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

The First Trout

Flash

Tying The Photon Torpedo

Defining 'Bugginess' • Materials and methods for irresistible flies

Learning to Mend

SPOTLIGHT DESTINATION YOSEMITE • A beautiful place to fish A busy and climate-change-confronted park–with incredible opportunities for anglers

GUIDE PROFILE

FIELD NOTES

The River Is Open • A glaring opportunity in California for women

Urban Fly Fishing: SACRAMENTO • Four iconic species and a year-round fishery running through the heart of California's capital

24 Hours In Sacramento

Sacramento Perch: California's Heritage Sunfish

Why Fly Lines Matter

The Therapeutic Power of Fly Fishing • How rivers, rhythm, and community are helping people heal through fly fishing.

The Good Fight • A look beneath the hood of California's largest ever land-return to save the lifeline of the Klamath River

More Cold Water for the Scott River, California's Coho Haven

Advent of the Indicator: A California Story

Stripers in the Bay

Stories Cane • The means are more important than the ends

BASS 101

The Lower Yuba River • Lessons forged in clear water

A Dam Dilemma: The Yuba River's Nature-Like Fishway

Hal Janssen

Crowley Lake

Yosemite

New Year's Resolution