Adventure Guide to Rio Vista and Our California Delta

2020

Adventure Guide to Rio Vista and Our Delta

Produced by the Rio Vista Chamber of Commerce

73rd Annual Rio Vista Bass Derby & Festival October 9-11, 2020

bassfestival.com

Serving The DELTA

72nd Anniversary - Years 1948-2020

707-374-6438

Service : Mon - Fri 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sat. 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Sun. Closed Parts Department : Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sat 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 pm Sun Closed

242 North Front Street • Rio Vista, CA 94571 www.dolktractorcompany.com

January 2020

Adventure Guide to the Delta

Page 3

In This Issue Welcome to Rio Vista. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Rio Vista—Open for Business. . . . . . . . . .

The Longest Running Bass Derby. . . . . . . .

Fishing for the Big Ones. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Delta Map. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Aiming for the Sky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Camping Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Campgrounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A Hole in the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Marinas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

On the Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

“It’s Not a Video Game!”. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Capturing the Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Places of Worship in Rio Vista. . . . . . . . . .

The Farming Life. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Where to Wed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Where to Eat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4 6 7 9 11 12 13 13 15 15 17 20 21 21 23 25 26

The most notable landmark of Rio Vista is the Helen Madere Memorial Bridge spanning the Sacramento River, and allowing ships large and small passage to major ports (photo

by Stacia Olson)

Cover Photos: Fishermen courtesy of Rio Vista Bass Derby & Festival; Boat in Water courtesy of Demi Stewart; Pintail duck courtesy of USFWS; camping courtesy of Snug Harbor; Rio Vista bridge courtesy of Greg Mitchell/rvbridgeman Publication designed, written and produced by K.C. Nash, Rio Vista Chamber of Commerce. For information on advertising, send an email to info@ riovista.org or call 707-374-2700

Adventure Guide to the Delta

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January 2020

Welcome to Rio Vista

A Small City with Lots to Explore How would I describe the city of Rio Vista? Three words: resilient, multifaceted and growing. It has a little of everything for visitors wanting a unique small city experience.

The downtown area sprawls along the Sacramento River from the notable Rio Vista bridge to Delta Marina and beyond to Sandy Beach County Park. A waterfront promenade allows people to stroll along the river, catching sight of numerous small fishing boats and an occa-

sional huge freighter or tanker making its way between the ports of San Francisco and Sacramento.

It is said that Rio Vista is midway between San Francisco and Sacramento, at the edge of the beautiful and activity-filled California Delta. The city has the advantage of a “small town” atmosphere with a lot of small, locally owned restaurants and businesses, while also hosting a small proportion of convenient fast-food

The Rio Vista Bridge and a view to downtown

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 7 A.M. TO 9 P.M. 609 HIGHWAY 12, RIO VISTA (707) 374-5399 Every Thursday is Senior Discount Day Home Delivery Service Available Large Selection of Liquor and Wine Full Service Meat Counter Fresh Produce and Flowers New and Expanded Deli Counter!

Our Commitment Is To Our Customers and Our Community

chains such as McDonald’s, Taco Bell and KFC. Residents who want the advantages of big-box shopping and chain restaurants travel less than 20 miles to Fairfield, Lodi, or across the Antioch bridge.

Springing Back from Disasters The old-fashioned Main Street extends from the waterfront and new public dock to Lira’s Grocery at the far end before meeting with Highway 12. The development of this area began in 1862, when a devastating flood leveled the original Rio Vista settlement, forcing everyone to higher ground. The city that sprang up was again decimated by a fire in 1892, but the townfolk persisted and rebuilt the core of saloons, restaurants, retail shops, banks and service companies into what you see in the downtown area today. See what I mean by resilient?

The city became a center for farming in the rich Delta agricultural area, and is now home to California Vegetable Specialties, the largest grower of endive lettuce in the country, as well as farms producing safflower, corn and other

Robin’s Nest Thrift Robin Sibert Owner

295 N. Front Street Rio Vista, CA 94571 707-374-4004 Tuesday-Friday 10 am-5 pm Saturday & Sunday 11 am-4 pm closed Monday

Adventure Guide to the Delta

January 2020

Welcome to Rio Vista essential crops. Cannibis growers and dispensaries have also established a base here in the rapidly growing business park to the north of Highway 12.

A Base for Boaters With the new public dock at the base of Main Street, a boat launch adjacent to it, and the full-service marina on the southern edge of town, Rio Vista offers boaters a convenient service stop right on the Sacramento River.

Visitors coming by boat can fuel up, then walk down Main Street to get breakfast or lunch at the welcoming restaurants, and even go a little further to Lira’s Supermarket to stock up on supplies. On the way back, they can visit Hap’s Bait, only a block from the public dock, to grab essential fishing gear and bait before setting out for a long afternoon of fun on the Delta.

Have a breakdown or need a special tool?

The Ace Hardware on Highway 12 can provide a range of electrical, plumbing and hardware supplies, as well as coolers and outdoor living essentials. If boat problems are more complex, the city is also home to qualified repair companies such as Frampton’s Marine Services,

Nichols Marine and More and Sierra West Boat Works.

A City of Neighborhoods The biggest population expansion for the city came with the construction of Trilogy, a 55+ community to the northwest of “core” Rio Vista.

It added 4,000 new residents to the base of about 4,000 people, creating more demand for retail, service and support businesses.

More families were then added into the mix with the building of the Homecoming and Liberty single-family home subdivisions around Trilogy. The population of the city is estimated now to be around 9,200 and growing rapidly.

