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Desert Fly Casters Supports BARBLESS HOOKS CATCH & RELEASE Every true fisherman understands that the joy of fishing lies in its mystery. OFFICIAL DESERT FLY CASTERS NEWSLETTER APRIL 2017 APRIL Wednesday, April 12, 2017 Chit-Chat & Dinner: 6:00 Meeting/Guest Speaker: 7:00 Elks Lodge 1775 West Chandler Blvd. Chandler, Arizona 85224 F ORWARD CASTS President's Drift Gentry Smith April 2017 Spring fishing season is officially upon us—the bass lakes are steadily producing, although recent reports have been a little hit or miss, and the early reports on high-country trout lakes and streams are promis- ing. Arizona Game and Fish Department is saying there was no winter kill this year. However, due to the additional winter precipitation, we should expect more runoff than unusual. On the plus side, we’ll likely see an increase in trout fishing opportunities because of the increase in water quality. Now is the time to, potentially, uncover a big brown or rainbow in off-colored streams—of course, that’s easier said than done. Last month was a busy one for our club members with the Introduction to Fly Fishing class, Rocky Point trip, and the International Sportsman’s Expo (ISE). Thank you, Doug Bobb, for organizing the fly fishing class. Regarding the Rocky Point trip, I’ve received several reports, and it sounds like anglers caught a variety of saltwater fish species. Thanks, Vince Deadmond, and crew for planning and hosting the Mexico trip. At the recent ISE show, the club had a booth and provided fly tying and other fly fishing demos. Additionally, we helped with the casting pond and a new casting contest, Best of Scottsdale, where three club members placed in the top five—congratulations to the winners, and thanks to all who helped. Amidst everything happening in April, I got away with former club president, Steve Berry to fish Pyramid Lake for a few days. For those not familiar with the lake, Pyramid is located about an hour north of Reno, NV and features monster Lahontan cutthroat trout that grow up to 30 pounds. The lake had just recently reopened after being temporarily closed due to the damage the roads sustained during the recent flooding in the area. To say it was crowded would be grossly understating the fact; it was packed. Between the ex- tended lulls in fishing, there was just enough activity to keep things interesting. The trip was highlighted by a couple of personal bests for Steve and me in the trout category. On Saturday, we got a visit from a club member, Alex Kidd, who didn’t take long before getting into some fish of his own. April is once again jam-packed with club sponsored events. We begin with a Beginner Fly Casting Clinic. Then we have a bonus trip to Seneca Lake, followed by a Casting Meetup. Next, we host a Fly Fishing Merit Badge program for the Boy Scouts of America. Lastly, we have our ever-popular Salt River Streamside fishing clinic. Look for more information on the activities above throughout this newsletter. Until next month, thank you for your continued involvement and support! Cheers, Gentry Smith PS: If you have a fish story to share, please submit your fish pictures, along with a brief description, to my email (design@gentrysmith. com) for inclusion in the club’s monthly fishing report. Come meet-up with us Trout Bums...6:00 Dinner... 7:00 Club Meeting, followed by your monthly program along with fun and raffle prizes! DFC CLUB MEETING: APRIL 12, 2017 Brad Shallenberger ...Owner/Guide Let’s talk about fly fishing the Rio Grande River and other popular fisheries in Southwesten Colorado. Join in with the rest of the DFC Trout Bums and the great folks at Wolf Creek Anglers...spend the evening fly fishing with Brad Shallen- berger. See back page pix ...with Alex, Steve and myself

FORWARD CASTS · tended lulls in fishing, there was just enough activity to keep things interesting. The trip was highlighted by a couple of personal bests for Steve and me in the

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Page 1: FORWARD CASTS · tended lulls in fishing, there was just enough activity to keep things interesting. The trip was highlighted by a couple of personal bests for Steve and me in the

Desert Fly Casters Supports BARBLESS HOOKS CATCH & RELEASE

Ever y true fisherman understands that the joy of fishing lies in its myster y.

O F F I C I A L D E S E R T F L Y C A S T E R S N E W S L E T T E R

APRIL 2017

APRILWednesday,

April 12, 2017Chit-Chat & Dinner: 6:00

Meeting/Guest Speaker: 7:00

Elks Lodge 1775 West Chandler Blvd.

