We’re still riding that high from last week’s Five Rivers Challenge! The competition wrapped up with a sneaky win by Bruce Skinner and Josh Udesen guided by John Fochetti. The team pulled ahead on the last day, landing an epic 715 inches and 70 fish on the Fall River. Very close behind in second place is Steve Johnson and David Moser guided by Brooks Provence. Third place went to Richard Kropp and Pearce Hurley guided by Brian “Bucko” Theriot; they had a great final day on the McCloud and Upper Sacramento rivers. The remaining 5 teams performed outstanding as well, all ending the competition very close to each others’ scores. (See below for all final scores.)

This is the 3^rd year of the event’s resurrection which originated back in 1998 by CalTrout Board Member Dick Galland. Owner of Clearwater House at the time, he created the event to call attention to the great wild trout waters in the Burney area of Northern California, between Mt. Lassen and Mt. Shasta. Proceeds from the event go toward restoration and research projects in the area like the Hat Creek Restoration Project and the Volcanic Aquifers Assessment and Protection program.

We’re glad to be back raising awareness of these pristine ecological areas and our efforts to ensure there will always be abundant wild fish in these waters. Each of the five rivers (Fall, Pit, McCloud, Upper Sac rivers and Hat Creek) is one of the original waters in the California Wild Trout Program and will have anglers testing the versatility of their skills on the varied rivers.

Thank you to our participants who came out for a fun time and to support CalTrout’s work restoring California’s native fisheries. As always, incredible thanks to Michelle, owner of Clearwater Lodge, for the amazing accommodations and meals.

Cheers to another great 5RC! We’re already planning the next one for 2019… Dates to be announced soon.

Big thanks to our photographers Mike Wier and Val Atkinson for capturing the fun. (More photos of theirs below.)

1^st place Bruce Skinner and Josh Udesen guided by John Fochetti: 1290 inches, 123 fish.

2^nd place Steve Johnson and David Moser guided by Brooks Provence: 1200.5 inches, 97 fish.

3^rd place Richard Kropp and Pearce Hurley guided by Brian “Bucko” Theriot: 992.5 inches, 102 fish.

Loretta Keller and Sydnie Kohara guided by Scott: 599 inches, 65 fish.

Peggy Anderson and Kurt Anderson guided by Fuzz: 593 inches, 63 fish.

Mikk and Cirith Anderson guided by Colton: 544 inches, 60 fish.

Laura and Geof Wyatt guided by Dave: 527.5 inches, 57 fish.

Rich West and Paul Vais guided by Joel: 521 inches, 58 fish.