0X leaders of 7-9ft. For my subsurface required a net to land---only wish there happened during our two day camp stay. fishing, I used a type 4 sink tip line with had been more. Most days were overcast with drizzle. great success. Our trip ended with the float plane arriv- The last four days had beautiful and Most fish were caught on stimulators, ing on the morning of our 10th day. We fairly warm weather, a welcomed relief humpies, and foam flies, beads, glow- were flown back to Lake Iliamna. By from the drizzle and rain of the first half bugs, and various leech patterns. I 4:00 pm we were back in Anchorage of the trip. Alaskan weather is very caught all my Silvers on a purple bead- and taking our first showers in 10 days. changeable---glad John provided a gear head with a pink plastic overlay bead Our two nights in Anchorage, at trip’s list to follow to meet these changes. that I tie. end, allowed us to eat at several great restaurants As for the fishing, it was a mixed bag. The Mulchatna is a very large river and The upper reaches of the river provided fishing opportunities were limited as we and visit the downtown area for gifts. A non stop action for Grayling, Char, Dol- had to float 15 miles to our final destina- good time with good friends will be a lies, a few Rainbows, and even two Sil- tion---the mouth of the Stuyahok River. memory for a lifetime. A great experi- vers. Fishing was so crazy I used foam ence was had by all! After arriving from our long float, we bass poppers and caught many fish on immediately began fishing and catching Alaska is a great place. Hope to visit and top---quite an exciting experience! In large Silvers. We had a great salmon fish again. the midsection we had the off colored dinner that night. Thoughts of a great water. We caught fish but it made us day of fishing on our last full day were appreciate the previous three days even on all our minds as we went to bed that DFF October 2014 Outing: A Drift down the Lower Sac by Bruce Rollans Keswick Reservoir to Red Bluff by and Suites (530) 224-1001 and Holi- This October outing is again to the Bob Madgic that has appeared in the day Inn (530) 221-7500. If you have Lower Sacramento River in the Red- California Fly Fisher. I have copies access to AAA Tour Book for North- ding area, Saturday, October 18 and available at your request. ern California, there are a number of Sunday, October 19, other locations. The internet is 2014. Some general in- another source of lodging op- formation follows. tions.

Typically, the most effec- If you plan to be there the eve- tive way to fish this river ning of Saturday, October 18 I between Redding and will make group reservations Red Bluff has been from for dinner, probably at the a drift boat using egg and Olive Garden. Just let me bug patterns weighted know so I can get an accurate beneath an indicator. If count for the reservation. you want to float the river I recommend using a I will do my best to give you guide. updates on water conditions. Sallye and I will be floating the The source of most drift river out of Redding Septem- boat guides is The Fly Click on the photo for a great video of fishing the lower Sac ber 24 and 35 then again Oc- Shop at 4140 Churn tober 17 and 18. Email me at Creek Road, Redding, (530) 222- [email protected] or call my 3555, The current rate is $400 per There are a variety of motels avail- landline, (209) 274-0448. For those full day for one or two persons, in- able for overnight lodging mostly in or who let me know they will be making cluding lunch, water and flies. near Redding. Sallye and I have this outing I will provide cell phone used the following: Best Western numbers that will in service starting If you want to walk and wade the river Plus Hilltop (530) 221-6100, Best October 16. I recommend you read a good de- Western Plus Twin View Inn and scription of wadeable waters from Suites (530) 241-5500, Hampton Inn

