A Celebration of Women, Nature, and Fly Fishing
Each year, in the tranquil setting of Kernville, California, a remarkable event takes place—a celebration of women brought together by their passion for nature, friendship, and the skill of fly fishing. Celine’s Fly Gals Weekend has turned into a cherished tradition, attracting women from far and wide who are eager to learn the art of fly fishing and connect with the soothing flow of the river.
THE ORIGINS OF FLY GAL WEEKEND
Celine Bayla was a passionate fly fisherwoman and a strong advocate for river conservation, dedicated to sharing the joy of fly fishing with people from all walks of life. In 2018, she created the Southern Sierra Fly Fishers Club (SSFF Club) Fly Gals Weekend. Celine inspired countless women with her vibrant spirit and selfless dedication to various organizations. She didn’t just organize events; she brought people together and ignited their passion for the sport. Celine was a true connector! She expanded and enriched our fly-fishing community, making it more inclusive and united.
Though she left us far too soon, her legacy will always be cherished. In 2019, the SSFF Club honored her memory by renaming the Fly Gals Weekend to Celine’s Fly Gals Weekend.
A WEEKEND LIKE NO OTHER
What truly sets Celine’s Fly Gal Weekend apart is its strong focus on community and education. While fly fishing takes center stage, the weekend offers much more than just time on the water. Participants can look forward to:
- Outdoor Yoga: The event goes beyond fishing, allowing attendees to relax and rejuvenate with a morning yoga class.
- Fly Fishing Workshops: Led by expert instructors, sessions cover everything from casting and fly tying to entomology, knots, conservation, safety, and the best places to fish.
- Group Dinner: After a fulfilling day of learning, there’s nothing like gathering for an evening of shared stories, laughter, and delicious food. The friendships formed during these gatherings endure well beyond the weekend.
- Mentor Day: Participants fish alongside a mentor in a half-day session, putting their newly acquired skills into action.
THE SPIRIT OF FLY GALS
What makes Fly Gals Weekend so special is the spirit of inclusivity and empowerment. Fly fishing has traditionally been male-dominated, but events like these are changing the narrative. Celine’s Fly Gal Weekend is a space where women can feel confident learning new skills, challenging themselves, and supporting one another in a positive, non-competitive environment. Many participants leave feeling renewed and recharged, having built lasting friendships and gained a deeper connection to nature.
A GROWING TRADITION
Each year, Celine’s Fly Gal Weekend grows in popularity, attracting women who share a passion for the outdoors and fly fishing. It’s more than just an event; it’s a movement that’s helping to shape the future of fly fishing by creating a welcoming space for women to learn, connect, and thrive.
The Southern Sierra Fly Fishers Club wholeheartedly adopted Celine Bayla’s vision of encouraging more individuals to enjoy the water while safeguarding the native fish that inhabit those ecosystems. Celine would be profoundly proud of her friends who have selflessly volunteered their time to teach and mentor at the annual Celine’s Fly Girls Weekend event.
