Hecky’s two days of Steelhead fishing
December 26 & 27, 2012
I hooked up with fellow Guide and friend Forrest Brizendine and friend Jason Wallace. I would say which area we fished but they told me I would have my tires slashed and truck shot up. Two days of fishing we were 45 landed and 63 hooked, the biggest fish was around 8lbs (not pictured). We had a high of 35 degrees and a low of 15 degrees, us Steelhead anglers must be really insane anyone in their right mind would be next to a fire or under an electric blanket.
- December 9, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Flyfishing
Today I guided Andy and his wife Nancy, on the Sacramento River, it was a nice day and we hooked around 15 Trout and we thought Nancy fought a Salmon for about a 1/2 hour or a giant Rainbow Trout, good fight Nancy.
- December 7 & 8, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly FishingI
had two days with Jake and Andrew, the first day we fished the Trinity River and we got a few grabs and couldn’t button up on any of them. The second day, I guided on the Sacramento River Caldwell Park, I believe we were 12 for 20 and we got two big Rainbow Trout in the 5lb class. Thanks Jake for helping us get those fires out in Northern California this last summer.
- December 2012
- UPDATE Sacramento River
Today I fished on the Sacramento River today and it was 6inch visibility and we were still 3 for 4 on Rainbow Trout, and 2 of the fish were over 20 inches.
- UPDATE Trinity River
After a good October and November season, the Trinity River is some say, the second best Steelhead since the infamous 06/07 season. Some are even saying the 06/07 and this current run have been the best in 2 Decades. We have to say the Restoration Program could be a big impact for this. Currently, we have just experienced one of the biggest rain storms in the Northern California Region in a long time. Some areas received up to 27 inches in a 3 day period. The Trinity River drops pretty quickly and should be the best yet to come. I looked on my graph today and Junction City peaked at 27,000 cfs and 2 days later it is just going under 4,000 cfs. We have another storm coming in and then it is supposed to break. If your Flyfishing for Winter steelhead, a Guide is a good way to go because you can take the guess work away and make sure your fishing the best water all of the time. Last year our Winter Steelhead showed up around the 15th of the month around October/November, I can’t wait to see what this latest run of fish look like.
- November 24, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Mike and his dad Bill on the Sacramento River, we floated the Sundial Bridge float to Anderson boat ramp. When we got to Bonneyview, we had hooked 3 fish and decided to go to Caldwell park. The bite was slow, we tried caddis, mayflies and the 6 fish we hooked,or the 3 fish we landed was on eggs.
- Hookem Heckys new Streamtech Raft
- November 18, 2012
Get ready people we can escape the floatilla. I took this thru areas on the Trinity River that hard boats can’t go. Especially on low water flows. This raft will be ready in about a week, I still have changes to do to make it more safe.
- November 16 & 17, 2012
- Trinity River Flyfishing
- Fly Fishing
Today we had a two boat trip on the Trinity River, the Guides were myself and Forrest Brizendine. The first day we were 2 for 5 Steelhead. Butch and Pat were 5 for 10 Steelhead. The second day we were 0-4, and Forrest’s boat was 1 for 3. The fish came on eggs, Pheasant Tail and small stones.
- November 14, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Carter and Dave on the Trinity River, I believe we were 4 for 7 on Adult Steelhead. The guy on right was Dave, he fought a really nice fish for a long time and deserved a picture, but yes the fish did get away. Eggs and Pheasant Tails did the trick.
- November 12 & 13, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly FishingToday
I guided Joe and Dave on the Trinity River, I forget our numbers but we were 0-3 for the first day and the second day we were 2 for 5 on Adult Steelhead. I was guiding for Aaron Grabiel, and his boat was similar, the second day the fish seemed to bite beter. The fish Joe got on the left was close to 10lbs.
- November 9, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Nelson and Bob, we hooked and landed 1 Steelhead, 2 German Browns and 2 1/2 pounders. It was froze in the morning, but the afternoon was pleasant. It was a two boat trip, the other Guide was Slim and his boat was 2 for 3 on adult Steelhead. I floated Junction City area Slim floated Douglas city area, lots of fish around but they were tight lipped. I’ll be on the Trinity for the next 7 days, I will have my next posts up after that.
- November 8, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Andy on the Trinity River, we were 2 for 4 Adult Steelhead, and it wasn’t from lack of fish, they were put down from an Alaskan storm front. It was spitting snow but the float was much less busy. I tried to stay away from the floatillas (a bunch of boats.) Good to see you again Andy.
