Annual photo contest
The Fish Water People 2026 Photo Contest Winners
More than a decade ago, we launched the Fish Water People Photo Contest to celebrate the fish, water, and people that make California extraordinary. Every year it gets harder to choose, and this year was no exception. You sent us more than 370 submissions, and we felt honored to explore California through your eyes (and lenses).
A huge thank you to our cohost at California Fly Fisher Magazine, and to everyone who entered, voted, and cheered along.
Grand prize winner
“Fish On!”
Stephanie Skiff
My name is Stephanie Skiff and I am now living in Sacramento California. My full-time job is as an office manager at Hamilton Jewelers, Sacramento’s premier jeweler. I grew up loving the outdoors and became an avid equestrian , skier, water skier, golfer and tennis player. Nowadays, when not working, you will find me out with my camera, patiently watching animal behavior and sharing that through my photography. As a wildlife photographer, I am driven by a deep respect for the natural world, and eager to capture its beautiful fleeting moments. I am thrilled for my photo , “Fish On” to be honored with California Trout’s Photography Contest Grand Prize 2026.
Every fall the Kokanee Salmon in Lake Tahoe work their way up the creeks around the lake to spawn. This male black bear was trapping Salmon at a beaver dam at daybreak. As you can see the fish was fighting for its life, flipping back and forth over the bear’s snout’s. It’s all a very interesting dynamic. The spawning fish are drawing in Bald Eagles, Osprey, Mallard Ducks, Merganzers, Bobcats, Coyotes and of course the hungry bears that are packing on food for the winter months. For me, it’s important and exciting to see the bears doing what wild bears should be doing , hunting for their own food and passing this skill on to their cubs.
It all started for me when my Dad and his sister let me play with their cameras. I have done the same thing with my nephews . I have enjoyed seeing my love for photography have an impact on others. And if one person picks up a camera or looks at my photo and sees the beauty in our natural world , connects with it and wants to help protect it, then that’s the reason to keep coming back.
Since I love cats, and Bobcats are my favorite subject, I would love to spend more time in Africa learning about and photographing the different cat species found there…. Cheetah especially!
Photographer Bio: My name is Stephanie Skiff and I am now living in Sacramento California. My full-time job is as an office manager at Hamilton Jewelers, Sacramento’s premier jeweler. I grew up loving the outdoors and became an avid equestrian , skier, water skier, golfer and tennis player. Nowadays, when not working, you will find me out with my camera, patiently watching animal behavior and sharing that through my photography. As a wildlife photographer, I am driven by a deep respect for the natural world, and eager to capture its beautiful fleeting moments. I am thrilled for my photo , “Fish On” to be honored with California Trout’s Photography Contest Grand Prize 2026.
What’s the story behind this shot: Every fall the Kokanee Salmon in Lake Tahoe work their way up the creeks around the lake to spawn. This male black bear was trapping Salmon at a beaver dam at daybreak. As you can see the fish was fighting for its life, flipping back and forth over the bear’s snout’s. It’s all a very interesting dynamic. The spawning fish are drawing in Bald Eagles, Osprey, Mallard Ducks, Merganzers, Bobcats, Coyotes and of course the hungry bears that are packing on food for the winter months. For me, it’s important and exciting to see the bears doing what wild bears should be doing , hunting for their own food and passing this skill on to their cubs.
How did I get into photography: It all started for me when my Dad and his sister let me play with their cameras. I have done the same thing with my nephews . I have enjoyed seeing my love for photography have an impact on others. And if one person picks up a camera or looks at my photo and sees the beauty in our natural world , connects with it and wants to help protect it, then that’s the reason to keep coming back.
My dream location / species / environment to photograph: Since I love cats, and Bobcats are my favorite subject, I would love to spend more time in Africa learning about and photographing the different cat species found there…. Cheetah especially!
Emerging Photographer
“Golden Moment”
Sophie Mori
Hello! I’m Sophie, a born-and-raised Californian. I love baking, reading fiction, and of course, hiking and photographing our beautiful California parks and their inhabitants!
I was finishing up my evening stroll around a lake when I suddenly noticed this Great Egret standing by me, ambling in the reeds. Slowly, leisurely, he made his way up the rocks. For a few minutes before he took off, he stopped and gazed directly at me. After what seemed like a beautiful eternity, he pushed off and flew over the sunset-kissed, golden lake.
Over the past few years, I’ve been going out to nearby regional parks for a stroll, which is how I came to be acquainted with the local birds and wildlife. After witnessing so many wonderful moments that could have made for a stunning photograph, I began bringing a camera with me on my walks. It took time to gain some degree of mastery over the camera, and I’m still learning, but I hope my photography can give other viewers a deeper sense of appreciation for creation and bring them delight and peace.
I enjoy photographing different subjects in all weather and environments. There’s always something new to learn or try out!
Photographer Bio: Hello! I’m Sophie, a born-and-raised Californian. I love baking, reading fiction, and of course, hiking and photographing our beautiful California parks and their inhabitants!
