THE FIRST FREE TROUT FISHING DERBY FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS!!

This event will be held on APRIL 26TH at San Pablo Reservoir from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm at Gazebo #3. This will be a meet and greet event with free lunch, prizes, and a fishing clinic for all who attend. California sport fishing license is required. Go to: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Licensing if you don’t have one. Sign-up by calling or texting to Burt C or any board member or Email us at: sfnfc2022@gmail.com

Membership is not required, but must sign up and have valid California Fishing license and sign waiver form on next page. Members needed for assistance with this event. Please sign up to help.

The Annual Installation and Awards Banquet April 12, 2025

The Annual Installation and Awards Banquet will be held at the Basque Cultural Center located at 599 Railroad Ave. South San

Francisco, CA. 94080 on April 12, 2025 Seating will be limited. Sign up by calling or texting Burton C before April 2nd Cost per person: Prime Rib $55 Chicken $45 Eggplant Parmigiana $35 and Kids (12 and under) chickens nuggets $20. No host cocktails are 11:30 to 12 noon, then at noon the luncheon begins. One can pay in advance by sending a check to Burton C or at the event. Invite your family and friends to enjoy great food, and your chance of winning one of the many door prizes. As usual, w e are accepting donations Thank you for your generosity.

Directions to the Basque Cultural Center

From I 280: Take the Westborough exit and go East on Westborough Blvd. (down the hill towards El Camino) Turn right onto El Camino Real, in about 3 blocks, turn left onto W. Orange Ave. After 7 blocks, turn right onto Railroad Ave. After 2 blocks, the Basque Cultural Center is on the right. A large parking lot is in front of the building.

From US 101 North: Take the Grand Ave. turn off follow the signs towards downtown. Make a left onto Linden Ave, after 3 blocks, a right turn onto Railroad Ave. Go 3 blocks, 599 Railroad is on the left side. A large parking lot is in front of the building.

From US 101 South: Take the Grand Ave. exit and left turn on Airport Blvd. After 3 blocks, turn right on Grand Ave. After 3 blocks, right turn onto Railroad Ave. go 3 blocks, 599 Railroad Ave. the cultural center is on the left side. A large parking lot is in front of the building.

UPCOMING DERBIES:

March all month open Black Bass Derby now in progress, fish anywhere in California waters only!  Use catch verification form and submit to Burton C or Kenny I.

One day Black Bass Derby will be held at Lake Berryessa, on March 15th and April 5th

Call Burton C or any board members to signup by 9:00 P.M. the evening before. $10.00 entry fee must be paid promptly. Weigh ins will be conducted in the parking lot (previous weigh in location) of the Italian restaurant, Cucina Italiana location on Knoxville Road before the Visitors Center. The Berryessa Store and all the other businesses are permanently closed at this site. There is plenty of space for boat trailer parking. There are no restrooms at this location. There will be a weigh master for these events!

Weigh in deadline is 3:00 P.M No catch and release cards will be accepted, but if your bass is kept alive, you may release it after it’s weighed in.

The results of the February all month open Striped Bass Derby

We had only 6 members that signed up for this derby and “0” fish were weighed in.

The results of the January all month open Striped Bass Derby 

We had only 4 members that signed up for this derby and no fish were weighed in. 🙁

Lake Berryessa implements new protocol for boat launching! 

Media Contact: Mary Lee Knecht, 916-978-5100, mgarrisonknecht@usbr.gov For Release: Nov 25, 2024 NAPA, Calif. – Effective immediately, Reclamation will require all boats launching at Lake Berryessa to participate in a seal program to prevent the spread of invasive mussels. All vessels wishing to launch at Lake Berryessa will be inspected. A red quarantine seal will be applied for 30 days during, which the vessel will not be permitted to launch. Vessels that have finished the 30-day quarantine may return to the lake and have the seal removed by authorized staff and will be allowed to launch. 

Any vessel wishing to launch sooner than the required 30-day quarantine period must have a hot-water decontamination performed by Solano County Water Agency trained and approved staff. These vessels are allowed to launch immediately following decontamination. Should a vessel be decontaminated at another facility or by another entity, that decontamination will not be valid unless a seal is applied to the vessel. 

Upon exit from the Lake, all vessels must have a seal attached by authorized staff to be allowed to freely launch at Lake Berryessa. Otherwise, the vessel will need to undergo another quarantine period or decontamination. 

Hand launched watercraft with electric motors like fishing kayaks, require an inspection prior to launch. Non-motorized watercraft, such as kayaks and paddleboards, are not subject to inspection and are encouraged to be inspected for free at any launch ramp. All paddlers are encouraged to arrive clean, drained, and dry. 

Reclamation, its partners, and its Concessioners are making these changes to prevent the spread of golden mussels. The invasive species was recently identified in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and is the first known occurrence of golden mussels in North America. The species pose a significant immediate threat to the ecological health of the Delta and all waters of the state, water conveyance systems, infrastructure, and water quality. 

For questions about this new protocol and vessel decontamination, contact BORBerryessa@usbr.gov. 

Golden Mussel Infestation: Lake Berryessa Boat Launch Rules 

Nov 27, 2024 As you may have seen on social media, the Bureau of Reclamation and the Solano County Water District have implemented drastic changes to boat launch rules at Lake Berryessa. This sudden development has left the local fishing community, including us here at Sweeney's Sports, scrambling to adjust. 

To make matters more challenging, we’ve confirmed that Lake Hennessey and Lake Camanche are now completely closed to boat launches, as of today, according to Drew Ganter, Supervising Water Resource Specialist with the Solano County Water Agency. 

Like many of you, we were shocked and blindsided by these rapid changes. After reading posts and comments online, it became clear that reliable information was scarce. So, we decided to take action, separating fact from fiction to understand what’s happening and how we can adapt. 

Our business relies heavily on the fishing community, and this situation has the potential to significantly impact us. Even a sustained 10% drop in sales could seriously threaten our ability to stay open. That’s why we’ve jumped into action, contacting the Bureau of Reclamation and working closely with Drew to get the facts straight. 

