President’s Message
My apology as the Club has missed a couple of monthly Newsletters. There’s been a lot happening which has affected the Club. Jon Hart and Celine Bayla passed away and it’s been a tremendous loss for the Club and its members. In many ways, they were the heartbeat of the Club and the fly fishing community in Southern California. Jon was instrumental in writing up the Club’s Proposed Fishing Regulation Changes and was our Tenkara expert. Celine spearheaded getting more women into fly fishing in Southern California and was just starting to guide on the Kern River. But they were more than fly fishing celebrities. They were two people that believed in conservation and changed their lifestyle by moving from the concrete jungle of LA to live in the outdoors by the Kern River. Many of us dream about fly fishing, mountain biking and hiking every day, but these two made the conscience decision and made the move. They quickly became part of the local scene becoming active in the Keepers of the Kern, Kern River Conservancy and our Club. They became part of the solution and made a difference. I miss them every day.
Club member Justin Bubenik has written a beautiful memorial and it follows in this newsletter.
Come fish with us….. an everyday quote from Celine Bayla.
Chiaki
Member Spotlight: Justin Bubenik
1. Retired or working. If working, what do you do?
Wow - starting with the interesting stuff…I’m working. During the day (and most nights and a portion of the weekend), I’m a lawyer, but you won’t find me in court. I stick to the desk and mostly handle contracts and negotiations relating to commercial real estate transactions.
2. How did you get started in fly fishing?
Every summer, for as long as I care to remember, my dad would stick a backpack on me and we’d hike in to the same mountain lake in Oregon that my grandfather and great grandfather hiked into since when they were kids. The 3 mile hike that seemed tortuous to me was a fraction of the 30 miles hike the past generations endured, but I still would complain the whole way - until I’d catch sight of the lake. Each evening, my dad would take me out in a raft with his old fly rod and a dry fly (the only type of fly that he was aware of at the time), and row us around, dragging the fly on the surface behind the raft as I held the rod. The wild brook trout and rainbows would nail those dries, making it easy for the 4-7 year old me to get the fish on the reel and tow each in. By my 8th birthday, I’d had enough and I needed a rod of my own. From there on out, I was a lost cause and spent my time attempting to learn every aspect of fly fishing through books, videos and forums. By the time I was able to drive, I had worked up a list of rivers, lakes and puddles that could hold fish in the Portland-Metro area and I was dead set on fishing each of them. My dedication has wavered at times, but I’d still say I proudly nerd out on fly fishing.
3. Did you have a mentor?
I’ve had and continue to have a number of mentors when it comes to fly fishing. There are so many aspects to the sport - different species, conditions, water types, techniques and methods - and so many opportunities to learn. Just last year, Jon Hart taught me how to use a tenkara rod during the SSFF Tenkara Clinic, Dave Smith got me started euro-nymphing on the Owens trip, and Celine got me on carp. I could go on and credit countless individuals through the years but I’ll stop and just say that I’m indebted to them all!
4. Describe your favorite style of fly fishing.
It’s hard to argue with dry fly fishing so I won’t, but I’ll add a level of snobbery by saying my absolute favorite style of fly fishing is skating dry flies for steelhead. There’s something about watching a big muddler throw up a wake, it’s hard to look away. The odds are low, but seeing one explode on the dry (and miss) is a rush - and, more often than not, you can swing back through the run with a wet fly and connect.
5. What was your most memorable fly-fishing experience?
Keeping with the theme, my first steelhead on a swung fly was pretty memorable. My dad, sister and I were on an annual float of the lower Deschutes, fishing our way down to the Columbia and camping on the river along the way. I was around 14 and it was my first trip that I was sticking my nose up at conventional gear and sticking to my single-handed 8-weight I’d picked up the year before. The first night, I was fishing a run across from camp as it was nearing dark - swinging a fly that I was quite proud of at the time - not only did I tie it myself but I also “designed” it. The steelhead hit right in the middle of the swing and took off on a reel screaming run. I’m sure I was shaking the whole time, but I can’t recall if I was smiling or grimacing, about ready to crap my pants. After a good fight and a few more runs, I was able to land the 34” buck. Needless to say, I was all grins after that and was hooked.
