Opening Day: Ted Fay Fly Shop Moves, Dunsmuir Rod Company Goes 50% Off

Even though it’s of little import to the largely C&R fly fishing crowd, this weekend is the traditional trout opener on the Upper Sacramento (and in most of the rest of the state).

It means the regulations change from C&R on the entirety of the river to a five-fish harvest (by any angling methods) in Zone 2 (Sweetbriar to Shasta Retreat Bridge), and a two-fish limit (barbless only) on the lower chunk of the river.

The portion above the Shasta Retreat bridge is always barbless, C&R.

The “Such a Deal” Department

For those who never pay retail, Chris Raine at the Dunsmuir Rod Company is liquidating most of his Orvis fly fishing inventory, and focusing on rod building again (good move!).

That means Orvis waders, boots, rods, reels, lines and other Orvis-labeled gear is all 50% off. His remaining stock of nymphs are going for $.59 each.

Rather than function as a full-service fly shop, he’s limiting his inventory to the goodies that fit with his bamboo fly rods; high-end reels, dry flies, fly lines, leaders, tippet, books… you get the picture.

Meanwhile, Back at The Ted Fay Ranch

The Ted Fay Fly shop has moved from its old digs in North Dunsmuir to a handsome new storefront downtown (across from the Cornerstone restaurant and the movie theater).

Sure, you’ll find the same odd assortment of cranks, layabouts and guides inhabiting the place (and I’ll let you decide who is which), but you’ll experience them in fresher, prettier surroundings.

Bob’s added Simms and Scott to his lineup in the off season, and with Chris deciding to build rods instead of selling nymphs, the Ted Fay shop is definitely the better all-around shop.

Ted Fay Fly Shop: 530.235.2969

Dunsmuir Rod Company: 530.235.4058

See you on the river (not! — I’m packing up and heading to Tennessee), Tom Chandler.

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