Fast Facts About the Golden Mussel 

What happened? Golden Mussels (Limnoperna fortunei) were discovered at Rough & Ready Island near Stockton, California, on October 17, 2024. 

• Global threat:The Golden Mussel is considered one of the highest-risk invasive species globally. 

• First in North America:This is the first-ever detection of the Golden Mussel in North America. 

• Rapid spread potential:In Brazil, Golden Mussels have spread at a rate of over 240 km/year, posing an urgent threat to both ecosystems and water infrastructure. 

What Are Golden Mussels? 

Golden Mussels are invasive freshwater mussels that, like Zebra and Quagga Mussels in the Great Lakes, are capable of causing catastrophic environmental changes. These mussels can dramatically reduce plankton populations, disrupting the food web and harming fish populations. Additionally, they colonize surfaces rapidly, threatening water-based infrastructure. 

Why Are Golden Mussels Dangerous? 

1. They Can Kill Fish 

Golden Mussels feed on plankton, a crucial food source for fish like Bass, Trout, Catfish, and Kokanee fry (juveniles). 

• How much do they consume? An adult mussel can filter up to 1 liter of water per day, and 1 square meter of surface can host up to 200,000 mussels. 

• Impact: 10 square feet of Golden Mussels can remove plankton from 1.5 million gallons of water per month, starving fish and damaging fisheries. 

2. They Damage Water Infrastructure 

Golden Mussels clog pipes, filters, and other water systems, causing costly damage to water treatment plants and hydroelectric facilities. Their attachment to surfaces also leads to corrosion and degradation of infrastructure. 

3. They Multiply Rapidly 

Golden Mussels can spread up to 150 miles per year, as seen in Brazil, making containment efforts especially challenging. 

What Is Being Done? Lake Berryessa Boat Launch Rules 

Currently, Lake Berryessa has strict new boat launch rules in place to prevent the spread of Golden Mussels. 

Options for Launching Your Boat 

1. 30-Day Quarantine 

o Your boat must be sealed by authorized personnel and quarantined for 30 days. This involves running a metal wire to connect the boat to the trailer and a tamper-proof seal being applied. Unfortunately, you won't be able to use the boats for the full 30 days to pass the quarantine. 

o After the quarantine period, you can launch at Lake Berryessa and receive a green seal upon retrieval. 

o If the seal remains unbroken, you can launch again without re-quarantining. 

Decontamination Process 

o Boats can be decontaminated by authorized staff at the Steel Canyon Recreation Area. 

o Appointments are required and can be scheduled here. 

o The process involves a thorough hot-water pressure wash, inside and out, and takes about one hour. 

Without completing one of these steps, launching our boats at Lake Berryessa is not permitted. 

Other Closures 

Lake Hennessey and Lake Camanche are completely closed to boat launches until further notice. 

What’s Next? 

This appears to be a permanent change for our lakes. In the future, seals from one lake may be honored at others, but for now, these rules are specific to Lake Berryessa. 

SFNFC DUES AND FEE SCHEDULE FOR 2025

No changes for 2025 membership dues:

General membership: $20.00

Junior membership: $5.00

Life members: Not Required

Derby fees will remain the same except for special derbies. ($10 for each derby except $15 for the Thanksgiving derby) 

Members who elect to pay for all the derby fees for the year, here’s the breakdown:

Regular members

Derbies (15 Derbies) $155.00

Discount (Paid in advance) -$10.00

Sub total $145.00

Member ‘s Dues $20.00

Total for members $165.00

Jr. members

Derbies (15 Derbies) $155.00

Discount (Paid in advance) -$10.00

Sub total $145.00

Junior member ‘s Dues $5.00

Total for Jr. members $150.00

Life members

Total for Life members $145.00

All payments and form must be sent to Burton C, our Treasurer.

The results of the December all month open Striped Bass Derby 

We had 14 members that signed up for this derby and 9 fish were weighed in. 

Angler Weight Length 

1) Ed G 9 lbs. 11 oz. 29 3/4” 

2) James M 5 lbs. 14 oz. 26 3/4” 

3) Jim Y 5 lbs. 13 oz. 26 ½” 

4) Al M 3 lbs. 14 oz. 22 ½” 

Al M 3 lbs. 8 oz. 21 ½” 

6) Mike M 3 lbs. 6 oz. 21 3/4 ”

7) Dayton L 3 lbs. 4 oz. 20” 

8) John M 2 lbs. 15 oz. 20 ½” 

9) Mike M 2 lbs. 8 oz. 19 1/4” 

The results of the December Sashimi Open Striped Bass Derby 

We had 13 members that signed up for this 2 day derby and 7 striped were weighed in. 

Angler Weight Length 

1) Ed G 9 lbs. 11 oz. 29 ¾”

2) James M 5 lbs. 14 oz. 26 ¾” 

3) Jim Y 5 lbs. 3 oz. 24 ¾” 

4) Al M 3 lbs. 14 oz. 22 ½” 

5) Al M 3 lbs. 8 oz. 21 ½” 

6) John M 2 lbs. 15 oz. 20 ½” 

7) Mike M 2 lbs. 8 oz. 19 ¼” 

March Dobashi Thanksgiving Striped Bass Derby Results

We had 21 members sign up for the 2024 Thanksgiving Striped Bass Derby and 13 Stripers were weighed in. The weigh-ins and potluck were held at the Holy Trinity Christopher Center, 999 Brotherhood Way in San Francisco 6-9:00 P.M.

