Below is our club calendar of upcoming events. This calendar changes often so check back frequently.
Should you want to add an event to the calendar, please submit your request on the Event Request Submission Form found here.
MOVED TO FEBRUARY 7th 8:30AM DUE TO THE 14TH IS VALENTINE'S DAY AND ALSO A 3 DAY WEEKEND.
This is the regular monthly meeting of the Board of Directors for the Golden Gate Casting & Angling Club, for which the meeting room in the Anglers Lodge is reserved from 8:30 - 9:45am.
Casting Lab
Casting Lab is open to all GGACC club members and provides an opportunity for coaching on your casting skills. Primary focus is developing the required casting skills for those seeking to apply to the Learn to Fly Fish program, where we now require demonstration of casting skills at the FCSD Bronze level. More information on LTFF here. Students who participate in the casting lab regularly through the several months it is available will have no trouble meeting this requirement. Secondary focus is coaching to achieve Fly Casting Skills Development at the silver, and gold levels. The FFI Fly Casting Skills Development, FCSD, program is designed to teach casts that are used in real fishing situations, with progressive levels of skill. To learn more, download the Angler's Guide here.
Please contact Alan if you have any questions.
This event will use a portion of the casting ponds, and also the main meeting room in the lodge.
Contact Chris Saito with any questions at chris@csaito.com.
Fun and friendly casting competition held in conjunction with the Oakland Casting Club and San Jose Flycasters, but open to any registered person who would like to participate to test their skill against others or to just take part in the training to be offered as part of these casting games this year -- all are welcome, including beginning casters!
The casting games at the Oakland Casting Club casting ponds have been scheduled to be typically held on the first Sunday of each month from 9:30am to about 12:30pm. But be sure to check the calendar each month for the actual date for this event.
There is a $1 entry fee required for each casting event that you choose to compete in -- to be paid to the event host. Registration is by appointment via the contact person below.
All GGACC and OCC Casting Games will be conducted under ACA rules and will be ACA "registered" events (UON).
To REGISTER, or for further information or rules explanation, please contact: Alice Gillibert alicegillibert@comcast.net
The Golden Gate Angling & Casting Club's (GGACC's) Monthly Free Fly Casting Lessons are open to both Club members and the General Public. These free fly casting lessons are generally held on the 2nd Saturday of each month year-round from 9:30 AM - 12 Noon at the Golden Gate casting ponds. Free loaner equipment is also available on a first come, first served basis, but please try to arrive by 8:45 AM to take advantage of this limited free equipment.
A few points to consider –
Classes target four different skill levels (the classes are held concurrently):
Please pre-register for these casting lessons in order to help determine the number of needed instructors . To register, simply click on the large "Register" button to the left of this event description (or above it if using your smartphone).
Finally, if you are interested in joining the casting instructor group or training for Fly Fishers International (FFI) "Casting Instructor" (CI) certification, please contact Willy George.
Tying Lab
When: Tuesday nights Feb 17 - Apr 7, 2026, 6:15 - 8:30pm
Where: inside the GGACC Anglers Lodge
Who: Current Learn To Fly Fish students that have passed at least the Bronze qualifier. Students will be contacted directly with registration instructions.
# of Students: 10
Cost: $60
We are excited to be offering LTFF students a new format for Tying Lab. The chilly winter season has traditionally been a time when tyers will fill up their fly boxes for the coming season. We want to provide a space for folks to fill up their own boxes and learn a craft that further connects them to fishing.
In the new format, we will be working through 7 patterns from Craig Matthews & Yvon Chouinard's book Pheasant Tail Simplicity. Using this book as a guide, we will focus on a new pattern each week while gaining new techniques along the way. Vices will be provided for use during class free of charge, but students are responsible for having a requisite tool list, tying materials and the textbook. Separate registration is required.
Contact: Andrew Lawrence andrewstlawrence@gmail.com
Thursday, February 19th, from 6–8 PM, join us for a special presentation, Casting Shadows of the Past: A Journey Through GGACC History, by Jim Dawson.
As the GGACC Club Historian, Jim will share the Club’s rich history and evolution, as well as San Francisco’s unique role in shaping the sport. The event will be held inside the Angler’s Lodge.
This is a Women's Group organized event. Recognizing the tremendous interest, the Women's Group warmly invites all GGACC members to cast their curiosity and join us.
The event is open to all members and friends. Due to space limitations, registrations are requested.
We will also broadcast the event live via Zoom. Details for the zoom call will be emailed to registrants just prior to the presentation--so be sure to register (and update your email address in the member directory!)
Save the date!
The Women’s Group will be getting together on the following dates:
Saturday, March 7th - 10 AM - 2 PM Casting Games with Alice Gillbert
Thursday, April 9th - 6-9 PM Putah Creek with Ashley Wright and Jose Rubio
Thursday, May 21st - 6-8 PM
Thursday, June 18th - Trout Spey
Thursday, July 16th - 6-8 PM Beginning casting
Thursday, August 20th - 6-8 PM
Thursday, September 17th - 6-8 PM
Thursday, October 22nd - 6-8 PM
Stay in the loop!
GGACC Members can receive the monthly "Women of GGACC" newsletters automatically by updating your GGACC Profile here. To navigate, select “Edit Profile” and opt in to “Women's Group.”
Subscribe to our Forum for posts from fellow members.
Follow our new Instagram: @ggaccwomensprogram for news, the latest fishing report & more!
photos courtesy Val Atkinson
GGACC Annual Crab Feed!
Join us for an unforgettable evening of All-You-Can-Eat Dungeness Crab at the GGACC Annual Crab Feed. This highly anticipated social event will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
Important Details:
Tickets are limited and available only to current (paid) 2026 members and their guests (one guest per reservation).
Tickets sell out fast, are only available for purchase online, and are non-refundable.
Don’t miss out! If you do, all you'll have are Val’s pictures and the rumored stories of the best Crab Feed ever in San Francisco.
The Cooking Krewe reminds you to come hungry and leave full!
Online registration opens on Friday, January 23rd at 5pm (PST). When registration is live, a large “Register” button will appear on the GGACC Crab Feed event page.
To secure your spot, click the “Register” button and submit your payment for you and your guest.
There are only 80 tickets available. Once they sell out, a wait list will be available. a "Join the Waitlist” button will appear if we have sold out, but be sure to add yourself to the waitlist, we will follow up if a spot opens up.
If you can’t attend after purchasing tickets, you may sell your ticket(s) directly to someone on the waitlist. Contact the Club via email for the waitlist member’s contact details.
REMEMBER: You must be a 2026 member to register! Here is the link, to update your membership.
Social Hour: 4:00 pm
Dinner: 5:00 pm
Details to come soon!
$ 90 per person
BYOB: Bring your own beverages—and glassware—since only water and plastic cups will be provided.
If you'd like to help with setup, serving, or cleanup, please email Judd at volunteer.ggacc@gmail.com confirming.
For any questions, please email club.ggacc@gmail.com.
Haven’t renewed your membership for 2026 yet? There’s still time—renew today! Here is the link.
We look forward to seeing you at the great annual event.
The GGACC Board
Lower Yuba River Fishout, UC Davis Property - offered to REGISTERED 2026 LTFF Level 2 (2025 Cohort) students only.
When: March 7th and/or March 8th 2026
Location: Lower Yuba River on the Private Access UC Davis Property
What: Trout fishing with bonus Single Hand Spey on the water clinic
Group size: 10 students per day, 2 separate days, total 20 slots
Description:
The Lower Yuba flows out of Englebright Reservoir in the Sierra foothills near the gold mining town of Grass Valley. This is one of the closest wild trout fishing venues to the Bay Area; a roughly 3 hour drive from San Francisco. These waters are known for athletic, hard-fighting wild rainbow trout and steelhead. The University of California-Davis owns and manages private access to the river located above the Parks Bar Bridge/Highway 20 near Smartsville, California. We will have excellent walk and wade access to the river - hopefully with the chance to fish the fabled Skwala stonefly hatch on this river.
The typical rainbow trout in this section of the river is around 12-18", smaller than what you may encounter say on the Lower Sac, but you won’t forget the fight! These fish jump and run --- you will be in a fight all the way to the net.
UC Davis allows primitive camping at the property (vault toilets, bring your own water), so we will plan to camp as a group for the weekend. As a student, you will get to work both on streamer fishing techniques as well as dry fly/head hunting fishing if the Skwalas cooperate.
We will also have GGACC casting instructors providing a Single-hand Spey clinic on the water each of the days.
Equipment you will need:
· Your own 5 weight floating line setup
· Additional reel with single-hand Spey Line. If not available, use what you have.
· 9 foot 4x/5x leaders and tippet (4x/5x/6x), indicators, etc. are perfect for this water.
· Bring your waders and wading staff
· A fly box to carry the assortment of flies you will receive at the river.
· Be sure to have both your 2026 California fishing license and 2026 Steelhead Card.
Other Stuff:
· Plenty of sunscreen and a broad brimmed hat
· Polarized sunglasses
· Lots of drinking water. There is no water on the property
· Suitable clothing.
Cost: Registration is $175 per person which includes access to the property for the your respective group to camp and an assortment of flies selected for the Lower Yuba at this time of year. Lunch will be provided for the day-of group.
Lodging: We will plan to have a group camp on the property and enjoy the fun of bring-your-own food for group meals. Plan to bring your own fishing and camping gear, along with food and water for your stay. You may also choose to stay off-property in either Yuba-City/Marysville, or Grass Valley/Nevada City. Our location is mid-way between; a 30-minute drive in either direction on highway 20.
Meeting Time and Place: The UC Davis property will become available to us at 4pm on Friday afternoon, March 6th. Start times on Saturday and Sunday mornings will be announced in our pre-fishout zoom meeting.
Pre-fishout Clinic: Held about two weeks prior
Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds. In the event that a student is unable to attend, they may resell their slot to another qualified/approved LTFF member, pulling from the waitlist first.
For more info: Jeff Hogan jeff.hogan8454@att.net
Saturday, March 7 from 10 AM - 2 PM, join us for an Introduction to Casting Games with Alice Gillibert!
Alice is an American Casting Association Hall of Fame member and a past American Casting Association President. She holds several records, including a Fly Distance Record of 150’, Plug Accuracy, Dry Fly Accuracy, and more!
Alice will guide us through the exciting world of Casting Games—explaining the rules, strategies, and fascinating history of this competitive side of our sport. “When you can’t fish, use the targets!” – Alice Gillibert
Loaner rods will be available. If you have a 6-weight setup, bring it along; that's the standard for many games.
There is no cost for participants, and the program is open to both GGACC members and non-members. Registration is requested, but not required.
Annual Membership Meeting
More detail as the date is closer.
This meeting is being held on the 2nd Sunday in March under the Club’s bylaws. We will send out a summary of our various programs in advance of the meeting.
NOTE: This is also the first day of Daylight Saving Time so be sure to account for the time change (Spring forward) in order not to be late for the meeting.
Rod Building Workshop
One GGACC rod building workshop is being offered this spring for current club members consisting of six meetings, held at the clubhouse one evening a week over the course of 8 weeks. Meetings will be held from 6pm to 8pm on Wednesday. Each meeting will cover different aspects of rod building and you'll apply what you learn to the rod blank you're building at that meeting and at home between meetings. Topics include: choosing a rod blank and components; assembling and gluing up real seats, aligning rod sections, constructing cork grips, preparing and wrapping guides, and coating guide thread wraps. Supplies: Participants must supply a graphite or fiberglass rod blank, reel seat, cork, guides, thread, thread finish and some simple tools (razor blade,masking tape, glue, etc.) This workshop is geared toward building single-handed fiberglass and graphite fly rods only, from all new materials. Rod repair or rod reconditioning services are not offered here. The club supplies rod wrapping jigs and rod drying motor that you will take home between meetings. Online enrollment will begin at 8:00 AM on March 1 on the Events Calendar at www.ggacc.org. This class can accommodate only six spaces and fills up quickly.
The first workshop will begin on March 11.
Costs: $35
Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds. In the event that a member is, for any reason, unable to attend, he may resell his slot to another GGACC member (by first pulling from the waitlist if one exists). It is the sole responsibility of the member to manage this transaction. This is not the responsibility of the leader but I'll be happy to work with you on finding a replacement. Mark Johann mark@markjohann.com
This event is for active LTFF members, guests, and program leaders and volunteers. More info to come...
