Stream Report

Closing Day 2011?

2011-11-17T08:08:00.000-08:00

Well, as you may or may not know, the general trout closer in California does not apply to everything. Certain stretches of the Merced remain fishable. We had several fun sessions over the last few days and inclement weather did not mean bad fishing; not one bit! Yosemite Valley got a few dustings which left it gorgeous. Shannon snuck away from her friends and celebrated with a quality trout. It was one of several. Chad and Katie snuck away from Bakersfield so that they could sneak up on some fish. Great times. Give us a call and/or at least check the DFG regs carefully please. We remind everyone to also check out our facebook profile for other images and random posts: http://www.facebook.com/sierraflyfisher

Yosemite Dusting

2011-11-05T07:23:00.000-07:00

Despite fears that the erratic weather would turn the fish off, it did the opposite. Sure we know that an overcast day is good but this was a combo meal of cold, sun, showers, snow, clouds and all over again at a high rate. Fishing was stellar. Caddis activity seems to be waning however the PMDs persist in small numbers and BWOs are kicking in. Some of unusually nice size. Many waters are very quiet with very light human activity (or none!). We invite you to wrap up the season with Sierra Fly Fisher.

Fall is STILL on!

2011-10-24T13:15:00.000-07:00

The Merced continues to fish great. Jonathan nailed this unusually spotted bow on a day out with Bernard. Then you have Nich dropping some streamers between the boulders with fall colors abounding while also pulling some nice fish on dries. Good times!

Fall is ON

2011-10-19T22:40:00.000-07:00

We left some of our brown trout hot-spots behind for the sake of this report. We are starting to work the Merced very carefully and with great focus. Various Caddisflies as well as Mayflies are making a great showing. The PMDs remain solid while smaller mayflies are in the mix. Caddisflies of a variety of sorts are in the mix and the legendary October Caddisflies are finally getting recognized by the trout. All of the photos and fish on this page are from the Merced. Call for more information and to book with us :)

Mid-October Updates

2011-10-13T07:44:00.000-07:00

Very little time for the digital realm but lots of time for the mountains and streams. Cool weather and even a storm event from several days back threw us a few curve balls (or snowballs even!) however the fishing has been good and bouncing back hard. We've had some neat moments as we flirted with the onset and the exit of the weather. For example, as the water was rising and getting discolored earlier this month, Norm Lamoreaux still put people on fish while doing a day on the Merced. Bernard is very happy to have spent time with members of his alma matter the Diablo Valley Fly Fisher club. This was the club that he called home as a kid back in Walnut Creek many many moons back. Currently, at Trout Camp, we are seeing changes daily as we approach our wrap-up. What is exciting is that the fishing has been improving. Fall is far from over and we are excited. Give us a shout for an update.

Todd worked hard for this fish under challenging conditions but his efforts paid off.
Bernard helped Dan spot fish and simply enjoy the show
Dan and Chris work the stream in tandem. Drizzly skies and slaying it!
Dan's work paid off...
Bill shows us an October Golden
A fat Merced Rainbow
Alan of the Diablo Valley club with a brown up from the lake
Crazy weather allowed for great photos

Fall Kicks-In WIth A Smile

2011-10-02T21:19:00.000-07:00

We'll let the photos do the talking!

A lounging buck on the Merced!
Can you say October Caddis?

Alejandro scores a solid brown from the gnarly terrain zone.

Let's go fishing!

Indicator Fishing

2011-09-27T17:01:00.000-07:00

As a guide service we tend to prefer the dry fly experience. That said, we offer a fun little stream report entry playing with this question: What kind of indicator do we LIKE? Well, we have decided that an indicator isn't just a small balloon or a puff of yarn. It's not even a grasshopper (fly). We like indicators such as overcast days, shifts in stream levels, grasshoppers all over the bank, PMDs stuck to your clothes etc. Those are the indicators. This year, we are finding these indicators numerous and a delight for they have been helping us fish most effectively.

Depending on where you are, you will find fish targeting these delicate mayflies.
At high altitudes, these fungi have been plentiful after the random afternoon drizzles.

Despite murky post-storm water and deer getting busy streamside, we have found certain areas fishing unusually well. We love this stuff!

The USGS river gauges are a great source of information as we monitor the ups and downs. Note the two very different peaks resultant from high altitude weather events.

And, alas, the payoff!

Mid-September Updates - That Falling Feeling

2011-09-15T05:13:00.000-07:00

Fall seems to be kicking in as hot days have abated and upper elevation cooling (along with a few small storms) has set the stage for perfect trout temps. Stream levels remain excellent and the recent mini-storms have spiked a few but not in a significant way. The fish are digging it! All waters in the Merced, Kings and San Joaquin drainages that we are currently working are fishing well. Our Trout Camp begins this weekend and we can't be more excited. We stage this annual event out of Mono Hot Springs (See: http://monohotsprings.com) and encourage all to check in with us for more details. Best bet is to email us at sierraflyfisherhq(at)gmail.com or call 559-683-7664

Merced Updates

2011-09-04T14:08:00.000-07:00

The heavier run-off from earlier this year has prevented the water from getting too low. This has prevented the temps in the lower regions from getting too warm. Sure they are warm but the fish remain frisky. It appears, with cooling night temps, that the fish are increasingly frisky. The challenge is locating them. We recommend working hard at not staying put unless the fishing stays hot. Afternoon hopper fishing isn't a bad bet and the dusk spinner activity remains great. You can provoke fish even if you don't see them so practice stealth even on the bigger water. Last but not least, the recent Motor Fire has scarred the hillsides but not the fishing.