And the winners are:

Anglers Weight Length 

1) Bob M 7 lbs. 7 oz 28 ¼” 

2) Bill D 5 lbs. 7 oz. 24 7/8”

3) Jimmy Y 5 lbs. 2 oz. 25 7/8” 

4) Dayton L 5 lbs. 04 oz. 28 3/8”

5) John M 4 lbs. 13 oz. 24 5/8” 

6) Burton C 4 lbs. 12 oz. 24 1/8” 

7) Diane M 4 lbs. 10 oz. 24 7/8” 

8) Alfred M 4 lbs. 9 oz. 24 5/8” 

9) George S 4 lbs. 4 oz. 22 7/8” 

10) Al M 3 lbs. 13 oz. 21 7/8” 

11) Michael M 3 lbs . 11 oz. 22 7/8” 

12) Dan S 3 lbs. 8 oz. 22” 

13) James M 3 lbs. 2 oz. 20” 

*Note: The first 5 places also collected additional prizes and Groceries. All members who signed up and attended the derby weigh-ins received a $15.00 Safeway gift card.

All the other members present, received prizes in order of the catch placement!

All the remaining prizes were raffled off to all those that entered the derby but failed to catch a fish. All other remaining groceries were donated to the Holy Trinity’s food drive. Everyone was a winner today!! There were many smiling faces at the end! Thanks you all, that contributed to the Potluck Dinner! Sorry, I didn’t get all the members name and the dishes that were donated.

Many thank’s goes out to our following supporters and members:

Tom Hoshiyama Plaza Insurance Inc.                   

Michael I & Jamie O, Arguello Pet Hospital 

Allen O, Kay Okamoto Co.

Mary H

Jimmy Y

Yasukochi’s Sweet Shop 

Gus Discount Tackle Shop 

Soko Hardware 

Japanese Tea Garden

NJAHS

Nomura & Co. 

Kelly I

James M

Bill D

The SFNFC provided 21 - $15.00 Safeway gift cards to purchase turkeys! That means the derby was FREE!

Bob M cleaned 12 Striped Bass and Diane and Bill D distributed them to our club supporters!

Potluck Dinner Food Contributions

Diane M, Curry stew and hot rice; Alan M,Taquitos; Michael M, Cream puffs and eclairs; Alfred M, box of cookies; Akemi & Kenny I, Fried chicken wings; Mike F, 3 cases of sodas & ice; Kelly I, Lumpia; Bill D, Chicken dish; Sampiors, Pasta Dish; sorry if I missed anyone.

CA Boating License Requirement for 2025

Age and Operator Restrictions: California law requires a person to be 16 years of age or older and in possession of his/her California Boater Card to legally operate a vessel powered by a motor of 15 hp or more, including personal watercraft (PWCs). When renting a boat, you may be asked to show your boating license. California Boater Card https://www.californiaboatercard.com

The 2024 Annual Club Picnic

The SFNFC annual picnic was a huge success with over 25+ new members, friends, and guests attending. The picnic was held at our usual location at San Pablo Reservoir in El Sobrante, CA. the Oaks Group picnic area. Mother nature treated us well with some windy weather, as many were expecting sizzling hot weather. The yellow jackets were not as active this year. Alan and Michael M donated and grilled the corn on the cob for everyone again this year. The hot dogs were missing as were Akemi and Kenny I. There was more than plenty of pot luck food available for all including some fresh yellowfin tuna sashimi from Kelly I! Many thanks to all who brought their favorite picnic dishes to share with everyone. Thanks goes out to the following members: Burton C, Alan and Mike M, Mike F, James M & Bob and Diane M for coming early to clean the area of leaves and debris and covering the tables with paper. Mary H, who was unable to attend, but for always providing the insect netting to protect the food from those pesky insects and paper plates and utensils. Mark N provided all the drinks, water, and beer. Thanks to Mo and Vivian N for providing some awesome prizes.  Thank you, Diane M for the prizes for the games and raffle, Big thanks to Diane M for all the creative games that all the adults and kids enjoyed. Mike F was the winner for identifying the most mystery gadgets.

Important Note from James M.

California bans salmon fishing for the 2024 season in Sacramento-Area Rivers and Klamath basin. 

https://phys.org/news/2024-05-california-salmon-fishing-season-sacramento.html

San Francisco JACL 2024 Youth Derby Sunday May 19, 2024 

This event was held at San Pablo Reservoir in El Sobrante. We had many regular volunteers to help at this event. There were 21 guests registered and 16 youths that fished. Lunch, fishing permits, parking, and bait, was provided for all participants, families, and volunteers by the San Francisco JACL! Thank you, Judy H! 

The fishing conditions were perfect, warm weather, light winds, and great water level. The catching was a different story! Two trout were caught by an older youth that exceeded the age limit, so was not qualified to win a prize. The weighmaster, Mo N, had the scale ready to weigh fish, but none were caught. To the season trout fisherman, the water temperature was too warm and the trout were in deeper waters that was not reachable by casting from shore. Thank you, Stephanie Ernst Scott (Gus’ Discount Fishing Tackle Shop) for donating the terminal equipment and power bait and Bill D, for donating the rod and reel set, we had no winners so we’ll keep it for next time. 

The lunch was wonderful, Alan and Michael M. cooked hamburgers and hot dog with the help of James M., and side dishes of, chili, potato salad, fruits, drinks, and other assorted goodies were provided by the JACL. Mike M brought fudgsicle for everyone and Diane M brought watermelon for everyone. Thank you, Mike and Diane for that extra treat!! NOTE: Steven M noticed that our fishing rods we were using had worn wrapping and a few rusted guides that needed attention, so he volunteered to repair and replace some guides on 9 rods. The club will reimburse him for the materials needed for the repairs. Thank you, Steven!! 😉

REMINDER: Pay your 2024 Club membership dues Prior to participating in club activities 

Remember to pay your $20 membership dues. Junior memberships are $5. Send your checks made out to SFNFC (San Francisco Nisei Fishing Club) to Burton C.

Welcome New Members 

At our last zoom meeting, we had 1 new member join our club. Welcome Donald T! 

