California FAQs & Logistics

Yes, these events are beginner-friendly. A core part of the iFishiBelong mission is to provide accessible, inclusive education for anglers of all experience levels.

Beginners will get the most out of the event by coming prepared. We recommend watching the recorded virtual courses included with your registration, signing up for the FREE “Intro to Fly Fishing” online course, attending the California Q&A session, and joining us during the “Fly Fishing the Eastern Sierras” donation-based workshop and social fishing day on Friday, 10/9/26.  Our co-hosts will be available throughout the event to answer questions and offer support as you build confidence on the water.  

Please note that these are DIY (do-it-yourself) events and are not guided. If you are seeking one-on-one instruction, we recommend hiring a professional guide. Click HERE for a list of suggested guides and local fly shops.

Registration for this event is $50.  The fee is instrumental in offsetting the costs associated with travel logistics, online platforms, the extensive hours dedicated to research, meticulous preparation, and the ongoing correspondence that happens behind the scenes to ensure a seamless experience for all participants. By registering, you’re not only securing your spot but also actively supporting iFishiBelong’s core mission. We aim to create and sustain affordable opportunities in the realm of fishing and exploration. Through this registration fee, we can continue to organize a diverse range of cost-effective events and trips, catering to individuals from various financial backgrounds. Your contribution directly empowers us to widen our reach and offer enriching experiences to all people.

What’s included with your Montana registration:

• Exclusive webpage access for registered Montana participants
• iFishiBelong Registration Bag Including  a Cling Thermometer, Tape, and a Rising Coil Leash
• Interactive Live Q&A Session:
  • August 17th, 2026, at 7 pm PT – Register HERE
• Online access to the Fall Trout Fishing Techniques and the Reading Trout Water recorded online courses
• 1.5-hour donation-based workshop: “Fly Fishing the Eastern Sierras” on 10/9/26
• Nightly social gatherings to connect with fellow anglers
• Permit secured for a community social fishing day on Friday, 10/9/26
• Curated location and fishing research provided for easy participant reference
• Dedicated co-hosts focused on education, building community, and creating a fun experience
• Support for local businesses and a commitment to highlighting underrepresented owners, guides, and creators in the region

Not included with registration are the following:

• Transportation to and from West Yellowstone, Montana
• Accommodation/Camping
• Meal Arrangements
• Fishing Gear – Equipment Available to Borrow
• Montana, Idaho or Yellowstone National Park Fishing License
• Registration to the Donation-Based “Fall Trout Fishing Techniques” workshop. 
• Guided Fishing Opportunities.  Click HERE.

This registration is non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, your fee will be considered a donation supporting iFishiBelong’s mission-driven work.

Click HERE to go to the Itinerary California webpage.

We make every effort to post the final event schedule by the Monday of event week. However, changes may be necessary due to safety considerations, weather conditions, logistical needs, or to take advantage of the best fishing opportunities.

Any schedule updates made during the event will be communicated to participants. The itinerary webpage will always reflect the most current schedule, and any last-minute changes will also be announced in the MT DIY WhatsApp Group.

Please visit the CA Itinerary webpage for the latest schedule and event information.

The California Live Q&A Session has been scheduled for Monday, 8/17/26 at 7 pm PT.  Click HERE to register.

Yes, the 8/17/26 California Q&A Session will be recorded. Click HERE to view the recording.

Click HERE for registration pick-up locations.

Note: If you’re unable to pick up your registration bag, please email [email protected] by Saturday, 10/10/26. We can arrange shipping at your expense or coordinate a pickup.

We are planning two social fishing days.  Please go to the MT Fishing webpage to get the most up-to-date social fishing details.

Any social fishing updates made during the event will be communicated to participants via the MT DIY WhatsApp Group, and we will do our best to keep the fishing webpage up to date with the most current details.

• Friday Social Fishing
• Saturday Social Fishing

Lodging is not included, and each participant is responsible for making their own accommodations. Please visit the Travel section of the event webpage for lodging and camping options.

Many campgrounds near Mammoth Lakes close by October, so those planning to camp have a couple of options.

• Crowley Lake Campground – First Come, First Serve
• Mammountain RV Park – Reservations Available

Each participant is responsible for reserving their own site.

Please post in the CA DIY WhatsApp Group if you are looking for a roommate or want to share lodging expenses.

You are responsible for arranging your own meals. Please plan to bring your own lunch for the social fishing days. There are also several grocery stores, restaurants, and bars nearby for your convenience.

iFishiBelong has a limited supply of rods, reels, waders, and boots available to borrow from our gear locker on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability. To request equipment, please complete the gear request form by October 2, 2026. We will notify you if equipment or specific wader/boot sizes are no longer available. Request to borrow gear HERE.

Participants are responsible for bringing their own terminal tackle, including leaders, flies, tippet, and tools. Click HERE to view our recommended equipment list.

