Al Smatsky

Flyfishing Guide

Excellent Adventures

Lodi, California

GBF Speaker - Thursday, February 14, 2008

Guide, outfitter and long time fly fisherman Al Smatsky will talk about "Central Valley Shad" at Granite Bay Flycasters monthly meeting on Thursday, March 13th.  Shad fishing brings Al back to the origins of his fly fishing history.  He describes the circuitous pursuit of these fish as follows:

"Encouraged by my life-long friend and fishing buddy over 35 years ago, I purchased my first fly rod for a trip to the Yuba River for shad.  From that point on I was hooked for life.  Back then, there wasn’t an abundance of help for the beginner, so during the winter we would dream up new shad patterns for the next year's run.  Some worked and some didn’t.  Since that time, I have been fishing from Alaska to Central America in pursuit of most fresh and saltwater species."

"In 1977, I joined the Delta Fly Fishers and quickly made friends with anglers that shared the same interest.  As an active board member and president (twice) the club grew to over 100 members, which it still maintains.  As the Program Chairman for over twenty years, I had the opportunity to meet many wonderful and talented fly fishermen which help me expand my knowledge of our sport.  In 2003 I was awarded the honor of “Life Member” for my faithful membership and service to the Delta Fly Fishers."