The Annual Installation and Awards Banquet March 9, 2024 

The Annual Installation and Awards Banquet will be held at the Basque Cultural Center, located at 599 Railroad Ave. South San Francisco, CA. 94080 on March 9, 2024. Seating will be limited. So plan early and RSVP by March 1, 2024 by calling or texting Burton C. Cost per person: Prime Rib $50, Chicken $40, Vegetarian $30 and Kids (12 and under) chickens nuggets $15. No host cocktails are 11:30 to 12 noon, then at noon, the luncheon begins. One can pay in advance by sending a check to Burton C. or at the event. Invite your family and friends to enjoy great food, and your chance of winning one of the many door prizes. As usual, we are accepting donations. Thank you for your generosity.

Directions to the Basque Cultural Center From I-280: Take the Westborough exit and go East on Westborough Blvd.(down the hill towards El Camino) Turn right onto El Camino Real, in about 3 blocks, turn left onto W. Orange Ave. After 7 blocks, turn right onto Railroad Ave. After 2 blocks, the Basque Cultural Center is on the right. A large parking lot is in front of the building. 

From US 101 North: Take the Grand Ave. turn off follow the signs towards downtown. Make a left onto Linden Ave, after 3 blocks, a right turn onto Railroad Ave. Go 3 blocks, 599 Railroad is on the left side. A large parking lot is in front of the building. 

From US 101 South: Take the Grand Ave. exit and left turn on Airport Blvd. After 3 blocks, turn right on Grand Ave. After 3 blocks, right turn onto Railroad Ave. go 3 blocks, 599 Railroad Ave. the cultural center is on the left side. A large parking lot is in front of the building. 

Officers and Board of Directors for 2024 Officers 

President Diane M 

Vice President Michael F 

Recording Secretary Mike M

Corresponding Secretary Akemi I 

Treasurer Burton C 

Newsletter Editor Kenny I 

Webmaster Kelly I 

Board of Directors 

Bill (William) D 

Kay M 

Bob M 

Alan M 

Jimmy Y 

Mark N 

Mary H (Honorary Board Member) 

Congratulations to our Officers and Board of Directors who are all looking forward to your support and participation for a successful 2024. 

REMINDER: Pay your 2024 Club membership dues! 

Prior to participating in club activities, remember to pay your $20 membership dues. Junior memberships are $5. Send your checks made out to SFNFC (San Francisco Nisei Fishing Club) to Burton C

2024 Sport Fishing License changes last year. 

The 365-day sport fishing licenses went into effect on sale January 1, 2023. All 365-day sport fishing licenses purchased after January 1, 2023, will be valid for 365 days from the date of purchase. For example, a license purchased on January 15th would be valid for use through January 14th the following year. About time!! So, don’t buy your license until you go fishing! 

Sacramento International Sportsmen's Exposition Jan. 18-21, 2024 Cal Expo - Sacramento, CA. 

Now in its 36th year, this is California’s largest annual celebration of “Your Life Outdoors” for the entire family. Shop outdoor gear, fishing and hunting products, plus four-wheelers, camping RVs, and a huge selection of fishing boats. Book your next outdoor adventure with guides and lodges nearby to around the world. Learn from experts at more than 100 free seminars, including a Sporting-Dog Arena. Plus, an entire building of free events for kids on the weekend. 

Event Hours: Thursday, January 18: 11 am to 8 pm; Friday, January 19: 11 am to 8 pm Saturday, January 20: 10 am to 7 pm; Sunday, January 21: 10 am to 4 pm 

Admission: Adult (16 and Above): $16 Youths 15 and Under Enter Free.   PARKING IS EXTRA 

Remember to patronize our club supporters 

Tom Hoshiyama, Plaza Insurance Co. 25 Kearny Street San Francisco, CA. 415-983-5910 

Arguello Pet Hospital 530 Arguello Blvd. San Francisco, CA. 415-751-3242 

Japanese Cultural & Community Center (JCCCNC) 1840 Sutter Street San Francisco, CA. 415-567-5505 

T. Okamoto & Co. (real estate) 1832 Buchanan Street San Francisco, CA. 415-931-6295 

Yasukochi’s Sweet Shop Bakery 1790 Sutter Street San Franciscco, CA. 415-931-8165 

Paper Tree Art Supply Store 1743 Buchanan Street San Francisco, CA. 415-887-1736 

Gus Discount Fishing Tackle Shop 3710 Balboa Street San Francisco, CA. 415-752-6197 

Soko Hardware 1698 Post Street San Francisco, CA . 415-931-5510 

Japanese Tea Garden 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr. San Francisco, CA. 415-752-1171 

NJAHS (Nation Japanese American Historical Society) 1684 Post Street San Francisco, CA. 415-921-5007 

Nomura & Co. (Japanese food supply) 40 Broderick Road Burlinmgame, CA. 650-692-5457 

* Length determined the placement. All the honorable mentions received prizes in order of the catch placement! All left over prizes were raffled off to all those that entered the derby but failed to catch a fish. All other prizes were raffled out to remaining guest and families. EVERYONE WAS A WINNER TODAY!! THERE WERE MANY SMILING FACES AT THE END! THANK YOU ALL, THAT CONTRIBUTED TO THE POTLUCK DINNER. SORRY, I ARRIVED TOO LATE TO GET THE NAMES AND DISHES THAT WERE DONATED! 