Chandler, Arizona 85224

FORWARD CASTS

President's Drift Gentry Smith • April 2017Spring fishing season is officially upon us—the bass lakes are steadily producing, although recent reports have been a little hit or miss, and the early reports on high-country trout lakes and streams are promis-ing. Arizona Game and Fish Department is saying there was no winter kill this year. However, due to the additional winter precipitation, we should expect more runoff than unusual. On the plus side, we’ll likely see an increase in trout fishing opportunities because of the increase in water quality. Now is the time to, potentially, uncover a big brown or rainbow in off-colored streams—of course, that’s easier said than done. Last month was a busy one for our club members with the Introduction to Fly Fishing class, Rocky Point trip, and the International Sportsman’s Expo (ISE). Thank you, Doug Bobb, for organizing the fly fishing class. Regarding the Rocky Point trip, I’ve received several reports, and it sounds like anglers caught a variety of saltwater fish species. Thanks, Vince Deadmond, and crew for planning and hosting the Mexico

trip. At the recent ISE show, the club had a booth and provided fly tying and other fly fishing demos. Additionally, we helped with the casting pond and a new casting contest, Best of Scottsdale, where three club members placed in the top five—congratulations to the winners, and thanks to all who helped. Amidst everything happening in April, I got away with former club president, Steve Berry to fish Pyramid Lake for a few days. For those not familiar with the lake, Pyramid is located about an hour north of Reno, NV and features monster Lahontan cutthroat trout that grow up to 30 pounds. The lake had just recently reopened after being temporarily closed due to the damage the roads sustained during the recent flooding in the area. To say it was crowded would be grossly understating the fact; it was packed. Between the ex-tended lulls in fishing, there was just enough activity to keep things interesting. The trip was highlighted by a couple of personal bests for Steve and me in the trout category. On Saturday, we got a visit from a club member, Alex Kidd, who didn’t take long before getting into some fish of his own.

April is once again jam-packed with club sponsored events. We begin with a Beginner Fly Casting Clinic. Then we have a bonus trip to Seneca Lake, followed by a Casting Meetup. Next, we host a Fly Fishing Merit Badge program for the Boy Scouts of America. Lastly, we have our ever-popular Salt River Streamside fishing clinic. Look for more information on the activities above throughout this newsletter. Until next month, thank you for your continued involvement and support!Cheers, Gentry Smith PS: If you have a fish story to share, please submit your fish pictures, along with a brief description, to my email ([email protected]) for inclusion in the club’s monthly fishing report.

Come meet-up with us Trout Bums...6:00 Dinner... 7:00 Club Meeting, followed by your monthly program along with fun and raffle prizes!

DFC CLUB MEETING: APRIL 12, 2017

Brad Shallenberger...Owner/Guide

Let’s talk about fly fishing the Rio Grande River and other popular fisheries in Southwesten Colorado. Join in with the rest of the DFC Trout Bums and the great folks at Wolf Creek Anglers...spend the evening fly fishing with Brad Shallen-berger.

See back page pix...with Alex, Steve and myself

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Desert Fly Casters

CATCH US HERE:Desert Fly CastersWeb Sitewww.desertflycasters.comPresidentGentry [email protected]

Vice PresidentKristen [email protected]

SecretaryLinda [email protected] [email protected]

ProgramsGentry [email protected]

OutingsJoe [email protected]

MembershipDave [email protected]

WebsiteBill [email protected]

News LetterRobert [email protected]

To advance the sport of fly fishing in Arizona through education, conservation and community outreach efforts by: • Providing Education classes and clinics on fly fishing, fly casting, fly tying, rod building and other associated skills

• Committing to conserve, restore, and enhance local and regional fisheries

• Making fishing approachable, enjoyable and safe in family friendly environment

• Promoting responsible angling practices

DFC MISSION STATEMENT

Seneca Lake Outing Saturday, April 8, 2017

Hosted Outing Site:  Seneca LakeDate: April 8, 2017Fees: A San Carlos fishing permit and an annual habitat stampHosted Outing Leader: Joe StallerPhone: 602-568-9431Email: [email protected] Time: 8:00 a.m. at the LakeMeeting Location: Seneca Lake Max. # Attendees: No limit