This event is for active LTFF members, guests, and program leaders and volunteers.
More info to come...
Thanks, Your LTFF Leaders
Thanks,
Your LTFF Leaders
Rondy: Lower Sacramento River Drift
Dates: March 20, 2026
Leader: Brad Bradford bradford@realpropserv.com
Number of anglers (including leader): 8
Description: One day drift boat trip to the amazing trout factory of the lower Sacramento River. These are prime dates when the river should be "going off" with high numbers of football shaped rainbows. We will be 4 boats, with 2 anglers per boat. Our guides will be from Forrest Brizendine of NorCal Fishing Guides norcalfishingguides.com
Suggested Gear: 5-6 wt single handed fly rods, with floating lines. Guides can provide gear if you prefer.
Cost: The fee for this Rondy is $350.
Other Expenses: guide gratuities, transportation and lodging if needed.
Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds. In the event that a member is, for any reason, unable to attend, he may resell his slot (rod) to another GGACC member (by first pulling from the waitlist if one exists). It is the sole responsibility of the member to manage this transaction. This is not the responsibility of the leader or club.
Rondy: Putah Creek Clinic Group #2
Dates: March 21, 2026
Leader: Andrew Lawrence andrewstlawrence@gmail.com
Number of anglers (including leader): 7
Description: The Putah Creek Clinic is an annual Rondy at our greatest tailwater fishery.This Rondy will be structured as a "clinic", where Andrew will share what he knows about his favorite local river. Please note, this is not a fishing trip (although you will have time to fish it on your own after the clinic).
The plan is to meet at the river where Patrick will share techniques, tackle choices and flies. After a quick rundown on tactics, the remainder of the day will be spent scouting out 6 or 7 access points on the Creek. Please be ready to walk and wade. We will have lunch on the river bank (BYOB Sandwich) and commence the clinic with a debriefing when the tour is over.
Much of the difficulty of fishing Putah Creek is not knowing where to go and what water to fish. This clinic is aimed at accelerating your knowledge and access to Putah Creek as it is a wonderful native trout fishery.
https://putahcreektrout.org/fishing/
http://www.yolocounty.org/general-government/general-government-departments/parks/parks-information/putah-creek-fishing-access
https://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv/?site_no=11454000&agency_cd=USGS
Requirements: Open to those who have not attended the clinic previously and are in good physical condition due to some of the scrambling and wading to far banks and islands.
Suggested Gear: After the presentation, should you want to fish on your own, you will need: 5 or 6 wt, 9' or 9-1/2' fly rods with floating fly lines. 3, 4 & 5x tippet, split shot, indicators, wading staff (mandatory as some of the wading is difficult), sturdy waders, wading boots (felt soles with studs are recommended), rain jacket, plenty of water, and your lunch. Patrick recommends the following flies: Two-Bit Hooker size 16-18, Bead head Pheasant Tail Nymph 16-18, Zebra Midge 20-22, and any Soft Hackles 16-18.
Cost: The fee for this Rondy is $25
Additional Costs: your lunch and parking fees
Rondy: Putah Creek Clinic Group #1
Leader: Patrick McDermott mailto:patmacster.fishing@gmail.com
Description: The Putah Creek Clinic is an annual Rondy at our greatest tailwater fishery. This Rondy will be structured as a "clinic", where Patrick will share what he knows about his favorite local river. Please note, this is not a fishing trip (although you will have time to fish it on your own after the clinic).
About Putah Creek: Putah is a catch and release tailwater fishery located about 1-1/2 hours from San Francisco. It is the closest wild trout fishery to the Bay Area and has some of the largest wild Rainbow trout in California, where 30+ inch fish are caught every year. The following are helpful links:
This year's pond cleaning will take place on WEDNESDAY, March 25, 2026, starting at 7:30 AM.
Join us for spring cleaning at the GGACC — we need your help to get the ponds in shape and ready for a season of casting!
Every year in the spring, a group of hard-working club members, along with staff from SF Rec and Parks, spend a few hours preparing the club’s casting ponds for the season. We plan to meet up in the morning at 7:30AM and are usually done by 12:30PM.
The tools we use are old-school: brooms and shovels, wheelbarrows and elbow grease. Those who are feeling adventurous can volunteer for the hose crew! The Rec & Parks Dept. will provide all of the tools and a handful of employees to help us with the work. After the ponds are thoroughly cleaned and dry, they will also coordinate the removal of any aquatic growth in the ponds and repair the cracks in the concrete.
All you need to bring is your waders (or a pair of rubber boots), eye protection, maybe a pair of work gloves., and a good attitude!
We hope you will consider joining us on March 25th and giving the GGACC a few hours of your time. We need at least 30 volunteers to get the job done. Please register for this effort on this page so we will have an idea of how many workers we have. We will start refilling the ponds as soon as we are done cleaning on Tuesday so we all can be practicing our casting as soon as possible!
If you have any questions, please contact us via email at: club.ggacc@gmail.com
THIS 2 DAY CLASS HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED TO APRIL 4/5 DUE TO POND CLEANING ACTIVITIES. PLEASE REGISTER FOR THE CLASS ON THE APRIL 4TH CALENDAR EVENT.
GGACC's Spey Angler Program is unique, in that its primary goal is to teach anglers how to swing a fly with a two-handed rod for steelhead and other species. Preparing a student to fish from a boat with a two-handed rod using such tackle as strike indicators is NOT part of this program.
A “signature” of GGACC’s Spey training is that we train students to cast with both hands, from both sides of their body. Maximum class size is 6 in order to give each student lots of personal attention.
On Saturday we cover the fundamentals of Spey in a classroom setting, then quickly move to the ponds to learn the basic Spey casts. We meet Saturday @ 8:30AM in Anglers Lodge in our waders -- but leave spiked boots outside! We then move into the ponds from 9:30AM - 3PM with appropriate breaks.
On Sunday, river conditions permitting, we head to the American River in the Sacramento area and learn to fish the casts practiced on Saturday. Mid-day we add sink tips to replicate real world conditions. Also covered are rotation fishing, river etiquette, and fighting and landing steelhead as well as other species. On Sunday, we start at 8:30AM sharp ready to cast (rigged up, waders on, etc.) at one of several locations to be provided on Saturday. We finish at approximately 2PM.
You must be a current GGACC member to register, and there is a $150 registration fee for this class. The fee must be paid with credit card or PayPal when you register online. Failure to make this payment within 15 minutes of starting the registration process will cancel your registration.
Please note the following! The most successful Spey students possess certain casting abilities! With a single hand rod, you should to be able to false cast a straight top leg of a loop @ 35’ (both forward and back cast) and have the final forward cast roll out the line, leader and fly above the water. One also needs to be able to roll cast a loop @ 35', having the fly line, leader and fly “turn over” while airborne. For best success, we strongly encourage prospective students to develop these single hand casting abilities before taking this Spey Angler class. If you are uncertain as to your readiness for this class, one of the four Spey Instructors or any FFI CCI (certified casting instructor) you approach will be able to watch you cast and quickly determine your readiness. FFI CCIs wear printed name tags at the GGACC's monthly free casting lessons (when resumed). If you don’t possess the above abilities, please attend those free Saturday casting lessons and develop them.
The club has loaner Spey rods, reels, and lines available. Bring waders, boots, wading staff, eye protection, hat, and sack lunches for both days; and also a folding chair for Sunday at the American River. Again, students are welcome to use the club's high end, superbly matched Spey rods and lines each day. Students are responsible for their own transportation to both the GGACC casting ponds and to the American River training site. Arranging on Saturday for carpools to get to the river on Sunday is encouraged since parking may be limited at the river, and often requires a small local park use fee.
Registration for this two-day class is accomplished online using the GGACC Event calendar on the Saturday event only. Registration requires GGACC membership and paying a $150 fee. When the class is full (maximum 6 students), you will have the option of joining a waitlist for that class (any cancellations may be filled from the waitlist, and those waitlisted may be advised first of new class dates). Registrants and any members on the waitlists will be emailed an attachment containing Bob Pauli’s Spey Casting Manual and encouraged to purchase Simon Gawesworth’s 3-DVD set on “Modern Spey Casting”. These two resources are the corner stones of our education program. As such, the instructors expect you to read the manual and watch the DVDs multiple times. Students who don’t prepare are often frustrated and can fall behind.
Cancellation: If you cancel prior to 20 days from the class, your fee will be refunded. Cancellation inside the 30-day window which causes the class size to drop below 4 students (minimum class size) will result in fee forfeiture. Notify Steven Morikawa (stevenmorikawa@msn.com) as soon as you know you need to cancel.
Please check the GGACC events calendar for Spey Angler classes. When possible, there will be at least two Spey Angler classes in the spring and two in the fall. (The Spey "Improver" classes are not for beginners!)
Any Question give a call! Steven Morikawa FFI-Two Handed Master Instructor 707 315-2020
THIS CALENDAR EVENT IS ONLY TO NOTE THE SECOND DAY OF THIS TWO DAY CLASS---PLEASE REGISTER FOR BOTH DAYS ON THE CALENDAR EVENT "DAY 1 OF 2"
On Sunday, river conditions permitting, we head to the American River in the Sacramento area and learn to fish the casts practiced on Saturday. Midday we add sink tips to replicate real world conditions. Also covered are rotation fishing, river etiquette, and fighting and landing steelhead as well as other species. On Sunday, we start at 8:30AM sharp ready to cast (rigged up, waders on, etc.) at one of several locations to be provided on Saturday. We finish at approximately 2PM.
Cancellation: If you cancel prior to 20 days from the class, your fee will be refunded. Cancellation inside the 15-day window which causes the class size to drop below 4 students (minimum class size) will result in fee forfeiture. Notify Steven Morikawa (stevenmorikawa@msn.com) as soon as you know you need to cancel.
THIS 2 DAY CLASS SERIES IS A RESCHEDULE FROM THE MARCH 28/29 CLASS (DUE TO THE POND CLEANING ACTIVITIES).
Dates: April 7, 2026
Leader: Steve Swett mailto:Steve@libertypainting.biz
Number of anglers (including leader): 4
Description: The Delta is a wonderful fishery for both Black and Striped Bass. It is a truly amazing area, and just 1-1/2 hours from San Francisco. Striped Bass are "hot" fish meaning that they provide a very noteworthy strike and resulting fight. We will be 4 experienced anglers for a one-day guided boat trip. The guides we are using are great their website is https://www.confluenceoutfitters.com
Suggested Gear: 8-9 wt single handed fly rods, with a variety of lines. Note: The guides will supply the gear if needed, which typically includes 9 ft. long 8 or 9 wt fly rods with a variety of lines including floating, intermediate, and T-14 sinking lines. They will also supply the terminal tackle and flies. Lunch and water is provided by the guides.
Cost: The fee for this Rondy is $$375.00
Guides: Confluence Outfitters / Toby Uppinghouse
Other Expenses: guide gratuities and transportation.
Thursday, April 9, from 6–9 PM, join us for a discussion on Fishing Putah Creek, with Ashley Wright and Jose Rubio. Ashley & Jose will provide their insight about our closest trout fishery to San Francisco! From flies, to access points, to strategy for this infamous waterway, join Ashley (GGACC Women’s Group) and Jose (CDFW licensed guide) to hear all about their tried and true tips for having a REEL great time at Putah Creekt.
The event will be held inside the Angler’s Lodge.
There is no cost for participants, and the program is open to both GGACC members and non-members. Drop-ins are welcome; however, RSVPs are requested.
Location: Pyramid Lake, NV (Paiute Tribe Reservation)
Guides: Bucking Trout Outfitters
Trip Leader: Mike Nelson (micnel@protonmail.com)
Pyramid Lake offers a truly unique high-desert, stillwater fly fishing experience. It is one of only two places on Earth (the other being Jurassic Lake in Argentina) where you have a legitimate shot at a 20+ lb trout on fly gear. In a typical year, students will land lahontan cutthroat trout in the 5 to 10 lb range.
Guides will provide terminal tackle for all anglers. They can provide rods / reels as well if you do not have the sizes listed below. Be prepared for two primary techniques depending on the guide recommendations for the day:
1. Indicator Nymphing
Rod: 6–8 wt single-handed rod or switch rod with floating line.