Many Thank you’s goes out to our following supporter: 

Tom Hoshiyama, Plaza Insurance Co. $500.00 

Michael Ina & Jamie Obana, Arguello Pet Hospital $350.00 

Allen Okamoto, Kay Okamoto Co. $100.00 

Tosh Mitsuda $50.00 

Yasukochi’s Sweet Shop Gift certificate for $50.00 

Paper Tree Gift Card for $25.00 

Gus Discount Tackle Shop Fishing Rod & Tackle Box 

Soko Hardware Zojirushi Thermos

Japanese Tea Garden Burberry Blanket 

NJAHS T-Shirt, cup & saucer 

Nomura & Co. 8 bags 5 lbs. Kokuho Rice & 6 bags Brown Rice 

Member’s Donations 

Mike Fujimoto 2 $25.00 

Gift certificates to Cus’ and Olive 

Kelly Ina Sweat Shirt, Fillet Knife and Chicken Broth 

Ed Gamba Bottles of Wine & Champagne 

Mark Noguchi Miso Ramen, water, beer, & drinks

 James McNeil Can corn 

Al Morishita Paper Towels 

Mike Moser & Richard Brouillet Persimmons 

Bob & Diane Matsmura Foil & Juice 

Mary Hidekawa Paper Plates, Napkins, & Utensils 

Akemi & Kenny Ina Cranberry sauce, Stuffing Mix, & water 

The SFNFC donated 30 - $15.00 Safeway gift cards to purchase turkeys! That means the derby was FREE! 

Bob Matsumura cleaned 12 Striped Bass and Diane distributed them to our club supporters! 

NOVEMBER 10, 2023

MARIN COUNTY – A man who died after being swept into the water at Point Reyes National Seashore while fishing last week was identified Wednesday by the Marin County Coroner's Office as Richard Norio Sumi, a 73-year-old Hercules resident. A witness reported seeing Sumi swept out from Point Reyes' South Beach by a rogue wave at about 9 a.m. Friday, according to the Marin County Sheriff's Office. Emergency responders from the National Park Service, U.S. Coast Guard, California Highway Patrol, Marin County Sheriff's Office, Sonoma County Sheriff's Office, and Sonoma County Fire Department all assisted during the attempted rescue operation. Sumi was found motionless about 40 minutes after entering the water. He was airlifted back to shore, where he was pronounced dead. His death is being investigated by the National Park Service and Marin County Sheriff's Office. NOTE: Richard Sumi was a member of the SFNFC sometime ago. Our condolences to his family. 

YOU SURF FISHERMEN, BEWARE OF THESE ROGUE WAVES AT THE BEACHES! NEVER TURN YOUR BACK TO THE SURF. IF YOU ARE ATTEMPTING TO CATCH SAND CRABS, HAVE SOMEONE WATCHING THE BREAKERS FOR YOU! MAKE SURE YOU WEAR A BELT AROUND YOUR WAIST OVER YOUR WADERS TO PREVENT WATER FLOODING YOUR WADERS IF YOU GET HIT BY A LARGE WAVE. 

The Annual Club Picnic 

The SFNFC annual picnic was a huge success with over 60+ members, friends, and guests attending. The picnic was held at our usual location at San Pablo Reservoir in El Sobrante, CA. the Oaks Group picnic area. Mother nature treated us well with perfect weather, as many were expecting sizzling hot weather. The yellow jackets were very active this year. I heard that some people were bitten by them. Alan and Michael M donated and cooked the corn on the cob and hot dogs. There was more than plenty of pot luck food available for all! Many thanks to all who brought their favorite picnic dishes to share with everyone. Thanks goes out to the following members: Burton C, for coming early with his blower to clean the area of leaves and debris and covering the tables with paper, which was provided by Mike F. Mary H for always providing the insect netting to protect the food from those pesky insects and paper plates and utensils. Akemi and Kenny I provided the hot dogs, buns, soda, water, and beer. Diane M, Kelly I, & Akemi I for the prizes for the games and raffle; This year we missed Sara and Kelli M who helped with everything and called out BINGO. We missed you girls! (both USC students now) A special thanks to Diane M for all the creative games that all the adults and kids enjoyed. Burton's wife was the winner for identifying the most gadgets, 9 out of 12! Carter M guessed the amount of popcorn kernals, Kelly I won the gummy bear count, I don’t remember who won the Lemonheads counts. (Sorry!) 

Welcome New Member 

At our last zoom meeting, we had a new member join our club. Welcome, Jay K, of San Francisco. We hope you participate in many of our activities we offer, make new friends, learn some new fishing spots, and fishing techniques. Good luck! But most of all, don’t be a stranger! 

SALMON SEASON CLOSED FOR 2023! 

California salmon season is canceled for the first time since 2009. Here’s what it means. Federal regulations overseeing West Coast fisheries have effectively called off California’s entire 2023 ocean salmon fishing season, in an effort to protect fish populations that have dwindled during the ongoing drought. Check events calendar for upcoming derby changes. 

Welcome to our new members! 

Andrew N and Moto D has joined our club and was introduced to the board members at our April zoom meeting. Welcome to the San Francisco Nisei Fishing Club. Good luck to you on our fishing derbies and other actitities! 

THE ANNUAL INSTALLATION & AWARDS BANQUET 

The Annual Installation and Awards Banquet was held at the Basque Cultural Center. 36 members, family, and friends were in attendance. President, Diane M, welcomed everyone to the luncheon, and Michael F took over as Master of Ceremony. 

A TRIBUTE TO OUR DEPARTED MEMBERS 

A moment of silence was observed for our departed member, Warren Y. He will be dearly missed. 

OPENING TOAST INTRODUCTION OF PAST PRESIDENTS 

Jim Y, Kenny I, Al M, Diane M  

INTRODUCTION OF THE 2023 OFFICERS & BOARD MEMBERS OFFICERS

President Diane M, Vice President Bob M, Treasurer Burton C, Recording Secretary Mike M, Corresponding Secretary Akemi I, Editor Kenny I, Webmaster Kelly I. 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Bill D, Michael F, Mary H, Kay M, Al M, Mark N, Jim Y 2022 

Big Fish Recipients:

Striped Bass 

John M 18 lbs. 8 oz. 34 ½” 

Salmon 

Paul C 2 8 lbs. 9 oz. 38 5/8” 

Kelly I 27 lbs. 39” 

Halibut 

Russell N 23 lbs. 8 oz. 39” 

Black Bass 

Steve G   5 lbs. 13 oz. 21 ¼” 

Trout 

Paul C   11 lbs. 1 oz. 28” 

Junior Division Winners 

Striped Bass 

Chelsea C 4 lbs. 2 oz. 23” 

Carter Ma  4lbs. 2 oz. 21” 

SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD 

Akemi I,  Kenny I,  Alan M.  Akemi I for her relentless work of preparing all photos and stories for the SFNFC exhibit at the Japanese American Historical Soceity, and for making the annual awards and Installation table center pieces the past 3 years. Kenny I for constructing the display cases, rod holders, reel display, and the photo work for the exhibit. Alan M for expertise in maintaining the clubs Constitution, Standing rules, and helping to place the display items for the exhibit. 