6. Why do you fly fish?
My answer would change depending on when you ask me. One day I would be on the water hoping to get my mind off work and relax for a while, another it would give me the time to think, and another I’d be out there with just a need to be enveloped in nature. One day I’ll want solitude, and the next all I’d want is to be surrounded by a bunch of people just as obnoxious as myself. Fly fishing is a pursuit that can be adapted to my mood in any given moment - it can be as simple, complex, intense or laidback as you want to make it - maybe that is why I do it.
7. If you could fly fish anywhere in the world, where and why?
Apologies for the elaboration, but I’ve had some time to think about this: My fly fishing dream is to be flown far off in a float/bush plane or helicopter and be dropped off on some unnamed coastal stream with a raft and enough supplies to last a week, and where the chances of running into another fisherman are nil. The accommodations wouldn’t be glamorous, but the opportunity to swing flies for nearly untouched runs of steelhead would outweigh the desire for creature comforts.
8. Music you've been listening to lately?
Recently, and always, I’ve been indecisive. A sampling of artists appearing in my recent song history include: The Lumineers, Old Dominion, Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats, Taylor Swift, The Eagles, Beyonce, George Ezra, Alabama Shakes and Cardi B.
The impact Celine and Jon each had on those who knew them, and the California fly fishing community at large, will be lasting, but the void they leave is going to be impossible to fill. They were both dedicated to introducing people of all backgrounds to the joys of fly fishing, and their passion for protecting our state’s native trout and wild places was inspiring. Jon and Celine’s contributions through Southern Sierra Fly Fishers, whether planning events, tournaments and outings or lending their skills or mentorship to those new to the sport, were countless.
Though not everyone may have reaped these benefits, they’re likely the only couple that would ever let you clean (and cook) carp, quail, crawfish, crappie and cottontail on their back porch, without flinching, and then eat each willingly. Their home, and the Kern River Valley, was a refuge from city life and a basecamp to adventure, but it was Celine and Jon that made any trip worthwhile. Even when work had me down, they were there to drag me outdoors and distract me for a few hours on the water (and probably out-fishing me).
It will be difficult to blare Beyonce across the water, sneak in on a clopping carp or watch another fly gal hook up without letting out a “YASSS” and not thinking of Celine. And it will be impossible to pick up a tenkara rod (and undoubtedly get it stuck in a tree), wet-wade when it’s too cold (just to prove a point) or pluck a trout out of a hole Sergio just worked, without thinking of Jon.
A tribute to Celine Bayla.
Celine's Fly Gals Weekend
Celine's Fly Gal Weekend 2019 was a huge success! Nearly 40 new ladies were given an in depth introduction to fly fishing on Saturday, October 12. The day started out at the Kern River Fly Shop with the Buhler Bros, Rob and Ryan gaving tribute to Celine Bayla and what she meant to our club, followed by Guy Jeans welcome introduction to fly fishing.
The event moved right after at the Kern River Hatchery where it started with a Yoga class led by Dana Adams from Mindful Bodies Yoga. There were 7 stations were set-up: Entomology, Fly Tying, Gear, Knots, Conservation, Casting, and for the first time this year, we added Catching. Of course, this station was a big hit with the students. The day ended with enthusiastic women ready to hit the water.
Sunday, October 13 was a fishing day with their mentors. Everyone had an amazing day on the water with many catching their first fish on the fly. The smiles on the ladies was infectious. We couldn't be more proud as a club to put together such an event. Celine definitely would have been proud, too.
Thank you, Marisol Moreno for her dedication and organizing such a great event. Thank you to all our instructors, volunteers, and our supporters. This would not have been possible if it weren't for all of you.
California Fly Fishing Open
On September 21, Southern Sierra Fly Fishers held the California Fly Fishing Open Tournament with 17 teams competing consisting of 82 participants and 421 fish were caught and released. We raised $5,000 to be split between Casting for Recovery and Kern Valley Search and Rescue as beneficiaries of this fun event. The tournament was held on the Kern River in the morning with participants collecting trash as they fly fished. In the afternoon, 148 guest were entertained by the rock surf band Par Avion with famous fly fisher Bernard Yin on lead guitar, his wife Rebecca on bass and Dusty Watson on drums. Dusty was Dick Dale’s former drummer. They rocked. 10 vendors displayed their goods and everyone enjoyed the BBQ dinner provided by Freddie Ramirez (former fly fishing guide) and the boys. Olympic type metals: Gold, Silver and Bronze were handed out to the winning teams. Everyone had a blast.
