Santa Rosa Sale UPDATE

Just in case you didn't see the ad in the Santa Rosa Press Democrat this week - here's a copy:



You can click on it to see the current deals to be found at our Santa Rosa Store Closing Sale. Here are the highlights:

30% OFF all General Tackle, All Tying Material, All Fly Fishing Accessories
All Flies ONLY ONE DOLLAR!
20% OFF all Federal Centerfire Ammunition - Premium, American Eagle, "Blue Box"
15% OFF all Camouflage Clothing (also at San Rafael)
15% OFF all Decoys (also at San Rafael)

Plus, here are a few special deals for the readers of this blog:
20% OFF all optics (binoculars, scopes, spotting scopes & shooting glasses), rings and bases
15% OFF all Hunting Waders
20% OFF all New Books in stock
50% OFF all Used Books in stock

Please note - Sale items are strictly limited to stock on hand. Sales items limited to Santa Rosa store only unless specifically stated otherwise. No layaways or partial payments on sale items. All items sold "as-is". No exchanges or returns on sale items.

Carlo Hauls Up a Hawg

Here's an update to Carlo Bongio and Jerry Warren's trip to Eagle Canyon Lakes - a couple of photos of Carlo landing an impressive trout -





At this point, we are looking to do a stillwater clinic at Eagle Canyon Lakes in either late February or March. If you are interested, please call Carlo at the Santa Rosa store 707-542-4432, or email customerservice@westernsportshop.com

Jerry and Carlo's Trip North

Not to be outdone by the salmon and steelhead contingent, Western Sport Shop staff members Jerry Warren and Carlo Bongio headed north to evaluate conditions at one of the more amazing fisheries we've heard of - the Trophy Trout Lake at Eagle Canyon. We've rarely seen Carlo and Jerry actually worn out by a day of catching trout, but when we saw the photos, we understood why -



Just to be clear, Jerry is holding a TROUT!

This lake can be fished either from the bank or via a float tube. It is open through the winter and closes for the summer at the beginning of April. This unique, spring-fed fishery has some of the most monster fish we've ever seen.

Right now, Carlo is working to set a date for a "Monster Trout" clinic - check back here for updates as soon as we firm up the specifics. In the meantime, here is another of the many fish they caught:

Front & Back View of Redington Delta Fly Reel

Front & Back View of Redington Delta Fly Reel, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

Just one more quick image to show the nicely oversized drag knob and excellent inletting on the frame to reduce weight.
--

New Redington Delta Series Fly Reels

New Redington Delta Series Fly Reels, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

Now in stock! We've been waiting for these lightweight, large arbor, disc drag reels since they were announced a few months back. These worthy replacements for the CD-L series are an exceptional value in saltwater reels. Perfect for the bay and delta!

2011 Fishing License Update - New System!

The new 2011 California Fishing Licenses are now available for sale in both of our stores. With the new license year comes a big change - fishing and hunting licenses are now issued using a computerized system. This is a project which has been developed over the past few years, and it is now in effect for California.

The beauty of the system is that once your information has been entered, we won't have to re-enter your info when you come back to get a steelhead report card, or come in to purchase your hunting license (though hunter safety evidence is still required).

We've had the terminals in place since last week, and have been shaking the bugs out of the system while getting our staff trained on the new method. While it actually simplifies a lot of the paperwork and makes things more efficient, there are a few things you should know about before you head down to purchase a license.

If you are buying a license for yourself, it's simple: just bring in your California Driver's License or Identification Card. We can swipe the magnetic strip and transfer your information into the DFG database, then issue the license. If you don't have a California Driver's License or ID card, you can bring down a passport, green card, birth certificate or other form of photo identification.

If you are buying a license for someone else: You will need to know the name, birthday and driver's license/ID number for that person, in addition to address and personal information (height, weight, eye and hair color). We can not issue a license without full identifying information.

If you don't have that information, there is another option - you can purchase a "Voucher" for a 2011 Resident Sport Fishing License. This is a "prepaid" Voucher which lets them go into any California License Agent and redeem it for a 2011 Resident Sport Fishing License. (Vouchers are transferable, so if you receive two Vouchers, a friend or relative could redeem it for their license.)

Please Note - the Voucher is not a valid fishing license. If you are caught fishing with a Voucher rather than a license, you will be cited. Vouchers may not be redeemed for anything other than a 2011 California Resident Sport Fishing License.

License sales actually take a little less time than previously, but because we now must complete the information through the DFG-issued terminals, there will be times when people are waiting their turn. We appreciate your patience on this, and encourage you to head down to the stores at less busy times to obtain your California Licenses.

Please note:
California Hunting and Fishing licenses and Vouchers are non-refundable. Any claim for refund due to duplication or incorrect purchase of licenses must be made through the Department of Fish and Game License Branch in Sacramento.

Tom's Trip North

Western Sport Shop Operations Manager Tom N. headed up to the Smith river a week ago, and between the recent storms managed to get three nice salmon - The only day they could fish was Sunday due to rain and high water.

Here, Tom shows off the the 28 pounder he landed:




His friend and fishing partner Kenny landed the big fish of the day - a fresh 35 pounder!


Beautiful bright fish in cold and challenging conditions!

Your Squid Update - Commercial Season to Close 12/17

Commercial Market Squid Fishery to Close December 17

The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) will close the commercial fishery
for market squid, Loligo (Doryteuthis) opalescens, Friday, Dec. 17 at
noon.

Based on landings information and projections, DFG biologists expect
that by Dec.17, the seasons harvest limit of 118,000 short tons of
market squid will be reached. The squid fishing season runs from April
through the following March of each year, which means the fishery will
now remain closed through March 31, 2011. This is the first time that
the harvest limit has been reached since it was implemented by the Fish
and Game Commission in 2002.

"We have had a banner year for market squid this year," said Dale
Sweetnam, a DFG senior marine biologist who oversees the commercial
market squid fishery. "In California, we have had squid landings from La
Jolla to Half Moon Bay and reports that market squid are abundant off
many of the offshore banks, the Channel Islands, as well as off Baja
California. The colder than normal water conditions we have observed
since February have provided optimal conditions for squid spawning."

The presence of market squid is strongly correlated with environmental
factors, such as water temperature and nutrient availability. In warm
water years and during El Niño conditions, squid become scarce and
landings decline. However, when water temperatures cool, even after
severe warm water events, market squid numbers can rebound quickly and
dramatically.

DFG, with assistance from squid fishermen and seafood processors, has
been tracking catches daily this fall in anticipation of reaching the
harvest limit, which was established to ensure the squid fishery does
not expand beyond levels experienced in the 1990s. "The wetfish industry
and California Wetfish Producers Association are very pleased to partner
with DFG to ensure a sustainable market squid resource and fishery,"
said California Wetfish Producers Association Executive Director Diane
Pleschner-Steele.

Market squid is by far California's largest and most valuable
commercial fishery. In 2009, just over 100,000 tons was landed with an
ex-vessel value of $56.5 million. California market squid is used
domestically for food - often identified as calamari in restaurants -
and is an important international commodity. Last year, California fish
businesses exported market squid to 36 countries with China being the
leading importer of California market squid.