Aug. 30 Update Re: Hwy 140 and the Motor Fire

2011-08-30T12:13:00.000-07:00

The Yosemite Blog reports the 140 re-opening. It appears to be in a limited capacity so, as always, do your homework before braving this route. http://yosemiteblog.com/2011/08/29/highway-140-opening-tomorrow-use-caution/ If you pass through Oakhurst via the South Entrance, please stop by our shop. Bernard Yin will be tying flies Weds./Thurs/Fri unless otherwise notified. Pop by and check out his killer spent-wing pattern. Bring him some OJ or cold water and he'll give you one or two! http://yosemiterivers.com

Yosemite Access and the 140 Closure

2011-08-26T07:41:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

A fair warning to all that fire, natural or otherwise, is part of the grand scheme of things in these parts. Unfortunately, a fire event has closed the 140. We urge you to plan carefully if travelling in and out of the park. A few tips that come to mind:
- Travel EARLY (or late). Holiday season traffic can be bad enough without the closure. Early and late hours at all gates usually mean smooth sailing.
- If you are booked with us for a day of fishing, you may wish to have a quick discussion a day or two beforehand with your guide. Your fishing destination and or rendez-vous point may be affected. Luckily, we are not relying purely on fishing destinations in the 140 region.

For more information on the Highway 140 road closure call Caltrans at (800)427-7623

Drive Safely,
Sierra Fly Fisher

Mid August Updates

2011-08-23T13:36:00.000-07:00

The main stem Merced from the "Park" down is flowing beautifully but also warm. Choose your sections carefully. The PMDs are showing up well and parachute pattern by day followed by spinners later can do wonders. Hoppers by day are also worth a throw. The SF Kings, at higher elevations, remains cooler and fishes well. The PMDs are here in force as well. Many of our other small stream destinations at higher elevations have been stellar and are flowing from low to full-bore runoff even now. They all are fishing well and we are already getting excited about fall. Here's some fun footage of Bernard Yin coaching a client for a cagey brown in the Sequoia: Stalking a Brown Video

Late July + Early August News

2011-08-04T17:04:00.000-07:00

We continue to be amazed by how late certain waters are "turning on". Of course we are also starting to find it rewarding. As of late July and even early August we are both witnessing and hearing of rainbows migrating to spawn! This isn't even at high elevations. Bigger waters such as the Kings and Merced have come alive and once you adjust to the higher flows, the fishing is solid. The smaller streams remain strong. Some of them unusually pretty and verdant. Below, Mike and Katherine work an idyllic pool after a long day sampling various Yosemite streams with us.

Bernard and Steve work on a good drift on the Kings River.

Perfecting a bow and arrow cast, Bill nabbed this scrappy Kings River bow.

A high meadow stream alive with color and plants.

An overcast day produced a flurry of browns.

Cole nabbed a solid brookie in the Tuolumne drainage. This fish was latched onto a smaller brookie which he hooked and was determined to not let go. We netted two fish. A rare and bizarre "food chain moment"

Gordon Johnson instructs on the Merced.

Myron nabbed a stout small stream brown while out with Rick Mazaria. See the next picture.

What a crazy fish!

One of the forks of the Tuolumne looking beautiful and fishing well.

This photo is a delight. One leaves the heat of the valley and heads for trout city!

Overcast conditions can inspire the fish.

Last but not least, champion angler Victor Gonzalez from Spain had a day out with Bernard and fish had no chance.

Early July News

2011-07-13T10:24:00.000-07:00

At long last the higher water has abated such that the fishing has picked up substantially. For those who really need the "science", the mix of elevation, which direction a drainage is facing and the food sources have all played important roles. Smaller streams remain the prime game but what has been entertaining has been that at higher-than-average flows, they fish more like little rivers. The fish have had enough of this and are on the feed like crazy. They give us a good game and both novice and hot-shot alike can have a fun time. Proper hatches remain spotty but tiny yellow sallies abound. Random hoppers are making a show and the fish seem to know that it's time. A tiny hopper can do the trick such as a size 10 or 12. The standard Elk Hair Caddis or Parachute Adams on the dry side remain very effective while a bead-head anything is always a safe bet. These are the Sierra Nevadas; not rocket science (enter canned laughter). It won't be long before the larger waters also become more fishable and we anticipate strong, fresh and hungry fish. For now, they are better for rafters. Call us at the shop Wednesdays-Sundays at: 559-641-7788 for some quality banter and/or holler our way via out booking line at: 559-683-7664. Look for more photos soon at our facebook profile too: http://www.facebook.com/sierraflyfisher. Finally, brace yourself for a bunch of Sequoia/Kings updates as we get active in that region. Below, Emily Grant and her family had a ball on one of our local streams. They were staying at The Redwoods near Wawona.

So Much Water! - Tuolumne Meadows Photos

2011-06-27T22:11:00.000-07:00

Our dear friend and esteemed Sierra photographer Andrew Maurer has returned with some shots taken shortly after Tioga Pass opened.

Late June Updates

2011-06-25T18:46:00.000-07:00

A few fresh items to share with our friends ...

The waters continue to rage in most Sierra streams unless you are near their headwaters and they don't feed off of existing snowpack. Despite all of this, we must persist and one of our fave streams has opened up recently. This spot has browns, brookies and exceptional rainbows although those are far and few between. Bernard and Byron came to a spot where they were caught off guard by an unusually stubborn group of fish and here's one of the ones that finally was caught (and released) after some chuckles and tweaks to fly selection and presentation.
Meanwhile, the shop is open more and more with our "reliable" hours being roughly 10-5 Weds.-Sun. As we closed up today, the fly fishing gods smiled upon us with this little gift on our front door. Please pop by and visit us! We're right on the 41 as you head towards the park heading out of Oakhurst but still in town. Click HERE for more info.