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A float in the Florida sun (but watch out for the mosquitoes!) By Bruce Rollans a few Snook up in the mangroves, but Sallye and I planned this Florida trip Fourth day was for Snook. We first they would not come out. Saw a few late 2013. Four days off West Palm fished a shore line along the Indian Reds only when we spooked them Beach targeting False Albacore. First River estuary. There had been Tar- from where they were resting. Also two days we hooked and landed pon up to 100 lb. along here every saw the Keys about 30 miles away. about 16 to the boat each day up to day for the prior two weeks. Not this Finally, we know why there are very 17 lb. Had a few we shared with day. Did cast to going away Snook few people in the Everglades in the sharks such as Great Hammerhead, several times to no avail. We were summer. Mosquitos are in great Black Fin, Bull and Tiger. Each day scheduled to fish for Snook this night abundance. Even with Deet on before was cut short due to electrical storms. under the lights of various bridges you leave the vehicle they are on you and docks, but the Captain’s boat in a big hurry, attacking through shirts Third day was fishing hugh grass broke down ( fuel pump). and pants. Only got away from them mats for Dolphin Fish, aka Dorado. once we left the marina. Lots of small fish. Learned how to Went down to the tip of Florida’s avoid the very big fish and very small mainland and then 41 miles into the Plan to go back, but only fish for fish. Enjoyed this as the water was Everglades at Flamingo Marina for Snook at night under the lights. flat and clear. Could easily see fish the next three days looking for Tar- and move flies to avoid unwanted pon, Snook and Redfish. Saw many fish. small Tarpon and landed a few. Saw

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Eastern Sierra Focus By CJ Webb chased for an alleged violation of one the notch. Stream is low and very clear Fishing Tip: Casting into the wind with grant which the County denies. Latest so stay away from the edge or you'll be control news is that CalTrans granted an exten- just exercising your arm. I tried black fur sion for the MOU until December 1st. ants with good results but they are Casting into the wind has not been my spooky. Dries working are Para-Adams East Walker River bathrooms are still favorite part of fly fishing and I’ve always #6-18, BWO (very thin body) #16-18, elk undergoing scrutiny and more red-tape avoided fishing when it’s too windy. hair caddis #18, parachute kicking hop- as new information from DFW and an on- Over time I’ve found that being tall and/ pers and large foam ants. Nymphs work- site inspection with the new person in or short has nothing to do with casting ing: Crystal baetis #18-22, Tungsten Psy- charge and she seems receptive but it is into the wind and it’s all about being cho #18-20, Split Wingcase BWO #16- more complex process than originally properly equipped. 20, Zebra midges #18-20, pheasant tails thought. Hopefully CalTrout and DFW 18-22 and Hare's Ear #16-18. When I was trying to improve my cast- will have a meeting of the minds and this ing skills I was taught how to cast into the can proceed. HOT CREEK flow is at 32cfs and clear. wind, but could not grasp the “power Weeds are still a struggle and water Nothing current on the big news com- push” of the wrist to project the rod mov- temps are stable in the mid to upper 60’s. ing soon is the Department of Fish and ing in a forward motion, it just went up Fish in the deepest water you can find and Wildlife's request to simplify regulations overhead and back without any control. between the weeds. Hatches are good due to be implemented in 2016. Cur- early am on midges, and caddis pupa/ Being properly equipped means not a rently it is being researched at the De- larvae/adults in the afternoon. Streamers time to use a soft rod and double-taper partment level and will go to business are not on the menu. Dries working are line. Modern graphite rods have the stiff- and public discussion at a later date. extended body blue winged olive 18-22, ness to beat the wind if they match a Updates will be reported through the CDC Caddis 18-22, Hot Creek caddis 18- weight-forward line, shorter leader and winter if necessary. more suitable aerodynamic fly (less wind 20, Parachute Caddis 18-20, Parachute resistance). Also your clothing is critical DFW reported they are moving for- Adams 16-20, and Elk Hair