The March Dobashi Thanksgiving Striped Bass Derby Results

We had 27 members participate in this year’s derby and 7 Striped Bass were weighed in, here are the results:

Angler Weight Length 

1) Mike M 9 lbs. 12 oz. 31 3/8” 

2) Burton C 8 lbs. 12 oz 30 5/8” 

3) Ed G 5 lbs. 14 oz. 24” 

4) Mark N 5 lbs. 7 oz. 25 ½” 

5) John M 3 lbs. 11 oz. 22 3/8” 

6) Jim Y 3 lbs. 9 oz. 21 3/8” 

7) Mike M 2 lbs. 12 oz. 20 7/8” 

There’s rumors that Dayton L and Bill D caught fish on the Predator and donated them to the parking lot……..is that true?? Let’s talk story!!

The SFNFC would like to acknowledge all the donations received for the March Dobashi Thanksgiving Derby. Many thanks to the following donors:

Mary Ishisaki $250.00

Tom Hoshiyama (Plaza Insurance Sales, Inc.) $100.00

Mary Hidekawa $100.00

Mark Noguchi $100.00

Arguello Pet Hospital $50.00

Tosh Mitsuda $50.00

Yasukochi’s Sweet Shop - Gift Certificate $50.00

Paper Tree - Gift Certificate $25.00

Merchandise:

George Okamoto (Nomura & Co.) 14 5lbs. bag of rice

Carole Murata (Japanese Tea Garden) Tea Set

Phil Ashizawa (Soko Hardware) Water Bottle

American Trophy Assorted Japanese dinnerware

The SFNFC donated 30 - $15.00 Safeway gift cards to purchase turkeys!

That means the derby was FREE!

Members who donated additional prizes:

Mike M & Richard B Persimmons

Ed G 5 bottles of champagne & 7 bottles of wine

Kelly I AM/FM/Shortwave Radio and Logitech computer keyboard/mouse

Kenny I Japanese dinner set and sauce dish set

Thanksgiving fixings:

Bill D-Chicken Broth

Akemi I -Boxes of Stuffing Mix

Kenny I - Cans of Cranberry Sauce

Kelly I - Chicken Broth

James M - Canned Corn

Alan M - Paper Towels

Bob & Diane M - Foil

Mike F - Can Olives

Jim Y - Cup of Noodles

The Thanksgiving Derby weigh-ins and potluck dinner was held at the Holy Trinity Christopher Center on Brotherhood Way in San Francisco from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Members, families, and friends enjoyed a fantastic variety offood. This is one of our most popular event which includes family and friends. Every family received a bag of groceries in addition to door prizes regardless, in fact everyone went home with a prize! 

All the Striped Bass weighed in were donated to our club supporters:

Kimochi, Sweet Shop, Tosh Mitsuda, Arguello Pet Hospital, Paper Tree,

Mary Hidekawa, and All-American Trophy.

November is election time, that includes the SFNFC

The San Francisco Nisei Fishing Club’s Constitution states the following:

Nominating and electing the Board of Directors shall occur at the November General Board of Directors meeting.

Due to an unforeseen reason, this year, the board of directors could not follow this statement in the constitution, so we will conduct our election on our December 7th zoom meeting.

FOR THE YEAR 2023

The San Francisco Nisei Fishing Club is looking for new candidates for the Board of Directors.  Our Board of Directors has a minimum of 8 members and a maximum of 15.  If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Directors and want to help shape the Clubs future, please read the information below. We welcome anyone interested!

What are the qualifications for a candidate?

• A Club member in good standing for at least one year.

Board responsibilities:

• Attend monthly zoom meetings of the Board of Directors.

• Help plan, organize, and participate in Club activities (Annual awards banquet, Summer picnic, Youth Derby, Annual Derby schedule, etc.)

• Help make decisions on current and future plans for the Club

• Help encourage participation.

• Set policy and enforce the Clubs Standing Rules

• 1 year commitment. (minimum)

How can you become a candidate?

• Contact the Board of directors at  sfnfc2022@gmail.com by December 6th.

• Attend the Board meeting on December 7th.

How do candidates become members of the Board of Directors?

• A vote is taken by the current Board of Directors.

The March Dobashi Thanksgiving Striped Bass Derby November 20, 2022

The board of directors has decided to have a “live” weigh-in this year, including a POTLUCK DINNER for all members and families like old times.  This year, the weigh-in and potluck will be held at the Holy Trinity Christopher Center, 999 Brotherhood Way in San Francisco 6-9:00 P.M.  The derby fee for this derby will be $15.00 if paid before November 13th, after this date, the fee will be $20.00.  Actually, this derby will be free, a $15.00 Safeway gift card will be presented to all members participating in this derby!  No guests can participate in this derby.  

The weigh-in will be conducted outdoors from 6:00-8:00 P.M. (DEADLINE IS 8:00 P.M.) followed by the prize presentation, 8:00-9:00 P.M.  Potluck will be from 6-9 P.M. 

Donations for prizes from all members for this derby will be greatly appreciated, contact Alan M.

All fish weighed in will be donated to our supporters.  Bob M will scale, clean, and deliver the fish to them.

Donation acknowledgments for our March DobashiThanksgiving Derby:

Tosh M. $50.00

Mary I.       $250.00

Paper Tree (Gift certificate) $25.00

Arguello Pet Hospital $50.00

Jay Y (New Huck Finn Sportfishing) $90.00

Jon Y (Sea Wolf) Sportfishing) $90.00

Thank you for your contributions!

