The Beginnings OF The High Sierra Fly Casters

In January 1991, a small group of people interested in fly fishing met at Diamond Valley School in Alpine County, California. Mike and Sue Solgat operated the Fish Connection in Minden/Gardnerville, and Judy Warren was involved with promoting the preservation of fish and fly fishing in Alpine County. Two other interested parties were Gabe Chavarin of Alpine County and Bud Perkins of Douglas County, Nevada. The results of this meeting was a decision to form a fly fishing club, and the name chosen was the High Sierra Fly Casters. Membership developed slowly and for several years consisted of ten to fifteen dedicated souls. For a time meetings were held at the Woodfords Fire Station and as membership grew it became apparent that more and more membership was developing in Douglas County; so it was decided to hold alternate meeting at the Carson Valley Swim Center in Minden, Nevada. In mid-1994, bylaws were adopted, and the goal of the club was officially proclaimed: “To promote and preserve the enjoyment of fly fishing to everyone interested in the sport."

We've expanded our mission over the years to include supporting maintenance of our fisheries and community service programs. The club, now seventy members strong, remains a member-managed fly fishing club. Our meetings are held in the Carson Valley.

This article is based upon a fishstories.... newsletter article "The Beginnings", by Rosemarie and Burl Middendorf, as republished in 2016. This version has been lightly edited and augmented with current information about our club.