Upcoming Programs
Join us on Wednesday, June 18, at 6:00 PM for a gripping presentation by Max Rosenberg.
The club will be providing snacks and drinks.
El Equipo Arena (The Sand Team) Rides the Baja Divide Bikepacking Route
The Baja Divide is a 1,730-mile bikepacking route that connects the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, historic Spanish mission sites rich with shade and water, remote ranchos and fishing villages, bustling highway towns, and every major mountain range in Baja California on miles and miles of beautiful backcountry desert tracks. Max will present his experience riding the Baja Divide in January and February of 2024. Hoping to give you a feeling for the wonders and beauty of Baja California from a bicycle: the route, the scenery, the people, the lodging/camping, the riding conditions, bikes , and gear.
If you have ever wondered what this would be like, or think you might want to try, Max can answer any questions you might have.
Baja Program
Bike Fishing Program: (4 Weeks) GEAR’s Gone Fishing.
Sign-Ups:
June 6 – https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040449ADAE2DABFD0-56943852-gears
June 13 – https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040449ADAE2DABFD0-56943952-gears
June 20 – https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040449ADAE2DABFD0-56944005-gears
June 27 – https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040449ADAE2DABFD0-56944050-gears
Prerequisites: Participants should be comfortable riding a bicycle and have a basic understanding of fishing (or be eager to learn). They must also obtain the necessary Oregon fishing licenses for both the Willamette and McKenzie Rivers before starting the program.
Throughout the four weeks, we will meet at Alton Baker Park on Thursdays at 6:00 PM, each week exploring further up the Willamette River.
Week 1: Meet and greet – intro, licensing, bike set up, casting techniques. For those who have a valid fishing license, we will fish in the pond on the canoe canal.(20min ride)
Week 2: Meet at Alton Baker and ride gravel/single track trails to Clearwater landing to fish along the Willamette River. (40min ride)
Week 3: Meet at Alton Baker and ride to Buford Park gravel trails to access the Willamette River. (45 min ride)
Week 4: Meet at Alton Baker and ride to Armitage Park, and other spots along McKenzie View Road. (60 min ride)
Week 1: Gear Up and Get Rolling
- Theme: Introduction to Bike Fishing & Essential Gear
- Location: Alton Baker Park Outdoor Space (Eugene, OR)
- Topics:
- Welcome & Introductions: Getting to know each other and sharing expectations.
- The Philosophy of Bike Fishing: Exploring the benefits of combining cycling and fishing – access to remote spots, eco-friendliness, and the joy of the journey.
- Bike Setup for Fishing:
- Safe and secure rod transport (various mounting options).
- Carrying tackle and other essentials (Small tackle boxes, panniers, backpacks).
- Water and hydration considerations.
- Basic bike maintenance checks.
- Essential Fishing Gear for Local Rivers:
- Rod and reel selection (appropriate for trout).
- Line, leaders, and terminal tackle (hooks, weights, swivels).
- Lures and bait commonly used in the Willamette and McKenzie.
- Waders or appropriate footwear.
- Safety gear (sunglasses, hat, first-aid kit).
- Understanding Oregon Fishing Licenses: Reviewing the regulations for the Willamette and McKenzie Rivers, ensuring everyone has the correct licenses and understands creel limits and other rules.
- Trout: Lakes and ponds: five fish per day, 8-inch minimum size, open all year. Rivers and streams: catch-and-release only, open May 22-Oct. 31
- ALTON BAKER CANOE CANAL: Stocked May 5th with 1,000 hatchery trout. The canoe canal is open to fishing all year
Activity: Casting practice on land, followed by a guided walk along a safe section of the river to practice “reading the water.”
- Casting Techniques:
- Overhead cast.
- Side cast.
- Accuracy practice.
- Activity: Gear check and practice setting up rod holders on bikes. Participants can bring their existing gear, and if they have a valid fishing license, fish along the Alton Baker Canoe canal.
Week 2: Casting Skills & River Safety
- Theme: Mastering the Cast & Navigating the Water
- Location: Meet at Alton Baker cruise to Clearwater Landing
- Topics:
- Reading the Water: Identifying potential fish holding areas (riffles, pools, seams, undercut banks).
- Knot Tying Essentials: Demonstrating and practicing important fishing knots (e.g., improved clinch knot, Palomar knot).
- River Safety:
- Understanding river currents and potential hazards.
- Wading safety techniques.
- Weather awareness.
- Leave No Trace principles.
- Bike Safety on Trails and Near Water: Reminders of safe cycling practices.
Week 3: Exploring Buford Park access trials
- Theme: Applying Skills on the Lower Willamette
- Location: Designated Access Point on the Willamette River (e.g., near Eugene/Springfield)
- Topics:
- Bike Ride to Fishing Spot: Group ride, emphasizing safe cycling and navigation.
- Willamette River Specifics: Discussing common fish species, effective techniques, and popular spots.
- Guided Fishing Session: on-the-water guidance, helping participants with casting, bait/lure selection, and fish identification.
- Catch and Release Best Practices: Emphasizing ethical angling and proper fish handling.
- Troubleshooting: Addressing common challenges faced while fishing.
Week 4: Exploring the McKenzie River
- Theme: Discovering the McKenzie’s Charm
- Location: Designated Access Point on the McKenzie River (e.g., east of Eugene)
- Topics:
- Scenic Bike Ride: Enjoying the beauty of the McKenzie River Valley.
- Advanced Techniques (Optional): Depending on the group’s progress, introduce more advanced techniques like specific lure presentations.
- Bike Maintenance on the Go: Brief overview of basic repairs that might be needed during a bike fishing trip.
- Sharing Experiences & Future Adventures: Participants share their experiences from the program, and the instructor can offer suggestions for future bike fishing trips in the region.
- Activity: Bike fishing excursion on the McKenzie River. This session will allow participants to experience a different river system and further develop their skills.