Rig: Large, buoyant indicators (Thing-a-ma-bobbers or Air-Locks) and heavy split shot.
Flies: Size 12 Chironomids (reddish patterns) or Balanced Leeches.
2. Retrieving Beetles & Buggers (Stripping)
Rod: 7–8 wt single-handed rod with fast-sinking shooting heads (Type 6 or T-14).
Optional: Switch rods are okay for overhead casting only (no Spey casts due to ladder spacing). A stripping basket is recommended.
Rig: A 2-fly setup using unique wooly buggers and foam beetle patterns.
We fish from platform stepladders (provided by guides) positioned in the lake. This allows us to cast over the drop-offs while staying out of the freezing high-desert water. It’s a very social way to fish.
Registration Fee: $550
Includes: Two days of guided fishing, flies, lake-side meals (light breakfast/lunch/coffee), and a ‘no frills’ lasagna group dinner on Sunday night.
Note: No alcohol is permitted at the lake per Tribal rules.
Additional Student Expenses Not Included in the Registration Fee:
Tribal Permits: You must purchase and print your permit in advance at plpt.nagfa.net. (A Nevada state license is not required).
Lodging: Friday and Saturday (Sunday, if preferred) nights. Mike will share info on a group Airbnb and local options.
Transportation: 4WD or AWD is highly recommended to avoid getting stuck in soft sand and rocky terrain near lake.
Gratuities: Remember to tip your guides!
The high desert is unpredictable. You will need to pack for all types of weather conditions.
Clothing: Chest waders, wading boots, warm socks, long underwear, fleeces, and a rain jacket.
Accessories: Gloves, buff, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and two hats (a billed hat for sun and a beanie for cold).
Post-Fishing Care: The water is highly alkaline. Rinse all gear (waders, boots, rods, reels) thoroughly with fresh water immediately after use to prevent corrosion.
Early Starts: We leave the lodging at each morning at 4:30 AM to travel to lake (approximately 45 minutes) be on the ladders by first light when the bite is best.
Next Steps: Mike will host a Zoom meeting for all registrants to dive deeper into the logistics and answer questions a few week before the fish out
Policy: No refunds. If you can't make it, you may resell your spot to another LTFF member (check with Nancy Chew (sfnancychew@yahoo.com)/Mike on the waitlist as a first step).
International Spey O Rama competitors will be arriving and using the middle pond to warm up and get ready for the competition.
Please help accommodate their access to the middle pond.
Spey Improver Program
The GGACC's Spey Improver Program, is scheduled for June 28, 2025 starting at 8:30 AM. Registration fee is $75.00
This is a one-day class directed at those GGACC members who have previously taken the GGACC Spey Angler program, or who have experience swinging a fly with a two-handed rod. This is a more advanced class than Spey Angler (which is meant for beginners). It is important to understand that students are expected to be able to safely and productively perform (with a two-hand rod) dead-line roll casts, overhead casts, double Spey, and snap casts. Additionally, you should be able to shoot one rod length of line performing these casts. If you have any concerns about your readiness for the Spey Improver class, please contact one of the GGACC Spey Instructors. Their contact info is on the GGACC website. When you are enrolled in a class you will be sent Bob Pauli’s manual and a recommendation for Simon Gawesworth’s DVD set for your study. They are the cornerstones of our teaching.
Items covered will include Single Spey, Snake Roll, Perry Poke, and reset casts. We will use both Skagit and Scandi set-ups. Expect to focus on non-dominate hand casting.
Spey Improver classes will be held at the Gristmill Recreation Area, Sacramento. Students should have Skagit and Scandi heads, tips (floating, intermediate, and fast sinking) as well as a 15’ tapered steelhead/salmon leader (Scandi set up). Use yarn flies only. Students should bring waders, boots, and belt, eye protection, sunscreen, hat, raingear, and a lunch. Be ready to start (rigged up, in the water) at 8:30AM. The class will end between 2 and 3 o’clock. Students are responsible for their own transportation (carpooling is encouraged).
Registration is accomplished on the GGACC website Events calendar. Registration requires GGACC membership and paying a $75 fee, which must be paid online by credit card or PayPal within 15 minutes of starting the registration process. If the class is already full, you will have the option of joining the waitlist. We strongly advise signing up for the waitlist, if only to be potentially advised first of the next scheduled class. Any cancellations made inside a 20-day window may result in fee loss.
Steven Morikawa
GGACC Spey Education Chairman, FFI certified THCI & CCI
stevenmorikawa@msn.com
707-315-2020
Pre-tournament activities for the 2026 Jimmy Green Spey O' Rama will be held Thursday and Friday, April 16 and 17.
These include, but are not limited to competitor qualification for the tournament, practice sessions for qualified competitors, competitor welcome festivities, etc.
Note that the casting ponds will be in heavy use during this period by the Spey casting competitors.
The Golden Gate Angling and Casting club is pleased to invite competitors to the annual Jimmy Green Spey-O-Rama World Championship of Spey Casting held this year from Friday, April 17 to Sunday, April 19, 2026, at the world renowned casting ponds located in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park.
The GGACC cordially invites competitors from around the world as well as in our backyard to register here for this Spey casting distance competition. For more information and a detailed schedule for this year's event, see the second (not yet published public) posting for this Jimmy Green Spey-O-Rama event on the club's calendar for April 17-19, 2026; or click on the "Spey-O-Rama" pull-down tab on the club homepage.
Meals (all breakfasts and lunches, and the Saturday dinner) are complimentary for each of the registered competitors.
There will be a $150 USD registration fee due at registration for each competitor. We will close registration Saturday April 11, 2026.
April 17: Exhibits, Registration, SoR New Participant Qualifying Round, Competition Casting Practice (and a possible Senior Qualifying Round) April 18: Exhibits, Competition Qualifying Round for the Men's Open Division, a presentation and dinner for the exhibitors, volunteers and competitors.
April 19: Exhibits; Spey Casting Competition Finals for all 3 Divisions, Awards Ceremony
You are required to register online. HOWEVER, if you DO plan on competing and cannot register on line, please email Chris or Nam IN ADVANCE to reserve your spot. Contact them for this and any other competitor questions at: speyorama.ggacc@gmail.com.
Looking forward to a great Spey-o-Rama 2026!!!
Bring a blanket or folding chairs to sit on the lawn while you enjoy the beauty and spectacle of this amazing fly casting, or wander around the exhibitors' tables when you need a break.
The casting ponds are located in Golden Gate Park (across from the buffalo paddock) just off John F. Kennedy Drive. The event kicks off at 8 am and goes until midafternoon.
Registration: This is a private event
The GGACC Casting Instructor Development Program is hosting a two day Casting Instructor Training Course. The Center and East Ponds are reserved for use by the Course participants for these two days. The Board Room in Angler’s Lodge is also reserved for use by the Course participants.
If you have any questions feel free to contact GGACC Head Casting Instructor, Willy George email: busygeorges@aol.com
Rondy: Feather River Steelhead
Dates: April 24, 2026
Leader: Ryan Stahl ryan.w.stahl@gmail.com
Number of anglers (including leader): 6
Description: Come spend a day floating in the Central Valley for these winter fish. We’ll mostly fish bobbers, but the guides can accommodate some folks swinging files as well depending on interest.
Anglers of all levels are invited to come. We’ll be using Confluence Outfitters as the guides, and they’ll provide a lunch and all terminal tackle.
Website for the guide is https://www.confluenceoutfitters.com/
Suggested Gear: 6-8 weight bobber rods. Plenty of water and snacks. Bring your own flies if you’d like to fish them. If you want to swing flies, a 4-6 weight Spey rod would be appropriate. Depending on temperatures, wet wading may be an option if we get in the water.
Note: If you would like to swing flies, let me know and I can work on logistics.
Cost: The fee for this Rondy is $350
Other expenses: will be guide gratuities, transportation
Rondy: McCloud River Walk & Wade
Dates: May 2-3, 2026
Leader: Tony Tredway mailto:tony@tredwaymade.com
Description: We will be 6 experienced anglers going to the lower McCloud River at Ah-Di-Nah campground, and maybe Ash Camp. Because of their incredible vigor and resilience, the McCloud River rainbow trout have been transplanted and established themselves in many of the greatest fly-fishing locations in the world. For dry-fly aficionados, the McCloud can be surprisingly good. Both high-sticking and long line nymphing also work very well.
This outing is not for anyone with serious medical conditions since the stream access and wading are difficult, and the location is far from medical services. There is no cell phone reception in the McCloud River canyon. Everyone will be staying at the Ah-Di-Nah campground.
Suggested Gear: 3-6 wt fly rods with the usual lines, leaders, etc., to fish dries, nymphs, and streamers. You'll also need a wading staff, sturdy waders, studded boots, warm clothing, and a rain jacket.
Other expenses will include travel, food, and a small campground fee.
Dates: May 7, 2026
As always, GGACC members are welcome to attend. Please contact the club president (president.ggacc@gmail.com) if you have any new business to present to the board.
Rondy: Manzanita Lake "The Armando Memorial"
Dates: May 15-28, 2026. Alternative dates if needed May 29 - June 1, 2026
Leader: Patrick Cousens pdcousens@gmail.com
Description: In honor of the late, longtime GGACC member Armando Bernasconi. Manzanita Lake was his favorite place to fish. So we are declaring this Rondy the "The Armando Memorial". Come see why he loved the place: Big picky rainbows and browns in perhaps the most beautiful setting in California. These dates will be soon after "ice out" when the fish will be very hungry after a winter under the ice. For this trip, float tubes or other crafts are required (not a wading trip) as well as Personal Floatation Devices which is club policy for safety reasons.
We will be camping at the Manzanita Lake Campground in Lassen National Park. Camping spots have been reserved already. In the event campsite is unavailable due to park services, we've also reserved for dates May 29-June 1, 2026. More info to follow.
Suggested Gear: 4-6wt single hand rods. Floating and intermediate lines. A float tube or other craft is required, as well as PFD's. Fish take dry flies, nymphs and streamers.
Cost: The fee for this Rondy is $38 which includes camping fees.
Other Expenses: National park entrance ($30 per car but FREE with various National Parks passes), your transportation and food.
This event's details are in the works. Updates coming soon!
Rondy: East Walker River Walk & Wade
Dates: May 28 - 31, 2026
Leader: Mark Johann mark@markjohann.com
and William Bradford mailto:bradford@realpropserv.com
Description: The Eastern Sierra Walk & Wade is a Fishing & Camping Rondy, based near Bridgeport, CA. We will fish the East Walker River in both California and Nevada, with the opportunity to also fish the Upper Owens River and Hot Creek.
This Rondy is for experienced fly fishers who are comfortable wading, hiking, CAMPING and, because of the distance from the Bay Area, driving. The base for the camping is approximately 15 miles from Bridgeport, CA and necessitates not only high clearance vehicles, but willingness and ability to camp away from town.
What’s required? Appropriate wading gear (boots, waders, belt, staff), camping gear, food & water, fishing licenses (CA & NV). First aid gear recommended.
We will fish without guides, but will have a primer/review of local techniques each morning/evening as demanded. Ability to wade safely on rocky river bottoms, negotiate roll and lob casts in tight quarters and capability of rigging flies and tippet are required. As such, this trip is NOT for novice fly fishers. You need to be able to fish unsupervised.
This trip will be limited to eight participants. We will be camping. If you do not wish to camp, please do not sign up for this Rondy. The cost for the Rondy is $25. Additional costs include, but are not limited to: fishing licenses, travel, food, gear.
The East Walker River flows east from Bridgeport Reservoir toward Nevada where it turns south. The tail water from the reservoir is a bug-rich environment that holds a healthy population of browns and rainbows. Dry, dry-dropper and nymph fishing are successful methods on the East Walker.
Further south, the Upper Owens River and Hot Creek run through not only different terrain, but offer marked contrasts in fishing styles.
Suggested Gear: 5wt 9ft fly rod. A 10ft nymphing rod rigged for straight line indicator fishing is especially effective. Either floating or DT line for nymphs and dries and a sink-tip line for streamers. Waders, boots, wading staff, hat and glasses are a must. Camping gear as required. Our camping may take place on roads requiring reasonably high ground clearance. Please plan to coordinate your drive with someone owning an appropriate vehicle. If the weather is wet, 4wd will be your friend.