Mid June News

2011-06-18T12:17:00.000-07:00

Much to our amazement, many waters are still RISING! Despite this, we are working hard to find the exceptions and are having success. Some fish are even rising (enter winky emoticon here heh heh heh). The ant patterns continue to work well while a smattering of other bug "sightings" are kicking-in. On a recent day out, we even saw this hefty stone.

Jimmie and client Jack had a good volley of days out sleuthing a small stream that was responding well. Thank you Jack for the glowing testimonial as well! The key is persistence.

With 8 feet of snow in upper Yosemite, below normal water temperature east of Oakhurst in the Seirra Nat'l Forest and no hatch to match Jimmie and Bernard found fish and I landed wild trout on dry flies. Remote fishing holes on clear cold water streams with wild trout makes for a great experience. Without a hatch I didn't think dry flies would work. " We'll just make them come to the surface" Enough said. They delivered.

Early June News

2011-06-13T15:07:00.000-07:00

We have been getting a lot of inquiries about the current runoff conditions. There is no question that there is an insane amount of water melting off in the high country. Yosemite Valley is unusually verdant and the waterfalls are roaring. Check the online gauges, call the park service, check the kayaker boards! Despite this, we have had successful days on smaller streams and are seeing the fishing improve daily. The insect activity is also kicking into a higher gear. Small yellow stones (16s), varied caddis (14-18), some various smaller mayflies and numerous terrestrials are making the fish have a reason to wake up. On a recent guide day, Bernard and his clients had a blast targeting fish that had become aware of a flurry of larger carpenter ants (winged and huge!). We're talking ants that are roughly the size of a medium sized wasp. We're talking easily size 12s!

Opening Day Kick Off

2011-04-30T05:54:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,
2011 will be a year when the fish are very happy. When the fish are happy we anglers are happy. Give us a shout for advice or trips during this high-water year. Extra Extra - Sierra Fly Fisher is pleased to formally announce that we have been granted permission by the National Park Service to guide in Kings Canyon and Sequoia. This offers us exciting new territory in the "Secret Yosemite". Much of this region, especially the Kings will provide excellent late season angling. Give us a call at the shop of the guide service if you care to discuss and prepare for a great year in the Sierra Nevada.
Jimmie and the Team
559-683-7664

Yosemite Rivers Fly Shop Welcomes all to the Annual Opening BBQ is Saturday April 16th

2011-04-12T19:04:00.000-07:00

We'd love to see you at our shop this coming Saturday as we share some food and talk about all the great finned-things that this unusually wet year will bring us! There will be tying with Neal Pultz and Wayne Luallen and Casting with Dan Busby. We are honored to have them on hand. The hours of the event are roughly 10AM to 5PM at our shop located at 40872 Hwy 41, Oakhurst, CA 93644 on the south side of the Hwy on the eastern end of Oakhurst.

We hope to see you there! Feel free to call for info as well: 559-641-7788

http://yosemiterivers.com

Warming up for 2011 !!! SFF at Kaweah Club Meeting and Bob Marriot's This Weekend

2011-03-31T16:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

A busy weekend for SFF coming up! Jimmie will be doing a presentation for the Kaweah Fly Fishers club in Visalia, CA on Friday (See: http://www.kaweahflyfishers.org/) and Bernard will be representing at Bob Marriot's in Fullerton, CA on Saturday (See: http://www.bobmarriottsflyfishingstore.com/Events.aspx ). We'd love to see you, love to speak with you. Look for exciting new news regarding Sierra Fly Fisher's 2011 agenda.

Cheers!
SFF

Oregon Steelheading February Update

2011-02-16T17:05:00.000-08:00

Got Boat? Yes we do! Got Fish? Yes we do. See more of these great Andrew Maurer images at our facebook page (Click Here). Don't hesitate to call us for bookings and take into consideration our special room rates too. More info at: Sierra Fly Fisher Steelhead Program.

Winter Program - California and Beyond!

2011-01-02T10:53:00.000-08:00

Winter always brings an interesting "game" to the table. Currently the Sierra already is well above average snow-pack which bodes very well for 2011. The Central Californian lower elevation streams are becoming fair game and we welcome bookings and inquiries. We also are excited about some new destinations in Oregon where Jimmie has been diligently doing his homework on select Oregon steelhead destinations Give is a holler if interested.

Andrew Maurer put his camera aside to get a dose of the Tug Drug

The payoff!

Sometimes, the guides must fish too.

Fall Trout

2010-10-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

Fall has brought some see saws in the weather but provided that you are ready to work and hunt, you can be rewarded. On a recent day out with Bernard, Mike and his son Matt got treated to a run on the Merced where an unusually large bow took Matt here for a ride. See photo below. October caddis activity is very regionalized and can also vary from night to night. Just be ready! We foresee the next few weeks to be excellent fishing and will continue to work until regulations or climate dictate otherwise. Call us for up-to-date info.

Dick and Jeanne get the A for effort award. Jeannie landing this fish after gaining a much needed extra few feet on a cast to a good seam. Dick persisted with stellar form and tangled at the 11th hour with a fish we couldn't stop.

Street and Stream and Steam Report

2010-10-14T12:27:00.000-07:00

Well, we have Hwy 41 still subject to construction delays. Be very prepared. Late into the night huge trucks are hauling asphalt through Oakhurst towards the road between the South entrance and Glacier Pt. and beyond. Also note the warm weather. This spell will abate. It makes for wonderful days in the mountains where it's cooler and as dusk sets in we have been observing a huge variety of insects. Everything from tiny mayflies to the classic October caddis are making a showing in abundance. Sloppy and skittery drifts with various caddis patterns are provoking takes. The more water you cover, the better. Keep moving!

Early morning and the lines begin...

Bernard's hand-eye coordination had a little to be desired here. Despite the great fall colors and the cliffs int he background, what he really wanted was Bambi. See the ears in the lower part of the photo?