Directions: The lake is on the San Carlos Indian Reservation off HWY 60 just before the Salt River Canyon. From the valley, head east on US 60. Drive through Globe, and turn left on US 60/77 just past the McDonalds. After ap-proximately 32 miles, the Lake will be on your left, just before you start your descent into the Salt River Canyon. It is poorly signed—we saw one sign on the right ~1/2 mile before the turnoff. After the turnoff, bear somewhat to the left, we will meet at the one concrete launch ramp. (There is a maze of roads back there. See the map. DON’T FORGET TO BUY YOUR PERMITS WHILE IN GLOBE.Fish: Trout, bass, sunfish. • Fishing strategy: The most effective approach would be to fish from a kick boat or float tube. Tackle: Rod Wt(s) • 3 wt-6 wt • Line floating, intermediate, sinking • Leader 9 ft., 4-5X  • Tippet 4-5XHook sizes: Your favorite bass, trout and sunfish patterns should work. Wooly buggers, leeches, hare’s ears, pheasant tails, and small rubber leg patterns should all work. Throw in some Clousers or other streamers for the bass, and you should have it covered.Other Gear: Waders • Sunscreen • Float Tube • Pontoon Boat/Fins • Personal Flotation DevicePolarized sunglasses • Lunch, snacks, drinksComments:  You need to have a San Carlos fishing permit and an annual habitat stamp—both are available in Globe at the Philips 76 “Good To Go” store which is on the left before you make the turn to the Salt River Canyon. It is also possible that they are available at Sportsmans on Greenfield road, but I have NOT confirmed that. The day use permit is $10, and the annual habitat stamp is $6.Looking back at the outing to Seneca in April 2016, Clear or camo intermediate lines were the preferred fly lines. The best fly seemed to be bead-head sparkle buggers in various colors. (Joe’s “Little Man” in chartreuse worked well also.) Cast towards the cattails (they completely line the lake) give it a 10 second sink time, and start an erratic, slow, retrieve. Although a few bass were caught, the rest of the fish were oversized bluegill, green sunfish, and shell crackers. Rod Buchanan landed a bluegill that was easily over one pound!

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Questions? Catch me, Bob Harrison at: [email protected]

April 2017 Monthly Tying SessionFly Tying Times & Directions

4th Wednesday of each month • Starting at 6:30 pm McQueen Park Recreation Center • 510 N Horne, Gilbert AZ

(Can also get to from McQueen Road, between Elliott and Guadalupe but will need to walk across ball field and past pond. The Horne exit is better but need GPS to get to it unless you know Gilbert roads.)

Intro to IFFF Tyer certification and five evaluation flies of 8 required is below.Doug Bobb has guest tyers for some months so we will pick up after those run their course. Bob Harrison- [email protected]

SPECIAL

FLY TYING

NOTE:

Flies after guest demonstration tyers will be the Evaluation flies for International Federation Fly Fishers Bronze Tyers award. The program was recently introduced. You will need to join IFFF to apply for certification. Pictures and recipes of 5 evaluation flies. The full hand book with step by step instructions is available on Federations website. http://www.fedflyfishers.org/Tying/FlyTyingSkillsAwardsProgram/tabid/610/Default.aspx Silver and Gold programs are available for future tying sessions as well.Evaluation FliesFive flies chosen to demonstrate the techniques included in the Bronze handbook as well as three flies chosen by the tier. It should be noted that while the required patterns may be recognized as traditional patterns for taking trout, they also are effective patterns for bream and bass. More importantly, this selection of Bronze patterns and the tier’s choice patterns are intended to represent and teach a variety of fundamental techniques and materials that will have much broader application.

Bring your tools or give us a heads-up if you need them...materials provided by DFC.

