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IWFF California Regional Rendezvous 2004  

Mount Shasta Ranch, in Northern California, July 15–18, 2004.

Review of Regional Rendez-vous,

Mt. Shasta Ranch, Mt. Shasta, California July 15-18, 2004

Standing L-R: Karen Gilbert, Wa-Lois Robinson, CA-Joyce Silva, CA- Chrissie H. Clapp, CA- Pat Magnuson, CA- Fanny Krieger, CA- Tina Vieira, CA- Elaine Almquist, OR- Linda Miller, CA

Sitting L-R: Anna Beraud, CA-Anne Marie Bakker, CA- Judith Brown, CA- Marty Clark, WA-Jamie Hatten , WA-Deirdre Moy, CA

Our Rendez-vous began on a high energy plane and it never flagged. We had staggered arrivals but no matter where in town we were we were easily found. (we definitely are a conspicuous presence). Joyce made arrangements to visit the River Exchange, a non-profit conservation group dedicated to fostering watershed stewardship, education, and experiences on the Upper Sacramento River. Craig Ballenger, who is a conservationist, author and guide for the Upper Sacramento River area, gave an overview. Craig then turned the meeting over to Vince Cloward who had, just that morning, escorted George Bush, Sr., Barbara and others to beautiful Mossbrae Falls. (Side note-Presidents as far back as Ulysses Grant have visited this area.)

The Exchange was formed to aid in the restoration of the Upper Sacramento River after the devastating train derailment that spilled toxic materials into the river. Vince’s presentation was a great slide show showing the progress made in the river restoration and narrative regarding the varied indigenous wildlife and it’s interconnection with the river.

We did a little snooping in shops, checked out fly shops and headed back to the ranch where, Greg, the manager, greeted us and was available to graciously cater to us. Wine and finger foods were available thanks to Rachel from The Fly Shop. We introduced ourselves and Fanny made a strong presentation on the IWFF and the Rendez-vous. Questions on where we would fish were anxiously asked. Rachel demonstrated casting for those who wanted it and Craig and Joyce and Chrissie set up for the activities of the next day.

Friday was the day of new adventures. A few Shasta Mayflies came to take groups of ladies to prospective fishing venues. Their knowledge of the area was invaluable as well as rewarding for some lucky fishers. We are very grateful for their time and assistance.

We met for lunch by the river to regroup, share successes, and set off again for more fishing. Dinner was a tasty catered event sponsored by the Shasta Mayflies and a friendly round or two of poker topped off the evening. It was proposed, and unanimously agreed upon, to donate all the winnings to the River Exchange. They were extremely pleased that we remembered them in this way.

Saturday was very similar to Friday. Some people hired guides, some went on their own and some went with the Shasta Mayflies volunteer guides. Many areas of fishing (The upper Sacramento River, the McCloud and the lower Sacramento) were explored and we only touched the tip of the fishing opportunities in the area. Many tales of glory were told and tales of near takes and misses were related and everyone had a wonderful time.

 Sunday was a day of wrap up and good bys. We met after breakfast and spoke about out time together. In general, everyone had a fabulous time. It was particularly gratifying to see ladies planning future trips together and talk about keeping in touch. A group of 3, previously unknown to each other, were leaving to meet up the same day in Oregon for some more fishing. .

We had 16 paid participants and at least another 6 counting Rachel, Craig, and the Shasta Mayflies who helped out. One participant came from Oregon, 3 came from Washington with the rest from California as far south as Del Mar. There were 7 Golden West Women Flyfishers in attendance. Our youngest participant was Anna, niece of Anne-Marie Bakker, who was an adorable 9 year old who was one of the few to catch a fish on the first foray out putting some of us “veterans” to shame.

 The accommodations were a cozy converted horse ranch built in the 1920’ nestled in front of snow dotted Mt. Shasta. A huge veranda held all of our cocktail party and gatherings. When we moved inside, the dining area doubled as our casino for poker night. It was converted back to an elegant breakfast area where we had fabulous breakfasts prepared by our gracious owner/ hosts Mary and Bill Larsen.

In attendance were the following new and “veteran” IWFF members:

Elaine Almquist- OR, Anne-Marie Bakker-CA, Anna Beraud-CA, Judith Brown-CA, Chrissie H. Clapp-CA, Marty Clark-WA, Susan Cox-CA, Karen Gilbert- WA, Jaime Hatten-WA, Fanny Krieger-CA, Pat Magnuson-CA, Linda Miller-CA, Deirdre Moy-CA, Lois Robinson-CA, Joyce Silva-CA, Tina Vieira-CA

“Tiny fishes, future wishes for hatches and catches and releases”

written by a Rendez-vous  participant

 

 

 

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