What do guides do when off duty? They scout new spots. Gordy nails a chrome beauty at dusk.

Temperatures, well-above cold.

October Caddis

2010-10-11T21:19:00.000-07:00

The caddis activity is on the increase including the legendary October caddis. This Merced fish was taken at dusk earlier tonight on the "Noctober" caddis.

A Fall Report

2010-10-11T12:43:00.000-07:00

The conditions continue to prove good. In the afternoon sun while casting a hopper over the cool waters, Malcom Tomes, with very little coaching nailed this beautiful bow. It ran all over the place and with deft foot Malcom gave chase as the drag sang. Smiles all around.

The previous day and at a much higher altitude, Elizabeth took to bow and arrow casting like nobody's business. Too much fun!

Simple Math: A passing front + spike in flows = good fishing

2010-10-10T22:05:00.000-07:00

We HATE that saying "That's why they call it fishing not catching". We like to think that persistence pays off. Well, a little science doesn't hurt either. Trout being "cold water species" do, in fact, prefer cool water and although our summer was somewhat mild, the streams do get warm. The recent weather that has made the fish frisky has also bumped flows and cooled the water on the Merced in just the right fashion. October Caddis season is upon us and they are starting to show as well. The Sierra in general has been fishing great just about anywhere we have been guiding.

Wacky Weather and Frisky Fish Continued

2010-10-05T10:48:00.000-07:00

We have been impressed by the number of folks braving the elements and stopping by the shop. A few things come to mind. For starters, this front will pass soon and fall will really feel like fall. This means great angling. This bow was taken recently from the Merced during an "ugly" day...

We are also chompin' at the bit in anticipation for the appearance of the October caddis. Anticipation is also high for a significant spike in "brown trout friskyness" and we couldn't be happier. Browns love fall and they love "weather". This coming weekend we'll have co-host and special guest Andrew Maurer at Mono Hot Springs. For those of you with a soft spot for photography, you may wish to join us for our evening "hang time" at the restaurant there. Andrew's photos speak for themselves. See: http://www.troutstreamdesigns.com/Photos.htm as well as his recent Eastern Sierra. Sample photo below.

Oct. 3-4 Update - Wacky Weather and Frisky Fish

2010-10-04T11:39:00.000-07:00

The early signs that fall is turning to winter are best interpreted as a sign to drive even that much more carefully and to fish that much MORE! We have had some weather it is true. With this trend, the fish, especially the browns get extra frisky. All that nifty gear that you scored at REI and Adventure 16 etc. is put to good use here. But let's not get too far ahead of ourselves. Despite the precipitation, the temps are strangely tropical in places. Here are some gems from over the past few days.

Goldens remain part of the checklist of target species well into. fall. Gary and Jimmie had a successful session for these gems.

Staging browns are only getting hotter. Arnie shows off a solid specimen.

Jordan (and nice brown) puts up with Jimmie's instruction on how to pose with a fish.

Oct. 2 Update

2010-10-02T07:40:00.000-07:00

Browns showing nicely as well as an pleasant spicing of other species. Weather is looking perfect as well with overcast and sometimes stormy skies BUT yes manageable temps.

Bow

Golden with unusually numerous parr marks

Hog golden!

Irene celebrates a golden that took many many drifts to coax..

Good times!

Sept. 30 Update

2010-09-30T22:27:00.000-07:00

The browns remain strong at Trout Camp if not stronger. Also, using some spare time, Bernard explored a nearby trickle and was caught off guard by this little beast...

Sept. 29 Update

2010-09-29T10:01:00.000-07:00

The Merced, is fishing well despite the warm temps. Evenings being prime. The evening mayfly hatch remains impressive while the larger fall caddis are yet to show. Smaller caddises are thick int he shadows. Trout Camp out of Mono Hot Springs is also kicking-into higher gear with browns showing in increasing numbers. See our Fall 2010 gallery on facebook for some fresh photos. Here's a pod of browns hiding from the sun...

We are booking both regions currently. Don't hesitate to call.

Fall Trout Camp Events

2010-09-26T13:03:00.001-07:00

Mono Hot Springs and Sierra Fly Fisher are pleased to announce Steve Ojai ( See: http://www.flyfishingthesierra.com/) as special guest co-host on the weekend of October 1-3. Steve will be sharing info., wisdom and projecting cool stuff on the restaurant wall every night after dinner.

The following weekend we have Andrew Maurer whose stellar photography has been used for Cal Trout calendars and various fisheries agencies. Andrew will be talking shop and walking the streams, camera in hand. See: http://www.troutstreamdesigns.com

We hope to see you all there. Contact Jeff or Joe at http://monohosprings.com The area has everything from dispersed camping to quaint cabins, all on a geothermal site!

Guided days are, of course, encouraged but not essential. Contact Sierra Fly Fisher at 559-683-7664 if interested.

Enjoy the good weather everyone. It's an Indian Summer for sure.

Bear Trout

2010-09-11T09:21:00.000-07:00

Sightseeing can be a great added-bonus to a day of fishing. On an outing with Thomas and Christina, visiting from Germany, a mama bear and cubs made a showing near Glacier Pt. in Yosemite.

Remember, our fall Trout Camp starts in a week!
Details: http://www.sierraflyfisher.com/tours/wildtrout.htm

Yosemite Road Conditions

2010-09-07T08:36:00.000-07:00

We wish to caution our friends and fellow anglers to the possibilities of delays on the roads in the park. This has been going on for some time due to extensive road maintenance projects. Unless taken into consideration when traveling about in Yosemite, it can really cause frustration. Have some good music, some snacks and don't hit the road tired or with a full bladder!

