Sam Reese of Meltdown Fly is a passionate outdoorsman, skilled fly fisherman, and experienced designer with nearly two decades of dedication to the art and craft of fly fishing. His journey began with fly tying, a skill he has honed to mastery, and he has since spent years working in fly fishing stores, sharing his expertise with fellow anglers and newcomers alike. Sam’s extensive experience on the water, combined with his deep knowledge of gear, techniques, and the nuances of the sport, makes him a trusted authority in the fly fishing community. Whether crafting intricate flies, navigating pristine waters, or mentoring others, Sam brings a blend of creativity, skill, and a genuine love for the outdoors to everything he does.

Dorothy Dai is an enthusiastic outdoorswoman and dedicated student of fly fishing. Her fishing journey began when her parents handed her a spinner rod at age five to catch panfish for family meals. As an adult, she sought a deeper connection with nature and discovered the craft of fly fishing. Since 2020, she has immersed herself in the sport by hiring guides, attending clinics, and exploring diverse waters to hone her skills. What began as a solo pursuit now includes practicing casting, tying flies, and connecting with a community of seasoned anglers. Dorothy is excited to share her perspective as a newer fly fisher, along with her love for the craft and its waters, with the broader Los Angeles outdoor community.

Friday Evening or Saturday Morning Arrival
Join us at our mountain campsite either Friday evening or by 11:00 AM Saturday morning. We'll kick things off with introductions and a relaxed refresher on fly fishing gear and techniques.

Saturday Afternoon
After getting settled, we’ll head to one of our favorite nearby trout streams for an afternoon fishing session. As the sun sets, we’ll return to camp to unwind, share stories, and enjoy a cozy evening around the campfire.

Sunday
We’ll start the day exploring the mountain streams near camp, fishing along the way and getting a feel for the local waters. In the afternoon, we’ll venture to a scenic alpine lake to relax, swim, and try our luck casting in stillwater before wrapping up the weekend.

Guided Fly Fishing Session
A hands-on Saturday afternoon session led by expert guides at one of our favorite trout streams in the Eastern Sierras. Learn technique, casting, reading water, and fish handling in a relaxed, supportive setting.

All Fly Fishing Gear Provided
No gear? No problem. We’ll provide everything you need: rod, reel, line, and flies.

Fun Fishing Around Camp
Plenty of opportunities for casual fishing near camp—perfect for extra practice or simply enjoying time on the water at your own pace.

Group Campsite
A reserved group site in the scenic mountains around Bishop or Mammoth, surrounded by nature with plenty of space to relax, gather, and connect. Includes shared campfire area, space for tents, and access to basic amenities.