- November 5 & 6, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly Fishing
I guided Joe and Wayne today on the Trinity River, the first day was fair and the picture of Joe holding his arms open is from a fish that he landed but during the pciture came out of his hands and into the water. I forget how many we hooked and landed the first day. The second day we fished Evans float and it was crowded. I believe we had hooked two fish on the float, I picked up the boat and put it on the trailer and scurried to a bucket I know of where we hooked 3 more adult Steelhead. This season we are having is comparable to the 07′ season, just twice as many boats than we had then. Great to see you Joe and Wayne, see you in January!
- November 4, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Mark and his Brother-In-Law Max. We fished the morning and the bite was a little on the slow side, I think alot of it has to with the low pressures that are coming in these fish will aclimate to the fall weather pattern probably in the next week or so. We were 2 for 6 and we fished from 8 till Noon. Nice fishing with you Mark and Max hope to see you again.
- November 3, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Logan and Jeremy, I was working forJim Roberts. I am not sure how many we hooked or landed but it was good enough. It was a two boat trip, the other guide was Forrest Brizendine and his guys did good too.
- November 1 & 2, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly Fishing
I guided Jerry and Brett, it was a 2 boat trip. On the first day the other Guide was Forrest Brizendine, and on the second day the Guide was Matt Mitchell. We were 15 for 27 on adult Steelhead in two days, and right now Brett has the biggest fish I got this year in my boat. Forrest fished with Jack and his friend Steve. They did good too. On the second day Matt Mitchell had Jack and Steve and they did good also. The fish came on eggs and October Caddis pattern. Below pictured are is an Adult German Brown and a Juvenile German Brown. Always good to see you Jerry and Brett, and I look forward to fishing with you again.
- October 31, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Steve and his son, Chris on the Trinity River. And let me tell you it poured! I had to bilge my boat 3 times. We were 5 for 9 on Steelhead. Steve is one of my friends from age 12. I remember when that little guy (Chris) was born. We refer to Chris as Mini Me from the movie Austin Powers, lol. Steve and Chris just went to the Bering Sea in Nome, Alaska for Ocean Gold, and you can see them on the outdoor channel.
- October 29, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Jeff on the Trinity River. One of the northstate’s finest contractors, we were 5 for 7 on adult Steelhead. Eggs and stoneflies did the trick. Always good to fish with you Jeff.
- October 28, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Andy Main and his friend, Mike on the Trinity River. We hooked into 12 Steelhead, and landing 5 of them. And yes, the bigger ones did get away. The Flies of choice today was Mayfly Patterns and small stones. The client on my left is Andy Main, designer and host of my website.
- October 27, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly Fishing
- 2 Boat Trip
Today I had a two boat trip on the Trinity River, we fished Junction City I guided John and Doug in my boat, and Matt and Steve were in Matt Mitchell’s boat. Evans Bar was very crowded, by the way if you go to put your boat in and you see 12 trialers and 8 boats that havent’ taken off yet, don’t put your boat in you wont have fun. So Matt Mitchell looked at me and said “I am going to do something different,” I aked my guys if you want to fish together or go apart they said it didn’t matter. I did the Evans Bar down float, it was crowded I had a tough time getting water, I got a little water although we should have done a little better. We hooked two Steelhead and 1 other fish that we didn’t know what it was except it was bigger. Matt’s move paid off, they got into 12 Steelhead in one spot, and a couple more fish on the float. Always good to fish with you guys, we will get them better next time John.
- October 26, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Larry and his friend, Rick. I just fished Larry and his friend Andy a week ago, we hooked over 50 fish on the previous trip. Well let me tell you a cold front can affect the bite. I believe this trip today, we hooked 9 fish and landed the majority of them, the few fish we got to bite came on eggs. We have good days coming on the Sacramento River in November, it must be the warm weather turning to fall. Always great to see you Larry and also nice meeting you Rick.
- October 24 & 25, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Trinity River
- Sacramento River (10/24)
I guided one of my longtime clients Butch today on the Sacramento River. We did a 1/2 day due to the San Francisco Giants World Series. Which they won 8 to 1 over Detroit. Go Giants!! We fished the Reds with eggs and we didn’t really count but the bite was good.
- Trinity River (10/25)
The second day, Butch and I fished on the Trinity River it was a pretty nice day. Again we had to be off the early due to the San Francisco Giants and Detroit Tigers World Series. The Giants won the game 2 to 0. Go Giants!!! We were 5 for 9 on Adult Steelhead, we caught them on eggs and Pheasant Tails. Always good to see you Butch.