The harvest limit is one of many provisions governing the squid
fishery, which has been managed under the states Market Squid Fishery
Management Plan (MSFMP) since 2005. The goals of the MSFMP are to ensure
long term conservation and sustainability of the market squid resource,
reduce the potential for overfishing and provide a framework for
management. In addition to the harvest limit, weekend closures were
implemented to allow for periods of uninterrupted spawning each week.

The MSFMP was developed under the provisions set forth by California's
Marine Life Management Act (MLMA), which became law in 1999. The MLMA
created state policies, goals and objectives to govern the conservation,
sustainable use and restoration of California's living marine resources,
including squid.

California Department of Fish and Game News Release

Contacts:
Dale Sweetnam, DFG Marine Region,(858) 546-7170
Marci Yaremko, DFG Marine Region,(858) 442-3004
Jordan Traverso, DFG Communications,(916) 654-9937

New 2011-2012 Groundfish Regulations Delayed

New 2011-2012 Groundfish Regulations Delayed

The California groundfish regulations for 2011-12 recently adopted by the
Fish and Game Commission will not be ready for implementation on Jan. 1,
2011 as planned. These regulations conform to federal regulations adopted by
the Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC). However, due to procedural
difficulties encountered within the federal rule making process, the 2010
regulations will remain in place until further notice.

"We are working closely with our federal fishery management partners to
establish an implementation date," said Department of Fish and Game (DFG)
Marine Region Manager Marija Vojkovich. "We will announce the effective date
for the new regulations as soon as it has been established. Until then, we
ask that fishermen continue to follow the 2010 rules."

The new California regulations were developed in collaboration with fishery
constituents, other Pacific states, PFMC and the National Marine Fisheries
Service over the past 18 months.

Anglers are advised to check regulations before targeting federally managed
groundfish, as the proposed 2011-12 changes included modifications to
fishing seasons, harvest limits, bag limits, species compositions, trip
limits, fishing depths and gear constraints for rockfish, lingcod, cabezon,
greenlings, California scorpionfish (sculpin) and other species.

The 2010 recreational and commercial groundfish regulations are available at
the DFG website at www.dfg.ca.gov/marine/groundfishcentral or recreational
anglers can call the Recreational Groundfish Hotline at (831) 649-2801. The
delay mainly affects the recreational groundfish fishery.

The public can still comment on the proposed federal groundfish regulation
changes on or before Jan. 4, 2011. Instructions for submitting public
comments can be found at
http://www.nwr.noaa.gov/Publications/FR-Notices/2010/loader.cfm?csModule=sec
urity/getfile&pageid=48404 (this page may be slow to load). The proposed
recreational changes can be found on pages 67894 through 67896.

California Department of Fish and Game News Release

Contacts:
Deb Wilson-Vandenberg, DFG Marine Region, (831) 649-2892
Jayna Schaaf-Da Silva, Marine Region, (831) 649-7196
Jordan Traverso, DFG Communications, (916) 654-9937

Doug's Trip North

Doug's Trip North, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

--
sent from some phone

Carlo Bongio Fly Tying Video

Even with the Big Fall Sale happening this week, our fishing and fly departments continue to be busy with folks enjoying the lengthy summer fishing season this year. As we look towards fall, Santa Rosa Fly Department Manager Carlo Bongio is beginning to set his schedule for fly tying classes (and other "On The Water" clinics as well!)

Recently, a video crew from the Santa Rosa Press Democrat caught up with Carlo and put together this excellent video -



If you are interested in signing up for Carlo's next class, give him a call at our Santa Rosa store - 707-542-4432. Thanks for watching!

UPDATE! 2010/2011 Waterfowl Regulations

Hot off the, uh.... pixels on my screen... courtesy of the fine folks over at California Waterfowl Association

2010/11 WATERFOWL REGULATIONS BY ZONE

This information is provided to you as a general guide only. Please refer to
the California Department of Fish and Game website or other materials for
official information. We cannot be responsible for any typos or changes in the listed information.

REGULATION HIGHLIGHTS FOR ALL ZONES:
**The duck season is > 100 days, and the bag limit 7 birds/day in all zones.
**Pintail bag is 2 birds/day (either sex) for the entire season.
**Mallard bag will 7 birds/day, and two may be hens.
**Canvasback bag is 1 bird/day for the entire season.
**Scaup bag is 3 birds/day, and the season will be 86 days.
**"Electronic" Spinning wing decoys will be allowed from December 1 until
the season ends (statewide).

BALANCE OF STATE ZONE
Seasons:
Ducks and Geese: 100 Day Straight Season (scaup during last 86 days only)
October 23, 2010 through January 30, 2011.
Brant Special Management Areas:
Northcoast Brant (Humboldt Bay) November 7, 2010 through December 6, 2010.
Southcoast Brant (Tomales and Morro Bay), November 13, 2010 through December 12, 2010; 2 per day, 4 possession.
Special Youth Hunt Days: February 5 and February 6, 2011
Early Resident Canada Goose Season: October 2, 2010 through October 6, 2010
(Except in the North Coast Special Management Area)

Limits:
Ducks: Daily bag limit: 7.
Daily bag limit may contain 7 mallards of which only 2 can be female; 2 pintail; 1 canvasback; 2 redheads; 3 scaup.
Possession limit: Double the daily bag limit.
Geese: Daily bag limit: 8.
Daily bag limit may contain 8 geese of which only 6 can be dark geese. Bag may include up to 6 large Canada geese; 6 small Canada geese, 6 white geese; 4 white fronts.
Early Resident Canada Goose Season: 6 Canada geese
Sacramento Valley Special Management Area: No more than 2 white fronts may
be taken only from October 23, 2010 until December 14, 2010.
For more information on the Sacramento Valley (West) Special Management Area limits and
boundaries, please refer to the Fish and Game Waterfowl Regulation Booklet.
Possession limit: Double the daily bag limit.

NORTHEASTERN CALIFORNIA ZONE
Seasons:
Ducks: 105 Day Straight Season (scaup during first 86 days only)
October 9, 2010 through January 21, 2011
Geese: 100 Day Straight Season
October 9, 2010 through January 16, 2011
Special Youth Hunt Days: September 25 and 26, 2010

Limits:
Ducks: Daily bag limit: 7.
Daily bag limit may contain 7 mallards, of which only 2 can be female; 2 pintail; 1 canvasback; 2 redheads; 3 scaup.
Possession limit: Double the daily bag limit.
Geese: Daily bag limit: 8.
Daily bag limit may contain 8 geese of which only 6 may be dark geese. Only 1 may be a small Canada goose (Aleutian or cackling) and only 2 may be large Canada geese; 6 white geese; 4 white fronts.
Possession limit: Double the daily bag limit.

SOUTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY ZONE
Seasons:
Ducks: 102 days split Season (scaup during last 79 days only)
October 9, 2010 through October 31, 2010 and November 13, 2010 through
January 30, 2011
Geese: 100 Day Straight Season
October 23, 2010 through January 30, 2011
Special Youth Hunt Days: February 5 and February 6, 2011

Limits:
Ducks: Daily bag limit: 7.
Daily bag limit may contain 7 mallards, of which only 2 can be female; 2 pintail; 1 canvasback; 2 redheads; 3 scaup.
Possession limit: Double the daily bag limit.
Geese: Daily bag limit: 8.
Daily bag limit may contain 8 geese, of which only 6 may be dark geese, and include up to 6 large Canada geese; 6 small Canada geese; 6 white geese; 4 white fronts.
Possession limit: Double the daily bag limit.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ZONE
Seasons:
Ducks and Geese: 100 Day Straight Season (scaup during last 86 days only)
October 23, 2010 through January 30, 2011
Special Youth Hunt Days: February 5 and February 6, 2011

Limits:
Ducks: Daily bag limit: 7.
Daily bag limit may contain 7 mallards, of which only 2 can be female; 2 pintail; 1 canvasback; 2 redheads; 3 scaup.
Possession limit: Double the daily bag limit.
Geese: Daily bag limit: 8.
Daily bag limit may contain 8 geese, of which only 6 may be white geese and 3 may be dark geese.
Possession limit: Double the daily bag limit.

COLORADO RIVER ZONE
Seasons:
Ducks and Geese: 101 Day Straight Season (scaup during last 86 days only)
October 22, 2010 through January 30, 2011
Special Youth Hunt Days: February 5 and February 6, 2011

Limits:
Ducks: Daily bag limit: 7.
Daily bag limit may contain 7 mallards, but not more than 2 female mallards or Mexican-like ducks; 2 pintail (either sex); 1 canvasback; 2 redheads; 3 scaup.
Possession limit: Double the daily bag limit.
Geese: Daily bag limit: 6.
Daily bag limits may contain 6 white geese and up to 3 may be dark geese.
Possession limit: Double the daily bag limit.

To check out the Waterfowl Zone Map, click here>>

For more information, visit California Department of Fish & Game website by clicking here>>

Countdown to the Fall Super Sale! - Starts 8/27!

If you've come by the stores recently, I'd like to apologize if you were

blocked by large trucks dropping off huge quantities of decoys, steel shot, waders,
fall camouflage clothing or any of the other orders which arrived in the past few
weeks. We've been organizing like mad, trying to get ready for the Western
Sport Shop Annual Fall Shooting Sports Super Sale!

The logistics of such a big sale are usually enough to keep us kind of crazy
through August, but when you combine a sudden ocean salmon bite, a continued
surge of freshwater action in the local lakes, and eager anglers getting set
up for our annual San Diego long range trip, it's been an utter madhouse
recently.

Of course, we enjoy seeing everyone so excited about getting out into the
outdoors, and like to take the time to set you up right - it's been
especially fun to see all the families coming in for kids' "first rod & reel" setup.

Now, the one thing I want to make sure is that you take a moment and mark
your calendar, update your smartphone or make a quick entry to your online
calendar -
Because the biggest sale with the lowest prices of the season is scheduled
to start on Friday, August 27th in both stores!

(And, if this is news to you, the first word always goes out in our email newsletter, which you can sign up for right on our main website)

This is the event where our waterfowl enthusiasts - the folks who have been
asking about this season pretty much since the end of last season - and
upland specialists descend upon the store to get the best deals on steel shot, camo
clothing, decoys and more - pretty much everything that will be important
for you this season!

However, as most anglers know, this is also the time when we move out
anything that's overstocked in the fishing or fly departments as well - there will be
great deals in every department! That's why we say this sale is not to be
missed.

Of course, you don't have to wait until then to find some cool new stuff and
some great deals - In fact, if you are a fly fishing enthusiast, we recently got the word that the Sage VT2 and TXL series fly rods will be discontinued for the upcoming year.

So, effective - wait for it.......right..... NOW!

Any of those rods still in stock are 30% off the regular price.

We've also been piling up some tackle items on our sale tables, so make sure you visit the stores right now for the best selection on great lures and gear that may be a little shopworn, slightly changed for the new year, or just something we can't get any longer.

See you at the sale - Starting Friday, August 27th!

Another New Curado - The 50E!

It's always fun this time of year - the big dealer tackle show - iCast - actually takes place in July, so we get a chance to see what's in the pipe for next season (typically just as we're in the middle of our busiest part of the current season - go figure!) Sometimes we get to see prototypes that never ship, or when they do bear no relation to what gets shown.

But, Shimano always gets points for having stuff ready to roll!

In this case, when we heard about the Curado 50E, we got a bit excited. It's a low-profile levelwind reel in the venerable Curado series (we took the 300 DSV on our long-range San Diego trip and landed some impressive fish on that reel!)

The Curado series has been missing a smaller sized reel in the lineup, and when we saw this one, we were happy that they waited and did it right. In addition to the obvious use for largemouth bass, it looks like it will be a perfect size for kokanee - the oversized handle and super-smooth drag system are ideal. Matching it up with an ultralight action kokanee rod would be a perfect combo!

The Shimano Curado 50E is now in stock in both stores - check it out!

New Shimano Curado 50E, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

Mark Your Calendars! - The Western Sport Shop Fall Shooting Sports Super Sale starts next Friday, August 27th - Best Prices of the Season on ammo, camo, decoys and more - plus hot end-of-season deals in all departments!

A Choppy Little Monday

It started a bit choppy as we headed out the gate today, but we throttled back and eased our way up to Duxbury buoy to see if we could continue our string of success with the salmon. Only a few party boats and a handful of private boats toughed their way through the waves, and we all rocked and rolled, tangled lines, and tried to convince ourselves this was a good idea.

As it turned out (and isn't this the case with all fish stories?) it was well worth the effort. Luckily, we were holding an ace - this time in the form of Tom - the Western Sport Shop Operations Manager! Just as we were turning for another run, Tom hooked into a nice king salmon, which made four strong runs (in addition to sometimes seeming like he was above deck level, thanks to the waves). He played it expertly, and we boated our lone fish for the day. (Released a silver salmon boatside a bit later.)

The skies cleared and it was a beautiful day on the water - though as any salmon angler knows, when the skies turn blue, that usually means a bit more wind. This was actually in the more sheltered bits, as we took a long troll down past Slide Ranch.



Once we were safely inside the bay again, we slowed down so Tom could show off his fish. He caught this one on some of the gorgeous frozen tray anchovey we have been enjoying of late - rigged on a Krippled Anchovie rig, behind a small chartreuse flasher.



We also graphed a number of fish hanging off of California City at the top of the high tide, but didn't spend more than a few minutes dragging a line through them.

Flies In The Surf

Wow! Between getting ready for our Huge Fall Sale on August 27th and playing hooky and going fishing myself, I managed to get a bit behind in posting photos!

One of the great things about running Western Sport Shop is that we get to meet really talented anglers. Occasionally, we get lucky enough to have one work for us! Those of you who have been in the fly department in San Rafael have probably met Loren, who has worked for us the last couple summers. When Loren isn't answering questions or helping get folks rigged up right, he manages to do better than most folks when flyfishing the surf. Here are just a few photos we've seen of his adventures -

White Sea Bass off Marin!

Within a few minutes of that last post, I got an email asking "What White Seabass?"

Realized that I never posted the photos from two weeks ago - General Manager Tom and his son Wes had joined us on the boat. After boating a nice, football-shaped king salmon, Big Jim lost an entire rig to an unseen fish that stayed deep and very "un-salmon-like".

A while later, Wes pulled up on a "big salmon" which went crazy-deep, wrapped up two other lines and turned out to be 45 inch white sea bass!