Please save September 26, 202 for next year’s California Fly Fishing Open. Get your team together and enjoy a fun day. What can be better: fly fishing, rock and roll, BBQ, beverages and making new friends. See you and your team next year.
Club’s 1st Montana Trip
We had 14 Club members on the Club’s first trip to Montana from July 11th to 16th. A few of us even went a day early just to get more fishing time. Our primary water to fish was Rock Creek in the southwest portion of the state, just outside of Missoula. We all stayed at Sky Ranch Resort, near the confluence of Rock Creek and the Clark Fork River. This resort was very unique with half the lodging accommodations inside the lodge and the other half outside glamping style; in yurts and teepees. They even had one shower outside, which I found very refreshing. The shower did have a wooden fence wall perimeter, but there wasn’t a roof. You could look up and see the tree tops and the clear blue sky. Something about taking a shower outside really brings you back to nature.
Derek was the head chef with plenty of sous chefs to assist in the dinners. The 1st night’s meal was outstanding with tri tip, chicken, corn on the cob and salad. If he were to open a restaurant, I would give it 5 yelp stars. A big thanks to Derek for all the great meals.
In addition to Rock Creek, I fished Georgetown Lake, Flint Creek, Clark Fork and the Blackfoot. The biggest surprise was Greogetown Lake. Most of this lake is very shallow with big rainbows. I reached back into my shallow lake fishing experience and quickly figured the technique to catching those big bows. Double hauling to 20” rainbows were common and we ended the day alongside Randy’s boat sight fishing for the cruising bows using carp style flies. Fun times!
Rock Creek is a very long river with tons of trout. Access is limited in the lower reaches but wide open in the upper portion. We fished mostly the upper portion and everyone had a blast. It was dry fly heaven on stimis, Purple Haze and anything else that floats. I found them in big pods and they were hungry. Of course, Sergio used his long line nyphing technique and had great success. He even fished dries just for a change of pace. Flint Creek, Clark Fork and the Blackfoot were bonuses on the trip. I was able to find a few trout in each of these waters. All these waters were new to me except the Clark Fork, which I fished about 12 years ago. It was good to see Donn Dale and fish his river again.
After the passing of Celine and Jon, this trip became a “healing” trip as it gave time for each of us to reflect on our memories of them. We knew they were with us, smiling at us, knowing we became closer as a family.
Chiaki
Kings River: First outing IN 2020
We will be staying in Fresno and meeting at Avocado Lake Park at 7:30am on the 18th
Our first outing of the year will be on January 18th & 19th, once again we will head North to the Lower Kings River. Last year we had 35 members enjoy a club prepared breakfast from the Fly Van, “Down By The River” We will be serving breakfast again this year.
Sat. Night - We will be meeting at the Picadilly Inn Airport MerLOT room. No host adult beverages at 6:00, no host dinner at 7:00. Festivities and normal shenanigans to follow. We will also be holding the second annual “White Fish” gift exchange. After last years spirited exchange, this is one you don’t want to miss. This year we’ve added a “Funky Fishing Hat” contest, the winner will receive a $50.00 gift card from Kern River Fly Shop. Another raffle for a coveted “Chiaki” made rod will take place also, bring your cash!! We will be holding our annual club members meeting, discussing upcoming outings. And we will be awarding the SSFFclub “Fly Fisher of The Year” award.
Accommodations
For the “civilized” SSFFclub member suggested lodging at the Piccadilly Inn Airport.
For the “ HARDY” SSFFclub member, suggested camping is at Riverbend Park just off the 180, east of Fresno. The campground which has RV hookups and tent camping is within walking distance from the Kings River and has bathrooms, showers and laundry. You can reserve online or call (559) 787-3627. If you are a tent camper ($20 per night) let Connie know you are part of Southern Sierra Fly Fishers and they will try to put us all in the same area.
For more info: wwhikerlday@gmail.com
Carole & Randy
Fishing report from 11-3, Lower Kings river.
Flows continue to drop, clearwater and lots of eager fish.
Flows were pushing 700cfs today. I had brought the Gary Anderson 2wt Trout Spey, just to get a bit of “swinging” in before winter chrome starts showing. I found a sweet run, 200 feet long, crystal clear water. A foot deep that ran at a 40 degree angle to the bank, dumping into 6 foot of water. A swingers dream would be an appropriate name for this slot. I started high in the run, swinging across the shallow water, letting the Black Bugger drop over the shelve into the green deeper water. 3 cast, step down, repeat. I picked up 3, 8 inch cookie cutter locals before reaching the end of the run.