Caddis 16-20. in the wind, a hat, sunglasses and a jacket ward with using Little Walker for the Nymphs: Fox’s Caddis Poopah in olive that will absorb any impalement by felo- brood stock for the Kamloops Rainbow size 20, Nori’s Caddis pupa olive #20, nious flies. There are many ways to learn Trout, if I reported this previously, disre- Anderson’s Bird of Prey in Olive size #18 to cast into the wind, left side wind, right gard. and a buckskin caddis #20. Also try some Zebra midges 18-22, WD-40 18-22, side wine, forward wind, back cast wind, ESFGA will be moving forward with Micro Mayfly 18-22 and Scuds 14-16. and so forth. But what I'm referring to is installation of the disabled fishing access. front wind with a fairly standard 5wt. 9 With normal breezy afternoons try #20- foot rod taking a fly about 40 70 feet for- Weather – I've made an appointment with 22 midges. Warm weather will induce ward. The only thing I have found that my physician to do a psyche evaluation some hatches despite the cooler temps at works for me is a power backcast and a on "Mother". She has been more tem- night. Please stay out of the water to and soft forward cast. If you look at the inter- peramental than I can remember in 41 help prevent the spread of New Zealand net and read about "Deeter", you will see summers here on the mountain. Maybe a mud snails. bit of Xanax on a regular schedule for a his method. He has a saying "rugged CROWLEY LAKE is still going down a man...soft cast" Hard on the backcast, few weeks might put her in a better mood few more inches than last week and Sit- and easy on the forward cast. This is all I to provide some much needed moisture ting at 6760 feet and the islands are get- starting around mid October and going can tell you to practice, and it works per- ting close to popping out just near the right through mid-March that way the fectly regardless of the angle of the wind marina. Water temperature has dropped or the angle of your body. Do it and see Ground-hog can have a nice winter's nap. from 68º to 64º on the bottom uniformly the results! It's the best. around the lake. Water is almost crystal clear with zero algae. Great reports for Fishing Report: Big and Little Hilton, stormy flats, windy Fishing News and Updates: Remember to check the regulations prior beach and in McGee Bay from inside on Mono County Trophy program will to fishing unfamiliar water as to limits, the west in about 9 ft. of water to outside continue into spring of 2015 for the cur- size, and gear. and to the east 200 yards in 12 feet. Mul- tiple 18” trout were common-place for rent contract with Desert Springs Trout ROCK CREEK has been doing well Farm in Oregon. most anglers. Recommended fly and the using terrestrials as they are getting go-to fly for the past week under an indi- Conway Ranch is going under the pre- washed into the water during the storms. cator, has been the Albino Baron, and it is liminary 30-day public comments for the Take a lunch and hike in to Chickenfoot being fished up against the weed line. Conservation Easement under Eastern or Long lake, you can even go to upper Also try stripping using a Perch fry imita- Sierra Land Trust which was requested Morgan and fish the inlet/outlet for some tion - Hornberg's, Perfection Perch and by CalTrans through one of the two fun action. I hiked to Golden Lake and Punk Perch, but check with the Crowley grants under which the ranch was pur- caught some nice fish on a nymph under (Continued on page 9)

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(Continued from page 8) due to the number of trout in the holding but with good reports on fishing. DFW Lake Marina for more info. pens from Desert Springs that are being continues to stock. Fishing was good released into the lake.. Reports state that throughout the month and if you want a UPPER OWENS flows are at 49cfs dries working are Para Adams, large ants, current report check with the marina. above the Hot Creek Confluence (8/22), yellow Stimulators, and hoppers along the LUNDY LAKE - The Lake is down and and clear but rust colored below. Fishing weedy areas of the shoreline. Streamers dropping in small increments which won't seems to be getting better