What’s the story behind this shot: I was finishing up my evening stroll around a lake when I suddenly noticed this Great Egret standing by me, ambling in the reeds. Slowly, leisurely, he made his way up the rocks. For a few minutes before he took off, he stopped and gazed directly at me. After what seemed like a beautiful eternity, he pushed off and flew over the sunset-kissed, golden lake.
How did I get into photography: Over the past few years, I’ve been going out to nearby regional parks for a stroll, which is how I came to be acquainted with the local birds and wildlife. After witnessing so many wonderful moments that could have made for a stunning photograph, I began bringing a camera with me on my walks. It took time to gain some degree of mastery over the camera, and I’m still learning, but I hope my photography can give other viewers a deeper sense of appreciation for creation and bring them delight and peace.
My dream location / species / environment to photograph: I enjoy photographing different subjects in all weather and environments. There’s always something new to learn or try out!
Chosen by You!
People’s Choice Winner
“It Starts With One”
Gabriella Moreno
My name is Gabriella Moreno, I’m from the hot desert of Tucson, Arizona and am a Fish Biologist currently working in Northern California. I’m an avid outdoorswoman and a hobbyist nature photographer. When I’m not taking pictures of every animal, bug and flower I see, I usually am seeking out stellar coffee shops and adventuring through the wilderness with my four-legged best friend.
Working with Chinook Salmon holds a special place in my heart. I get to watch and interact with such incredible organisms throughout all the stages of their lives. One of these activities includes working with them in their earliest stages to care for them and ensure their success for survival. One day while sorting through millions of eggs (yes, millions), a small alevin had hatched before the rest. Although the little one was early, it made me reflect on the interconnectedness and importance of such differences and variation even within millions of the same being. It felt like a moment worth capturing, knowing that the incredible journey these fish will experience all starts with one leading the way.
I absolutely love using the art of story telling to connect with people across all backgrounds, and find that photography is one of the many ways to do so. I think there is beauty in sharing a story through photography that allows for many different interpretations and perspectives. Nature photography is especially special to me as it allows us to share places and creatures with many who don’t commonly have the opportunity to experience them.
One of my dream locations to photograph would be Antarctica and all the species that live within its vast ecosystems. I envy the wildness and beauty that comes with such a unique, remote place. I’m also always up for a challenge, so photographing things such as extremophiles in Yellowstone’s hot springs and the volcanoes across the globe, or the bioluminescent fish of the deep ocean, are what make up the rest of the dream list.
Photographer Bio: My name is Gabriella Moreno, I’m from the hot desert of Tucson, Arizona and am a Fish Biologist currently working in Northern California. I’m an avid outdoorswoman and a hobbyist nature photographer. When I’m not taking pictures of every animal, bug and flower I see, I usually am seeking out stellar coffee shops and adventuring through the wilderness with my four-legged best friend.
What’s the story behind this shot: Working with Chinook Salmon holds a special place in my heart. I get to watch and interact with such incredible organisms throughout all the stages of their lives. One of these activities includes working with them in their earliest stages to care for them and ensure their success for survival. One day while sorting through millions of eggs (yes, millions), a small alevin had hatched before the rest. Although the little one was early, it made me reflect on the interconnectedness and importance of such differences and variation even within millions of the same being. It felt like a moment worth capturing, knowing that the incredible journey these fish will experience all starts with one leading the way.
How did I get into photography: I absolutely love using the art of story telling to connect with people across all backgrounds, and find that photography is one of the many ways to do so. I think there is beauty in sharing a story through photography that allows for many different interpretations and perspectives. Nature photography is especially special to me as it allows us to share places and creatures with many who don’t commonly have the opportunity to experience them.
My dream location / species / environment to photograph: One of my dream locations to photograph would be Antarctica and all the species that live within its vast ecosystems. I envy the wildness and beauty that comes with such a unique, remote place. I’m also always up for a challenge, so photographing things such as extremophiles in Yellowstone’s hot springs and the volcanoes across the globe, or the bioluminescent fish of the deep ocean, are what make up the rest of the dream list.
Best Fish Photo
“Even Kings Need Refuge”
Eric Fieberg
New This Year
Best Eel River Watershed Photo
“After a Rain”
Mary Ann Machi
Mary Ann Machi here. I’ve lived in Humboldt County most of my life, starting out at Shelter Cove where I developed a deep love for the natural world. A friend gave me a camera when I was in my early 20s and I just kept going. While flowers are my most loved subjects, I shoot an eclectic mix of scenes including land and seascapes, abstracts, macros, and animals, and am a big fan of Intentional Camera Movement.
The Avenue of the Giants is one of the most scenic areas in the county. Winter has a special kind of light not seen at other times of the year. Fall color and stormy skies can make for a beautiful scene as I found that December day.
I’m following in the footsteps of my father who photographed everything and everyone at Shelter Cove over a span of nearly 40 years. My first camera was a gift from a friend and I was hooked. There’s always something new to shoot depending on time of year and location. Humboldt County has so much beauty. I aim to capture what I can.
The Kew Gardens, the Butchart Gardens, and a tropical island.
