It seems like time and time again I hear teens and adults complain that there is nothing to do in the Yuba-Sutter area. Sure we don't have the 24-hour lifestyle like such big cities as New York City or Los Angeles, but our region has some of the finest outdoor activities to offer in the entire state, if not the country.

Hands down we offer the best wetlands for the sport of duck hunting and upland game bird hunting such as pheasant. Our fishing in the local area is also something to write home about. I recently had the opportunity of experiencing the enjoyable sport of fishing in one of our local rivers. I decided to take a guided striped bass fishing trip on the Sacramento River near Knights Landing and I must say it was money well spent.

I had the fortunate experience of hiring David and Morgan Patrick of Fish Ripper Guide Service for my trip. David and Morgan provided a joyful experience and worked well as a husband and wife crew.

A guided fishing trip might sound expensive, but I felt it was money well spent for the excellent time I had and the lasting memories I will have of my day on the river. I highly encourage anyone with an interest in fishing to try a guided trip, or anyone interested in trying something "new." I guarantee after your first catch you will be hooked!

Alan T. Cruz

Yuba City