everyday and working are Wooly Buggers in black, affect the fishing. They are scheduled to some Crowley fish are very hungry. brown, olive or green, Matuka's in same get the County Enhancement last week so Nymphing under the indicator or strip- colors, also a Loebergs # 10. Nymphs fish it like you would June Lake with ping with a sink tip is the best way. Top that saw action were Prince, Zebra, Cop- same flies. water flies: EC Caddis 16-20, Elk Hair per John, Flashback Pheasant Tail and red caddis 16-18, Parachute Adams, and or brown San Juan worm. VIRGINIA LAKES - Sunrise 6:23am- Stimulator 14-18. Nymphs: Copper Sunset 7:33. County Enhancement GULL LAKE – Trophy trout are arriving Johns 14-18, Hare's Ear 14-18, flashback dumped in 400 pounds of trophies on the every month, so get up here and wet a PT #16, Zebra Midges 18-20 and red San 21st and Big Virginia got 400 pounds on line, anything goes that you’ve used here Juan Worms 12. Streamers working are the 27th and over 600 pounds from DFW before, so sharpen up those hooks and perfection Perch, and red or wine leeches. in both lakes including 450 pounds in dust off the marabou and hit the water Trumbull. Some were a bit on the small CONVICT LAKE stocked the lake with with good hatches in the weeds. Stop in size but will fit into a skillet should you 400 pounds of trophy trout on August at the store to see what flies are working decide not to release them. Best fly for 26th, and stocked with DFW bows again, the best they have a better up to date re- the last couple weeks is still the "dirty and it should be wide open. Dry Flies: port. Adams, Female Adams, Cutter's Caddis, Doc" size 10-12, it's a real catcher and Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulators, Black/Red SILVER LAKE - Berkley Mice Tails! everyone is having great fun. Some dan- Ants, Sierra Bright Dot, Royal Coachman They have been the hottest ticket most of ger midges, copper head midges, hare's and Hoppers. Streamers: Wooly Bugger the summer. The "tails" could be ear and olive bird’s nests are working (black, brown, olive, or green), Mutukas trimmed to fit on the back end of a fly depending on the air temperature. Dries (black, brown, olive, or green), Horn- hook with a frilly hackle of sorts and it working in the early morning if there's a bergs, and Muddler Minnows. Wet Flies could be a nice fly. Just when I think I've good ripple like a black caddis. actually had a new idea I saw a new pat- (Nymphs): Prince Nymph, Flashback EAST WALKER flow as of this writing tern the latest FLY TYER magazine using Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, Zebra Midge was 43cfs and fishing is better below the the kibosh ball tentacles. Fishing has (red and black), Copper John (red and bridge and into Nevada. Nights are been incredibly steady this past week copper) and San Juan Worm (brown or colder and days are very nice so try dries with plenty planters by DFW and an red). like Parachute Adams #16-18, Elk Hair enormous amount of nice 2 to 5 pounders Caddis and Stimulators #16-18 will be a MAMMOTH BASIN - Water is clear brought in every day. We are expecting lot of fun early and late, but nymphing and cool with temps in the 40's at night to receive a DFW weekly 800 pound will be your best producer. Streamers and has greatly improved the fishing with plant and another 400 pounds from Desert working are, black or olive wooly bug- reports of large fish on the bite. Fish a Springs of Oregon before the holiday gers #8-12, Punk Perch 10-14 in olive or full sink line and get it down there. Also weekend. With the holiday weekend olive/pink, and Hornbergs. Nymphs: try fishing under an indicator or try some coming up, don’t forget that Silver Lake Micro Mayfly, zebra midge Barr's dries late in the evening. Flies working Resort will have its annual Chris Jones flashback BWO 18-29, Nori's Caddis are Griffith Gnat 16-22, Parachute Adams Memorial Scholarship Horseshoe Tourna- Pupa 18-20, 16-20, Stimulator and Yellow Humpy ment and BBQ on Saturday August 30th #16-18. Nymphs working are Zebra starting at 11 am and live music by Z-Caddis 16-20, Buckskin caddis 14-20, midges 18-22, tan/olive Bird's nests 14- “Good Living” on the grass