Now working my way back up the run I was swinging from the deeper water, up over the shelve, into the shallows. The first grab caught me by surprise, it was right on the edge of the current change. I waited a couple minutes to allow the fish to get back into position. Yes, I had pulled the bugger out of its mouth. Ha, it happens. Same cast same spot, this time the fish chased the fly right onto the shallow riffle. I immediately crouched down to hide my profile. He porpoised after the fly for about 10 feet, making a huge wake. Suddenly turning and swimming back to the deeper water. Now I know where he’s at. I take some time and switch over to a Rusty Seal Leach. As the fly started the swing, I kept a couple feet of slack line in my hand. Through the deep water, up onto the shelve and there he was. In hot pursuit of what he thought was his next meal. 😁 I immediately released the slack line, the fly dropped back and the big guy immediately spun around and hammered the leach. The 2wt quickly bent deep, the Hardy Bougle was screaming as line was exiting the small reel. The click & pawl drag was no match for the big fish. I couldn’t turn the fish with the light setup, into the deep fast water it went. The line went limp, I reeled in to find only the curlicue evidence of a poorly tied knot at the end of the leader. I laughed, remembering what a guide friend of mine once told me. “Some days you’re a pro, some days you’re a rookie” This day, the rookie reeled in his line and headed back to the truck.
Southern Sierra Fly Fishers 2020 Calendar
January 18/19: Lower Kings Outing. Saturday morning: Breakfast sponsored by SSFFC down by the riverside. Saturday night: We will be meeting at the Picadilly Inn Airport MerLOT room. No host adult beverages at 6:00, no host dinner at 7:00. Whitefish (white elephant) gift exchange - Sign up below or email: Randy - mdcitrusrandy@ocsnet.net
February 8/9: Lower Owens Outing - Bishop. Saturday morning meet for no host breakfast. Dinner at Pizza Factory. Details TBD, RSVP: Chiaki - haramic@aol.com
March 8 – 13: Lake Pyramid – Outside of Reno, NV Details TBD RSVP: Randy - mdcitrusrandy@ocsnet.net
March 28/29: Fly Tying Class & Club Meeting: Fly tying class with the Buhler Bros: 9:00 am Kernville Chamber of Commerce room. RSVP: Chiaki - haramic@aol.com Club meeting 7:00 pm Kernville Chamber of Commerce room. Guest speaker: Guy Jeans. Fly fish the Kern river on Sunday.
April 25/26: Kelsey Bass Ranch – Merced This outing is held in conjunction with the Wilderness Fly Club. We will be camping and fishing a private lake. Rod fee apply. RSVP: Chiaki - haramic@aol.com
May 16: The Jon Hart Carpfest: This is a partnered carp tourney. Check in at Kern River Fly Shop. Details TBD Signup will become available on the website
June 13: Kids Academy and Meeting: Kids ages 8 to 18 learn to fly fish. Limited to 15 kids. Details TBD RSVP: Chiaki - haramic@aol.com Club meeting 7:00 pm Kernville Chamber of Commerce room. Details TBD
July 13 – 18: Rancho Leonero, Mexico Panga fishing for dorado, roster fish, wahoo, tuna, etc. Details TBD RSVP: Randy - mdcitrusrandy@ocsnet.net If you are interested in the trip, contact Randy ASAP.
Aug. 1/2: Mammoth – Crowley Outing: Fish the San Joaquin on Saturday and Crowley on Sunday.
Sept. 12: Beginners Day Class: Learn how to fly fish class for beginners. Lunch provided, limited to 50 people. RSVP: Chiaki - haramic@aol.com
Sept. 25: Kids Poker Night: Join the fund raising efforts for our Kids Academy playing Texas Holdem.
Sept 26: California Fly Fishing Open: Join the 4th annual CFFO. Check in at Kern River Fly Shop and afternoon activities at Rivernook campgrounds. Signup will become available on the Club webite.
Oct. 10/11: Celine’s Fly Gals Weekend: Beginners Women’s fly fishing class. Lunch provided, limited to 50 women. RSVP Marisol: moreno_marisol@ymail.com
Please note all events are subject to weather conditions and river flows. Additional event details will be provided as the events become current.