Grey Goose Midge EmergerHook: #10 - 14 scud hookTMC 2487, Daiichi 1130, TMC 403BLJ, Umpqua U202, TMC 2488Dai-Riki 125, Dai-Riki 135Thread: Black 8/0 Uni-Thread or equivalentRib: Fine Silver wireBody: Canada goose wing fibers (herl) or similarWing Case: Canada goose wing fibers (herl) or similarThorax: Peacock herlHead: Whip - finish and head cement

Dry Pheasant Tail VariantHook: #12 - #18 dry fly hook: TMC 100 or similarThread: 8/0 rust Uni-Thread or equivalentTail: Badger rooster hackle fibers (brown or variant hackle may be substituted)Rib: Fine silver wireBody: Pheasant rooster tail fibersHackle: Badger rooster hackle fibers (brown or variant hackle may be substituted)Head: Whip-finish and head cement

Orange Partridge Soft HackleHook: Mustad 94848, Dai Riki 300C, or TMC 9300 for heavier version Size 10 - 18. (size 10 used in this description)Thread: Orange 8/0 Uni-Thread or suitable substituteRib: Fine gold colored wireBody: Orange flossThorax: Hare's mask fur or Hare's Ear Plus (tan to brownish tones)Hackle: Gray partridge

Woolly BuggerHook: 3XL Nymph Hook - TMC 5263, Mustad 9672 size 4 thru 10 or similarTail: Olive marabouRib: Copper wireBody: Olive chenilleHackle: Grizzly dyed olive. (Olive or grizzly may be substituted)Thread: Olive brown. (Typically thread color matches body color)

Gold-Ribbed Hare's Ear NymphHook: 1xl 2x stout, TMC 3761, Partridge G2A, Daiichi 1550,Mustad AC3906, Mustad 3906, size 10 - 18. (Size 10 or 12 for evaluation)Weight: 10 - 15 turns of non-lead wireThread: Black 8/0 Uni Thread or equivalentTail: Guard hairs from hare's maskRib: Gold oval tinsel over abdomen. Flat gold tinsel may be substituted.Abdomen: Blended lighter tan hair from the hare's mask (or Hairline Dubbing# 4, Hare's Ear - or equivalent)Wing case: Mottled turkey tail feather over thorax (can be omitted on size14 or smaller)Thorax: Blended darker brown hairs from the hare's mask (or Hairline Dub-bing #5, Dark Hare's Ear - or equivalent)

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Desert Fly Casters

RIO SALADO CASTING CLUB MEET-UP Meet-Up is at McQueen Park & Recreation Field

Come along with us and improve your fly casting skills?Desert Fly Casters (www.DesertFlyCasters.com) is partnering with the Rio Salado Casting Club (RSCC) to host an

ongoing series of free fly casting events at Gilbert’s McQueen Park. International Fly Fishing Federation (IFFF) Certified Fly Casting Instructors will be on hand to work with casters of all skill levels—beginners, intermediate

and advanced casters are all welcome to attend this informal casting meetup.

Saturday, April 15, 2017 • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PMEvent Cost: This is a free event

Event Location: McQueen Park Recreation Field (Located on the east side of McQueen Road, between Elliott and Guadalupe)

Items to bring:• Sunglasses/eyeglasses • Hat • Sunscreen • Drinking water • Fly rod/reel/line/leaderEvent Host: Larry Allen, IFFF Master Casting Instructor • Contact Email: [email protected]

Please RSVP to [email protected] and include “RSCC Fly Casting” in the subject line.

RSCC

Why Does Aiming at Targets Improve Your Fly Casting?When Chris Korich asked me what my goal was for casting a num-ber of years ago, I naively told him that I want to be able to cast to the other side of the small pond (~93 feet). His reply? Start aiming at the three nearest hoops (the blue, yellow and red).In retrospect, it was like a scene from the original Karate Kid (1984): Daniel-san didn’t understand why he was tasked to paint the fence or wax the car to learn karate, but Miyagi-sensei had a plan. In the same way, I was bewildered by Chris’ reply. Why do I need to cast at three targets ranging from 10 feet to 20 feet, when I want to cast 95 feet? When you aim for a given target at a manageable distance, you need to control three other critical elements in your fly casting: tra-jectory, loop size and power. Let’s discuss each component.