*Why is the Thanksgiving Derby called the March Dobashi Thanksgiving Striped Bass Derby?  

For many years and many derby weigh-ins, March opened up his “Yamato Auto Repair Shop” for our club weigh ins and potluck dinners following the weigh-ins.   Many members, families, and friends attended these weigh ins to see all the fish and watched all the winners receive their prizes.  After his passing in early 2011, Diane M made a motion to title the thanksgiving derby as the March Dobashi Thanksgiving Derby to honor him and his family for all the work cleaning up his garage and making room for the weigh ins, prizes, and potluck dinners. The motion passed unanimously! 

The Annual Club Picnic

The SFNFC annual picnic was a huge success with 35 members, friends, and guests attending.  The picnic was held at our usual location at San Pablo Reservoir in El Sobrante, CA. the Oaks Group picnic area.  Mother nature treated us well with perfect weather, as many were expecting sizzling hot weather.  We were faced with a category 2 fire alert, which prevented us from using the char coal BBQ pit.  We were prepared as a gas grille was brought in to cook the corn on the cob and hot dogs.  There was more than plenty of pot luck food available for all!  Many thanks to all who brought their favorite picnic dishes to share with everyone.

Thanks goes out to the following members:  Burton C, for coming early with his blower to clean the area of leaves and debris and covering the tables with paper, which was provided by Mike F.  Mary H for always providing the insect netting to protect the food from those pesky insects and paper plates and utensils.  Michael I donated all the corn; Akemi and Kenny I provided the hot dogs, buns, soda, water and BBQ. Kelly I provide the soda and beer; Mo N for cooked all the hot dog and corn;  Diane M, Kelly I, & Akemi I for the prizes for the games and raffle; Sara and Kelli M for helping with everything and called out BINGO with help from Natalie and Michael O. A special thanks to Diane M for all the creative games that all the adults and kids enjoyed.  Burton C was the winner for identifying the most gadgets use.

MEMBER Help Needed August 6th and 7th

IMPORTANT NOTE: During the Nihonmachi Street Fair, the gallery will be open on both days Saturday, Aug. 6 and Sunday, Aug 7. We need membership support. 

1) We need as many members as possible there on the 6th to help NJAHS staff rearrange and set up chairs for a special screening (Saturday 6pm-8pm) of Cory Shiozaki’s “The Manzanar Fishing Club,” the uplifting tale of incarcerees who found their freedom fishing in the waters of the Eastern Sierra.

2) We were asked to demonstrate the art of Gyotaku (Japanese ink printing of fish) Sunday 12pm-3pm,. If any members are familiar with this art, and is willing to assist, please contact Kenny I, we will appreciate any assistance.

3) Also, if you can help, we need fresh fish to make the impressions. Any small fish that is flat with scales would be a good subject. Perch, Flounder, Black Bass, Bluegill, Crappy, just a legal size Striped Bass will also work. Trout is not a good subject. Their scales are too smooth. The fish must not be cleaned or scaled, they need to be in it’s natural state. Frozen? YES!!

youth fishing derby

The San Francisco JACL and the San Francisco Nisei Fishing Club, sponsored the youth fishing derby this year on July 9th at the San Pablo Reservoir in El Sobrante, CA. Teaching 11 young kids 8 to 13 years old how to fish and respect the outdoors, and taking them away from their computers and enjoying a day in the outdoors is our goal! We met at 8:00 A.M. at the picnic area. All fishing permits and bait was paid for by the SFJACL. We served BBQ hot dogs, hamburgers, chili, drinks, and treats for the young and old, all provided for by the SFJACL. There were prizes for all the fish caught by the youngsters. The fishing was very, very slow due to the warm water conditions with very little results. Only 2 fish were caught. We thank Judy H and David representing the San Francisco JACL for financing this event. 

Acknowledgments for the youth derby: 

SFJACL for financing the event. SFJACL representatives: Judy H and David. 

• Cooks: Alan and Michael M, Mike F, Bob M, & Kenny I 

• Food preparation: Diane M, Vivian N, Judy H, & Akemi I 

• Fishing Guides: Sara and Kelli M, Mo N, Kelly I, John M. 

• Trophies: Alan M

• Photos: Diane M & Kenny I 

• Other members present: Bill D, Dayton L, Steve G, & Jim Y. 

• Donations: Eric N, rod and reel set; Dayton L, rod and reel set. 

Hopefully we did not miss anyone.  Thank you all for making this event successful! 

The National Japanese American Historical Society features 104 years of the San Francisco Nisei Fishing Club's existence. 

Go to this link to see our event.  You may need to use your browser: http://www.njahs.org/events/

Free and open to the public July 18 to September 15, 2022

National Japanese American Historical Society Peace Gallery at 1684 Post Street, San Francisco, CA in the heart of Japantown

Open M-F noon-5:00 pm and the first Saturdays of each month

Come and see the exhibit, your photo maybe there!

Many thanks to the following people that made this possible:

• Akemi and Ken worked months researching old records and photographs to make this exhibit.  They spent many sleepless nights to make the date of the exhibit. It was the labor of love to make this happen without a lot help.

• Rosalyn T of NJAHS,  who thought this was a great idea for the JA community.

• The interns at NJAHS, for helping with the displays.

• Mike O's photo albums of many years of photo records.

• Melissa B, for her dad, Pat B's, photo albums and artifacts.

• Suzanne H, who donated her time making posters in memory of her dad who was an icon in the club.

• Mary H, who donated the use of her husbands fishing equipment.

• Mike M, for the use of his mounted Striped Bass.   

• Jimmy Y, for the use of his fishing flies and trophy.

• Michael I, for his mounted large mouth black bass,

• Kelly I, for the use of his 44 pound mounted striped bass and fishing reels.

• Michael F, for his fishing and abalone equipment and 3 mounted fish and art work.