We've been hearing reports of other anglers coming up with these fish, which are a bit more common down off Monterey. This one took a larger hoochie rig - which seems to be the lure of choice for these monsters. Way to go, Wes!

Thursday's Salmon

Got out Thursday and worked Duxbury most of the morning, ending up with three very nice salmon. This one was the largest of the bunch.

We've finally gotten some high-quality frozen tray anchovies, which accounted for 2 of the 3 fish - our trick for the day was to use Krippled Anchovie rigs, which are perfectly sized for these somewhat smaller baits. The other fish bit on a large Apex with anchovy gel.

After waiting for two-plus years, it's been great to finally run for salmon again! Didn't hear of any more white seabass being caught while we were out, but many boats where pulling Ling cod nearby.

2011 Shimano Reel Model Update - Curado 300EJ

08-10-10_1656.jpg, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

Hot levelwind. Now in san rafael! Curado 300ej!

Fishing is Hot and Heating Up!

Starting with salmon, after a month of "fits and starts" both the ocean and the salmon are becoming more reliable with reports from party boats and private boaters of a fish and a half per rod on kings and (sadly) more then guys care to count on silvers/coho.

I spoke with one private boater who claimed to have caught and released 40-50 silvers between him self and two other skiffs. That said, I can't emphasize enough the importance of shaking those silvers off the hook without boating the fish as they have a notoriously poor ability to coagulate their blood which causes them to bleed out like hemophiliacs, even if they appear to swim off unscathed. That said, the top baits are 5.5" apex lures in "police car", and "watermelon", green R.S.K.s and clear F.B.R.s both baited with green or red size herring. Most action seems to be centered around dux and the N buoy.

Halibut has been a little tricky this year however in the last two weeks several reports spoke of 1-2 fish a rod in the 10-20lb range drifting live bait and a handfull of giant pacific halibut in the 30-50lb range that have wandered into the bay. Best spots are Red Rock, Berkeley Flats, Chevron Tanker Turn Around near the off loading pipes, the Marin Islands, and Crissy field.

Salmon and Halibut are great and very tasty, but the thing that gets me SUPER PUMPED is the striped bass action. Most creeks and sloughs in Marin and Petaluma are holding great numbers of 4-10 lb bass. Places like Corte Madera Creek, the San Rafael Canal, Richardson Bay, and around the Richmond-San Rafael bridge are kicking out great numbers on 4" swimbaits, hair raisers, Rat-L-Traps, and Yozuri Crystal Minnows. I use freshwater bass tackle on these guys, and I love it.

The big boys (those stripers which have moved out into saltwater, feeding voraciously and reaching 25-45 lbs) are on the beaches, Fort Point, Elephant Rock, and Crissy Field, and demand real striper tackle - surf rods, 50-65lb braid, big Pencil Poppers, serious iron like 2-4oz Kastmasters or Hopkins. Here in Marin, look to Stinson Beach where they have already stuck a dozen fish in the 25-35lb class, or Muir Beach, where perch anglers find themselve alone and unable to keep the big stripers off their rigs.

The weather is looking pretty good for this weekend, so get out and enjoy!

It's Summer in the Hunting Department

If you didn't put in for deer or other tag draw, it's certainly time for a new 2010/2011 Hunting License. (As always, you need to bring a previous year's license or other Hunter Safety evidence.) A-Zone will be here before you know it.

There's a few new things to consider if you will be hunting within California - be sure to stop by and pick up the new 2010-2011 regs read up on the non-lead ammo bill (# AB 821 Ridley-Tree Preservation Act, page 3 of regs.)

This is a key time to go through your gear and remember all those things you weren't gonna forget - I know that I need to bring in my rifle that got bumped around and get it bore-sighted, plus I thought I had more than half a box of 3+ year-old ammo -- that's not enough since I'm going out of state.

Right now, we are in good stock on most key loads of hunting ammunition. Some of the less common calibers (like 300 Savage) have been impossible to get, but we've been grabbing the most popular loads whenever they come available. Again - don't wait for the last minute!

When I went through things, I found my pack saw, checked my gambrel and pulley assembly, but it's time to replace my gear bag - too many holes - for waterfowl season (don't forget the CWA Pig Feed on July 11th, and the new DU Dinner later this month in Petaluma!) I'm gonig to check my JJ Lares calls to make sure I've got extra reeds - the waterfowl season is only 16 weeks away!

Of course, we'll be having our big Fall Shooting Sports Super Sale in August - but in the meantime, it's time to clean everything up and figure out what needs fixing and upgrading.

This is a great time to get your dog out and start working them in preparation for the fall season - we've got the higher quality dummies which you can't find at the big pet stores.

A few other things:

The California Department of Fish and Game has updated their website to allow hunters to check the status of their draw results -
https://biggame.dfg.ca.gov/biggame/

Condor Habitat Zone information -
http://www.dfg.ca.gov/wildlife/hunting/condor/

Carlo's Fly Fishing Update

Well, we needed rain and we got it! That made our steelhead season a short-lived one, and all this late season snow runoff has made both shad fishing and early trout season a tough one for fly fishing.

But, now things are shaping up to be a great mid- to late-season for trout fishing throughout the state. Small creeks in the Sierra are producing well now. Backpackers should now be able to start fishing most of the High Sierra lakes in the next few weeks. Smart anglers have been picking up some of the new 3 weight 4 pc rods from Sage (the Flight Series has a 7' which is perfect for this) or the Redington CT series (Redington also makes a new 6-piece 3 weight 8' rod which is proving popular, too).

Speaking of backpacking, the other multi-piece rod which is a staff favorite is the Echo Trip - another 6 piece rod with the light action for all-around backpacking travel.

Want to catch a Golden Trout this summer? How about catching one and not have to hike? Drop by or call me at the Santa Rosa shop (707-542-4432) and I'll tell you just where this is possible!

This Saturday! Long Range / Reel Repair Seminars

Get your chores done early, because you don't want to miss the free Long Range Fishing and Reel Repair Seminars taking place this Saturday, June 26th at our San Rafael store. Whether you are already signed up for our September Shogun 5 Day Fishing Trip out of San Diego, or just have a curiosity about this wide-open saltwater fishing, drop on by and learn from the experts!

The Long Range Fishing Seminar will be led by Charter Master (and Western Sport Shop staff member) Richard Birnbaum. Starting at 1 pm, Richard will go over the schedule of the 5 Day Trip, talk about the types of techniques which will be used and the tackle needed, as well as the sheer fun of fishing for hard running fish. Then Jeff Burroughs, author of Long Range Sportfishing San Diego Style will go over some more of the necessary techniques, and the excitement of this high velocity fishery! Jeff will also be able to sign copies of his book.

In addition to that, there will be a fundraising raffle for the Friends of Rollo Fund. The Shogun has graciously donated several gift certificates, good towards payment of trip fees or for on-the-dock fish processing. It's a nice way to help a great cause and maybe even save a few bucks on the trip!


To start the day off, renowned reel repair and tuning expert Alan Tani will be leading one of his Hands-On Reel Repair Seminars. Starting at 9:30 am, Alan will be set up with several workstations and tool sets, willing to help you dig into your conventional style reel (sorry - no spinning reels at this seminar!) to get it cleaned out, tuned up and ready for the hot summer fishing season.