When you aim while fly casting, you are working on three critical elements: trajectory, loop size, and power.TrajectoryThe trajectory is important because if it is too high, the line will straighten out high above your practice surface, and as the fly flut-ters towards the ground or the water, the wind will blow it away from the target. If your trajectory is too low, the fly will be driven into the ground or the water, short of the target.Loop SizeA tight loop will also make delivering the fly to its destination much easier than a wide loop for several reasons. It is more aerodynamic than a wide loop, and consequently, it will cut through the air more efficiently. It is also better than a wide loop in crosswinds. For loops formed with the same amount of energy, a tighter loop will reach its destination more quickly than a wider loop. As a result, the tighter loop will not be blown off course as much as a wider loop since the tighter loop spends less time in the air.PowerPower is the last crucial consideration. If you cast with too much power using a tight loop (assuming that you don’t have a super long leader/tippet), the fly will snap back towards the caster before land-ing on the surface. It’s the result of too much energy stretching the line and then the line contracting – like a rubber band. You want

just enough power to straighten the leader without stretching the line significantly. If you start aiming at targets, you will be working on these three elements – whether you know it or not. When you aim at targets, however, people will accuse you of tournament casting. Many argue that tournament casting is nothing like casting for fish. Nothing.I used to be one of these misguided critics. But, I now realize that controlling the trajectory, loop size and power, allow me to present delicate flies to the most wary fish in a shallow pool. I will also be able to slap the water by the bank with a juicy hopper pattern. It doesn’t matter if you are aiming at a target or if you are trying to catch a fish. Fundamentally, fly casting is fly casting. So, start aiming at the three nearest targets, Daniel-san. Your casting will im-prove. I am living proof.Glen Ozawa, PresidentOakland Casting ClubQuestions? Catch Glen Ozawa at: [email protected] you, Glen- R. McKeon, Editor

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Desert Fly Casters

Gearing up for our DFC club casting events...SAFETY....All casters will use yarn...No hooks. Suggested Leaders... For casting practice (with a piece of bright yarn large enough to see) you get the best turnover power by using a 7 1/2 foot leader with a thicker tip like OX or 1X.  This will let you focus on loops and tell you how well you are straightening out the fly. (RE: Casting Practice Aids...notes from Larry Allen | February 2017 DFC newsletter.) And....This will help improve your casting skills before going to the stream.

Questions? Catch us... Larry Allen at: [email protected] • Doug Bobb at: [email protected]

We'll have

Yarn...

Come cast

with us!

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Desert Fly Casters

Beginner Fly Casting ClinicEvent Dates: April 1, 2017Event Location: McQueen Park Recreation FieldEvent Time: 9am – noonEvent Cost: This is a free eventEvent Host: Doug Bobb, IFFF Certified Casting InstructorContact Email: [email protected] RSVP in advance and include “Intro to Fly Fishing” in the subject line.Desert Fly Casters (www.DesertFlyCasters.com) is offering a free beginner fly casting clinic. This clinic is designed to give new students the confidence to successfully execute basic fly casts the next time they’re on the water.Event highlights: Learn the basics of fly casting • Learn the pick up and lay down cast • Learn to shoot fly lineItems to bring: Sunglasses/eyeglasses • Hat • Sunscreen • Drinking water • Fly rod/reel/line/leader (loaner equipment available upon request)

Rio Salado Casting MeetupEvent Dates: April 15, 2017Event Location: McQueen Park Recreation FieldEvent Time: 8am – noonEvent Cost: This is a free eventEvent Host: Doug Bobb, IFFF Certified Casting InstructorContact Email: [email protected] RSVP in advance and include “Intro to Fly Fishing” in the subject line.Desert Fly Casters (www.DesertFlyCasters.com) is offering this clinic to give the student an opportunity to gain successfully & execute a fly cast using targets on the water...just another step to improve your fly fishing skills.Event highlights: Execute with confidence the basics of fly casting • Learn the pick up and lay down cast • Learn to shoot fly lineItems to bring: Sunglasses/eyeglasses • Hat • Sunscreen • Drinking water • Fly rod/reel/line/leader (loaner equipment available upon request)