Here's the park service's link as well: Yosemite Road Conditions

All Over The Place And Loving It

2010-09-01T11:03:00.000-07:00

It's late August and the summer has been busy. We have worked the small streams, the bigger rivers and are also doing a lot of exploring. Guide Rick Mazaira was honored to be part of Paul and Melissa's twenty fifth wedding anniversary celebration. Fly Fishing was part of the agenda. Melissa caught her first fish on the fly no less.

On another session, Rick had Chris Malin get his stoke on the Merced River. This fish offered an unusually acrobatic fight.

Bernard and Jim brought a band of merry men down to the Kings for a session that mixed hiking, fishing and getting dunked. Looking out for everyone's safety was part of the challenge on this day. The crew was invincible and the before and after shots show that sometimes it's the journey (right?).

Before

After

This trip was into a region of the Kings that we rarely service. With a wet year, it is running well and fishable. Normally it is too low and warm by now. It also includes a hike that may or may not be suitable for everyone. Please inquire if you want more detail.

Don't hesitate to ask about the Fall Trout Camp when we intercept migrating browns. This starts mid-September and runs until mid October. Call us at 559-683-7664 or pop by the Yosemite Rivers fly shop. Details here: http://yosemiterivers.com/

Summer Keeps Rocking

2010-08-15T09:47:00.000-07:00

Late runoff has set the pace for a healthy summer of fishing. Once again we were blessed with photos from our esteemed friend Andrew Maurer (see: http://www.troutstreamdesigns.com/Photos.htm). An outing a few weeks ago with San Francisco's ORVIS crew produced stellar shots from Yosemite National Park. We hope to post more soon but here are some real fun ones. Enjoy!

Early Summer Yosemite Report

2010-07-05T10:42:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,
The rivers remain unusually high for this time of the year but the air temps are pleasant to warm and if you hit the edges of the bigger water or smaller streams, the fishing is wonderful. Summer in general should prove to be very solid this year. In the weeks to come, the Merced should be coming down to a workable level. All that said, we are getting busier and busier with fun-seeking clients of all ages from all over. A recent outing with Bernard guiding on a small stream with Chris, Jake and Logan proved nothing short of a riot as they honed their chops on some dry fly action for browns and brookies. Don't be fooled either. These small and beautiful fish were skittish and gave us a quality game. Thanks guys for a truly fun day. Bernard reports that it was excellent therapy after his recent road mishap. Everyone, please check the road conditions online with the park service. Current construction on the 41 (and other park roads) is creating hazards, delays, dusty conditions as well as reducing turnouts. Just be careful. Here's a helpful link: http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/conditions.htm. The waterfalls in Yosemite Valley proper are doing very well and we are finding happy clients who integrate a day on the stream into their Yosemite visit. Smiles all around.

Please stop by our shop for up-to-date fishing news. We are locate on Hwy 41 in Oakhurst. Info. here: http://yosemiterivers.com

Creekin' It - Spring 2010

2010-05-27T09:17:00.000-07:00

This year has an abundant snow pack. Runoff remains high strong so be careful which waters you select. But not to be discouraged, we have been deftly working smaller drainages that are no longer running too high to fish. Here are some fun shots of some quality small stream time with Evan and his brother Max Maynard
on a scenic Sierra brown trout fishery.

Evan kindly reports: " ...Jimmie did a terrific job and we had a ton of fun. I know my brother was a bit skeptical about the whole fishing idea at the time, but once he was out hauling in fish I could see that he was having the time of his life. He was full of smiles and was truly as thrilled as I was to be hauling in fish one after the other. Jimmie was great at quickly spotting the fish and he was very good about making sure that we did not slip or fall. He was also a great tour guide on the way there pointing out many view points, all of the various reservoirs and neat peaks such as The Eagle Peaks. Thanks to Jimmie for a wonderful time."

Thanks Evan for that glowing testimonial! We are watching the river flows in anticipation for an amazing 2010 trout season. Don't hesitate to call us and by all means pop by the shop too (Yosemite Rivers Fly Shop).

Open House at Yosemite Rivers Fly Shop this Weekend

2010-04-14T19:17:00.000-07:00

Open house at the fly shop this weekend (The 17th and 18th) with free barbecue. The Yosemite Rivers Fly Shop is 40872 Hwy 41, Oakhurst, CA 93644 on the south side of the Hwy on the eastern end of Oakhurst . The goal is to get psyched up for the 2010 season and plot and scheme (and sell a few flies!). We are also very honored to have, among our esteemed guests, casting with Ming Moua (http://www.flycastfirst.com). Shop details: http://www.sierraflyfisher.com/shop.htm See you there!
Call us for details: 559-641-7788

So. Cal. Visitations

2010-04-12T12:04:00.000-07:00

The last few days had more to do with fishing people than fishing itself. Jimmie made a historic visit to Bob Marriots on Saturday (April 10) after years of urgings from Hutch Hutchinson. This was preceded by a visit to the Fishermens Spot on Thursday evening which also proved fun. We rolled images from our various angling locations and answered questions-a-plenty. Turned out that Conway Bowman and Bernard Yin know tons of people in common and may even have shared the stage way back in the mid to late 80s San Diego music scene. Thanks to everyone at both shops and all the people who showed.

March and April Browns

2010-04-02T10:53:00.000-07:00

The annual March Brown "event" on the Upper Kings has remained true to form: Mysterious yet rewarding.

Photo: Artin Marootian

The hatch would shift in time and even location but it held enough onto tradition and we got into some action. Between the feeding frenzies we were spoiled by the amazing spring beauty and while smelling some flowers SFF guide Bernard Yin planted his face roughly two feet from a sizable rattler. "I never heard a flower like that!" As he adjusted his focus, he tells us, "All I saw were scales and huge diamonds" (as in Diamondback Rattlesnake). Luckily the only thing bitten were our flies. Pocket water hunting provided fish when the bugs were less active. Mayflies and numerous types of stoneflies were and are the predominant insect at this time. This river is truly an interesting game. What is this all about? We look for good weather but not so hot that the high country slopes start to melt. We then dash in and work hard at finding the hot zones. Upper Kings bows are strong and wild. A foot long fish is average but a few in the "teens" are always sprinkled in. Look at the bend on client Dave's rod...