by the lake rainbow warrior 18-22, tungsten psycho, 16, Pheasant tails, Hare's Ear, Callibaetis on Sunday August 31st at 5pm! Come on JuJu Baetis 18-29 and two-bit hooker 18- and copper zebras. Streamers working out and enjoy the last part of summer and 20. Remember water is low and if you are olive and black Twin Lakes Specials enjoy some great fishing and entertain- hook into something substantial take care 10-12, olive and black wooly buggers 10- ment. in releasing and save the resource. Be 12 and flashabou buggers in black. sure and call Ken's at 932.7707 and get RUSH CREEK flows are at a trickle and the latest report, things change rapidly SAN JOAQUIN - Water is clear and trout will spook if they see a shadow. Try with low warm water. flows are down to 13cfs. Fishing is not an Elk Hair Caddis #14-18 or Stimulator red hot so look for deeper pools and any 14-18. Nymphs: Copper Johns 14-18, BRIDGEPORT RESERVOIR is low section of the river that has cover to pro- Prince nymphs 14-18, Micro Mayfly 16- and the "bathtub" is the best spot for vide protection and a good feeding zone. 20, Micro Stone 10-16, Zebra Midge 18- hooking fish. Fishing has been surprising Early morning and late in the evening 20, PT 14-20, and Hare's ear 14-19. in the deeper with mayfly patterns later in when the water is the coolest will always Streamers working are BH Carey Bugger, the day if the temperature rises. Calli- be better. Small dries on a #3 or 4 wt. is a Crystal Bugger, Rickard's emerging bug- baetis by the inlets and try zebra midges, lot of fun. Beautiful browns below Rain- ger, Matuka, and BH Pop's Bugger shaft emerger, olive Bird's Nest, Jensen's bow Falls and the hike is always worth it. Callibaetis, and Rickards AP emerger. GRANT LAKE - Water is cold and (Continued on page 10) JUNE LAKE is still doing fairly well clear, and a little down from last month

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Rx Fly Fishing! Advertising Rates 2 column inches each newsletter issue for the year for $400, six months $200, quarter $100, one month $40. The ad may include artwork and will link to the advertiser's website. Higher produce standards Additional column inches of ad space may be than the USDA. The Heart of the High Sierra purchased at $200 for the year, $100 for six Fresh comes first Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest months, $50 for a quarter year, $20 per month. Fishing, Hiking, Camping, Cabins, Restaurant, Lodge Included: The Delta Fly Fishers are proud to partici- http://www.virginialakesresort.com A similar ad on our website monthly articles pate in the Save Mart HC 62 BOX 1065, equal to the number of newsletter advertising Shares program. BRIDGEPORT CA 93517-9602 months. (App. Two per month.) Each swipe of your 760-647-6484 Tel/Fax 1/14 A digital subscription to the club's monthly Shares card earns newsletter. the Delta Fly Fishers 3% of your purchase. Permission to post specials and other advertis- ing on the club's Face book page, 2 per month. Ask John Keagy for a Shares Card today. RIO products For additional information please phone or e- Available at all quality fly shops 7/14 mail Jerry Neuburger, Editor 209-369-5752 Save Mart Store Locator 1/15

(Continued from page 9) right fly. some foam attractors over Bird’s nest, Streamers working are Hornbergs #10, pheasant tail or San Juan worms. It had WEST WALKER flow is 30cfs. Water Matuka's 10-12, olive and brown buggers, been fishing well prior to the drop in tem- is low due to the rains and my recommen- Hale Bopp Leech 10-12 and Punk Perch perature with some nice trophy's showing dation is to try the flat water near the 10-14. Don't forget to call Ken's and talk a dorsal to olive woolly buggers or even bridge down to Chris Flat. Also try be- to Rick or Jim for the best flies for the large ant patterns along the calm edges. low the first bridge as you enter Walker . day, as conditions and water change con- It has warmed up nicely once again so try See you on the water, CJ 14.7 stantly and they will put you onto the

Rx Flyfishing! Delta Fly Fishers, Inc. P. O. Box 77862 Stockton, CA 95207-7862 www.deltaflyfishers.com

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