Guy Jeans invited me down to Kernville to do a Delta presentation for the Southern Sierra Flyfishers club. Guy and his wife Raquel own the Kern River Fly Shop in the little mountain town of Kernville.
The shop sits on the main road only a stones throw from the Kern River as it runs through town. Kernville is a few miles upriver from Lake Isabella. Drive time is about 1hr+ N.E. of Bakersfield. Rte. 178 heads east out of Bakersfield and follows the Kern River up through a gorgeous granite bouldered canyon. It is a nice scenic drive up the hill.
Kernville reminded me of Ennis, Montana in a way. Kernville has somewhat of an outdoor recreation, circus-like, atmosphere but in a good way. Instead of almost every truck pulling a driftboat as you might see in Montana, these trucks, busses and cartoppers were loaded with whitewater rafts. Guy assured me that their fishing is well removed from the rafting activity and beyond into the High Country.
The Kern River Fly Shop is a very short walk to the tiny downtown where there are shops and eateries and of course refreshing beverages.
The fly shop is cozy, inviting and a place where most always you'll find an angler talking of the day's catch. Bill helps tend shop while Guy is on the water guiding. A beautiful stone fireplace will undoubtably capture your attention as you walk in and provides the backdrop for a warm, welcoming environment.
This trip to Kernville did not allow me time for any fishing as i was there primarily to talk to the Southern Sierra Flyfishers about the Delta and it's flyfishing opportunities. Guy and Raquel had fished with me on the Delta a few years prior during the early fall and we had a great time. I was anxious to check out their "neck of the woods" when Guy asked me to come down. I have seen some of the northern part of the Sequoia Natl Forest but had never ventured this far south. I will be back. But, next time with a collection of fly rods to cover the river and the lake opportunities! If you find yourself in that part of the state, you will be well served to take the time to have Guy put you on the river and catch some of those Kern River trout species. He is the man to do it!
The Southern Sierra Flyfishers club are a great bunch of anglers that welcomed me with open arms. My presentation was focused on showcasing the topwater opportunities available on the Delta during both the Striper season and the LmBass season.
I hope my presentation was well recieved by the group and to see some of them someday checking out the Delta fishery. Thanks guys for the hospitality and allowing me the opportunity to present the Delta to you! I'll see you again!
Capt.Kevin Doran
For presentation inquiries contact: capt.kev@deltaadventures.com