Photo: Andrew Maurer

Note that this is the catch and release section of this massive river and also remember that most streams are not open for fishing until the last Saturday in April. Don't be discouraged, just know the regs.

We have been blessed with great photographers. Last year Stephanie Skiff shot a multitude of great shots. Over the last few days we had the honor of guest photographer Andrew Maurer (see: http://www.troutstreamdesigns.com ) in our company.

Photo: Andrew Maurer

The collective crew be they guides, clients or others crated a wonderful mix and camp every night was a great hang with food and laughter. Some of these shots are a sneak peek at Andrew's stellar work and look out for more photos very soon. We also carry shirts with prints of his photos at the Yosemite Rivers shop in Oakhurst. For those of you in So. Cal. Jimmie and Bernard will be present at The Fishermen's Spot (April 8th) and later at Bob Marriot's (April 10th). More of Andrew's photography, Stephanie's photography and even some exclusive 2010 helicopter footage of the drainage will be showcased. Email us if you want more information or to be on our email list. sierraflyfisher@sti.net Feel free to visit their sites too:http://www.fishermensspot.com/ and http://www.bobmarriottsflyfishingstore.com/
The conversation will be about Yosemite, The Kings, our Fall brown trout camp and mucho mas.

LATE BREAKING NEWS
We had a spike and then a drop in flows so for those of you who fished the river in early April, you may have gotten some good action. As of April 4th-5th, there appears to be a solid spike in flows that may truly indicate the official start of the season's snowmelt. Check in for info. to save yourself a wasted trip.

Contact us if you want to talk trout.
The Sierra Fly Fisher Team

Yosemite Rivers Fly Shop 2010

2010-01-08T16:19:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!
Sierra Fly Fisher is proud to ring in the new year with one of those silly things they call WEBSITES for the shop! We really wanted to keep it old school but ok ok these are modern times right? It's http://yosemiterivers.com. Pop on by the site and by all means pop on by the shop. In fact, be on the alert for fly tying classes. See flyer below.

Lower Kings Pow Wow

2009-12-08T21:04:00.001-08:00

We were proud to co-host a gathering on December 6, 2009 on the Lower Kings with the goal of raising awareness of the fishery's needs. The needs we focused on is the effort to nurture resident-born fish as well as raise funds specifically for enforcement. Local anglers, local clubs and even some curious members of the public (gasp!). Much of the Lower Kings has special regulations but, like many waters, is subject to poaching and unscrupulous anglers. It also relies heavily on planted fish. We seek to bolster the DFG warden presence through our own funding as well as jump-start some stream-born "almost wild" fish with incubator boxes. There remains all sort of buzz within the fly fishing community and contributions and pledges actually persist after the event. That said, a huge thank you and feel free to holler our way (jimmie(at)sierraflyfisher.com) if you want to talk about it all with us or see the initial release. Finally, if you care to contribute no amount too small nor too large, then see the details at the end of this post. The following photos conveniently came our way from Ming Moua who documented the event well.

Fall to Winter

2009-11-03T14:11:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!
As we move into late Fall and early Winter, we are seeing the fishing pick up nicely on the Merced in the El Portal region and even some unexpected surface activity for caddis on the Lower Kings. These, as most of you know, are essentially roadside angling destinations. The Merced, of course, consisting of wild fish while the Kings remains highly "managed". All that said, Nov. 15 is closing in on us so identifying year-round waters is important. Holler anytime for info. and bookings.

Yuko nets a fish with Sierra Fly Fisher guide Mike Long coaching.

Fall Colors

2009-09-28T19:40:00.000-07:00

And that color is BROWN!

Trout camp started with unusually warm weather as well as strange watershed manipulations by the Edison Company. Both have subsided and the fish have begun to behave as they are expected to. Above is Jimmie with a typical fall brown from one of our fave west slope waters. The second specimen came from Bernard's day of scouting solo. Other color variations spice up the fare. See this small hen's amazing display of spots...

Followed below by this bow and this golden to round out the package a bit.

This year a bald eagle has been sighted in the region. The store at Mono Hot Springs is also setting up some fly fishing gear so in case you'd rather just blast out of the office and head straight for the Sierra, you won't be "S.O.L.". We have some gaps in our Trout Camp schedule so contact us immediately if you wish to experience this great place with the creature comforts of the Mono Hot Spring resort.

It's That Time Again!

2009-09-16T12:20:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

Although we are proud to serve a variety of waters throughout the year, late summer and fall represents an opportunity to really look deeply into some West Slope waters for migrating browns as well as bows, brookies and goldens that are getting frisky as the temps cool. Mike, Rick, Bernard and myself will be feverishly working the region around Mono Hot Springs as well as good ol' Yosemite National Park in the weeks to come. It's one of our busiest times. Mono Hot Springs has the added bonus of being a wonderful old-fashioned "mom and pop" type resort with camping, tent-cabins, cabins, a quaint restaurant and hot springs.

Young Lefty Nick took some of our counsel and hid behind a rock (merced) to pull several fish as they rose.

Weather in all regions has generally been wonderful and the fishing has been good. The Merced continues to be solid with a variety of flies working just fine. Bernard still hasn't gotten over the fact that a size 16 light tan spinner or even parachute pattern will draw a strike even when they aren't rising. Then again, this is the guy who just had an 18" brown torment him as it darted out from under a rock, followed his streamer and then turned away. Yes folks, they are there, just cagey and wary. We already have reprimanded him for streamer fishing. Luckily, by dusk, the activity picks up and you can cast to risers with such a fly and draw a strike. Drag free drifts are essential. Be patient and be well rested. Sometimes it's easy to be tired and call it a day right before that "golden hour".