- October 21, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided for the first time Andrew and his wife Anna on the lower Sacramento River. We floated the Sundial Bridge to Anderson, with the storm front coming. All these fish would eat during the day was eggs. The last hour of the day we had a small caddis bite. I really want to tell you I enjoyed fishing with you and hope to see you again. Thank You.
- October 20, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Chris and Ryan, we were 4 for 14 Adult Steelhead. The temperature was around 80 degrees under blue skies with Fall colors perfect day on the Trinity River. The fish were biting on eggs. It’s always nice to see you guys, hope to see you soon.
- October 18 & 19, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided for Matt Mitchell (fellow Independent Guide) on the Trinity River. The first day I had Frank and Bob, we were 3 for 10 on adult Steelhead, hooked a Salmon and 1/2 pound Steelhead. Like the Sacramento River the Trinity is full of spawning Salmon and the holes are full of Salmon maturing to Spawn. The keywords Salmon = Egg bite, there is quite a few Steelhead in the system. We floated campground to Pigeon Point. The second day we did the same float I guided Mike and Dick, we were 3 for 9 on Adult Steelhead. These fish are hot and they come off easy.
- October 17, 2012
- Flyfishing
- Sacramento River
Today I guided Larry, Larry I have to say comes up more than any one person. Thanks Larry for your loyalty and patronage. I got to say it is nice to see Salmon in the Sacramento River, the Salmon run could be the biggest run in a decade, some are saying two decades, that’s why the Trout are keyed to the Egg bite due to the spawn. We took our time today and fished the Sundial Bridge to Bonneyview Boat Ramp. The fishing was steady all day eggs and Caddis were what they were eating.
- October 12 & 13, 2012
- Fly Fishing
- Sacramento River & Trinity River
Today I guided Dave and Judy on the Sacramento River, we floated Sundial Bridge Float to Anderson River Park, California. Fishing was moderate we worked for them, but hooked enough. The bite was eggs and Caddis.
The second day (Oct. 13), we fished the Trinity River floated Swimming hole to Pigeon Point, we were four Steelhead for 8. We went thru a little lull in the afternoon, we stayed out late as you can tell from the picture. We got into about 5 more steelhead in the last hour and half. Nice to see you guys again, thank for coming.
- October 11, 2012
- Fly Fishing
- Lower Sac
- Redding, California
Today I guided Jim and Richard on the Lower Sacramento River. We floated Posse Grounds to Anderson,California. We had a cold front come in today it affected the bite. We still good, hooked somewhere around 20 fish give or take. Most of the day was nice, but around 3:00 we had some wind gusts to 50 mph with sustained winds 20 to 30 mph. I am sure glad it held off so we only had a couple hours to be in it. Nice to see you again Jim.
- October 10, 2012
- Fly Fishing
- Sacramento River
Today I guided Larry and Andy, good to see you guys again. What a day, we hooked close to 60 Rainbow Trout, and let me tell you that is not easy, that is why we use the term close to or around, it’s not easy to keep track of that many fish. It was eggs, eggs and more eggs, we did catch a few on Caddis and Mayflies too. Our float was the Posse Grounds to Anderson, California. Nice work guys!
- October 9, 2012
- Fly Fishing
- Sacramento River
Today I guided Larry and his friend Brian on the Sacrament River. We floated Sundial Bridge float Posse Grounds to Bonneyview. Most of the fish were caught around Salmon Reds, we did get a few in the traditional seams. Those fish cam on Caddis. Enjoyed fishing with you both. It’s great to see you again Larry.
- October 8, 2012
- Fly Fishing
- Sacramento River
Today I guided Don, his son Ryan, and friend Richard. Ryan is one of two of Redding, California’s Olympians an awesome athlete. We had 3 in the boat plus myself. It was a great day, we caught the fish on a mixture of eggs, caddis and mayflies. Richard is 18 and would like to aspire to be a guide. After fishing with this young man, with his enthusiasm, quick learn and good nature I believe you can be a Guide or anything else you would like to do. Nice spending the day with all three of you.
- October 6, 2012
- Fly Fishing
- Lower Sacramento River
Guided Chuck and his son John, had a really good time and it is always good to see you guys again. We had another stellar day on the Sacramento River thru Redding, California to Anderson, California. I’ll see you in a couple of weeks John on the Trinity River. Go Giants!!