Supplies: While we will certainly attempt to coordinate efforts, participants should plan to bring an independent supply of water, and/or water filter, food and personal items. The town of Bridgeport has a few stores, restaurants and motels and is a short drive from our fishing area. Bridgeport is a 5 hour drive from San Francisco, depending on traffic and route. Ken's Sporting Goods in Bridgeport is a go-to spot for everything, including Nevada fishing licenses ($19 for 1-day, approx. $7 each extra day; $81 for 365-day non-resident; pricing subject to change).
Cost: The fee for this Rondy is $25.00.
Other Expenses: expenses will include transportation, camping fees, meals/food, fishing licenses.
Rondy: Upper Sacramento River Walk & Wade #1
Dates: June 3-4, 2026
Leader: Mike Downing mailto:mdowning1567@aol.com
Number of anglers (including leader): 9
Description: The Upper "Sac" is everything a freestone trout stream should be: It has riffles, pocket water, long runs, and deep pools. It is a wonderful "walk and wade" river that flows 37 miles from Lake Siskiyou to Shasta Lake. Rondy leader Mike Downing will lead 8 club anglers to show them good places to enter and fish the river. We will meet the first day at 7:00AM at the Ted Fay Fly Shop, located in downtown Dunsmuir. We will make a short drive to the river.
Suggested Gear: 4-5 wt single handed fly rods, with floating lines for dry flies and nymphing, 4X-6X leaders, 5X-7X tippet (Mono or Fluorocarbon), split-shot, indicators, and flies. Full wading attire and staff. Weather is always changeable - Be prepared.
Other expenses will include travel, lodging (there are several motels and campgrounds in the area - more information will be forthcoming), meals, and perhaps, the purchase of a few flies while in the fly shop (to help support the grateful owner Bob who personally ties most of his flies).
Rondy: Upper Sacramento River Walk & Wade #2 The Dick Swanson Memorial
Dates: June 5-6, 2026
Description: This Rondy is a memorial for Dick, to acknowledge the truly kind human being he was, for the time and energy he gave so freely to the club, and the way he touched people with his gentle grace and soul. When you fish this river, stop and listen, and take in the beauty that’s around you; you’ll know more about Dick than any words can tell.
The Upper "Sac" is everything a freestone trout stream should be: It has riffles, pocket water, long runs, and deep pools. It is a wonderful "walk and wade" river that flows 37 miles from Lake Siskiyou to Shasta Lake. Rondy leader Mike Downing will lead 8 club anglers to show them good places to enter and fish the river. We will meet the first day at 7:00AM at the Ted Fay Fly Shop, located in downtown Dunsmuir. We will make a short drive to the river.
Suggested Gear: 4-5 wt single handed fly rods, with floating lines for dry flies and nymphing, 4X-6X leaders, 5X-7X tippet (Mono or Flourocarbon), split-shot, indicators, and flies. Full wading attire and staff. Weather is always changeable - Be prepared.
LTFF Hat Creek Fishout – Level 2 Students - June 5-7
Hat Creek! In the shadow of Mt. Lassen, this is both a beautiful and challenging fly fishing venue for LTFF Level 2 anglers. You will learn techniques to be on your game to catch trout in this great location!
We have a great group of LTFF alumni with experience on this river to guide you and teach you strategies and skills for this water.
Unless announced otherwise, this mentored Hat Creek fish-out is only being offered to a limited number of this year's enrolled Level 2 students in the club's "Learn to Fly Fish" (LTFF) Program. Do not register for this event if you are NOT in this class, or risk losing your registration fee.
We have structured this outing for two groups of 8 students, with 1 ½ days of mentored fishing. Group 1 will fish Friday evening & Saturday. Group 2 will fish Sat evening and Sunday. The two group will overlap for the Sat evening sessions. After a morning fishing session, we will take afternoon breaks while the fishing slows down. You may choose to rest or explore the area during the afternoon, and then return in the evening hopefully for a nice hatch and more great fishing! This arrangement of fishing the morning and evening is generally not available with guides since they need to make it home to their families.
The schedule then allows for a Sunday or Monday departure for the roughly 5 hour return drive to the Bay Area. We will have enough camping spots for everyone to attend for the full weekend.
John Chung will be your fishout leader, taking charge of the logistics. We will have at least three other club mentors providing a ~2:1 student to mentor ratio for great expert coaching!
Hat Creek is one of California’s most renowned trout streams and a favorite dry fly water for many of the state’s best fly anglers — especially on the Wild River section and other famous stretches of this special river that we expect to fish. And since this is a spring-fed stream, it should have a good water level regardless of run-off.
Campground:
We will be camping at PG&E's public Cassel Campground (off Hwy 299 east of Burney). Campsite reservations won't open until later in April. We will detail the specific campsites in our pre-fishout zoom call. Camping with the group is highly encouraged for both proximity to fishing, as well as getting the most out of this great fishing venue.
In past years, we've been able to pitch 2-3 tents per campsite at Cassel without objection (the area mgr. actually suggested these particular "back loop" sites for us to do so). There are no group camp sites in either this or any other nearby campgrounds, but this arrangement should work to allow most of the students to camp together in adjacent campsites rather than being spread out throughout the campground. We have paid extra for up to 2 vehicles per campsite. Any more than that and we may have to park some vehicles at the gate to the campground (after unloading) -- or pay an extra $5/night for additional vehicles if there is space to park them off the loop road -- but the area mgr. may decide that when he sees how many vehicles we have (another good reason to carpool, if possible).
Should you prefer to reserve a campsite of your own though to perhaps stay longer, then go to pge.com and under the "Find A Park" tab, search for Cassel Campground and book your own site very soon. (Another, but much smaller, PG&E campground in that area is North Shore Campground, if you can’t find any more open spots in Cassel.) Reservations for PG&E campgrounds usually open around Mid April.
Motels: For those who prefer not to camp, the motels in nearby Burney include:
Charm Motel (ph 530-335-3300, www.charm.burneylodging.com)
Green Gables (ph. 530-335-3300, www.greengables.burneylodging.com)
Shasta Pines Motel & Suites (ph. 530-335-2201, www.shastapinesmotel.com)
Meeting Place:
Everyone will need to meet at John or Charles' campsite in Cassel Campground at 7:00AM each fishing morning to figure out who is going with which mentor, to make up your lunches, to get your flies, instructions, etc. This early start is intended to get everyone on the water as soon as possible each morning — so please don’t be late.
We also will meet at the same location in the evening around 4pm and prepare for an evening fishing session. We will adjust as conditions require, but evening fishing on Hat Creek can be very good.
Driving Directions:
Google "Cassel Campground”: the shortest route is to follow I-5N to Redding, from there take CA-299E to Cassel Road — about 5 hours total drive time without traffic (from Redding it is about 1 hr. 15 min. without traffic)
If you need them, follow these directions: Take Exit #680 off of I-5 for CA-299/Lake Blvd., keep right at the fork and follow signs for Burney/Alturas/CA-299E, follow CA-299E for 50 miles to Burney, continue east of Burney on CA Hwy 299E for 7 more miles (to 2 miles past the junction with Hwy. 89), turn south (right) onto Cassel Road, drive 3.6 miles and turn left at paved access road into the campground (just before the bridge and across from Cassel Post Office).
Camping Equipment:
It is suggested that you have your own tent (with tent stakes, footprint/plastic tarp, and rainfly) or an agreement to share a tent with someone. Also be sure to bring: sleeping bag; sleeping pad (or air mattress, or cot); headlight or flashlight; cooking stove; water container; cooking pots / cooking utensils; camp dishes / eating utensils; wash basin; biodegradable soap; butane lighter or matches; paper or cloth towels; garbage bags; and a cooler with ice for perishables. All dry goods should be stored in the supplied camp boxes to keep away from rodents and jays. Optional equipment might include: lantern; camp chair; firewood; hand axe; coffee pot; small folding table; table cloth for picnic table; etc.
Meals:
There will be NO hosted group dinners for anyone on this fish-out. You can cook dinners in camp, or there are at least two possible restaurants on Main St. in Burney that smaller groups may decide to use: Rex Club (ph. 530-335-4184, they also have cabins) Art’s Outpost (Steak House & Italian, ph. 530-335-2835)
There are also other diners, a Subway for sandwiches, pizza joints, and other fast food options in Burney: (www.reddingcentral.com/Dine/dine-Burney.htm)
We will be providing groceries for making your own sandwiches for sack lunches on each fishing day only. Lunches will most likely be held in camp with a chance to rest from the heat of the day and to reorganize mentors' groupings if requested.
NOTE: Other than the two sack lunches on your Group's fishing days, you are on your own to bring (and prepare) your own food, or buy dinners or other meals out.
Fishing Gear:
We recommend bringing a 3-5wt fly rod with floating line (6wt rod max!). For dry flies, bring 9’ tapered leaders to 4X or 5X, with mono (nylon) tippet spools in 4X-6X (these fish can be picky!) Also be sure that you bring both a liquid (or gel) dry fly floatant and a dry shake floatant (dessicant-type) for treating your dry flies. For indicator nymphing, bring indicators, split shot, one spool of say 0X to 3X mono tippet material (to use 5-7' of this for indicator/ depth adjustment), and spools of both 4X & 5X fluoro tippet for connections to nymphs. Bring foam hoppers or Chubby Chernobyl pattern flies for hopper (dry) / dropper rigging if you prefer this rather than indicator nymphing, or simply tight-line nymph instead (although Hat Creek has very little pocket water where tight-lining works best). "Swinging" of soft-hackled flies is another very good choice.
Flies:
We will be providing at least a dozen flies to each student -- some dries, a couple buggers, and a few nymph patterns. These flies will likely only be packaged in sandwich bags for distributing to you, so you will need to put them in your own fly box along with your other flies -- and be sure to pinch the barbs! We will not be doing this for you. Also, bring your own flies, especially any that you picked up for (or tied for) this particular trip on a fly shop's or someone else's recommendation.
If you still need more of your own flies, or forgot some other gear after you leave town, there is "The Fly Shop" on your way up there (located just south of Redding on east side of I-5 backed up to the frwy.: take the Churn Creek Road exit, then head north about a 1/2 mile or so on the frontage road to see the shop on your left). There's also the "Shasta Angler" in Fall River Mills, which is 5-10 miles past the Hat Creek area on CA-299 (for good local knowledge from owner Matt).
In addition to forceps, nippers, vest or pack for fly boxes and other gear, sunhat, sunscreen, bug repellent, waders, boots, belts, water bottle (or other means to carry, or filter, drinking water), don’t forget your wading staff! A small net is always optional for trout, but it really helps in landing them with minimal stress and keeping them in the water while unhooking—both of which are extremely important for the fish’s survival. Camping gear should include headlamps or flashlights —the former is especially good for tying on flies during late evening fishing.
Wading:
As a spring creek, Hat Creek can be pretty cold, but you may decide when you get there and test the water that you might prefer to wet-wade instead of wearing waders. If so, just be sure that you have sturdy closed-toe wading sandals or, better yet, use neoprene guard socks (or other neoprene socks) plus polypo liner socks to help fill-out your wading boots. Lightweight (i.e., nylon) long pants are recommended (in lieu of wearing shorts) for wet-wading to better protect your shins from scrapes on rocks, scratchy brush, poison oak, etc. For evening fishing, you will want waders and a headlamp.
Registration Fee:
The registration fee is $130 per student. This fee is needed to hopefully cover the cost of all the campground fees, the purchase of flies, groceries for lunches, etc. It does not include the cost of transportation, lodging, meals (other than 2 lunches), or any other expenses.
Communications:
John Chung will lead this fishout and coordinate accordingly. (415)-577-5585 jschung1@gmail.com
Note: There is only spotty to very poor cell phone service in the Hat Creek area -- try texting up there instead, which is also hit-or-miss.
LTFF Upper Sacramento River Fish-outs -- Level 2 Students only
These two Upper Sac River Fish-outs on June 13-14 (Group 1, fishing with mentors on June 13 and Group 2, fishing with mentors on June 14) are exclusively intended for currently registered Level 2 students in the GGACC's "Learn to Fly Fish" (LTFF) program. Registration for these fish-outs is limited and based on a lottery system. There will be 10 openings for each group.
