FISHING FIELD GUIDE
First-Cast Stillwater Clinic at Sawmill Lake — Shoreline Mastery with Alyssa Evart
A full‑day clinic teaching stillwater fly‑fishing techniques, entomology, casting and gear at private Sawmill Lake, useful for anglers wanting shoreline tactics and to be among the first to fish the lake.
First-Cast Stillwater Clinic at Sawmill Lake — Shoreline Mastery with Alyssa Evart.
Join Alyssa Evart at private Sawmill Lake for a full day of shore‑focused fly‑fishing instruction. This hands‑on clinic puts anglers through a sequence of workshops—casting, knots, entomology and gear set‑up—followed by guided shoreline fishing, and offers the rare chance to be among the first to fish the lake each year.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Be First on the Water
Students in this clinic are among the first people to fish Sawmill Lake for the year—often the best day at the lake—an exclusive opportunity that pairs instruction with the heightened prospect of active fish.
A Compacted Stillwater Syllabus
Alyssa leads workshops covering entomology, knot tying, casting, gear selection and stillwater techniques—practical topics designed to translate directly to more shoreline catches.
Hike‑In, Learn, Fish
Because the road is often still closed at season start, participants typically hike roughly a half mile with a medium steepness to reach the private lake—part of what makes this clinic a focused, small‑group field experience.
What the day feels like
How the Day Feels
The clinic unfolds as a single concentrated day: morning workshops on casting, knots and entomology, followed by guided shoreline instruction and practical fishing time. Instruction emphasizes gear setup and techniques specific to stillwater fishing, with provided rods, leaders, flies and waders available so anglers can focus on learning and catching.
THE OCCASION
Be First on the Water
Students in this clinic are among the first people to fish Sawmill Lake for the year—often the best day at the lake—an exclusive opportunity that pairs instruction with the heightened prospect of active fish.
THE CURRICULUM
A Compacted Stillwater Syllabus
Alyssa leads workshops covering entomology, knot tying, casting, gear selection and stillwater techniques—practical topics designed to translate directly to more shoreline catches.
THE APPROACH
Hike‑In, Learn, Fish
Because the road is often still closed at season start, participants typically hike roughly a half mile with a medium steepness to reach the private lake—part of what makes this clinic a focused, small‑group field experience.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this clinic suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Layered clothing for changing weather, non‑cotton base layers for under waders, wool or ski socks, sunglasses and sun protection, a small backpack or waist/sling pack, and any personal fishing equipment you want to use. If you need waders and/or boots, notify the operator in advance.
The clinic provides waders/boots, a fly fishing rod and accessories, leader and flies. Instructional workshops cover casting, knots, entomology and stillwater techniques.
Bring or expect to use a 5wt or 6wt fly rod with appropriate leader, tippet and flies if you wish to practice on your own equipment.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the clinic?
This is a full‑day clinic of learning and guided fishing focused on stillwater topics including entomology, knot tying, casting and gear.
What is the cost?
The rate is $300 per person.
Is gear provided?
Yes—waders and boots are available, and the operator supplies fly rods, leaders and flies; workshops and guided instruction are included.
Do I need a fishing license?
All guests are responsible for having a California fishing license. If you need a one‑day license it can be added by stopping by the shop or purchased online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or any license outlet.
How difficult is the access to the lake?
Access can require a hike of approximately 1/2 mile with medium steepness when the road is still closed; if snow is present, post‑holing may occur.
What is the cancellation policy?
A 50% payment is due at booking. Cancellations made within 30 days of the start date receive a refund less a $100 fee; cancellations within 7 days of the trip are not refundable.
Is there cell service at Sawmill Lake?
Cell service at the lake is questionable; there is some access near the boat ramp and reliable service on the Truckee River.