This popular clinic demystifies the inner workings of your reels, lets you get a better sense of how to care for them, and gives you the confidence to dig in and fix something yourself.

(Please note, you may bring more than one reel to work on during the seminar, but may be asked to rotate with others to allow everyone a chance to learn the inner workings of their reels.)

Again -
This Saturday - San Rafael

Alan Tani Hands-On Reel Repair Seminar - 9:30 am - 3 pm

Long Range Fishing Seminar with Richard Birnbaum and author Jeff Burroughs - 1 pm

San Diego / Long-Range Fishing Seminar Set - 6/26!

If you have ever wondered about the crazed, big-fish action that takes place on our September Shogun 5-Day trip out of San Diego, don't miss our San Diego/Long-Range seminar which takes place at the San Rafael store on Saturday, June 26th!



This free seminar features sessions on the various tackle and techniques used on the boat, as well as an overview of this wide-open fishing style. Learn from the experts and bring all of your questions along.

Look for an update with more information before the event, or call Richard at our San Rafael stores (on Tuesdays and Wednesdays) - 415-456-5454. Just make sure you mark your calendar for the 26th.

G. Loomis Trout Series Rods in San Rafael

G. Loomis Trout Rods, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

It takes a lot for a new trout rod to stand out of the crowd, and for every ten new rods we see, there might be one which catches our attention. The G. Loomis Trout series is that one. If you are looking for a superlight, light action spinning rod for trout, this is a pretty amazing piece of gear.

According to G. Loomis, they've designed these rods are made with one objective in mind... to help serious trout anglers become more successful and enjoy their time on the water with the lightest, most sensitive rods available. The "fiber blend" models feature a combination of regular cork and composite cork for a new, unique looking rear grip with up-locking reel seats and Fuji, single-foot Alconite guides. Reviewers have stated, "These rods are like fishing with a feather!" Varying in power from ultra-light to light, rated from 1-pound test line up to 8-pound, they are surprisingly strong. You'll want to take one these rods along for all your fishing adventures.

We're stocking the most effective sizes for our areas, and everyone was seriously blown away by the kokanee rod. If you are serious about your trout fishing, take a moment to drop into the San Rafael store and check out these rods.

Shimano Voltaeus Goodies! Free with Rod Purchase!

Goodies You Can Get, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

We recently received our batch of Shimano Voltaeus rods - a new series from Shimano that has us all pretty impressed. These combine a rugged rod with lightweight materials, resulting in good sensitivity and control.

The cool thing is that in order to kick off things with this new series, Shimano sent us a box of Voltaeus goodies to throw in on each new rod purchase! So, when you buy a Voltaeus rod (not the rod/reel combo - there's already a coupon for a free computer game that comes with those!), you get a Shimano Voltaeus hat, sticker and sunglass keeper.

Strictly limited to what we have on hand - come on down to either store and check out the Voltaeus!

Used Book Sale Starts NOW!

20% OFF All Used Books!, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

For our San Rafael store customers, this weekend is the kickoff of the Big Summer Reading Used Book Sale! All used books in stock are now 20% off the marked price. This is a great opportunity to pick up a good chunk of fly tying reference books, fishing "how-to's" or great stories afield.

Come on down now for the best selection!

Used Books on the Shelf, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

Hand & Sun Protection

New Sun-reflecting, fish-fighting gloves from Buff, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

Buff has made some excellent protective headgear for a few years now. We brought it in a go0d assortment last year, and it more than took off in popularity with anglers who spend a fair amount of time out in the sun.

The basic Buff Headwear is a simple tube, which can be worn in about a dozen ways without even thinking about it. We stock two models in a couple dozen patterns and styles - the "UV Buff" which is made with Coolmax Exteme fabric - a four-channel fiber forms a transport system that pulls moisture away from the skin to outer layers of the fabric, and it dries faster than any other fabric, thermoregulating the body - which blocks somewhere around 95% of the UV rays.

This is important for someone who spends any time around the water - where sunblock gets washed off pretty easily. With the Buff, it's easy and comfortable to wear it loosely around the neck at the start of the day, then pull it up to cover your ears or even the crown of your head as the sun rises. Easy and comfortable means you are likely to use it.

Of course, the sharp-eyed among you realize the above photo shows a pair of gloves - specifically the Buff Fighting Work Gloves. These were announced last fall, and we've been excited to get our shipment -

(excuse the press release, but they say it better than I could)

Buff Fighting Work Gloves

The Buff® Pro-Series Fighting Work Gloves...the best all purpose fishing glove! It will provide you multipurpose fish handling, light wiring and leadering, grabbing large catches or bills, as well as removing hooks. Pole grip palm makes it ideal for poling and paddling

Features & Benefits:

1. UPF 50+. Breathable, moisture wicking, 2-way Comfort Stretch for lateral movement.
2. Anatomical Thumb and wipe patch.
3. Adjustable hook and loop closure.
4. Full finger for protection.
5. Fingertip pulls.
6. 3 fingertip cut for dexterity.
7. Ergonomically stitched palm and fingers for natural, curved hand position which then reduces fatigue.
8. Durable Japanese aquatic synthetic suede. Will hold up to wet conditions and dries quickly.
9. Reinforced palm overlay and unique design which reduces bunching.
10. Flex Tech^™ adjustable cuff for mobility.

Now, we've also received the Buff Angler Gloves, which are a little lighter weight -

(more press release to follow...)

Buff Angler Glove

Pro-Series Angler Gloves, you'll never fish without them again. Every detail thoughtfully engineered for dexterity, comfort and the ultimate in Ultra Violet protection.

Ultraviolet Protection Factor(UPF):

Features & Benefits:

1. UPF 50+. Breathable, moisture wicking, 2-way Comfort Stretch for lateral movement.
2. Anatomical Thumb.
3. Extended cuff for UV Protection of wrist area.
4. Finger tip pulls makes it easier to pull off after use.
5. Fingertip cut for dexterity
6. Stripping guard-stitched with Dupont^® for added strength.
7. Accordion Finger Grip-Provides better grip and less hand fatigue which means better performance
8. Diamond Grip™ Palm by Clarino™-Each individual diamond cut provides suction power and extra grip for wet and dry conditions.
9. Ergonomically shaped palm/fingers-Designed and engineered for natural hand curve position which reduces bunching.
10. Durable Japanese aquatic synthetic suede-Will hold up to wet conditions better and dries quickly.

Both of these gloves provide 50+ UPF protection, are comfortable to wear all day and most importantly, give some protection to the easily sun-scorched hands - check them out in both stores this weekend!

Austin's Nice Bass

San Rafael Customer Austin checks in with a fine looking bass he caught in a Marin lake - as he puts it, "Looking forward to more this weekend..."

So, what are you doing reading this on a Saturday? Get out and get fishing!

Goofy Weather, and What To Do About It

Well it's May already, but if you put a blind fold on me, spun me around and then took it off, I would have no idea what time of year it was. Is this spring? Is it winter? How about summer?
And if you think we're confused I can assure the fish are too.

It seems like every week we get good weather with any kind of regularity, Boom! we get a cold front. I mean it's just about the middle of May, and the bass spawn isn't even half over in most places, and Clear Lake hasn't even really started at all. In fact if this keeps up I think we will see a lot of females that look like they might explode if they don't drop those growing eggs soon.