The Upper Sacramento River is one of Northern California's best known fly fishing rivers for rainbow and brown trout due to all the wadable riffles and pocket water, especially in its upper stretches, which are relatively easy to access from both Interstate 5 and the railroad tracks that parallel much of the river from Lamoine at the south end up to the Cantara railroad bridge that's just north of the historic town of Dunsmuir. Unlike the Lower Sacramento River, a big tailwater river, that flows out of Lake Shasta, this upper river follows a much more picturesque landscape of forested mountain sides and canyons, including the stunning mountain crags in Castle Crags State Park that borders this river. Most of the I-5 exits along the interstate here lead to some sort of access to the river.
We will fish from Castle Crags State Park Picnic Area. This is a fee area, so if you have a state park pass, bring it.
We are introducing a special opportunity this year, courtesy of two of our FFI certified casting instructors---Steve Morikawa and Jeff Hogan. Steve and Jeff will be leading a "tight line" clinic for each day--with instruction on novel techniques you may have not seen. Students will receive on-the-water training and coaching on tight line techniques on the Upper Sac...a perfect place to introduce and hone these skills. We will have additional club mentors, allowing for a ~2:1 student to mentor ratio.
It should be noted that the Upper Sac features excellent pocket water lending itself well to tight line techniques. However, various locations can present challenging wading conditions. You should be prepared accordingly.
Registration fees include ingredients for you to make your own lunch at the campground prior to morning departure. You are expected to arrive at the meeting spot, wader up and be ready to listen/learn. The fish-out leader will distribute flies to you and assign you to your guide for the day.
Gear Needed: Other than any camping gear that you may decide to bring, your fishing and other gear should include: a 4 or 5 wt fly rod with floating line, at least 2-3 9ft. 4X leaders, mono tippet spools in 3X-5X, fluoro tippet in 4X-5X, a few medium sized indicators of your choice, split-shot in at least AB & BB sizes, forceps, nippers, gel (or liquid) silicone fly floatant, dry-shake desiccant floatant, and a small or medium sized fly box (preferably watertight). Flies will be provided as part of the registration fees. Entomology and fly imitations will be discussed in prep meetings prior to the fish-out to help you purchase some extra flies to bring along or tie your own before the trip. While not necessary, if you have a euro-nymphing style rod setup (eg...10-11ft, 3-4wt with soft tip)--bring it!
Bring a pack of some sort, or a fishing vest with a large back pocket, suitable to carry your fishing gear, lunch, and at least one liter of drinking water, plus a packable rain jacket or water resistant shell if there is any chance of rain or cool weather. You must have a wading staff with a lanyard, a hat with brim or bill, polarized sunglasses, and at least one wading belt for your waders.
Bring waders and wading boots (felt-soled or studded rubber-soled) and, if you think that you might prefer to wet-wade if it's really hot, a pair of neoprene guard socks (to wear over cotton wading socks to both fill your wading boots and help keep sand out of your socks). This river may be running pretty high still due to snow-melt and running pretty cold, so be sure you bring waders along in your vehicle no matter what you decide to do there.
Don't forget your CA fishing license (it's a long drive back to get a duplicate copy), also sunscreen, and bug repellent. Optional gear includes sungloves, a buff, a landing net on a stretchy lanyard, a marine safety whistle, tiny first aid kit, small toilet paper or kleenex pack, and a little notebook & pencil and maybe a stream thermometer if you are really getting into it.
Camping or Lodging Options: We have reserved group campsites at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort, which is a short distance first to the west and then south of the I-5 exit near the town of Mt. Shasta. (Use Google or other map apps to get interstate exit and street directions to the resort.) Travel time from the City is about 4-1/2 hours -- without accounting for traffic, so be sure to leave early enough to not be making others unhappy by setting up your camp after most others have gone to sleep.
We have reserved group camp sites at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort. Fees for these campsites are included in the registration fees. Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort will have restroom facilities available for campers. You must bring your own camping and cooking gear and food/drink for your stay at Lake Siskiyou.
Camping is strongly encouraged to get better acquainted with your fellow students. However, if you need a motel instead, there are motel accommodations possible in the nearby towns of Mt. Shasta, Dunsmuir, and McCloud.
Registration fee of $135 is non-refundable and covers , DIY lunch, flies, and campground fees. It does not cover your travel costs, motels (if you decide not to camp), food (except lunch), or guide gratuities.
For questions, contact: Jeff Hogan or Steve Morikawa
This outing is exclusively intended for currently registered Level 1 students in the GGACC Learn To Fly Fish (LTFF) program.
Cost: $135/ person
Overview
The upper parts of the West Fork of the Carson are south of Lake Tahoe in Hope Valley, about 3-4 hours from San Francisco. We will be fishing above 7,000ft in several locations near the Hope Valley Campground in Alpine County, California’s least populated county. We will primarily use dry fly and dry-dropper techniques.
We will organize 4 groups of 10 registered, Learn To Fly Fish Level 1 student anglers (Saturday June 13, Sunday June 14, Saturday June 27, and Sunday June 28) to enjoy a day long fly fishing outing with LTFF club mentors. The groups will camp at a campground to be determined.
This is a great outing to gain more experience and confidence in your fly fishing game. A 5wt rod will be adequate. You will also want waders or wet wading equipment, depending on the weather. Of course, you always need to bring along your 2026 California fishing license. We will go into greater detail during the zoom call before the fish out.
Your registration fee covers campground fees and a DIY lunch for the day. You will be responsible for breakfast, dinner, snacks, and transportation. Due to the smaller size of the prospective campgrounds, carpooling is highly encouraged.
We will have four groups of 10 anglers each. The first group will arrive on Friday evening with the option for early fishing and fish all day Saturday. The second group of 10 will arrive on Saturday and fish on Sunday. We will have about 5 GGACC club mentors, offering ~2:1 student to mentor ratio.
Camping Equipment
You will need your own tent (with tent stakes, footprint/plastic tarp, and rainfly). Also be sure to bring: sleeping bag; sleeping pad (or air mattress, or cot); headlight or flashlight; cooking stove; water container; cooking pots / cooking utensils; camp dishes / eating utensils; wash basin; biodegradable soap; butane lighter or matches; paper or cloth towels; garbage bags; and a cooler with ice for perishables. All dry goods should be stored in the supplied camp boxes to keep away from rodents and jays. Optional equipment might include: lantern; camp chair; firewood; hand axe; coffee pot; small folding table; tablecloth for picnic table; etc.
Meals
We would like to organize a group meal Saturday evening. More information on this during the pre-fish out meeting.
We will be providing groceries for DIY sack lunches on each fishing day only.
NOTE: Other than the sack lunch on your Group's fishing days, you are on your own to bring (and prepare) your own food, or buy dinners or other meals out.
Fishing Gear
We recommend bringing a 5wt fly rod with floating line (6wt rod max! 4wt could work too). For dry flies, bring 9’ tapered leaders to 4X or 5X, with mono (nylon) tippet spools in 4X-6X. Also be sure that you bring bothaliquid (or gel)dry fly floatant and a dry shake floatant (dessicant-type) for treating your dry flies. If you want to try indicator nymphing, bring indicators, split shot, one spool of say 0X to 3X mono tippet material (to use 5-7' of this for indicator/ depth adjustment), and spools of both 4X & 5X fluoro tippet for connections to nymphs. We will primarily focus on dry fly and dry dropper techniques.
Flies
We will provide a set of flies. It is recommended that you bring a small fly box to organize and have these flies handy and ready to use with barbs crushed. Bringing additional flies is also a good idea. We will discuss what flies to bring in the meeting.
Other Stuff
Registration Fee
The registration fee is $135 per student. This fee will cover the cost of all the campground fees, groceries for lunches, flies, etc. It does not include the cost of transportation, meals (other than lunch), or any other expenses.
Cancellation Policy
There are no refunds. In the event that a student is, for any reason, unable to attend, he/she may resell his slot (rod) to another LTFF member (by first pulling from the waitlist if one exists). It is the sole responsibility of the student to manage this transaction.
For questions, contact Charles Marsh at senor.charles@gmail.com
Rondy: Truckee/Little Truckee Walk & Wade
Dates: June 19-21, 2026
Leader: Matt Didden matthew.didden@gmail.com
Description: This Tahoe Rondy is a non-guided trip to fly fish the Truckee and/or Little Truckee Rivers. The Truckee River is the only outlet for Lake Tahoe. It leaves the lake near Tahoe City and continues along Hwy 89 to the town of Truckee. From there it follows I-80 northward towards Reno. The Little Truckee River is a tailwater that starts from the outflow of Webber Lake and fills two reservoirs, Boca and Stampede, prior to emptying in the Truckee River.
We will meet late morning on June 19 at Trout Creek Outfitters in Truckee for an initial meet up and fish the afternoon. There will be campsites reserved at Boyington Mill Campground located along the Little Truckee River. Participants can choose to stay at the campground or find their own accommodation. Morning of June 20 and 21 we will meet at the campground to discuss fishing locations, tactics, and break into groups. The Truckee and Little Truckee both have heavy usage and smaller groups will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
There will be a virtual pre-meeting to discuss fishing locations, logistics, carpool, gear, fly selection, shared supplies, etc. The date for this pre-meeting will be in May at a date to be set later.
Suggested Gear: 4-6 wt single handed fly rods, 3-4 wt trout spey
Cost: The fee for this Rondy is $25. Other expenses will include your transportation and food/supplies.
Rondy: Truckee River Clinic #1
Dates: June 25, 2026
Leader: TBD
Number of Anglers: 6
Description: This is a one day clinic led by Peter Stantley who's been guiding the Truckee area since 2006, followed by a day of fishing on your own with the knowledge gained. This informational day will be a combination of a brief tour of popular access points on the Truckee and Little Truckee River, tackle suggestions, productive rigs, hatches, flies and strategies.
Suggested Gear: Bring your fly rod (say 5-6wt rod, 9 ft. or longer) with a floating fly line, in addition to your usual fly fishing gear. Be sure to bring waders (with at least one belt!), wading boots, wading staff, sunglasses (polarized!), and sun protection. Also be sure to pack a lunch for yourself, as well as drinking water needed for the days.
Guide: Peter Stantley psantley@gmail.com
Meeting Time & Place: TBD
Lodging: Lodging and food available in Reno for those wishing to fish the second day as well as campgrounds in the area.
Cost: $157.00 for clinic day.
Other Expenses: Gratuities are included in cost. Transportation and lodging is additional
Dates: June 27, 2026
Montana Fish-Out
This fishout is open to currently registered 2025 LTFF Level 3 students.
When: July 12-17, 2026
Location: Wolf Creek, MT/Craig, MT
What: Drift boat and sight casting to large rainbow and brown trout
Groups: group size of 10, 1 day clinic, 3 days drift boat fishing with 2 persons per drift boat
Widely considered our best and most important fly fishing trip in LTFF, the Montana fishout is a pinnacle experience for trout fishing. 10 students and 2 leaders will meet in Montana with lodging at the Wolf Creek Lodge on Sunday evening for dinner. Monday we’ll have an on-the-water clinic and do some walk/wade fly fishing. Tues-Thurs we’ll get up very early and be on the water in Craig, MT with Headhunters Outfitters in drift boats. Most mornings start with a bit of nymphing under indicators until the trout start looking up. Then, the action is on, hopper fishing and dry fly action. If an opportunity presents itself and your casting is good enough, you may setup over a pod of risers and sight cast to some big fish (head hunting). Breakfast is build-your-own from supplies at the lodge. Lunches are provided by guides and evening meals are catered.
Your own 4, 5, or 6wt for the clinic and evening walk wade fishing. 6wt recommended but not required.
During the drift boat fishing days, you’ll use the rods and flies supplied by our guides.
Plenty of sunscreen and a broad brimmed hat
Polarized sunglasses
Lots of drinking water
Suitable clothing. It is usually quite hot at mid-day, and the sun can be oppressive.
Cost:
$2,500 fish-out fee covers lodging, meals, guides and drift boats. Plan for daily tips to your guide of $75-100 per person. Travel to/from Montana is on your own including rental cars, and other misc. expenses.
Logistics:
Arrive Sunday after 4pm, leave Friday before 10am. Nearest airport is Helena and direct flights are into Bozeman. You will need to purchase a Montana fishing license. You may wish to drive up/back and fish other locations in Montana, Idaho, Yellowstone National Park, etc.
