California Fly Fisher

California Fly Fisher is the definitive voice of fly fishing in the Golden State. From the steelhead rivers of the North Coast to the trout streams of the Eastern Sierra, each issue explores California’s rich angling landscape with vivid storytelling, expert advice, and stunning photography. Discover top destinations in and around the state, sharpen your skills with pro tips and techniques, and meet the people shaping the sport—from legendary anglers to emerging voices. With fly-tying insights, conservation features, and deep dives into California’s iconic waters, California Fly Fisher is more than a magazine—it’s a celebration of a unique angling culture.

A LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

California Fly Fisher

A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

In This Issue

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Events

To Read

To Watch

An Autumn to Remember

Making The Right Moves • If you look at a natural setting, such as a meadow or forest, your attention will naturally be drawn toward things that move, like birds, squirrels, snakes, and mountain lions.

The Adachi Clouser • Simple Materials, Smart Techniques, and a Flashy Finish

Anatomy Of a Fall • If you’re looking for somewhere to crack a rib, the Middle Fork of the American River is a fine choice.

The Delta Angling for Stripers • My outboard engine roared up the South Mokelumne River, passing numerous high-percentage fishing spots and other eager anglers along the way. My clients, Jeff and Garrett, enthusiastically asked where we were headed, and I gave them a nonchalant answer.

The Delta | Quick Guide

GEOLOGY: SACRAMENTO-SAN JOAQUIN DELTA

THE MAJESTIC RETURN OF THE SANDHILL CRANES

Captain Mike Costello

7 QUESTIONS WITH MIKE

The Saga of California Striped Bass

Summer Swinging

Reverence for the Steelhead

Yamsi Ranch • WILLIAMSON RIVER, OREGON

Putah Creek • Folklore surrounds it. Famous singers have sung about it, writers have put pen to paper over it, and anglers have long flocked to it.

A Guide's Perspective on Putah Creek • Nestled in the rolling golden hills of Northern California, just outside the Bay Area, lies the small town of Winters.

The California Golden Trout Rush

A Conversation with Conway Bowman

Buster Wants to Fish

Twilight Rite A Tale of Two Spiders

Tying Notes

Eagle Lake AN OVERLOOKED GEM IN THE HIGH DESERT • Eagle Lake will always remind me of my good friend, Jay Fair (rest his kind soul)—a man who taught as much about life as he did about fly fishing.

Local Guides

The Delta

Don't Forget Your Roots