Call us!
Jimmie

Hidden Beauty

2009-08-14T16:11:00.000-07:00

Well folks, we're a bunch of softies here and sometimes after letting a fish swim back to its lair, we look up and it hits us like a Hollywood soundtrack WE FISH BEAUTIFUL PLACES! Thank you Curt for having the presence of mind to capture this delightful sight.

Smelling Roses - A Yosemite Day

2009-07-26T19:17:00.001-07:00

One of the great things about servicing this region is access to some amazing scenery. Most people do not realize that Yosemite Valley is actually somewhat low in elevation. The surrounding cliffs, mountains and plateaus are what define it. As we spend a long day in the region, it's not out of the question to sneak in a little sightseeing too. Now, as for the fishing, the warm to hot weather has kept the prime angling to the cooler hours. This includes dusk on the edge of dark. The bugs are happy and some reasonably good sized mayflies are coming off of the Merced River. Sometimes the fish need coaxing to rise but they will. The higher streams remain cooler and fish more consistently.

A Midsummer Night's Stream

2009-07-13T13:10:00.001-07:00

Something tells us that this title has been used a lot in fly fishing! Anyway, Sierra streams are at a great level right now. Lower elevation waters are definitely warming but high and small waters remain cool and productive. Higher meadows are green and beautiful. A recent family outing in Yosemite on a beautiful day was fun for all. Mike Long offers instruction.

Bernard wanted to add a shot of one of our recommended post-fishing dinner items. As a world-traveling rock and roller, he gives Oakhurst's The Pizza Factory a solid A grade. Thin crust recommended.

Streams After the Melt

2009-06-17T07:41:00.001-07:00

Each stream has its own seasonal clock. Add to that the variety of conditions from year to year not to mention dams and diversions which pepper the Sierra. What we're trying to say is that timing plays a role. Here are two fun images from a recent small stream jaunt with Rob Simpson. The timing was good!

Jimmie in So. Cal.

2009-04-29T09:33:00.000-07:00

I wish to thank all of the great people at the Deep Creek Flyfishers and the Fly Fishers Club of Orange County for a warm reception as well as both preparing stellar promotional materials for the events. Please rest assured that I'll lose the old-school slide projector one of these days but does everything REALLY need to evolve? Does a trout need three eyes? Again a HUGE thank you. I was truly impressed by the turnout and the great people. Speaking of So. Cal., it seems that some of the local hills are lighting up. Sierra Fly Fisher team member Bernard Yin recently did two of his trademark "Black Diamond" treks and nabbed some fine specimens from the local hills.

In addition to some of our tried-and-true destinations, Bernard is researching some unusual locales for Sierra Fly Fisher. Always feel free to inquire. *Click on the photos for a better view*

West Slope March Brown Recap

2009-04-13T19:41:00.000-07:00

Every year, the March Brown hatch kicks in during a small window before snowmelt begins. Some days the wind would howl and others the fish were rising. Eventually the flows increased and the river gods told us to go home. This is the nature of the sport. All said and done; amidst an amazing array of blooming spring flowers fish were caught.

Photo of Jimmie Morales courtesy of the Santa Lucia Flyfishers (http://santaluciaflyfishers.com).

Clubs such as the Santa Lucia Flyfishers and The Pasadena Casting Club provided us this year with the anglers; anglers seeking a challenge different from more predictable destinations. We again emphasize our love for WILD trout and in the majority of our target destinations, avoid managed fisheries.

Another charming factor at play is that much of America still has one foot in winter. Record snows were slamming parts of the US while we were looking at this...

West slope waters remain our greatest love and with these waters now running full steam ahead with snowmelt, we set our sights elsewhere. 2009 promises to be a good year and we are exploring some interesting new waters as well as preparing to work some of the tried and true. Give us a holler any time!

Central Valley Anadromy and Foothill March Browns

2009-03-23T10:04:00.001-07:00

We post this blog entry just as we begin pursuing early season wild bows as the march browns begin their spring hatch. Look for reports soon. In the meantime, some recent treks to the valley floor tailwaters coughed up some dandy specimens. From chrome to colorful. Glenn Ueda scores some silver here. Look at the quality of this wild fish's body and fins!

Here's a beast that Craig Belden roped. Note the perfect rainbow colors in the second shot.

More Central Valley Anadromy

2009-02-18T16:16:00.000-08:00

We are pleased to share a neat shot of Wes Stroud's recent catch of a fine steelhead in one of the Central Valley tailwaters. There's still time to intercept these interesting and persistent fish.

Tailwater Time Continues

2009-01-16T04:57:00.000-08:00

Despite unusual weather patters (as in WARM!), the tailwaters of the Central valley are proving to be a smart winter option. Try to shoot for overcast days for potentially stronger hatches. We're doing float trips down a handful of these waters and the fun factor is high with the added bonus of healthy and sizable fish. *Also see previous posts.*

Football Season

2009-01-14T09:31:00.000-08:00

Not to be outdone, Steve Wright's football here would be a fine playmate for Dennis' stellar catch from a few days earlier. Another reward from the world of tailwaters.

Early 09

2008-12-25T10:31:00.000-08:00

Strange things happen when you don't stop fishing! Dennis Nishimine decided that Christmas eve was as good a time as any to hit the water and landed what Sierra Flyfisher has decided was fish-of-the-year. As of early January, other waters will be kicking into gear as well.

More October Caddis!