Pre-Fishout Clinic:
Held at GGACC about two weeks before.
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If you have any questions or suggestions about the Women’s Group, email us at women.ggacc@gmail.com
Yosemite High Country - LTFF Level 1 Fish-out
Four Groups of 10 Anglers.
This outing is intended for currently registered Level 1 students in the GGACC's "Learn to Fly Fish" (LTFF) program. There will be four sessions of 10 openings for a total of 40 fishing spots.
Cost: $265 / person
This trip offers fly fishing for several trout species in two pristine high alpine settings. Each day includes up to 2-5 miles of day-hiking at 9,000 - 10,000 feet. Please contact the fishout leader, Charles Marsh, if you have questions or concerns about your physical ability and this trip. (senor.charles@gmail.com).
This year we have a guide, Steve Slater, to lead both the mentors and students on to certain stretches of small alpine streams. We have a great group of LTFF alumni and club members with experience on this watershed to help you and show you strategies and skills for this water. Between the the club mentors and Steve there will be a wealth of Yosemite knowledge at your disposal.
Students will use overhead casts in meadow sections and practice roll casts in areas with trees. We'll use mostly small dry fly patterns with thin mono tippet (4x - 6x), but you may want to nymph the deeper holes.
Those wanting to fish on days where they are not scheduled with mentors, are encouraged to stay in a neighboring campground on other days, but are asked to not fish the same locations that the mentored students will fish. In the pre-fishout meeting, we will suggest alternative local fishing spots.
Lyell Fork
At 9,000 feet, this stream starts at Lyell Glacier and only drops 500 feet in 10 miles. This provides a gentle stream that meanders through meadows and granite pools for a truly unique experience.
The stream is waist deep and wide, offering dry fly fishing to Brown, Rainbow and Brook trout. It's a great place to spot fish in clear water and practice gentle overhead casting. Most of these wild trout are in the 6-9 inch range, but a handful of fish are caught each year in the 18 inch range. Larger fish require more stealth and finesse, while the less spooky smaller trout will attack dry flies readily, often with acrobatic displays.
Dana Fork
Similar to the Lyell Fork, the Dana Fork is a small mountain stream that meanders through meadows at 9,500 ft. elevation. This stream follows along Hwy 120, meaning slightly less hiking and easier access. There are many fish to be caught on a fly along this 2-mile long stream since each hole seems to have an endless supply of wild trout.
Registration fee includes:
Guide fee
Sack lunches each mentored day
1-2 dozen selected flies
Other Student costs:
Yosemite National Park entrance fee, carpooling helps save on this cost.
Guide gratuity
Possible additional campground fees, depending on whether we are successful in finding an open campsite in any of the nearby campgrounds.
Lodging costs for motels, condos, or other vacation rentals available in the area, should you not wish to camp with the group.
Accommodations:
We will be camping at a campground to be determined, most likely the Aspen campground. There are a number of campgrounds near Lee Vining that are not reservable, so we will have an advance party head up a day earlier to secure the campground and send out a note for the location.
There are hotels and RV parks, but they are reserved very early.
Carpooling
There is extremely limited parking available at the campground. This impacts not only "where" (or if you can) park, but also limits the ability to sleep in your car. Students will be required to carpool and tent camp (or stay elsewhere on your own) to ensure we are not over our limit. Please plan accordingly
Yosemite Entrance
Yosemite has been enacting an entrance ticketing process over the past few years. The exact process for this year is not yet announced, but when it is, it will likely require everyone driving to obtain a pass that allows them to enter the park. Once the program is announced, we will communicate further on this topic.
Wading
Waders are generally not useful on this fish out. We will be wet wading. We recommend a wet wading system of neoprene guard socks and wading boots. Lightweight (i.e., nylon) long pants are recommended for wet-wading over wearing shorts to better protect your shins from scrapes on rocks, scratchy brush.
Gear Not a complete packing list
Don't forget your CA fishing license
Bring (or plan to buy) your own breakfast, dinner, coffee, and snacks for each day.
Camping equipment (e.g., tent, sleeping bag and pad, cooking equipment, etc)
Headlamp and extra batteries, especially useful at night in camp
Small backpack, large sling pack, or vest with a large back pocket to carry lunch, water, packable rain jacket, etc.
Water bottle(s) or water bladder large enough to carry a full day of water (1.5 - 3 liters); or a filter system to replenish a smaller water bottle.
Fly fishing gear (3-5 wt rod, a couple 4X or 5X mono leaders, 5X - 6X mono tippet, nippers, forceps, fly box with additional flies, net optional). No split shot or indicators will be needed.
Dry fly floatants - flies need to be floating high on the water surface all day. It's virtually imperative to have BOTH the liquid (gel) silicone and desiccant "dry shake" versions.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, neck buff)
Wet wading shoes like Chacos or Tevas. Or wading boots with neoprene guard socks. Unless you just prefer to, there's very likely no need for wearing waders on this trip, which will be a little more difficult to hike in.
Mandatory items: wading staff (or hiking sticks), polarized sunglasses.
Eating
We strongly encourage a group dinners for the evening following your first of the two guided days. Getting to know your fellow students and everyone on the trip is part of the experience. We will discuss this over email and in the pre-outing zoom call.
In Lee Vining options are available at Woah Nellie Deli (in the Mobil Gas Mart), right at the junction of Hwys.120 and 395, should you end up camping in the area and would rather not cook your own dinners. For a gas station mart, this is remarkably good food. The deli is open 7am - 9pm.
Other dining options are available in the Mono Lake area (Lee Vining) and further south in the Mammoth Lakes area; however they're sure to be more expensive.
Registration fee of $265 is non-refundable. It does not cover your travel costs, motels (if you decide not to camp), food (except lunch), or other sundries.
Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds. In the event that a student can't attend, they can sell their spot to another LTFF member (first pulling from the waitlist).
Rondy: 20 Lakes Basin Backpack
Dates: July 23-26, 2026
Leader: Scott Martin waltersmartin@gmail.com
Number of anglers (including leader): 5
Description: This Eastern Sierra Rondy is a 3-night backpacking trip to fly fish a small watershed located on the Northeast border of Yosemite. This Rondy is limited to 4 experienced backpackers (5 including the leader). We will fish mostly lakes along with the flows between the lakes. The loop trail is about 10 miles with several lakes along the route. The fishing will be mostly casting from the lake shores with some “wet” wading.
The plan is to meet at the trailhead at Saddlebag Lake off Highway 120 late morning of July 23, and hike into Cascade Lake and make camp. We may move our camp for 1 or more nights. July 26 we will hike out. The elevation is about 10,000’ the whole way with small areas of elevation gains and loss. Acclimating to the elevation will be the biggest challenge. Pack light! At this time of year, it gets cold at night so pack accordingly!
You will need all the normal backpacking gear to take care of yourself on the trail. We may share some gear such as stoves, water filters, etc. Bring your favorite fly rod for fishing deep-shored lakes and small rushing creeks. There will be opportunities to fish with dries, nymphs, and streamers.
You must also be an experienced backpacker and have the ability to hike with your pack up to 6 miles a day on rough trails. The leader is an experienced backpacker. However, the expectation is that all participants in this Rondy will be self-sufficient. There will be a pre-meeting to discuss logistics, gear, shared food, etc. The date for this pre-meeting is tbd.
Suggested Gear: 2-5 wt single handed fly rods, with floating lines.
Other expenses: will include your transportation and food/supplies.
Rondy: North Fork Stanislaus River Backpack
Dates: July 31 - August 2, 2026
Location: North Fork of the Stanislaus River - 3.5 hour drive East of the Bay Area
Leader: John Anderson mailto:jca35otl@gmail.com
Description: The goal of this trip is for anglers to backpack into a majestic river canyon and fish for wild trout in an area that gets very little fishing pressure. This two-night backpacking trip starts Friday at 12 noon with a 4 mile drive down a steep 4X4 dirt road to a trailhead and then a 5 mile hike down into the North Fork of the Stanislaus River Canyon. There are no maintained hiking trails in this area, so anglers will have to do some bushwacking (long pants and walking/wading staff recommended). The camp site is located on the river and overlooks a 100 yard pool that holds some nice trout. There is a surplus of firewood, so we can have a camp fire unless there are fire restrictions. We will camp at the same site for two days.
Skills Needed: This rondy involves a challenging hike down a steep river canyon so participants should be experienced backpackers and fly fishers and fit enough to climb in and out of a 1000' canyon with backpacking and fishing gear. The hike should take about 3 hours each way. Participants will need backpacking and fly fishing gear and be prepared to camp for a weekend. There will be a pre-trip meeting to discuss the needed gear and other logistics (date tbd).
Other expenses will include your own transportation and food/supplies.
Rondy: Fall River Float
Dates: August 8, 2026
Leader: Tony Tredway tony@tredwaymade.com
Description: 6 angers will float sections of the Fall River with 3 guide boats lead by the legendary Art Teter. Fishing mainly consists of swinging small flies on moderate sinking lines from the boat and stripping in. There is always a chance for dry fly action. There is lodging in Fall River Mills and a couple campgrounds in the area.
Suggested Gear: Guides will supply gear if need be. 5wt Rod with slow sink tip. 4-5wt rod with floating line for dries.
Cost: The fee for this Rondy is $350.00
Other expenses: guide gratuities, transportation, cost of the motel/campground fees, and all food.
Our Deer Creek fishing destination is located south of Mt. Lassen in northeastern California, approximately a four hour drive from San Francisco. You will be fishing on Deer Creek, a small to medium size Sierra stream that provides an excellent venue to hone your new fly fishing and wading skills.
We will organize 4 groups of 10 registered, Learn To Fly Fish Level 1 student anglers (Saturday Aug 8, Sunday Aug 9, Saturday Aug 15, Sunday Aug 16) to enjoy a day long fly fishing outing with LTFF club mentors. The groups will camp at campgrounds to be confimed about a 30 minute drive from our fishout venue.
This is a great outing to gain more experience and confidence in your fly fishing game. A 5wt rod will be adequate. You will also want waders or wet wading equipment, depending on the weather. Of course, you always need to bring along your 2024 California fishing license. We will go into greater detail during the zoom call before the fish out.
Your registration fee of $135 covers campground fees, and a DIY lunch for the day. You will be responsible for breakfast, dinner, snacks and your transportation.
We will have four groups of 10 anglers each. The first group will fish arrive on Friday evening and fish on Saturday. The second group of 10 will arrive on Saturday evening and fish on Sunday. We will have about 5 GGACC club mentors, offering ~2:1 student to mentor ratio.
Camping Equipment: You will need your own tent (with tent stakes, footprint/plastic tarp, and rainfly) Also be sure to bring: sleeping bag; sleeping pad (or air mattress, or cot); headlight or flashlight; cooking stove; water container; cooking pots / cooking utensils; camp dishes / eating utensils; wash basin; biodegradable soap; butane lighter or matches; paper or cloth towels; garbage bags; and a cooler with ice for perishables. All dry goods should be stored in the supplied camp boxes to keep away from rodents and jays. Optional equipment might include: lantern; camp chair; firewood; hand axe; coffee pot; small folding table; table cloth for picnic table; etc.
Meals: We would like to organize a group meal Saturday evening. More information on this during the pre-fish out meeting.
We will be providing groceries for making your own sandwiches for sack lunches on each fishing day only.
Fishing Gear: We recommend bringing a 5wt fly rod with floating line (6wt rod max!). For dry flies, bring 9’ tapered leaders to 4X or 5X, with mono (nylon) tippet spools in 4X-6X. Also be sure that you bring both a liquid (or gel) dry fly floatant and a dry shake floatant (dessicant-type) for treating your dry flies. For indicator nymphing, bring indicators, split shot, one spool of say 0X to 3X mono tippet material (to use 5-7' of this for indicator/ depth adjustment), and spools of both 4X & 5X fluoro tippet for connections to nymphs.
Flies: We will provide a set of flies. It is recommended that you bring a small fly box to organize and have these flies handy and ready to use with barbs crushed. Bringing additional flies is also a good idea. We will discuss what flies to bring in the meeting.
Other Stuff: In addition to forceps, nippers, vest or pack for fly boxes and other gear, sunhat, sunscreen, bug repellent, waders, boots, belts, water bottle (or other means to carry, or filter, drinking water), don’t forget your wading staff! A small net is always optional for trout, but it really helps in landing them with minimal stress and keeping them in the water while unhooking—both of which are extremely important for the fish’s survival. Camping gear should include headlamps or flashlights —the former is especially good for tying on flies during late evening fishing.