- October 5, 2012
- Fly Fishing
- Lower Sac River
I guided Tim and Doug today on the lower Sac River, eggs eggs eggs that is what is happening. It’s nice to see these Kings in the redds. We hooked and landed a bunch. Always good to see you Tim!
- October 3, 2012
- Fly Fishing
- Sacramento River
I guided my long time best customer Larry and his friend Tom on the Sac. River, we floated the Sundial Bridge float Posse grounds to Bonneyview. The bite was good, egg patterns did the trick. Sorry I didn’t get a picture of you Tom, it was nice fishing with you again.
- October 2, 2012
- Trinity River
- Salmon Fishing
I guided Matt and Pavell on the Trinity River, Pavell was visiting from Poland. It’s nice to have people visit from other countries and experience our rivers. We were 6 King Salmon for 12 on King Salmon (unfortunately I did not get any pics camera was dead). The Quickfish was the offering of choice. Good job guys!!
- September 29, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Roger and his son, Ryan, Fly Fishing on the Sacramento River. Our float was the Sundial Bridge Float fromthe Posse Grounds to Bonneyview Boat Ramp. We were 18 Rainbow Trout for over ? We caught a few fish on egg pattern, we saw about 15 to 20 King Salmon spawning, the front of the spawn. The rest of the fish came on Caddis, PMD and Baetis.
- September 27, 2012
- Trinity River
- Fly Fishing
Today I fished with fellow Guide Forrest, I told you guys I would go so I went out and scouted for Steelhead. We were 3 Adult Steelhead for 6 Adult Steelhead. With a 1/2 pounder, a German Brown and lost a big King Salmon. One of the fish we lost was giant, it skyed out of the water and threw the Fly and we looked at each other and I said I saw a red stripe and Forrest seen it too. The fish were bright and not leader shy, we used 2X 12lbs pound.
- September 21 & 22, 2012
- McCloud Reservoir
Guided two days on the McCloud Reservoir, this trip involved 8 Guides we worked for American Metals. I used my 99 Bayliner 1950 Model which I converted into a still water fishing boat with a 24 volt trolling motor and fishing platforms in the front and back. I did this trip about 5 years ago too and I really did good. This year the bite wasn’t as good for me, one day we got out really late. The first day we were 5 for 15 Rainbow Trout, the second day 7 for 12. We used indicators with nymphs under them and Streamers with shooting head. We caught fish on both. The first day I guided Mike and Jerry, the second day I guided Chris and Grant. My battery was dead so I didn’t have my camera working. I put a picture below of what the McCloud Reservoir looks like.
- September 17, 2012
- Sacrament River
- Fly Fishing
I guided Doug who is all the way from Pennsylvania on the Sacramento River, Sundial Bridge Float to the Bonneyview Boat Ramp. The bugs were Caddis and Mayflies. Doug caught this nice 18 inch Rainbow Trout, we had a good trip. Hope to fish you again Doug.
- September 16, 2012
- Trinity River
- Salmon Fishing
Today I guided Andy Main and his daughter, Lisa Main. Keep in eye out for Lisa in Tennis high-standing for Foothill High School. I knew this girl was going to catch fish when the first thing I said to her was I need you to start filleting these sardines and she stuck her hand out as if willing to take the job. All you guys knows most girls are going to say “I am not going to touch the Sardines.” Today we floated Douglas city to Junction City, and we were 3 for 7 on King Salmon. And YES Lisa got 2 of 3. Yes, Andy you did really good too.
- September 15, 2012
- Trinity River
- Salmon Fishing
Today was a two boat salmon trip, the other guide was Forrest Brizendine. I guided Neal and John, were 3 King Salmon for 5 Salmon. Neal had the spotlight he hooked all of the fish. We hooked our fish on Quikfish.
- September 12,2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided a half day on the Sac. River, my float was the Sundial Bridge to the Bonneyview Boat Ramp. I fished Larry and Mike. It has been so consistent out here that I am not counting because I lose count it’s too fast. Today it was all Caddis. We had a good time, and Mike you fished really well for your first time Fly Fishing!
- September 8 & 9, 2012
- Trinity River
- Salmon Fishing
Today we did a two boat guided King Salmon trip on the Trinity River. The guides were myself and Forrest Brizendine. The first day my boat was 6 Salmon for 9 and Forrest’s boat was (3) three Salmon for 7. The bite was really good in the morning on quick fish then turned into roe. The second day was a little bit tougher the fish moved thru the Trinity River. We were (2) two for 2 on Jack Salmon (immature King Salmon) we released both. Forrest was (1) one for 5 King Salmon. As always it is great to see you Dave, Jack, Joey and Pat!!