The last time this happened was in 2006 and the result was several fish over 20lbs including a foul hooked toad caught at Dixon Lake weighing in at a jaw dropping 25.11lbs.

Right now, the Marin lakes have both pre-spawn, spawning, and spawned out fish so everyone can fish to their strengths and do equally well.

When weather is unsettled, and the fish are following such a wide variety of behaviors, the best strategy is to start your fishing session by searching out shallow water spawning areas and beds that hold fish. Then, try to get them to bite with baits like white jigs with no trailer, white tubes, white lizards, white beavers and white craws. These baits can be either texas rigged with oversized hooks, or fished on a Shakey Head.

If the beds are empty or the fish are not "locked" on their beds I try to tempt the big females with threatening baits that are a size too big for a small male to attack. Baits like Castaic Platinum Bluegill swim baits, giant sized tora tubes, big bulky jig 'n pig combos, and wake baits like the 6" floating BBZ1's from SPRO.

After targeting these shallowest waters. Begin to work your way out to deeper waters starting with the first drop off away from the spawning flats. These areas can hold both pre-spawn females that are staging to spawn and post spawn females trying to recuperate from the spawn before heading out to deep summer time feeding areas.

In these "transition" areas there are very few tactics that will come anywhere near the effectiveness of a 5" or 6" Yamamoto Senko Worm "dead-sticked" through these areas. If brush or grass lines exist in these transition areas then try a Zoom Super Fluke rigged weightless and twitched tight against the brush or grass.

As you continue to work your way out from shore, start looking for structure elements instead of cover -- pay extra attention to rocks, boulders, break lines and main lake points. Target these areas by fan casting with baits like deep diving crank baits, big c-rigged worms and lizards, football head jigs, and the always-effective drop shot.

These tactics should help you to stick fish no matter where they are in the spawn, and no matter what the weather. That said, this type of transitional pattern will also set you up for the beginning of the summer feeding patterns so you can hit the ground running when summer does arrive.

Good Luck!

A Bunch of New Berkley Baits

05-13-10_1316.jpg, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

Spring fishing means trout. Between local lakes like Bon Tempe in the Marin Watershed, Spring Lake and Howard Lake in Santa Rosa, or San Pablo Reservoir in the East Bay, the spring is a great time to get out and enjoy things. The hills are green, the water is high and the trout are abundant.

One of the not-so-secret methods for success is using one of the Berkley Power Baits or Nuggets - these come in a variety of scents and colors. It would have been easy for Berkley to rest on its laurels and just keep making the basics, but this spring, they have been on a tear for new flavors and styles.

Over the winter, a number of steelheaders caught onto the fact that the small Power Worms worked very well - they were almost impossible to keep in stock. These 2.5" floating worms were made with the Gulp! scent and came in three good colors.

This week, Berkley shipped us their new colors - natural, fluorescent orange and the one pictured above; a watermelon with red flakes. These look like winners!

Also just-off-the-truck are several new flavors of Power Bait in the jar - many with the newest strain of attractant: a salmon egg scent that early testing indicates is going to be a winner!

So, come down and get set up. Then, head for the lakes!

2010 Hunting Licenses Are IN STOCK!

We have received our initial shipment of 2010/2011 California Hunting Licenses. This includes resident and non-resident Hunting licenses, First and Second Deer applications and basic tags. (Hang in there Waterfowl enthusiasts - that stuff will arrive closer to fall).

Remember - Big Game Drawing Applications are due June 2nd!

More information and instructions can be found in the new California Hunting Digest magazine, which can be downloaded here -

http://www.dfg.ca.gov/publications/digest/

Destination: South

Last month, we headed down to Florida. It was our first stay in Destin, Florida, which is about forty miles south of Pensecola. Destin is a resort town, known for good fishing.

My wife LYnn and I are on a quest to catch a fish in every stte. We had already caught fish in Florida, but we decided to use Destin as our home base, and then fish in Alambama, Mississippi and Lousiana. While we were in Destin, we met a mutual friend of Russ Chatham, and he invided us out on his boat for Cobia.

We had a great time out with flat, calm seas off the shores of Destin. We hooked and landed 9 out of 10 cobia. The largest was almost fifty five pounds.


The next day, we headed to Alabama, in a locationi called Josephine. We caught sea trout, croakers, pinfish and saltwater catfish. (Sorry - no photos)

The following day, we went back to Florida, to the Apalachacola National Forest to engage in some field herping (ed. note - for those of you who only chase fish, we're talking herpetology - with an emphasis on snakes.) - looking for Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes.

(ed. note - ok - this is where I get to say "Folks, don't try this at home! Carlo has chased snakes for most of his life, and knows what he's doing.")

We did find a beautiful cornsnake and a great looking Florida Cottonmouth. However, the Diamondback eluded us. But, I will be back for my Diamondback!




Later in the week, we headed for New Orleans, Louisiana to fish for Redfish. A strong storm blew us off the water, although we did manage to land a few redfish and a nice black drum. Sadly, this whole area is affected by the huge offshore oil spill. Our plan was to fish Mississippi on the last day, but he storm created very dangerous tornadoes and we ended up driving back to Florida.

Nonetheless - a great trip with 7 different species of fish caught, and two more states knocked off the list!

Mike S. Checks In

Weekend Santa Rosa Fly Department staffer Mike S. checked in via email -

"A good trip to BC fishing for steelhead - hooked 7 and landed 4. A bonus is that I also caught a 35-40 lb Chinook.

Mike "



Yes.... That is a pretty darned good "bonus", Mike. Thanks for making us all jealous!

Head to the Pier!

The announcement went out a couple weeks ago - the McNear's Beach Park Fishing Pier has reopened! We've already heard some reports of anglers having success from the newly repaired structure.

We're going to be out at the pier this Saturday for the Grand Opening Festivities!

Check out Nels Johnson's article in the MarinIJ -


'I caught two yesterday,' said Nelson Avalos as he fished for striped bass from McNears Beach Park pier in San Rafael, which has reopened after a barge struck it in January 2008. (IJ photo/Frankie Frost)

Two years later, McNears Beach pier reopens

Nels Johnson

Posted: 04/28/2010 09:53:52 PM PDT

The McNears Beach Park pier, smashed by a wayward barge more than two years ago, will reopen Saturday amid festivities featuring a ribbon cutting, a county supervisor and park rangers handing out bagels and fishing gear.

The San Pablo Bay pier was badly damaged on Jan. 4, 2008 by a 270-foot barge that broke free during a big storm.

San Rafael-area Supervisor Susan Adams will be on hand for a ribbon-cutting celebration at 9 a.m., and park rangers will loan fishing gear to residents who want to try their luck for sturgeon, striped bass and halibut. Although a license is required to fish from a boat and from shore, no license is needed from the pier.

Adams is expected to make brief remarks, and coffee and bagels will be served, according to Chris Branham, county parks and open space superintendent.

"The pier has certainly been missed by families and fishermen and we are excited to have it once again open to the public as a cherished community asset," Adams said.

click here for the complete article

Spring Shad Fly Fishing Clinic - May 23rd!