Registration Fee: The registration fee is $135 per student. This fee will cover the cost of all the campground fees, groceries for lunches, etc. It does not include the cost of transportation, lodging, meals (other than lunch), or any other expenses.
Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds. In the event that a student is unable to attend, they may resell their to another LTFF member (first pulling from the waitlist).
GGACC FREE CASTING LESSONS (2nd SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH) ARE CANCELLED FOR THIS DATE DUE TO THE OUTSIDE LANDS CONCERT SERIES
Next Free Casting Lessons are September 12th
Dates: August 9, 2026
Rondy: Trinity River Steelhead Walk & Wade #1
Dates: August 29-30, 2026
Description: This Rondy is a non-guided trip to fly fish the Trinity River between Lewiston and Junction City, including the fly fishing only section between Lewiston Dam and the Old Lewiston Bridge. We will be targeting summer run steelhead (“half-pounders”).
We will meet the morning of August 29 in Douglas City to discuss fishing locations and tactics. There will be campsites reserved at Douglas City Campground located along the Trinity River for August 28, 29, and 30. Participants can choose to stay at the campground or find their own accommodation. There are multiple fishing opportunities near the campground.
There will be a virtual pre-meeting to discuss fishing locations, logistics, carpool, gear, fly selection, shared supplies, etc. The date for this pre-meeting will be in July at a date to be set later.
Suggested Gear: 5-6 wt single handed fly rod, 4-5 wt trout spey
Other Expenses: will include travel, food, campground or other accommodations
Held on the first Sunday of the month from 12-3 is designed to help LTFF program participants advance their fly tying skills. Regular guest instructors work with students to teach new patterns and techniques. Students will need their own supplies and equipment. Reach out to Alan if you are new to tying to discuss equipment and supplies needed. This is not a formal introduction to tying. If you are completely new to tying, we encourage you to consider the "Beginner Fly Tying Class" at GGACC led by Fred Viriligo. If you have attended a beginning fly tying class at GGACC or elsewhere, this is sufficient for entry into tying lab.
This outing is exclusively intended for currently registered Level 2 students in the GGACC Learn To Fly Fish (LTFF) program.
Cost: $160/ person
The Stanislaus River is an excellent rainbow and brown trout fishery. We will be fishing the North Fork of the Stanislaus River in the Sourgrass Rec Area just above the Big Tree State Park. This Rec Area is located off State Hwy. 4 way down below the little town of Dorrington (north of Arnold, CA) in a picturesque canyon.
There will be two days of fishing for 10 students. Steve Slater (guide) will lead the instruction on this fish out, along with several other experienced club member mentors. Registrants will get two solid days of guided/mentored fishing on the North Fork Stanislaus.
Saturday
After making and packing lunches, we will carpool about 30 minute drive from camp to near the Big Meadows campground. Then drive for 10 minutes on a very rugged road. After parking, hike another hour into a canyon led by John Anderson. The hiker is rewarded with some larger native trout and a bit more seclusion. This part of the trip is based on a regularly-run rondy from John Anderson. The terrain in the canyon is rough with few, if any, paths. Leave the river around 5pm as a group, hike about an hour to the cars.
If you have concerns regarding this part of the trip and your physical condition, please reach out to Charles Marsh at senor.charles@gmail.com.
Saturday evening
Rather than the traditional group meal at camp, we will reward ourselves after the full day of hiking and fishing with dinner at the Dorrington Hotel bar (Lube Room). They usually have live music when we are there.
Sunday
We will fish the stretch of the NF Stanislaus by our campground. There's about 3 miles of fishable water and can always find some seclusion once we leave the immediate area of the campground. Most people tend to head back home Sunday afternoon, but we will have a campsite for those who wish to stay until Monday.
Logistics / Pre-fishout Meeting
Other logistics and recommended gear will be covered in a pre-fishout meeting to be held roughly two weeks before the fishout. Registrants will be notified of this Zoom call meeting. This will be an opportunity to ask questions, meet others in your group, arrange carpooling, decide on whether to tackle group dinners, etc.
As always, your registration fees are non-refundable. If you realize you have to cancel, finding a replacement is not guaranteed, and will be done on a best-effort basis.
Campground
We will camp at the Stanislaus National Forest Service Wakalu Hep Yo (Wild River) Campground. This campground is super-convenient, but not reserveable in advance (available on a first-come basis only). As we have done successfully in the past, we hope that by scheduling this fish-out after Labor Day again that this allows us to find sufficient camp space upon our arrival.
There is no group camp site in this campground, but we generally can secure 3-4 campsites near each other.
There may still be a camp host on site then to collect the campground fee per night. If not, there will be a drop box for this daily camp fee. Camp fees are included in the registration fee for four sites. If you are bringing family or friends, you should plan to get your own site near the group, which should be easily done.
Motels/Hotels
There is the old Dorrington Hotel in Dorrington, CA about 4 miles above the campground, and a few motel or hotel options farther back down Highway 4 in Arnold and Murphys for those not into either tent camping or possibly sleeping in their vehicle. There is also the Bear Valley Lodge and the even more rustic Tamarack Lodge about 20 miles farther up Highway 4. Finding alternate lodging is your responsibility, but be sure to book it early!
Meeting Place
Everyone will need to meet at the campground at 7:00AM each fishing morning to pair up with mentors, make your lunches, get your flies, instructions, etc. This early start is intended to get everyone on the water as soon as possible each morning — so please don’t be late.
Note: There is only very spotty to non-existent cell phone service in this area -- try texting up there instead, but this is also extremely hit-or-miss.
Driving Directions
Use Google Maps for Wakaluu Hepyoo Campground Amphitheater, or enter GPS coordinates Lat. 38.322063, Long. -120.218558
The shortest route from the Bay Area is to follow I-580 E to I-205 E, to I-5 N to connect to CA-99 S at Stockton, and exit onto CA-4 E. Follow CA-4 (about 75 miles of winding 2-lane hwy) to Boards Crossing Road in Dorrington, CA. (This road, marked with a street sign, is on your right, directly across from the Dorrington Hotel.) Follow Boards Crossing Road, taking only left forks to reach NF Road 05N02 (Beardsley Rd) and follow that road down the canyon to the campground on the river (just before you cross the new concrete bridge on NF-05N02, and not the old Boards Crossing steel trestle bridge). The drive to this campground is at least a 3 hour total drive time without counting stops or traffic getting out of the Bay Area (plan for perhaps 4 hours).
Unless you have a vehicle that you plan to sleep in, it is suggested that you have your own tent (with tent stakes, footprint/plastic tarp, and rainfly) or have an agreement to share a tent with someone.
Also be sure to bring: sleeping bag; sleeping pad (or air mattress and/or cot); a headlamp or flashlight with good batteries (wise to bring spares too); cooking stove; water container; cooking pots/cooking utensils; camp dishes / eating utensils; wash basin; biodegradable soap; butane lighter or matches; paper or cloth towels; garbage bags; and a cooler with ice for perishables. All food and dry goods should be stored in the campground-supplied camp boxes to keep away from rodents and jays, and the potential bear. Optional equipment could include: lantern; camp chair; firewood; hand axe; coffee pot; small folding table; table cloth for picnic table; etc.
You can cook dinners in camp (either together as a group, if those in the group choose to organize this themselves, or individually), or there are restaurants along highway 4.
We will be providing groceries for making your own sandwiches for sack lunches on days you are fishing Saturday and Sunday.
NOTE: Other than the two DIY lunches provided by your fish-out leader, you are on your own to bring (and prepare) your own food for all breakfasts, other lunches, and all dinners (or for group dinners), or buy your own meals out.
Fishing License. Don’t leave home without this.
We recommend bringing a 3-6wt fly rod with floating line. For dry flies, bring 9’ tapered leaders to 4X or 5X, with mono tippet spools in 4X-6X. Also be sure that you bring both a liquid (or gel) dry fly floatant and a dry shake floatant (dessicant-type) for treating your dry flies. For indicator nymphing, bring indicators, split shot, one spool of say 0X to 3X mono tippet material, and spools of both 4X and 5X fluoro tippet for connections to nymphs.
Bring foam hoppers or Chubby Chernobyl pattern flies for hopper (dry) / dropper rigging if you prefer this rather than indicator nymphing), or you might try tight-line nymphing instead (although the Stan has more pools than actual pocket water where tight-lining works best). We will have opportunities for multiple styles of fly fishing, so come prepared.
We will be providing a dozen flies to each student: 2 each of some dry fly and nymph patterns, as recommended by Steve Slater. You will most likely need to bring supplemental flies. Be sure to pinch the barbs! We will not be doing this for you.
Also, bring your own flies, especially any that you have picked up (or tied) for this particular trip.
In addition to forceps, nippers, vest or pack for fly boxes and other gear, sunhat, sunscreen, bug repellent, waders, boots, belts, water bottle (or other means to carry, or filter, drinking water), don’t forget your wading staff! A small net is always optional for trout, but it really helps in landing them with minimal stress and keeping them in the water while unhooking—both of which are extremely important for the fish’s survival. Camping gear should include headlamps or flashlights —the former is especially good for tying on flies during late evening fishing or cooking / setting up camp in the dark. Bring spare batteries too.
As a tailwater, the Stan can still be pretty cold this high up, but you may decide when you get there and test the water that you might prefer to wet-wade instead of wearing waders. If so, just be sure that you have sturdy closed-toe wading sandals or, better yet, use neoprene guard socks (or other neoprene socks) plus wool or polypo liner socks to fill-out your wading boots. Lightweight (i.e., nylon) long pants are recommended for wet-wading over wearing shorts to better protect your shins from scrapes on rocks, scratchy brush, poison oak, etc.
The registration fee covers guide fees, flies, camp fees, and groceries for lunches. Not included in the registration fee is guide tips, the cost of travel, lodging other than the camp site, and meals other than the provided lunches.
There are no refunds. In the event that a student is unable to attend, they may resell their slot to another LTFF member (first pulling from the waitlist).
For further information, contact: Fish-out Leader, Charles Marsh (senor.charles@gmail.com), 415-902-0489.
Yamsi Ranch - L3 Fishout
Ready for technical trout fishing in a stunning, uncrowded setting?
Join us on private water at the headwaters of the Williamson River in Oregon — Yamsi Ranch is a historic ranch that’s been family-owned for over 100 years.
3 full days of fishing on lightly pressured private spring creek water, plus two half days (arrival and departure days)
4 nights lodging + all meals (family-style)
Small group: max 8 student participants
Weekend-only access, so the fish rest all week
The Fishing
This is technical, rewarding spring-creek fishing in gin-clear water with spooky fish.
Typical daily rhythm:
Morning: Nymphs & soft hackles
Late morning through evening: Dries & hoppers until sundown
Fish size: Solid 12" averages with legit shots at 20"+ trout
Skill level: Best suited for L3 and FCSD Silver level participants Good casting, smart presentations, and careful wading matter here. This is a walk-and-wade fishery.
$1,795 per person Includes lodging, meals, and fishing
50% deposit to reserve
Balance due 30 days before arrival
Deposits are non-refundable
Payment is made directly to the ranch (not GGACC)
On your own - travel to/from Yamsi Ranch, guides, tip for guides and house
You’ll arrange your own travel to southern Oregon. Carpooling is encouraged, and there’s plenty of parking on site.
For details, check out "Yamsi Ranch Fly Fishing" on youtube and watch the videos.
Register here and we'll connect you with the property when we have a full cohort. We will also take a list of 2 standby participants in case anyone needs to sell their slot.
The Women’s Group 2026 program will conclude on the following date:
This LTFF Truckee River Fish-out on SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26th, 2025 or SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27th, 2026 is offered to ONLY registered 2026 LTFF 2 (2025 Cohort) students. This fish-out will be limited to a total of 16 different students, 8 each day.
Description: This fish-out will be led by Matt Heron, who has a very successful Fly Fishing School in the Truckee area. You will have a day-long guided session with Matt’s team, with a 2:1 student to guide ratio. You will fish either the Little Truckee or the Truckee depending on the best fishing conditions that day. Your guide will help you understand this popular fly fishing destination, including access points along the river, as well as various fishing techniques most effective for these waters.