- September 4, 2012
- Trinity River
- Salmon Fishing
Today I guided Brian, Sr. and his two sons, Brian, Jr. and Nathaniel on the Trinity River for Salmon. The regulations are four (4) King Salmon per person starting September 1,2012, until some certain quota has been met. We were eight (8) salmon for 11. Five of the Salmon were pretty bright. I gotta say I sure like fishing with these fathers and watching them interacting with their kids. Good job boys!!
- September 3, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
I guided Chris and Redding’s Olympian Ryan, a marathon runner. Let me tell you both of these guys fished good, we had a great day. We hooked between 30 and 40 Trout. I lose count somewhere after 25. Today the Trout were biting on PMD’s and Caddis. (Sorry no picture).
- August 28 & 29, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
I guided Craig and Todd on the lower Sacramento River in Redding, CA, we fished 2 half days and we hooked a bunch. We floated Possee to Bonneyview, that seems to be where the majority of the big fish are. Caddis in the afternoon,midges in the morning.
- August 17, 18 &19, 2012
- Sacramento River (1 Day)
- Trinity River (2 Days)
- Two Boat Trip
Today, I guided Al, Greg, Nick and Lee on the Sacramento River. This was a two boat trip, the first day we fished on the Lower Sac. Possee grounds to Bonneyview, I had Al and Lee in my boat. We hooked 20 landed 13, the other Guide (Forrest Brizendine) had Al’s sons, Greg and Nick in his boat. I am not sure of the count, but they were doing good also. The fish were biting on PMD’S and Caddis Patterns.
The second day we fished the Trinity River in Junction City, we were 1 for 4, and I got to learn a lesson with tying a knot with a heavy gauge rope, the knot came thru when putting in the boat and the salmon fell off the stringer (bummer). Forrest had Al’s sons again, Greg and Nick they hooked 4 and landed 4, they caught 2 Kings and a Jack Salmon, including a half pound steelehead. We floated Junction City Campgrond to Pigeon Point. The second day I had Nick and Greg, and Forrest had Al and Lee. We landed 2 Salmon, Greg and Nick each caught one (1), we had a couple of other fish on for a brief moment but lost them. Forrest landed 1 caught by Lee and each of the guys lost a couple of fish also. Always a pleasure to0 fish you guys. Hope to see you in the Fall for Steelhead.
- (Lee, Nick, Al and Greg)
- Trinity River
- Al and Lee (Sacramento River)
- August14, 2012
- Salmon Fishing
- Trinity River
Today I guided Jason and Nick for Salmon on the Trinity River, the fishing was good we hooked 12 King Salmon landed 6. We fished in Junction City, all fish came on Quick Fish.
- August 9 & 10, 2012
- NorthernCaliforni
- Fly Fishing
- Sacramento River
Today I fished Jerry and Jack for two days on the Sacramento River. The first day we fished from 12:00 to dark, we hooked a bunch. We got our fair share to the boat. The hot flies were Caddis and PMD’s. The second day we met at 8:00a, we did a half day, the bbite was tough. So I threw an old stand by that the I haven’t used in a while, a little size 20 midge. Everyone fish we got in was on that fly. We land a couple of nice 20 inchers. Always nice to fish with you Jerry and Jack.
- August 7 & 8, 2012
- Northern California
- Fly Fishing
- Sacramento River
I guided John and his son Kirk for two days on the Sacramento River. We floated from the Posse Grounds to Anderson for two days. The fish were grabby, but we still were able to get some nice Trout to the boat. It’s always nice fishing with John you have progressed alot of the years, and by the looks of it your son is going to follow in you foot steps.
- August 3, 2012
- Northern California
- Fly Fishing
- Sacramento River
I got the pleasure today to fish with father, Brett and his son, Eli, 10 years old. It’s sure nice to see the youth like the sport of Fly Fishing. Eli that’s a nice 18 inch Rainbow you caught, Good Job! Keep up the good work and hope to see you soon.
- August 2, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I fished with Chris and Justin for a half day. We hooked between 15 and 20 Trout. We got into some nice fish, we floated Posse grounds to Bonneyview. The evening floats are sure nice and cool on the water. See you in a couple of weeks Chris.
- July 20, 2012
- Fly Fishing
- Sacramento River
I guided Roy and Tony today on the Sacrament River, we really had to work for these fish, but we ended up having a great day. The Caddis Pattern seemed to do the trick.