Photographer Bio: Mary Ann Machi here. I’ve lived in Humboldt County most of my life, starting out at Shelter Cove where I developed a deep love for the natural world. A friend gave me a camera when I was in my early 20s and I just kept going. While flowers are my most loved subjects, I shoot an eclectic mix of scenes including land and seascapes, abstracts, macros, and animals, and am a big fan of Intentional Camera Movement.
What’s the story behind this shot: The Avenue of the Giants is one of the most scenic areas in the county. Winter has a special kind of light not seen at other times of the year. Fall color and stormy skies can make for a beautiful scene as I found that December day.
How did I get into photography: I’m following in the footsteps of my father who photographed everything and everyone at Shelter Cove over a span of nearly 40 years. My first camera was a gift from a friend and I was hooked. There’s always something new to shoot depending on time of year and location. Humboldt County has so much beauty. I aim to capture what I can.
My dream location / species / environment to photograph: The Kew Gardens, the Butchart Gardens, and a tropical island.
Thanks to our 2026 Photo Contest Judges
These experienced photographers, renowned anglers, and conservation advocates came together to select our Grand Prize, Best Fish Photo, and Emerging Photographer awards.
Tracey Diaz
Tracey is the publisher of California Fly Fisher and previously worked at California Trout as the Development and Communications Director. The CalTrout photo contest was originally launched by Tracey back in 2013, and she is excited to remain involved as a judge.
Michelle Fullner
Michelle is the creator and host of Golden State Naturalist, a podcast and social media channel using audio, photo, and video storytelling. She grew up fishing Putah Creek with a tiny blue fishing pole and has since dedicated her life to helping others be just as gobsmacked as she is by the wonder of the living systems of California. She can’t believe her luck getting to look at your wonderful fish photos.
George Revel
George is a three-time National Fly Casting Champion, rod designer, FFF Master Certified Fly Casting Instructor, and owner of Lost Coast Outfitters –San Francisco’s only fly shop. A well-traveled and seasoned outdoorsman, George knows the ins-and-outs of fly fishing and is passionate about making the sport accessible. He is also a CalTrout Board Member and Editor-at-Large for California Fly Fisher Magazine.
Amanda Smith
Amanda has lived in Los Angeles for over 15 years working in the arts for theaters, theme parks, and film. She is the creator of “LA Is Not A Desert” an art and writing project that communicates the unique biodiversity of urban LA and its watersheds. She is excited to help judge this year’s Photo Contest, and hopes to contribute a perspective grown out of falling in love with all of California while living in a mega-city. From our wild and scenic rivers to the complicated stories of urban watersheds she is excited to judge this years photo contest to help promote how important our water (and fish) are.
Robin McCormack
Robin is an Art Director in Los Angeles. Born and raised in Southern California, he loves venturing out into all the wild spaces our amazing state offers. He continues to support CalTrout as a major leader in restoring and improving wildlife habitat in California. He’s excited and honored to help judge this year’s Photo Contest and always enjoys seeing nature’s beauty through the unique lens of other photographers.
Michael Wier
Michael is a long time CalTrout staffer and Northern California local. Michael has been producing media for CalTrout for nearly a decade and a half and had produced many of our short films, project updates and social media reels. As well as much of the internal photography you see. He’s spends a good deal of time on the road and visiting CalTrout projects and collecting media to help tell our stories. Michael is passionate about California’s native fish and cold water ecosystems.
Michael McAlexander
Michael has spent the last six years living as a fly-fishing nomad, traveling the Lower 48 in search of wild trout and the stories they inhabit. Through his long-form films with FLY ALL SZN, he combines adventure, conservation, and storytelling to highlight the landscapes, native fish, and people that make each watershed unique. A longtime supporter of CalTrout since high school, Michael was honored to be one of the filmmakers featured in CalTrout’s 2026 Film Festival. He looks forward to seeing the incredible diversity of California through the lens of fellow anglers, photographers, and conservationists, with a particular appreciation for the state’s remarkable native trout.
Seth Blackamore
Seth is a fly fisherman, hunter, photographer, and author based in Bishop, California, in the heart of the Eastern Sierra Nevada. With nearly 30 years of fly-fishing experience, in waters both close to home and around the world, Seth is passionate about sharing the beauty of wild trout and the landscapes they depend on. His photography and writing have been featured in a variety of publications, inspiring others to explore, appreciate, and protect wild fisheries for future generations. In 2026, Seth joins the CalTrout judging panel after receiving awards in previous years as a contestant, including Best Fish Photo award. He brings both a photographer’s eye and a lifelong angler’s perspective to the judging panel.
Val Atkinson
Valentine is an internationally acclaimed and much-published photographer specializing in flyfishing lifestyle and travel worldwide. His assignments have taken him to 29 countries. He divides his work between advertising, corporate, and editorial photography and is published in most major fishing and outdoor magazines regularly. He has been the staff photographer for Frontiers International Travel for 18 years and operates his own stock photo library with 80,000 images on file. He studied commercial art and photography at the Columbus College of Art and Design in Columbus, Ohio. Val is very proud of his four books; “Distant Waters,” “Trout and Salmon,” The Greatest Flyfishing Around the World,” and most recently, “Friends on the Water.” He was recently inducted into the Flyfishing Hall of Fame. Please visit his website.