“On the Water” Shad Clinic
SUNDAY, May 23rd, 2010

The anadromous American Shad is a fly fisher’s dream. When hooked, shad’s aerial displays are reminiscent of a tarpon or steelhead’s flight. The shad runs as powerfully as a salmon, and shows a tremendous amount of endurance. Shad hit flies with reckless abandon and attack with such shuddering strikes that you may find them arm-numbing. This day-long clinic will give you the tools you need to effectively pursue and catch this most challenging and exciting of gamefish on a fly rod.

Clinic Meets at the Santa Rosa Western Sport Shop - 2790 Santa Rosa Ave. Limited to 8 attendees. Reservations required.
Clinic Fees: $125/person

This clinic requires wading to be most effective. Waders and appropriate wading equipment is the responsibility of the student. Attendees should have mastered basic casting techniques & be familiar with basic fly fishing equipment.

For more information or to reserve your place in the class, please contact Carlo Bongio at the Santa Rosa store (707) 542-4432.

More California Regulations News

California Department of Fish and Game News Release

Contacts:
Harry Morse, DFG Communications, (916) 322-8962
Scott Barrow, DFG Fisheries Branch, (916) 445-7600
Adrianna Shea, Fish and Game Commission, (916) 508-5262

Ocean Salmon Season, Most Mammal Hunting Regulations Set by Fish and
Game Commission

The Fish and Game Commission (FGC) today adopted ocean salmon sport
fishing regulations that allow for a limited season in 2010. The inland
salmon season regulations were adopted for the Klamath and Trinity
rivers. The Central Valley regulations have been tabled until the
FGC’s next meeting on May 5.

The newly adopted ocean salmon sport fishing regulations conform to
those adopted by the Pacific Fisheries Management Council last week.
They are now available on the Department of Fish and Game’s (DFG) Web
site at www.dfg.ca.gov/marine/oceansalmon.asp.

The FGC will also take action on a limited salmon sport fishing season
for the Central Valley on May 5. DFG staff are currently reviewing the
draft for potential impacts on listed winter run Chinook salmon, and
examining whether additional angling opportunities are feasible. The
proposed regulations would allow fisheries for Sacramento River fall run
Chinook salmon. Once the review and revision is complete, DFG’s
proposed seasons and zones will be posted on the FGC Web site at
www.fgc.ca.gov/regulations/new/2010/proposedregs10.asp#cv.

The FGC today also adopted the proposed 2010-2012 mammal hunting
regulations, taking DFG’s recommendation not to change existing bear
hunting regulations at this time. DFG made this recommendation after it
determined more time was needed to review comments, in compliance with
the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act. A memo
sent from DFG Director John McCamman to the FGC can be viewed at
www.fgc.ca.gov/regulations/new/2010/265memo42010.pdf.

The FGC directed staff to schedule an agenda item to begin a new
regulatory package for bear hunting regulations at their May 5 meeting.

The regulations approved today also increase elk hunting opportunities
through the addition of new hunts, reduce deer harvest in Zone X1 and
set in place regulations for mammal species for the upcoming seasons.

Ocean Salmon Season SET!

Hot off the wires from the California Department of Fish and Game comes the press release concerning this years's PFMC decision - Looks like we will have an Ocean Salmon Season!

2010 Ocean Salmon Seasons Set

The Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) has set the 2010 salmon seasons for ocean waters off California. Ocean recreational seasons will be as follows:

-- The Klamath Management Zone from the Oregon border to Horse Mountain will be open from May 29 through September 6. Minimum take size is 24 inches.

-- The waters from Horse Mountain to Point Arena will remain open through September 6. Minimum take size will increase from 20 inches to 24 inches beginning May 1.

-- The waters from Point Arena to the United States/Mexico border will remain open through September 6. From May 1 through September 6, fishing will be allowed only from Thursday through Monday. Minimum take size will increase from 20 inches to 24 inches beginning May 1.

All zones have a limit of two Chinook salmon. No take of coho salmon is allowed.

The PFMC also set limited commercial seasons in some zones. Information on these seasons, quotas, minimum size and gear restrictions can be found on the PFMC Web site at www.pcouncil.org.

The California Fish and Game Commission (FGC) will meet on April 21 to review and conform ocean seasons and size limits in state waters to mirror the new federal rules. The FGC will also set the inland salmon seasons at this time. The FGC sets all seasons in California inland and coastal waters extending three miles out.

The FGC will discuss and vote on a proposal that mirrors the dates adopted by the PFMC for ocean salmon seasons but may include additional gear and size restrictions. The proposed general sport fishing regulations and gear restrictions, along with maps of each area, can be viewed at: www.dfg.ca.gov/marine/pdfs/salmonsport10.pdf.

Anglers can review additional ocean salmon regulations in the Ocean Sport Fishing regulations booklet on DFG's Web site at: www.dfg.ca.gov or call the Ocean Salmon Hotline at (707) 576-3429 for additional information.

Salmon Season Updates

California Department of Fish and Game News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 26, 2010
(sent by email to us on April 6, by the way...)

Contacts:
Marc Heisdorf, DFG Biologist, Marine Region, (707) 576-2873
Harry Morse, DFG Communications, (916) 322-8962

Recreational Ocean Salmon Season Opens in Most Areas April 3

The recreational salmon season for ocean waters south of Horse Mountain in Humboldt County to the U.S.-Mexico border is scheduled to open on April 3. Season dates for ocean waters north of Horse Mountain and in Humboldt Bay will be decided in mid-April by the Pacific Fishery Management Council (PMFC) and the California Fish and Game Commission (FGC).

A map of each area along with general sport fishing regulations related to each area can be viewed at www.dfg.ca.gov/marine/pdfs/salmonsport10.pdf.

All Chinook salmon harvested must meet the size limit for the zone where they are taken. All coho salmon are protected by law and if caught must be released unharmed. Current regulations include the following:

Humbug Mountain (OR) to Horse Mountain: Closed

The rest of California's coastal waters (Horse Mountain to U.S.-Mexico Border): Season is scheduled for April 3-30, 2010
Limit is two salmon per day of any species (except coho)
Minimum size limit is 20 inches total length

Closing dates of all ocean seasons and size limits may be changed by the PMFC and FGC at their April meetings. Ocean salmon sport seasons in effect on or after May 1, 2010 will also be determined at the April meetings.

Sport season options currently being evaluated can be found at www.pcouncil.org.

Anglers can review additional requirements imposed by ocean salmon regulations (Section 27.80) in the Ocean Sport Fishing regulations booklet, available wherever sport fishing licenses are sold, at your local DFG office, and on DFG Web site at: www.dfg.ca.gov/regulations.

Fishpond Piopod - "Pack It Out"

Fishpond Piopod Trash Receptacle, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

One of the things that really gets to me is seeing packages with our price labels laying about on the ground. It doesn't happen that often, but up in the Marin lakes or down by the edge of the bay, I'll be fishing or hiking and come across a wadded up wrapper or package which a few weeks before was hanging on a peg in our store. Somehow, that seems to make us a part of the problem. I always pick them up, wonder a bit about someone who would toss that so easily down on the ground and then hope maybe it just fell and they didn't notice it. Still, it bugs me, and I was always taught to take one last look around and leave my surroundings a little better than how I found them.

