Fish First

I walked in to Fish First in early August to ask what I'd need to get started fly fishing for mountain trout. Four days later, I was catching brook trout in the Desolation Wilderness in the Sierra; two weeks later, the same thing, in the Trinity Alps! The guy I spoke with---whose name I don't remember, tragically---was extremely helpful and patient, never giving me the hard sell (even though I wanted to buy stuff!), showing me some of the basics, and directing me towards the right beginner gear (and a beginner instructional book) to buy.

This is a terrific local resource for fly fishing. Very knowledgeable folks, not pretentious. Tons of gear, flies and a really diverse assortment of fly tying materials too. They support local conservation as well. It's a great stop before heading out to the Sierras. Lots of free advice. Even my vegan, non-angling wife even had a great experience. She came here once to get me some flies for my birthday and the staff somehow convinced her to make some great selections and she had a good time doing it.

Leo knows his stuff--not just my opinion, but the considered and time-tested opinion of several members of the Grizzly Peak Fly-Fishing club. In preparing for a first outing to go fly-fishing for striped bass at Bethel Island, Leo steered me to the 3 flies I needed for top water and streamer fishing (my partner and I used both streamers and both caught fish) and gave me the gear guidance I needed to pet prepared for a day on the water, when not being prepared would keep you from getting fish. The shop is small but well-equipped with the range of flies you'll want for the wide diversity of California fly fishing. It has a few books I haven't seen before, and the range of gear that one needs, as well as the gear you may want to try out because you can't resist; but if you *need* to resist, Leo can steer you back to the essentials.There's more I could say about firsthand observations of what Leo can tell you, but I'd advise you to go visit the shop and get that experience yourself!

If you are a fly fisherman or need a gift for someone who is--this is the place to go. I don't fish; however, I am in the market for a fishing vest to carry camera stuff in so I am not lopsided. I saw one that might work. Like all fly fish gear it is expensive. I'm not sure I want to spend a lot of money for something I may or may not use.The people who work here are helpful. I will say that the fishing flies are pretty I think if I was a fish I would be tempted to bite these flies.

Summary based on a couple of visits:--helpful advice for novices--hard to judge prices, since there's essentially zero local competition (that I know about, anyway)--ok parkingExtra star for unique resource.

Great locally-owned fly shop. Very knowledgeable staff. Reasonable prices. Pick up your fishing license here before heading out of town. Updated fishing report on the wall. Very good selection of flies, rods, waders, accessories.

Super helpful. I am a beginner fly-fisherman and they were good at giving suggestions and explaining.

First time visiting and what a great experience! Just what I was looking for in a local fishing store. Lots of details and advice on top of their great selection. Really helped me make smart choices. It's been 20+ years since I fished but nothing but encouragement here. Actually looking forward to my next visit already.

A first rate fly shop conveniently located in the East Bay. Leo and the rest of the crew are passionate about fishing and create a welcoming atmosphere in the store. They know there stuff and can help everyone from the complete beginner to seasoned angler. I learned to tie flies at this shop by taking the great into class offered by Bob Fabini and Leo has helped me purchase rods, reels, and lots of other tackle to get properly outfitted. I always feel like they have the angler's best interests at heart and want to find a good option for you at a reasonable price point. They will never sell you something they think you don't really need and will make every effort to see you be successful. They also have a modest selection of general purpose outdoor gear and clothes. Please support this amazing local business.

Come here first! This place has the expertise combined with good ole fashion friendly customer service which cannot be beat. Today was my second trip and they switched a reel from left hand retrieve to right hand with respooling and refused any payment. The last time I visited was to spool up a new reel that was hub-less. Rather than turn me away since spoolers aren't designed for a hub-less reel, they figured out a way to do it and I just had a phenomenal fishing trip with it. My wife has also done some birthday shopping here and they were super helpful in assisting her to pick out the perfect gift. It's sometimes daunting to walk into these specialty shops, but not Fish First they are awesome.