Cost: The registration fee is $405 per person Covers the cost of the guide/clinic fees, groceries for lunches, group campsite reservation, and supplied flies.
It does not include the cost of transportation, lodging (non-camping), meals (other than lunch), guide tip, or any other expenses.
Required Gear: Your standard 5 wt, floating line setup, along with boots/waders, wading staff, sunscreen, hat, water, and sunglasses will work fine. Studded boots help if you prefer.
Specifically:
4-6 wt rod/reel, and floating line. 9 ft rods are fine, 9 ½ ft and longer help on these waters
Bring a selection of 9 ft leaders across 3x , 4x and 5x
Tippet: 3x-6x….flouro helps
Flies will be supplied and selected based on recent success on the river by your guides.
Meeting Time & Place: We will meet at 7:30 AM (time subject to change earlier, or later based on conditions) at the Truckee River RV Park. The day will end in mid-afternoon, around 3:30pm.
Accommodations: We will plan to camp at a nearby campground for the weekend. If you prefer not to camp, you should make plans at your choice of lodging in the Truckee area (motel, Air BnB, etc.).
Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds. In the event that a student is unable to attend, they may resell their slot to another LTFF member (first pulling from the waitlist).
For more info: Mike Nelson, micnel@protonmail.com
Heenan Lake Fish-Out
This fishout is open to currently registered 2026 LTFF Level 3 students.
When: October 3-4, 2026. Arrive at 11am on Sat. Concludes on Sun at noon.
Location: In the Sierra south of Lake Tahoe, 220 miles east of San Francisco. Heenan Lake is off Highway 89, 8 miles east of Markleeville, California (Alpine County). 4-5 hour drive from San Francisco
What: Lahontan Cutthroat
Group size: 6 students, 2 leaders – each in their own floats
Mandatory Safety Clinic: registrants must attend the Float Tube Safety Clinic on TBD @ GGACC ponds (unless you have prior experience)
TBD Link (sign up here)
Cost: $60 registration fee. Travel to/from, meals and lodging are not included.
The 135-acre Heenan Lake has been renowned for producing huge Lahonton Cutthroats up to 30" with the average being 16 to 20". The Department of Fish and Game have a station there that take some spawners from the lake for egg collections. These eggs are distributed to a number of other state hatcheries including the Hot Creek Hatchery and Nevada Dept of Wildlife. The hatchlings are restocked into Heenan and over 30 additional Eastern Sierra lakes. The Heenan Lake Lahontons are actually a hybridized strain of the original Lahonton Cutthroats that inhabited Lake Lahonton in prehistoric days. The regulations to Heenan Lake is a strict catch and release on barbless hooks on flies or artificial lures. The season opens on September 1st through November 30th. The tributaries to Heenan are also open to catch and release fishing during this time. Heenan is ideal for float tubing but has received heavy fishing pressure recently due to its reputation for big trout.
Trolling streamer patterns of Woolly Buggers, Leeches and Matukus in Black, Purple, or Olive from a float tube has been the favored method to fish Heenan. No gas-powered crafts are allowed. It's shallow so an intermediate sinking line is sufficient. Dark-colored nymphs in sizes 12-14 such as Pheasant Tails, Bird's Nests, and Prince Nymphs with an indicator also work well. Use a slow retrieve. Recently, using a chironomid pattern has become quite popular when used as a dropper below the nymph from 2 to 20 feet in depth. Allow the rig to sit with an occasional twitch. Generally, an intermediate sinking line is the best bet with a non-tapered 7-8’ leader. The Lahontans do not put up as rigorous fight as a similar-sized Rainbow so a leader of 4x to 5X should suffice.
The Lahontans cruise throughout the lake but a popular area is the inlet of Heenan creek at the east end. This is fairly shallow with plentiful weed beds. Try casting a nymph pattern into the weed beds and retrieve slowly. The southern end of the lake is also popular with weed beds usually present.
Equipment you will need: (There will be much more discussion during the Zoom call)
Meet at Heenan Lake parking lot (there’s only one). Arrive Saturday at 11am, start fishing at noon. On Sunday morning, meet at 7am ready to fish, conclude at noon. Port-a-potties are available but no running water.
Lodging: There are lodging options in 1) Woodsford, CA, 2) Markleeville, CA, and 3) Gardnerville, NV.
Leader: Jeff Hogan is one of our valued FFI certified GGACC casting instructors and a frequent volunteer for LTFF events.
Contact: Jeff Hogan @ jeff.hogan8454@att.net
Rondy: 2 Day, 2 River Trout/Steelhead Drifts
Dates: October 10-11, 2026
Description: We're going to be there, why not fish 2 days?? Why not fish 2 rivers?? This Rondy will start on the Trinity River for the first day and then move to the Lower Sac for the second day. We'll target steelhead on the Trinity and large rainbow (steelhead) on the Lower Sac. We'll meet the guides early on the 24th near Weaverville, fish for the day and then move to Redding to prepare to meet the guides on the Lower Sac early on the 25th. This will likely require you stay in the Weaverville area on the night of the 23th and in the Redding area the night of the 24th (maybe we'll meet for dinner in Redding). At the end of the drift on the 25th you are free to drive home or stay on the road.
Guides will be from Forrest Brizendine of NorCal Fishing Guides; norcalfishingguides.com
Cost: $700.00 per angler
Other Expenses: guide gratuities, transportation, food and lodging.
Rondy: Lower Sacramento Trout Spey
Dates: October 23, 2026
Leader: John DiCerbo mailto:johndicerbo@gmail.com
Description: This is a one day jet boat trip to the lower sac for trout/micro spey. The guides from Confluence Outfitters will jet boat us to the best bars where we will swing for trout and the occasional Steelhead mixed in. We will be 2 boats, with 3 anglers per boat and the fee is based on those numbers. Here is a link to their description http://www.confluenceoutfitters.com/lower-sac-spey.aspx
Suggested Gear: 3-5 wt two handed fly rods. Note that the guides will supply these micro spey rods if needed.
Cost: The fee for this Rondy is $291.67
Other expenses: guide gratuities, travel and lodging if needed.
Rondy: Baum Lake
Dates: October 24-25, 2026
Description: Dust off the float tube for this 2 day Rondy on Baum Lake. Anglers can easily access this lake with a float tube of small personal water craft. Fishing ranges from Dry flies to sinking lines stripping buggers. An indicator with balanced leech or Zebra midge will produce. Camping just up the road at the Cassel campground is super convenient. Bring rods to handle your proffered style. Walk and fish is possible but limited. Gear & logistics will be emailed by leader.
Suggested Gear: Single hand fly rod with floating and/or intermediate line and sink tips. Bring multiple layers and good rain gear.
Cost: The fee for this Rondy is $25.
Other expenses: transportation, cost of the motel/campground fees, and all food.
Rondy: Trinity River Steelhead Walk & Wade #2
Dates: October 28-29, 2026
Leader: Bill Corkery billcorkery@att.net
Description: This rondy is an excellent opportunity for Walk-and Wade fly fishing for Steelhead on the Trinity River near Junction City, CA. Bill Corkery, a GGACC Member, will take up to 4 anglers on this two-day fishing trip. The opportunity exists to catch both adult and smaller (i.e. "1/2 pound") steelhead.
There are several options for how to fly fishing for steelhead on this wading trip: 1) Indicator nymph fishing with a 5-7wt single hand rod with floating line and Fluoro tippet (1X-4X) and split-shot below an indicator; 2) Swinging steelhead flies with a 6-8wt single hand rod and floating or intermediate head line and sink tips with short 8-12# mono tippet; or 3) Swinging flies with a 5-7wt Spey rod with floating or intermediate fly line & sink tips with short 8-12# mono tippet.
Suggested Gear: 5-7 wt single handed fly rods for nymhing; 6-8 wt single handed rods for swinging; 5-7 wt Spey rods for swinging. Note that the weather can be very cold, bring multi-layers and good rain gear.
Other Expenses: will include travel, food, lodging (motels in Weaverville).
LTFF Level 3 Fish-out - Trinity River for Steelhead, 11/7 & 11/8
Have you ever caught a steelhead? This fish-out is your chance!
Join us for guided fishing with the experts at Confluence Outfitters www.confluenceoutfitters.com. The Learn to Fly Fish (LTFF) Trinity River Fish-out is offered initially to students enrolled in their 3rd year of the LTFF Program. When registration opens, each student can only sign up for one day of fishing (Group 1 on Sat., 11/7, or Group 2 on Sun., 11/8); however, you may be able to join us for both days if the fish-out doesn't fill up right away. We will send an announcement to the group if and when we need to open this event further.
Registration Fee: $460 each day, which includes the guide fee and the shuttle service cost but DOES NOT INCLUDE guide gratuity, lodging, meals (other than lunch), or travel costs. The suggested guide gratuity is $60-80 for each person each day.
Trinity River Lodging Recommendations: Due to the travel distance to this river, everyone should find their lodging in the Weaverville / Douglas City area for at least the night before. The past few years the group has stayed together in a large Airbnb conveniently located very close to our morning meet-up point with the guides. This Airbnb cost is not included in the registration fee above and payment will be facilitated by the fish-out leader once the fish-out is filled. The Airbnb that is reserved can be found at: Trinity Airbnb
We will plan a casual no-host dinner for Saturday evening. We will provide details in the pre-fish-out Zoom meeting.
Trinity River Fishing License Requirements: You must have a regular freshwater fishing license (a daily license or a season license) AND a Steelhead Catch Report Card.
Steelhead Card: You must have the original Steelhead Card on your person while fishing. Many Steelhead anglers purchase the Steelhead Card with their annual fishing license at the beginning of each year (if that's you, nice work!); but, if you do not already have a Steelhead Card in your possession, please do not order it online, as it might not be delivered in time for the trip! You will need to pick up your Steelhead card at a local retail shop such as Big 5 Sporting Goods.
Fishing Gear: Our guides will provide single-hand fly rods rigged for indicator nymph fishing. If you prefer to bring your own rod, plan on a 7 wt or 8 wt at least 9'. The guides will also provide lunch. This trip is NOT a two-handed fly rod trip, as this gear is not required to fish this river effectively.
Gear list (other than fishing gear): Check the weather before leaving home and pack accordingly, including rain gear (always) and proper layering to adjust for temp changes during the day. Some of the recommended gear includes:
I look forward to this trip and hope you can join us.
Fish-out leader: Mike Nelson, micnel@protonmail.com
Rondy: Trinity River Steelhead Drift #1
Dates: November 13, 2026
Leader: Patrick Cousens mailto:pdcousens@gmail.com
Description: The Trinity is a gorgeous river this time of year. We will be floating the river from a drift boat or raft - both with hard bottoms. We will mostly fish with nymphs and/or egg patterns under indicators with, maybe, some swinging using 2 handed rods. The guides will provide rods, flies, beverages, snacks and lunch. Anglers will need waders and boots (no studs please) along with weather appropriate clothing. You MUST have a current fishing license and STEELHEAD card.
Fish range from half pounders to 30 or more inches. 10+ pound steelhead are caught every year so be prepared.
The nearest town is Weaverville which is conveniently located within 30 mins of the river. There are several lodging and dining options to make for an enjoyable two-night trip if you so desire.
The trinity is a beautiful place with a fish of a lifetime waiting for your fly!
The guide service we use is great. They are:
Forrest Brizendine forrest@norcalfishingguides.com
Suggested Gear: 6-8 wt single handed fly rods for nymphing and swinging; 5-7 wt Spey rods for swinging. Note that the weather can be very cold, bring multi-layers and good rain gear.
Cost: The fee for this Rondy is $375
Other expenses will be guide gratuities, transportation, lodging and meals besides lunch on the boat.
Rondy: Trinity River Steelhead Drift #2
Dates: November 14, 2026
Questions? Please direct your inquiries to the appropriate mail box:
General Information: club.ggacc@gmail.com
Membership: membership.ggacc@gmail.com
Social Media: ggaccsocial@gmail.com
Rondy Program: rondyprogramggacc@gmail.com
Events: events.ggacc@gmail.com
Learn To Fly Fish Program: ltff.ggacc@gmail.com
Our Mailing Address: Golden Gate Angling and Casting Club · P.O. Box 591476 · San Francisco, CA 94159
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