The other thing which is a bit worse - probably more than "a bit worse" - is the number knotted up and tangled bits of monofilament which get left in the streams and waterways. Otherwise conscientious people think nothing of tossing a broken leader streamside or dropping it off the stern of the boat.

This stuff adds up, knots up, tangles fish and strangles birds. If you've ever seen one of those "ghost nets" or balled up tangles in the river, you know what I'm talking about.

So, when Fishpond showed us this little receptacle last year, we got pretty excited. It's simple - you clip it to your vest. When you snip off a leader or tippet, you wind it up and push it through the rubbery opening at the top. If you have to open a package, you can do the same with the wrapper. It keeps the trash compacted into a single place, rather than having it swimming around in the big pocket of your vest, where it can accidentally be pulled out when you grab another bit of gear.

It's simple, it's easy to use. We sold a bunch of these last fall when they were brand new, and we just got a bunch in with our new spring Fishpond order. Check 'em out, and more importantly - use one!

Here Comes Spring Fishing!

Spring 2010 looks like it's going to be one of the best springs in years, for every thing from sturgeon, stripers, halibut, and maybe even salmon, to largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, trout, crappie, and catfish. In fact I can't think of a time of year I like better then March because everything is in front of me. It's like the moment when you see the waiter bring out your food and you can see him walking towards your table (YUMM).

A couple of sunny days and all of a sudden everyone is in buying lures and jigs for striped bass, baits and hooks for the lakes, and all kinds of early season plastics and spinner baits for largemouth.

Limited Ocean Salmon Season Probable

Did Someone Say "SALMON"?!?!?!
We just got word last night that the State of California should be opening up a limited Ocean Salmon sport fishing season on April 3, 2010.

We are working to confirm all of the specifics, but it appears that it will be a 30 Day season open within three miles of shore. Obviously, that's not the longest season we've ever heard of, and the prime schools may be a bit further out, but it does at least provide the opportunity to dust off your ocean gear and get out on the water!

As soon as we get further information, we will pass it along. In the meantime, if you want to stock up with some salmon trolling lures, salmon trolling flashers or anchovy bait rigs, all salmon trolling lures and flashers in stock will be HALF OFF until the season opens!

We'll also give you the opportunity to respool your old line - SAVE 20% on all bulk line purchases for your ocean reel. Again, this is only until April 3, 2010 and may require leaving your reel to have the line wound on.

Spring is Coming!

Spring is Coming!, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

Sam & Sage Mailliard with her new pink spinning outfit and her first fish - a 16" rainbow trout caught at Bon Tempe Lake!

New Dept of Fish & Game Regs Begin March 1st

From the California Department of Fish and Game News Release

Contacts: Scott Barrow, Fisheries Branch, 916-445-7600
DFG Office of Communications, 916-322-8911

New sport fishing regulations take effect March 1

The California Fish and Game Commission has adopted the following changes to sport fishing regulations. All take effect and will be enforced starting March 1, 2010.

Display of Sport Fishing License is Not Required
Anglers will no longer have to display their sport fishing license on their outer clothing above the waist, but their sport fishing license must still be in their possession while fishing.

Sturgeon Fishing Closure on Upper Sacramento River
There will a year-round closure to sturgeon fishing on the Sacramento River from the Keswick Dam (Shasta County, west of Redding) to the Hwy 162 Bridge (near Butte City). The use of wire leaders or any type of shrimp or lamprey bait is also prohibited in this area.

Spiny Lobster
Spiny lobster must be kept in a whole, measurable condition until it is being prepared for consumption. See Section 29.90(e).

Increased Bag and Possession Limits for Hatchery Trout and Steelhead
The statewide bag and possession limits were raised to two fish per day and four fish in possession. These increased limits will be in place for all rivers and streams where the take of hatchery trout or steelhead is presently allowed except for the Feather, Klamath and Mokelumne rivers. Refer to the Section 7.50 of the regulations for each individual reach.

New Rules for the Smith River
Only barbless hooks will be allowed in all reaches of the Smith River. The Klamath-Trinity Salmon Report Card has been renamed North Coast Salmon Report Card and will now be required on the Smith River also. The annual bag limit for wild trout or steelhead was reduced to zero and no more than five wild Chinook may be kept per year.

Sunfish and Crappie Combined Bag Limit and Separate Tilapia Limit
The daily bag limit for sunfish is reduced to 25 fish and incorporated into a combined bag limit of 25 sunfish and crappie of all species, except as noted in Section 5.82. Tilapia are moved out of the sunfish bag limit and continue to have no limit on take.

Splittail and Lamprey Changes
Sacramento splittail may be taken only by angling, with a bag limit of two fish. The bag limit for lamprey is reduced to five and the use of traps is no longer allowed.

There are other changes to the sturgeon and steelhead report cards and general district regulations, so please review all of the 2010 regulations pertaining to the species you intend to pursue. Regulations are available on the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) Web site at www.dfg.ca.gov/about/fishing.

Slick Trick For Steelhead

Multimedia message, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

We've been stocking P-Line Hydrofloat line for a while now, and it's starting to catch on as a slick way to fish downstream baits and lures. It draws a bit from flyfishing - it's actually Spectra line which has a thin floating layer laminated to it. This causes the line to suspend on the surface. You can actually mend the line as you would with a regular fly line.

Rigging the line up with a slip-float lets you drift your bait along with the current in a much more natural fashion further downstream. Regular line will arc toward shore much more quickly, and many anglers feel that they have been getting more hookups with the fish that are just downstream of where regular monofilament has begun to move towards shore.

We have a number of good rod options to use for this - the staff favorites are an ultralight setup with a 10'6" Fenwick HMG Noodle rod or if you are looking for something a bit more traditional the Shimano Clarus 8'6" spinning setup.

Stradic Ci4 Arrives in 2500 Size!

Multimedia message, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

Just arrived! Stradic ci4 2500!

Check it out here!

New Book - Sight Fishing for Trout

New Book - Sight Fishing for Trout, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

Another new title just arriving - by Landon Mayer.

New Book - Fly Tying Made Clear and Simple II

New Book - Fly Tying Made Clear and Simple II, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

Advanced techniques on fly tying by Skip Morris. Skip is the guy who set the benchmark intro tying book - Fly Tying Made Clear and Simple.

Excellent photographs and clear instructions. It's bound in a softbound, spiral format, so you can easily flip the pages around for more tying bench space. A perfect book to while away the winter months.

New Shimano Stradic CI4

New Shimano Stradic CI4, originally uploaded by Western Sport Shop.

Wasn't sure when these were going to show up - we ordered 'em a while back. Just got them in this past week. So far, just the 1000 series size, but whoa! are these smooth and light!

Ideal for a light trout setup - hopefully the 2500's will show up soon!
(The color is a little off because we used a flash on this photo)

The word from the Shimano site -
"CI4 stands for Carbon Interfusion with the 4 referring to the number of electrons in the Carbon atom. Ultimately, this means CI4 is reinforced Carbon Fiber.

It is over one and a half times stronger than our normal XT-7 graphite and is over 20% lighter. Because it does not contain metal, it is impervious to rust.

So, as a result of its strength and weight, we can create an extremely lightweight reel with very precise tolerances."

Now in stock at both locations - not sure how many of these we'll get, so don't delay!

Here are a couple more photos to get you even more excited -