Streamside Fly Fishing ClinicEvent Dates: April 29, 2017Event Location: Lower Salt River / Blue Point BridgeEvent Time: 8 am – noonEvent Cost: This is a free event for DFC club membersEvent Host: Doug Bobb, IFFF Certified Casting InstructorContact Email: [email protected] RSVP in advance and include “Streamside” in the subject line.Desert Fly Casters (www.DesertFlyCasters.com) is offering club members a free streamside fly fishing class, where beginning anglers will be paired up with experienced anglers for on the water instruction. We highly recommend that participants complete the “Introduction To Fly Fishing Class” and “Beginner Fly Casting Clinic” in advance.Event highlights: Learn the basics of fly selection • Learn to read the water • Learn techniques for fishing moving waterItems to bring: Sunglasses/eyeglasses • Hat • Sunscreen • Drinking water • Fly box • Fly rod/reel/line/leader (loaner equipment available upon request)

Upcoming DFC Education Events...

Are you new to fly fishing? Maybe you’ve been fly fishing for a while, but still have questions regarding the basics? Great News—The Desert Fly Casters has a series of educational and instructional classes designed to progressively teach you the basics of fly fishing. Our goal is to get you equipped with the knowledge and skills required to start experiencing success on the water. What are you waiting for? Sign up today! Doug Bobb • 2017 Education Chairman • Catch me, Doug Bobb at: [email protected]

2017 Membership Drive is on!...Renew and Receive one ticket for a fly rod

It’s time to renew your annual membership.  Support our club activities for the next year for only $35.   If you prefer a mailed newsletter there is an additional cost of $10.  As an incentive our DFC Trout Bum rod builder buddy, Dave Weaver, has created a 10 ft... 5 wt Nymphing rod that you will allow you to cast 5 to 10 feet farther than you might normally cast. A sweet delicate rod for those special moments at our silent sport of fly fishing.   Time to RENEW & RECEIVE one ticket for the raffle.  You can renew at the February meet-ing or by mail at Desert Fly Casters, PO Box 6404, Chandler, AZ 85246-6404.  If you have any questions catch me, Dave, at: 480-495-2983 or catch me at: [email protected].

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Desert Fly Casters

Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI) Stakeholders Group and

U.S. Forest ServiceCo-hosting Public Information Meetings

on 4FRI Rim Country Project Preliminary Alternatives

Payson: Thursday, April 13, 2017 • Show Low: Tuesday, April 18, 2017

Additional information catch DFC board member Joe Miller at: [email protected]

Two public meetings are scheduled in April for the U.S. Forest Service to present, and obtain public comment upon, draft alternatives for proposed forest restoration activities across the Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI) “Rim Country” project area. This Rim Country environmental analysis covers 1.2 million acres of our National Forest lands. These draft alternatives describe various ways to meet restora-tion goals, and input is desired by 4FRI project proponents to ensure your interests are included! These alternatives were developed in response to comments from earlier public scoping as well as National Forest staff ’s continuing research and analysis of the RimCountry project area. Treatments are planned for the Black Mesa and Lakeside Ranger Districts of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, the Mogollon and Red Rock Ranger Districts of the Coconino National Forest, and the Payson and Pleasant Valley Ranger Districts of the Tonto National Forest. This environmental analysis is the largest of its kind in the country, and will set the stage for forest restoration treatments in its footprint for the next 10 or more years.Public meetings have been scheduled for the following dates, times, and locations:PAYSON5:00 – 8:00 p.m., Thursday, April 13: Julia Randall Elementary School Gymnasium, 902 W. Main St., Payson, AZ 85541SHOW LOW4:30 – 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 18: Show Low City Hall, Deuce of Clubs meeting room, 180 N. 9th St., Show Low, AZ 85901 This is one opportunity to hear more about proposed forest treatments in our National Forest lands. Once alternatives are finalized, the specifics of each will be analyzed and presented to the public in the form of a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) next year.Current and continuing information can be found here:www.fs.usda.gov/goto/4FRIRimCountry The Rim Country EIS is the second landscape-scale, multi-forest environmental assessment for the Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI), a collaborative effort between the U.S. Forest Service, the public, and a stakeholder group representing nearly 40 individuals, orga-nizations, and government entities. For more information, visit www.4fri.org