Yes, felt-soled boots are allowed in California. However, to help protect local waterways, please thoroughly clean and dry your boots before fishing different bodies of water to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Please review the California Fishing website for specific information on fishing conditions and regulations during the event timeframe.

Click HERE to view the suggested fly list.

In California, anyone 16 or older must have a valid fishing license issued by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and follow all local regulations, including species-specific size and bag limits, as well as seasonal restrictions.

Purchase a California fishing license HERE.

Support local businesses and shop small in the Eastern Sierra to help sustain the community, preserve the region’s unique character, and keep essential services and resources available for both residents and visitors. Click HERE to see the fly shop listing.

Connect with fellow anglers attending the California DIY Fishing Weekend by joining the California DIY WhatsApp Group. This is a great way to ask questions, coordinate with other registered participants, stay updated on daily logistics during the event, and share photos from your time on the water.

We recommend starting with the California DIY WhatsApp Group. If you have a question, there’s a good chance others are wondering the same thing.

If your question is more specific or you’d prefer to reach out directly, please email [email protected]. As a volunteer-run organization, we appreciate your patience and will respond as quickly as we can.

For any last-minute questions not addressed in the WhatsApp group, please contact Heather Hodson at (509) 999-6317. Cell service in the area can be spotty, but she will get back to you as soon as possible. Text messages are encouraged.

Your safety is our priority. We encourage all anglers to take proactive steps to stay safe while enjoying the water. Whenever possible, avoid fishing alone and connect with a fishing buddy through our Facebook or WhatsApp groups before heading out.

For the health and safety of all participants, please stay home if you are feeling unwell or have tested positive for COVID-19 or another contagious illness.

Conditions in the outdoors can change quickly. Be sure to monitor weather forecasts, dress appropriately for the environment, and remain aware of changing water temperatures, river flows, water levels, and overall fishing conditions. Always use good judgment, know your limits, and prioritize safety throughout the event.

Safety & Emergency Information Around Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes and the surrounding Eastern Sierra offer incredible outdoor and fishing opportunities, but participants should be prepared for a remote mountain environment. Cell service can be limited or unavailable in some fishing areas, distances to emergency services can be significant, and weather and river conditions can change quickly.

Emergency Response

For any life-threatening emergency, call 911.

When calling for help, provide your location as accurately as possible, including:

• River, creek, or lake name
• Fishing access site or trailhead
• Road, trail, or forest service road location
• Nearby landmarks or recognizable features
• Your GPS coordinates, if available

Town of Mammoth Lakes Emergency Information provides additional local emergency information and important contact numbers.

Mono County Search & Rescue supports emergencies throughout the Eastern Sierra. For an emergency requiring search and rescue, call 911. Mono County Sheriff’s Dispatch can also be reached at (760) 932-7549, option 7.

Local Medical Care

Mammoth Hospital
Mammoth Hospital provides emergency and medical care in Mammoth Lakes and is the primary hospital-level medical resource in the area.

85 Sierra Park Road
Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
(760) 934-3311

For a medical emergency, call 911 rather than attempting to transport someone yourself.

Mammoth Hospital

Emergency & Local Resources

Town of Mammoth Lakes Emergency Information
Local emergency contacts, preparedness information, public information, and emergency planning resources.

Mono County Sheriff’s Office
Law enforcement, Search & Rescue, and emergency services throughout Mono County.

Mono County Emergency Services
Emergency preparedness, evacuation information, emergency planning, and Search & Rescue resources.

Ready Mono Emergency Alerts
Mono County’s emergency alert system provides notifications about critical incidents and emergency situations in the county.

Caltrans QuickMap
Check current highway conditions, closures, incidents, and travel conditions. You can also call 511 or (800) 427-7623.

Outdoor Safety Reminders

• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return before heading out.
• Carry a charged phone, but do not rely on cell service in remote areas.
• Consider carrying a satellite communicator or personal locator beacon when fishing in remote areas.
• Bring water, extra layers, sun protection, food, and basic first-aid supplies.
• Be aware of changing river conditions, slippery rocks, cold water, steep banks, and changing weather.
• Know your planned access and exit points before entering unfamiliar water.
• When fishing alone, consider using a buddy system or sharing your planned location with another participant.
• Do not attempt to cross fast-moving or unfamiliar water.
• Be prepared for the possibility of spending additional time in the field if weather, injury, road conditions, or other circumstances delay your return. Mono County specifically recommends planning ahead for remote travel and notes that factors such as remoteness, weather, altitude, and available rescuers can affect Search & Rescue response times.

Event Communication

During the event, iFishiBelong will share important updates, safety information, and event communications through the WhatsApp channel. Please make sure you are connected to the California DIY WhatsApp Group before heading into the field.

While event communications will be used to share updates and information, do not wait for a response from iFishiBelong in an emergency. Call 911 first.