- July 10, 2012
- Nor. Cal.
- Sacramento River
Today I worked for Guide, Jim Roberts. I fished with Dick and Bill, we had thunder storms around us today and got completely soaked. We hooked about 15 trout and landed about half of them. We did get one double hookup/land.
- July 2012
- Northern California
- Sacramento River
I caught this fish on a small leech pattern throwing shooting heads in a drift boat you have to execute correctly or the fly will get you in the back of the head, if any of my clients would like to go and do this it’s a one person at a time in the boat or in a few wade spots where we can both get out. Nothing better than swinging a fly and feeling the grab except for visual take on the surface.
- July 9, 2012
- Northern California
- Sacramento River
Today I fly fished with Bill and his grandson, Rob, Jr. Like always i really enjoy watching the kids learn fly fishing. The bite was not wide open this day, we really worked for the fish we caught. But we managed to land some nice fish. Thanks Bill for bringing your grandson, hope to see you both again soon.
- June 21, 2012
- Northern California
- Klamath River
- Fly Fishing
Today I fished the Klamath River exploratory, I had over 50 grabs. I hooked 2 adults the other one I lost were on Golden Stone Drys. What was nice about this was to throw a single dry fly it didin’t matter if your were on a edge or some pocket/pools/tailouts, you put your fly there and the fish came up and jumped at it. Not too much oppurtunity to hook these fish on dry’s you can on the Klamath, there might be about 2 weeks left. You are up in the highdesert so its not to hot. Closest big town on the Upper Klamath river is Yreka.
- June 18, 2012
- Northern California
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Larry and his grandson, Chris on the Sacramento River. The nymphing was much better today, we hooked 17 fish. I think who is 9 years, hooked 6 and landed this nice fish pictured below. What a way to spend time with your Grandson,he always remember this day! (picture forthcoming)
- June 17, 2012Northern California
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
TodayI guided Larry Lack and his Grandson, Zach. Larry is also a guide from www.fromstarttofish.com (415) 307-5353, he is very involved in the fly fishing world and working with disabled Veterans. He is also a retired School Teacher and retired Colonel in the U.S. Rangers. I learn something from Larry every time I fish with him. Larry does walk and wade on the American, Yuba, Putah creek and other lakes around the Bay Area. On our trip, one day after the flow change the nymphing was better but not back yet. We still hooked over 10 fish even though the drys didn’t happen either. Zach you can really tell that your Grandpa spent alot of time with you, you have a great Double Haul, you make good mends, and you have a good hookset.
- June16, 2012
- Northern California
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Andy Main (www.shasta.com) and his client-friend Dan. Nymphing was slower we had a 1000 c.f.s. change. Not manny Caddis either for the drys, we will see what tomorrow holds. Thanks for all of the work Andy and thanks Dan for the Starthistle Honey, much appreciated everyone loves it.
- June 12,2012
- Northern California
- Fly Fishing
I guided Larry (one of my best clients) and Mike on the lower sacramento River. The weather was in the low 90’s and the fishing was good. What a introduction to the sac. like always great to see you .
- June 1 & 2, 2012
- Nor. California
- Fly Fishing
- Walk and Wade
- Upper Sacramento
I did a walk and wade guide trip to the Upper Sac above Lake Head. I worked for Jack Trout, there were 6 guides; myself, Jack Trout , Forrest Brizzendine, Matt Mitchel and Ike. You really get a since of Northern California on these trips. Spent two days up there on the Sac was still a bit on the high side, but caught a few fish. I went back a week later and fished streamers with a 30 ft type 6 shooting head during the day alot of my fish came casting up river into a hole and runs stip fast than current.but the big stones was most productive. And yes I did find this sqaw fish a discouraged predator with two monarch butterflies.
- May25 – 28, 2012
- Memoria Weekend
- Fort Bragg, CA
I got away with my wife Julie and two sons Danny 17 and Ben 7. Danny caught this nice salmon trolling a apex lure and caught a small capazone. They say this is going to be one of the best years in a long time, will see soon. Just hung around beach and campfire, had Indian Frybread, Abolone, Salmon, and yes back to the hotel room. We like to just visit the family’s campsite. Also visited the drive thru tree in Legget ,Ca
- May 21, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Rodger and Kevin on the Sacramento River, Northern California was 90 degrees we had a little cloud cover that helped a little. Look at the size of the football about an 18 inch Trout, probabley weighs 3 1/2 pounds or more. I have been using PMD patterns with fish also on caddis. We tried for dries but a cool spell kept the caddis from coming off. I did see pretty good dry hatch (PMD’s and Caddis).