• Trisha M, Kyle S, and Val for helping with the mounting of the pictures.

• Alan M, for most of the displayed artifacts, rod, reels, mounted Striper.  If it wasn't for Al, there would be very little to display.

• Michael and Alan M, Michael F, and Cherie S who spent hours hanging display items on all the walls.

• And special thanks to Akemi's daughter, Cherie S, that helped many evenings as the sunset and beyond midnight. We couldn't have completed this project without her help!

SFNFC to have an exhibit at the NJAHS

The San Francisco Nisei Fishing Club will have an exhibit at the National Japanese American Historical Society (NJAHS) Museum in the San Francisco Japantown. Starting in mid July 2022 celebrating it’s existence of over 104 years in the San Francisco Japantown community. On

display will be fishing artifacts from old to present, photo displays of members past and present. Slide shows will be running

continuously during the open hours. Members are urged to participate by contributing to the display with pre-war fishing equipment or pre-was photos or news articles. Everything will be returned after the exhibit.

Please call or text Akemi I or Kenny I as soon as possible with a description of the items.

We are getting short on time!

THANK YOU!!

JACL & SFNFC YOUTH DERBY JULY 9TH

We need volunteers!!

The San Francisco JACL and the San Francisco Nisei Fishing Club will be sponsoring the youth fishing derby this year on July 9th at the San Pablo Reservoir in El Sobrante, CA. We need volunteers to help with teaching young kids how to fish and respect the outdoors, taking them away from their computers and enjoying a day in the outdoors! Bring your family, help us out and enjoy a family outing.  We will be at the main recreation area, carousel number 2 starting at 8:00 A.M. All fishing permits and bait will be paid by the JACL. We will be serving BBQ hot dogs, hamburgers’, chili, drinks, and treats for the young and old. There will be prizes for all the fish caught by the youngsters.  Bring your own secret weapons to help the kids.  Attend the zoom club meeting, July 6th, for more information.

THE ANNUAL INSTALLATION & AWARDS BANQUET

The Annual Installation and Awards Banquet was held at the Basque Cultural Center, South San Francisco on April 9th. 32 members, family and friends were in attendance. Acting President, Diane M, welcomed everyone to the luncheon, and Michael F took over as Master of Ceremony.

A TRIBUTE TO OUR DEPARTED MEMBERS

A moment of silence was observed for our departed members, James C and Warren Y. They will be dearly missed.

OPENING TOAST

DONATION ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: 

Mike A, Skipper of the Predator donated 3 pairs of fishing trips. 

Cake - Schuberts Bakery 

Centerpieces - Akemi I

ADDITIONAL DONATIONS RECEIVED FROM:  

Michael F, Kelly I, Gary G, Akemi I, Linda M, Bob M, Diane M, Kenny I, Pat D, Annie & Layman R.

EVENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: 

Reservations, Finances, & Prizes: Burton C 

Photos: Kenny I 

Accommodations: Bob M 

Master of ceremony: Michael F 

Trophies, Programs, & Prizes: Diane M

Table Centerpieces: Akemi I  

New regs. for the April 2022 Rockfish Season - Bill D reporting 

Vermilion, Quillback, Copper Rockfish sub-bag limit reductions effective Jan. 6, 2022: Emergency regulations (Title 14, Section 28.55) changed sub-bag limits within the 10-fish daily rockfish, cabezon, greenling (RCG) complex bag & possession limit: 

-A decrease to the statewide sub-bag limit for vermilion rockfish (Sebastes miniatus) from 5 fish to 4. A new statewide sub-bag limit for quillback rockfish (S. maliger) to 1 fish 

-A new statewide sub-bag limit for copper rockfish (S. caurinus) of 1 fish, In other words:  10 fish total combination of rockfish, cabezon, and greenlings.  Within the 10 fish combo limit, you may only keep no more than 4 vermilion rockfish, 1 quillback rockfish, and 1 copper rockfish. 

In addition, you can still keep 2 lingcod at a minimum of 22 inches. A good idea is to count and sort out your catches sooner than later. Pictures of some of these affective fish can be found at : https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=59206&inline 

BAY AREA WEIGH STATIONS 

Have been discontinued. Due to lack of activity for the past years, the board of directors decided to discontinue and close all the weigh-in locations. We thank all the members who volunteered to be weigh masters. All weigh-ins will be conducted by the “Catch and Release Cards” or specific locations during certain derbies. 

NOT FOR PROFIT IRS STATUS 

The San Francisco Nisei Fishing Club has received the status of 501(C)(7) (not for profit ) from the IRS, but awaiting the status from the State of California. Are donations to a 501(C)(7) tax-deductible? Sorry, but NO!! Donations or dues paid to Section 501(c)(7) corporations are not tax-deductible. This advantageous provision of the tax code applies only to Section 501(c)(3) charities. Thus, donors to social clubs may not claim a charitable deduction under Section 170. July 17, 2017. Simply said, donations and dues for the SFNFC are NOT TAX DEDUCTABLE!! SORRY!! 

Welcome New Members 

At our last zoom meeting, we had 1 new member join our club. Welcome Peter H! 

UPCOMING DERBIES:

March all month open Black Bass Derby now in progress, fish anywhere in California waters only!  Use catch verification form and submit to Burton C or Kenny I.

One day Black Bass Derby will be held at Lake Berryessa, on March 15th and April 5th

Call Burton C or any board members to signup by 9:00 P.M. the evening before. $10.00 entry fee must be paid promptly. Weigh ins will be conducted in the parking lot (previous weigh in location) of the Italian restaurant, Cucina Italiana location on Knoxville Road before the Visitors Center. The Berryessa Store and all the other businesses are permanently closed at this site. There is plenty of space for boat trailer parking. There are no restrooms at this location. There will be a weigh master for these events!

Weigh in deadline is 3:00 P.M No catch and release cards will be accepted, but if your bass is kept alive, you may release it after it’s weighed in.