2008-10-29T21:25:00.000-07:00

Hello friends! The window is closing but not yet closed. Jonathan Kalpakoff shows off a dusk beauty from the Merced. Big flies and aggressive takes make this a fun time. Note the glow in the sky behind Jonathan. Nothing more magical than dusk in fall in the Sierra!

Trout Camp and October Caddis

2008-10-26T14:52:00.001-07:00

Trout Camp 08 wrapped up with gold and brown on the leaves of the trees and swimming in the waters. A few cold snaps and foul weather days seemed to only spike the quality of the fishing if one rode them out. We will be compiling some photos and making a few posts but for now we two shots courtesy of the Ladybugs club; a group of stellar people with fun on their agenda. Look for more from our team and our clients. Currently, on the Merced, the October caddis hatch remains solid and the fish are keyed-in.

Fall at Trout Camp Update

2008-10-08T09:15:00.000-07:00

Trout Camp is in full swing with the fish really frisky. Browns are on the move but there's some variety to be had if one wants it with goldens also available.

Late Summer into Fall - Trout Camp

2008-09-12T17:41:00.000-07:00

Our annual trout camp begins soon and the browns are getting frisky. Give us a holler for the latest updates as well as booking availabilities. Here's a healthy west slope brown from just a few days ago.

We will be posting more reports and images as the season progresses. We anticipate stellar fishing.

Yosemite Rivers Fly Shop OPENS July 26th, 2008

2008-07-26T06:21:00.000-07:00

Exciting news everyone (that will explain the lapse in entries!). We have not only been busy with guiding but are also opening a shop catering to fly fisher-folk. It is located just a few miles west of the Yosemite National Park boundary on hwy 140 directly across the street for the Merced River.

The number is 209-379-2140 This will be operating seasonally and will also serve as a base of operations for Sierra Fly Fisher. Give us a call or pop on in.

Early 2008 Rocks

2008-01-27T11:05:00.000-08:00

Did some drifts on the lower elevation waters and sampled stellar bows. Great times.

Keveny Dugan with a stellar fish.

January 2008

2008-01-17T19:38:00.001-08:00

The year has started off with a bang. Richard Masino shows off one of several specimens we took at the Lower Kings in early January.

Early 2008 Report

2008-01-17T17:32:00.001-08:00

The year has started off with a bang. Richard Masino shows off one of several specimens we took at the Lower Kings in early January.

Early 2008 Report

2008-01-17T17:09:00.001-08:00

The year has started off with a bang with me guiding clients like Richard Masino towards some stellar specimens. Here's one below with more photos soon!

Late Fall Early Winter

2007-11-11T12:24:00.001-08:00

Although gearing up for steelhead season and trout on some lower elevation waters, the brookies remain aggressive in the high Sierra lakes and the elements have yet to prevent us from our exploits. We also were proud to have provided service recently to a team of trout extremists (Dave, Joe, Bernard, Mikey, ). They needed to be dropped off with mountain bikes and fully loaded backpacks for a multi night back country trek of extreme proportions. We picked them up days later to an earful of tales of bears, bows and browns.

Wild Trout Camp Fall 2007 Report

2007-09-27T18:16:00.000-07:00

The annual Wild Trout Camp was one of the best we've had. Despite the dry year the fish made a spectacular showing. Client Irene Killian had a great day with specimens such as these beauties below. Please feel free to contact us asap about winter opportunities.

2007 Summer Report #2

2007-09-01T22:16:00.000-07:00

The season progresses with levels continuing to drop and water temps on the rise. Despite this, the savvy angler will still have great days.

Client Lew Raker sampled some gems of the Sierra. High country treks are a smart call this year and the fish are plentiful and beautiful. The waters are cool and clear up high.

Southern California backcountry fanatic Bernard Yin spotted this guy chasing a 14 inch rainbow that was rising to his fly. Bernard switched to a streamer and on the third pass...well, we'll let the picture tell the story.

Thanks B for letting us be the first to post this.

2007 Summer Report #1

2007-07-09T19:23:00.000-07:00

Despite unusually low precipitation from this past winter, our watersheds will keep producing. A careful selection of cool locations with ample flows and levels has had the last few weeks treating us to some great fish.

Ian Davies hooks up after a stealthy approach.

A sample of the results

A recent extended jaunt to the area by Les Landau paid off in spades!

End of April Update

2007-04-29T21:29:00.000-07:00

Be on the lookout as our dry year produces some unusually good fishing in places that are normally still roaring. Some small stream action already looking good as of opening day. Meanwhile, the Lower Kings is cranking 'em out. Check out these fine fish caught by Fred Ramirez and Jim Grave.

Late April Report 2007

2007-04-22T16:31:00.000-07:00

It's late April with opening day right around the corner. Scouting some of our local waters have found that many will be In great shape for the opener. Many mid-level (4000ft.-6000ft.) streams will be at best flows come opening day. Recent cold spell has slowed the run-off on the upper Kings river. Salmon-fly hatch Is going strong. Lower Kings flows will not rise till mid-May.

Justin Lazar got bragging rights on a recent trip.

Our trustworthy vessels.

Early 2007 Report

2007-03-05T11:57:00.001-08:00

I am fishing up a storm. That perhaps best explains why it took so long to post an update. From here on out, I should have something fresh every couple of weeks or so. Things have been great! Pictured above is one of many large fish taken on the Lower Kings River. The angler is Stephen Forrest. As of early March, flows are now up to 650cfs. These flows should remain throughout March. The blue-winged-olive hatch is still coming off In the afternoons, but the majority of fish are being taken sub-surface. Steelheading on the lower Merced river remains very hit-and-miss. Recent storms may push more fish up into the system. The Upper Kings(above Pine Flat Reservoir) March Brown hatch should be in full swing by the 15th of the month. I still have some open dates between March 20th and Easter.