- May 18, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Hank and Reganon the Sac. River in Redding, California. We floated the Sundial Bridge to Anderson Boat Ramp we had 3 fish on by lunch. This was a two boat trip, the other Guide on the trip was Jim Peddis. We changed up our PMD after lunch, and was able to hook 15 nice Trout. Both boats finished well. We had to be off the water by 7:00P, I looked from the boat ramp and the trout were feeding heavily on the PMD and Caddis. It is time for dries. We have a cold front coming in and we will see how it plays with the Caddis hatch. Good to see you again Hank!
- May 17, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Mike and Richard who came all the way from Tennessee. The Sac. River is what they picked to be guided on. We had a flow change today, and were still able to hook 13 Rainbow Trout. Mike was able to land this 15 inch Trout, Richard got 2 almost to the net. This was a 5 hour trip first time fly fisherman. Not bad guys, you fished good.
- May 15, 2012
- Sac. River
- Fly Fishing
I guided Larry and Bob today on Northern California’s Sacramento River. We fished the Sundial Bridge to Bonneyview Boat Ramp. Fishing was moderate, but we got some real nice fish!Awesome fish Bob, this fish ate PMD mayfly pattern. This fish is all of 5 pounds it could even be 6 pounds. As always it’s nice fishing with you Larry, hope to see you soon. There is a reason you will see Larry in alot of my pictures, the Sacramento River in Northern California has the biggest wild trout population for size and quantity in the state and alot of people argue in the Western United States.
- May 11, 2012
- Sacramento River
- FlyFishing
Today I guided on Northern California’s most renowned Sacramento River, Steve and Greg. Most of the Trout Red’s are on spawning beds. As a result they are not in their normal places, they have been spawning for about a month. While it may be easier to catch them in those particular areas, I will not fish in there because it is vital to the continued growth of the Rainbow Trout Population. However, even with that being said we got did get into about 10 Trout which still makes for a great day. Oh yea we had a 1,000 CFS flows which may have also attributed to a little bit harder fishing. However, even with that being said we did get into about 10 Trout which still makes for a great day.
- May 9,2012
- Sac.River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Larry (a longtime client) and Richard on the Sacramento River, we floated from the Sundial Bridge to Possee grounds to Anderson Boat ramp. We were 10 for 18 Trout. The magic bugs were PMD’s.
- May 6, 2012
- Sac. River
- Fly Fishing
I guided Nathan and Jesse these 13 yr old boys really fished well. Their fascination with flyfishing, entomology and other aspects of the sport was refreshing. Nice job boys!
- May 5, 2012
- Sac. River
- Fly Fishing
TodayI guided Shawna and Birthday boy, Nate. Fishing was a bit tough we managed to hook into 15 landing 7 on the sacramento river.
- May 4, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Peter and Harry on the Lower Sac River through Redding . Hooked some nice fish on eggs P.M.D.s and caddis.
- April 29, 2012
- Sac. River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Chris and Tim on the Sac. River. We floated from the Sundial Bridge to Bonneyview Boat Ramp. We got into 32 trout and landed about 2/3 of them. The average Trout was 17 inches, built like footballs. The top section held the biggest fish, most of the trout spawn is happening right now so the top is loaded with big fish. Nice 22 incher Tim!
- April 21, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today was a two boat trip on the lower Sacramento River, the Guides were myself and Forrest Brizendine. We floated from the Bonneyview boat ramp to Balls Ferry in Anderson, CA. I had Al and Tim in my boat, and Forrest had Nick and Greg in his boat. We landed 37 and hooked around 60 trout. It’s always nice spending the day with you guys. The mornings the fish bit on yellow stones, spring caddis and PMD’s. The afternoon bite was on rubber legs and we seen some big yellows stones flying around too.
- April 17 , 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Larry and Bill on the Lower Sacramento River thru Redding . Sorry about the Picture Larry it’s the only one I had. We hooked 24 fish today, the fish were all over the board. We floated from the Posse Grounds to Anderson River Boat Ramp. The temperatures were in the low 80’s. It was a good day, I really enjoyed the float.
- April 13,2012
- Sac River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Butch and his son, Peter. We floated the Lower Sac. River the Posse Grounds. We were 11 for 19 on Bow’s (Rainbow Trout.) The weather held for most of the day. Way to go Peter with that 20 incher, that was a nice fish!! Today PMD and Blue Wing Olives, were the bugs of choice.