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8th Annual Native and Wild Trout Conference April 27, 2017

9:00a.m. – 4:30p.m.Arizona Game and Fish Department Headquarters 5000

W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZSponsored by AZGFD and AZ TU State Council

The conference is attended by those interested in meeting, networking, and developing future plans to promote restoration and management of native and wild coldwater fish species in Arizona and New Mexico. Over 100 individuals attend the conference and represent more than 35 agencies and organizations involved in water conservation and management, trout recovery and habitat enhance-ment.

Lunch and BBQ following the conference will be hosted by AZ Sportsmen for Wildlife Conservation, AZ Flycasters and AZ TU Council.

Registration and information on prior year conferences at www.az-tu.com.Registration closes April 22, 2017

Topics• Keynote Speaker: Chris Wood, President & CEO, Trout Unlimited • Trout Unlimited Southwest Native Trout Strategy and Projects• Challenges with Native Trout Conservation in the Southwest

• Western Native Trout Initiative (WNTI) Programs• Glen Canyon Dam / Lees Ferry: Long Term Experimental Management Plan

• Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI)• Tonto National Forest “Needs to Change” Plan

• Citizen Science: Stream and Temperature Monitoring Networks• Native and Wild Trout Recovery Programs in the Southwest

• Conservation Awards for Distinguished Service

Additional information catch Jim Walker, Zane Grey TU, President at: [email protected]

Additional information catch Jim Walker, Zane Grey TU, President at: [email protected]

TU Western Regional Rendezvous Save the dates of April 28 - 29 for a BIG event coming to Scottsdale – the Trout Unlimited Western Regional Rendezvous! This year the Arizona Council and Chapters have been chosen to host the event at The Saguaro Hotel in Scottsdale.  The eleven states that comprise the western region of TU hold an annual meeting to share ideas, information and meet other TU members. During the event, an auction will be held at the dinner on April 28th with proceeds to the Arizona Council and Chap-ters.  A variety of auction items have already been donated and include artwork, a pontoon, several rods, fishing trips in Arizona, Colorado, and Wyoming. Information and topics on this year’s conference, registration, and presentations can be found at www.az-tu.com.  Don't miss the opportunity to attend.

Desert Fly Casters

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Desert Fly Casters

I just returned from Rocky Point. I thought those who frequent there might be inter-ested in the following:NEW OWNER AT THE MIRADOR A new owner at the Mirador has made some changes.1)-   It is now $81/night on weekends and $69/night on weekdays. Old was $69 and $59.2)-  You now must wear a blue paper wrist-band at all times. You are not allowed to  carry it with you or put it on when you get to your room They must put it on your wrist when you check in. If you remove it, they will tell you to leave. If you refuse to wear it, they will cancel your reservation.3)- You are also required to give them a $30 'cash only' deposit for your room key. When you return the key at checkout, they tend to forget to give back your deposit unless you remind them. You can only have one key.4)- They now give you a sheet of paper filled with their new regulations at check-in. You are told to read them and then sign the bottom. If you just sign the bottom without taking the 'required time' to read everything, they will require you to stand there and pretend you are reading it.

Carl [email protected]

Fellow Trout Bums.  Thank you for participating in March's meet-ing raffle. It was a great raffle with a lot of nice prizes leaving the table and it was a huge suc-cess.   During the night members made donations to the raffle and I want to thank them for their awesome donations. So all you-Trout bums keep your eyes out for more exciting stuff in our up-coming monthly raffles.   Thank you so much for your purchase of tickets each month and your do-nations to the club. Its our mem-bers that make it the best raffle anywhere…Go out and land a big fish or two or three...Frank- The Raffle [email protected]

Item ofInterest...

And...Many Thanks!