- April 12, 2012
- Sac. River
- Fly Fishing
Today I guided Tony, we fished the lower Sac. River for a 1/2 day. It was a wet day but the fishing was good (good thing the fish were wet they didn’t seem to notice haha). Can you believe that we have the size of fish that people leave this state for to catch? The fish were liking Rubber Legs and Sucker Spawn, were the most productive flies today.
- March 30, 2012
- Sac. River
- Fly Fishing
Today I fished the Lower Sac. River with Al and Dianne. We have been getting some rain, so the visibility was 2 feet at best. We fished for 5 hours and we were 6 for 12, and the average Rainbows were 16-18 inches. Dianne’s fish, I guessed was around 23 inches, and they were feeding on Rubber Legs and Cheese Micro Spawns. We caught two on Spring Caddis as well.
- March 20, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Fly Fishing
Well, we are finally getting the rain we have needed(lots and lots). I got out a couple of times last week with fellow guide, ForestBrizzendine, Jason (friend), and longtime guide, Jim Pettis. The Sacramento River fished really good. We had everything hatching (Pale Mourning Duns, Blue Wing Olive, March Browns May Flies, Spring Caddis and even Salmon Fry and Egg patterns.) In the brown water, eggs and Alvins (fry pattern) worked best. When the Sacramento River cleared all the nymphs worked well with the eggs and Alvins. Almost all the fish were in the 16 to 18 inch class with some 20 inch +Bows. The next couple of weeks this weather is going to break and it is going to be awesome, it is my favorite time of year. Who doesn’t like fishing in 80 degree weather, but always be prepared because there is always a chance of a spring shower which is not bad.
- March 15, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Guided Trip
I fished the lower Sacramento River today. It was a two boat trip I was working for Jim Pettis, another long time independent Guide in this area. We had Bill and Jack, and his son, Bill and his other son Jimmy, who is 9 years old. The fish were really grabby, and Jimmy was 4 for 6, with a 20 incher. Sorry the picture of Jimmy isn’t better I was holding the Trout and the camera. The weather forecasted for that day was winds gusts 50 mph with sustained 20 mph, that the other fisherman opted out. We were the only two boats out on the Sacramento River. We floated from Posse grounds to Bonneyview Boat Ramp. Definately appeared not to be a day for flyfishing, but let me tell you the weather held, and we hooked over 70 fish between the two boats. When we got off the water around 5:00PM, the winds and the rain kicked up, we were very lucky that we had such a good day.
- March 7, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Guided Trip
I fished with Jim and Matt, it was decent day. We hooked around 23 Trout, alot of small fish this time out. It was a nice day out on the lower Sacramento River.
- March 4, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Guided Trip
I guided Ken and John on the lower Sacramento River. We had a nice spring day, the temperature was around 80 degrees. The fish were a little grabbier than last time, the Spring Caddis was the magic fly.
- February 24, 2012
- Sacramento River
- Guided Trip
I guided Sean and Ben on the Lower Sacramento River. It was a nice day, we caught some nice fish, but it was a little tough out there. You did a nice job guys.
- Sundial Bridge
- February 18, 2012
- Fly Fishing Trip
- Sacramento River
I guided Dave and Jack, it was a two boat trip on the lower Sacramento River. The other Guide was Forrest Brizzendine, another local guide. There was some excitement on this trip, there was a booey on a rope below North Market Bridge which got tangled around my motor, unfortunately we were in very fast water. Once we realized the boat was going to stay afloat we were able to cut it from my motor. The rope is still there on the surface, I reported to the Fly Shop and Sheriffs department. The Sheriffs department said it is part of the river now, so if your planning on fishing there on your own, be very careful when you go by the second pillar on the North Market bridge. That is why you always make sure you have a knife (thanks Joey C. much appreciated!!!). Other than that, the fishing was good and we had a great time.
- February 2012
- Sacramento River
The youngest Hecky, hooking his first Trout fishing on the Sacramento River near the Sundial Bridge
- February 6, 2012
- Guided Fly Fishing Trip
- Trinity River
I fished the Trinity with brothers, Craig and Rick, we fished really hard and was able to land this nice Steelhead and German Brown. Thanks Craig for the Pictures!
- January 2012
- Guided Fly Fishing Trip
- Sacramento River
I guided Lou and his friend,Jane from the U.K. We had a nice day of fishing, the English really know how to have a good time. It was nice to fish with you again Lou.