Becker Lake Semi-Hosted Outing Friday-Sunday • May 13-15, 2016

Directions: The lake is just a mile or so outside of Springerville, north-east on US 191/60 Fish: trout, bass, stripers, steelhead, etc. • Fishing strategy: Stillwater/Float tube/Pontoon Boat Tackle: Rod Wt(s) • 4-6 wt. • Line floating, intermediate, sinking • Leader 9 ft., 5X  • Tippet 4-6XOther: Strike indicators, break away preferred for deep nymphing Patterns: Simi-seal leeches, midges, hopper, eggs, callibaetis Other Gear: Waders • Sunscreen • Float Tube • Pontoon Boat/Fins • Personal Flotation DevicePolarized sunglasses • Lunch, snacks, drinksComments: Our May outing will coincide with the WMLF “Becker Best” day on Saturday, May 13, which includes a raffle, free lunch, and fishing at a trophy trout lake. Members can stay at their private cabins, camp at local campgrounds, or more conveniently, stay at the Rode Inn in Springerville. WMLF and DFC have reserved a block of discounted rooms at the Rode Inn Motel in Springerville. Anyone can call and ask for the "White Mountain Lakes Foundation" rate for this particular weekend. Special room rates are as follows:$59.95+tax for 1 person • $69.95+tax for 2 two peoplehttp://www.rodeinnmotels.com/Call 928-333-4365 to make your reservations.Address: 242 E Main St, Springerville, AZ 85938 Phone:(928) 333-4365 NOTE: Besides Becker Lake, attendees may want to check out Sunrise, Big Lake, Crescent, Carnero or other lakes. There are also several small streams near-by, both on and off the reservation.

Semi-Hosted Outing:  Becker LakeDate: Friday-Sunday, May 13-15, 2017Fees: NoneHosted Outing Leader: Gentry SmithPhone: 480-213-0372Email: [email protected] Time: 6:00 AM or when you get thereMeeting Location: Becker Lake Max. # Attendees: Unlimited!

Page 10: FORWARD CASTS · tended lulls in fishing, there was just enough activity to keep things interesting. The trip was highlighted by a couple of personal bests for Steve and me in the

Desert Fly Casters

WOW!! What a night! We had over 150 DFC Trout Bums for our March monthly and enjoyed some great knowledge with Jason Randall. Thanx for the turn out and enthusiasm!

Page 11: FORWARD CASTS · tended lulls in fishing, there was just enough activity to keep things interesting. The trip was highlighted by a couple of personal bests for Steve and me in the
Page 12: FORWARD CASTS · tended lulls in fishing, there was just enough activity to keep things interesting. The trip was highlighted by a couple of personal bests for Steve and me in the

Beginner Fly Casting Clinic • April 1, 2017 McQueen Park Recreation Field • 9:00 am – 12:00 noon • Contact: [email protected]

Seneca Lake Outing • Saturday, April 8, 2017Seneca Lake • Meet at lake 8:00 am • Contact: [email protected]

Rio Salado Casting Meet-Up • April 15, 2017 McQueen Park Recreation Field • 8:00 am – 12:00 noon • Contact: [email protected]

Streamside Fly Fishing Clinic • April 29, 2017, 2017Lower Salt River / Blue Point Bridge • 8:00 am1 - 2:00 noon • Contact: [email protected]

Desert Fly CastersPO Box 6404Chandler, AZ 85246

MAIL TO: ☛

Gentry Smith- PresidentKristen Kile-Vice PresidentJohn McAteer- Treasurer

Linda McAteer- SecretaryOutings- Joe Staller

Programs- Gentry SmithLibrary

Ricky FurbeeRetail/Books/Logo -Jerry King

Membership- Dave Weaver(Also- Newsletter distribution)

Education Doug Bobb

Conservation- Joe Miller/Dick BrooksTU/FFF Liaison- Bob Harrison

Raffles- Frank SchettinoNewsletter Editor/Graphics Guru

Robert McKeon

Website AdministratorBill Batchelor

Member at Large

Dick Brooks, David Huang, Charlie Rosser, J.C. Roberson

Web Address Sitehttp://www.desertflycasters.com

2017 DESERT FLY C ASTERSBOARD OF DIREC TORS

See ya Wednesday...

April 12 2017

DATES TO KEEP IN MIND...2017

Alex, Steve, & myself at our fishing get away inPyramid Lake