The addition of those neighborhoods added to the recreational offerings of Rio Vista. In the downtown area is Bruning Park with its public pool and basketball courts downtown, and on the edge of town is a dog and skateboard park and Egbert Field baseball complex as well as neighborhood parks. At Trilogy, the city now has an 18-hole golf course, and the other two subdivisions add neighborhood parks and walking trails. At the southern edge of town, Sandy Beach County Park offers a campground and riverside beach.

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January 2020

Rio Vista--Open for Business Arts

Community

Art & Music Center Inc.

219 Montezuma Street 707-219-6002

American Legion Post #178

610 St. Francis Way 707-374-6554

RioVision Gallery

116 Main Street 707-360-5244

Rio Vista Chamber of Commerce

Beauty Bo’s Beauty

219 Montezuma Street 707-374-0094

Gabe’s Fades

37 N. 2nd Street 916-806-6704

Graceful Styles

8 N. Front Street 707-374-6794

Hair Harbor

35 N. 2nd Street 707-374-2611

Kramer’s Barber Shop

129 Main Street 707-374-5465

Nails 4 U

299B Main Street 707-374-3885

New Image Salon & Spa

125 Sacramento Street 707-374-3032

Nora’s Barber Shop

251 Main Street 707-501-3424

Shear Bliss

20 S. 3rd Street 707-374-1645

Studio 114 by Sandy

114 Main St. 707-374-3200

Trendsetters Salon & Day Spa

210 State Hwy. 12 707-374-6306

Boats Delta Marina Yacht Harbor Nichols Marine & More Sierra West Boat Works

100 Marina Drive 707-374-2315 210 CA-12 Building B 707-374-3330 785 Beach Drive 707-374-5477

View to the bridge from Delta Marina

Business

Essentials Comcast

800-934-6489

33 N. 2nd Street 707-374-2700

Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery

100 Main Street 707-374-5644

Rio Vista Food Pantry

1105-A Airport Road 707-374-5706

PG&E

800-743-5000

Rio Vista Lions Club

P.O. Box 362 707-374-5550

Rio Vista Beacon Newspaper

925-550-7811

Rio Vista Museum

16 N. Front Street 707-374-5169

Rio Vista Senior Center

25 Main Street 707-374-3349

Rio Vista Youth Center

Fly Rio Vista Municipal Airport

45 Main Street 707-374-5220

3000 Baumann Road 707-374-2716

RV to the Rescue

Rio Vista Youth Services

513 River Rd. 707-398-6159

3000 Baumann Road apuppypilot@gmail.com

Travis Aero Club

Rotary Club of Rio Vista

P.O. Box 513

3000 Baumann Road 707-374-0081

Soroptimists Int’l of Rio Vista

P.O. Box 152 408-590-5268

RotaryofRioVista@gmail.com

Eat Agnello’s Corner Deli

400 Main Street 707-374-1300

Burgerlicious

650 State Hwy. 12 707-374-2020

Da Cheese Steak Spot

135 N. Front Street 707-838-6018

Delta Baking Company

530-307-1485

Foster’s Big Horn

143 Main Street 707-374-2511

Hong Kong Seafood Restaurant

217 Main Street 707-374-5834

Human Bean

1010 State Hwy. 12 541-608-0564

Long Island Larry’s Hot Dogs

659 State Hwy. 12 408-219-8534

Lira’s Supermarket

609 State Hwy. 12 707-374-5399

Lucy’s Café

95 Main Street 925-783-9350

McDonald’s Rio Vista

300 State Hwy. 12 707-374-4430

Pizza Factory Rio Vista

201 Main Street 707-374-6868

Raul’s Striper Café

210 Main Street 707-374-4861

Rio Vista Bakery

150 Main Street 707-374-3844

Paws on the Water

22 Main Street 707-386-8497

Endive from California Vegetable Specialties

Farm California Vegetable cialties

Spe-

P.O. Box 638 209-495-7941

Dolk Tractor Co.

242 N. Front Street 707-374-6438

Hagan Ranch

7171 McCormack Road 707-374-5584

R. Emigh Livestock

30 South 2nd Street 707-374-5585

Fish Hap’s Bait Shop

84 Main Street 707-374-2372

Rio Vista Bait Shop

510 State Hwy. 12 707-374-5522

Furry Friends

Allison Turner & Associates Accountants

26 N. Front Street 707-374-6387

Sam’s Custom Cakes & Catering

Pets 4 All

167 Main Street 707-374-2011

John Blegen, Attorney

36 N. Front Street 707-374-6417

213 Main Street 707-507-9345

Shanny Mac’s

Rio Vista Veterinary Service

Assurance Bookkeeping Service

627 Montezuma Street 707-374-6016

210 State Hwy. 12 707-374-5700

227 Main Street 707-374-6355

Subway

D&S Express Printing

1105 A Airport Road 707-374-2442

660 State Hwy. 12 707-374-4444

Taqueria Mexico

Green Door Document Preparation Service

26 N. 2nd Street 707-673-7330

133 Main Street 707-374-2680

Taquerita Ponchita #2

Greta Jenkins, Attorney

112 S. 2nd Street 707-374-5078

486 State Hwy. 12 707-470-6437

The Point

Redbox Automated Retail LLC

609 State Hwy. 12 866-733-2693

120 Marina Drive 707-374-5400

Tortilla Flats

Valley Yellow Pages

barry.collins@myyp.com

646 Highway 12 707-374-2564

*Bold type denotes Chamber Members

Health

Alexis Rabourn MFT

6 North Front Street 707-425-5008

Balance Massage

6 N. 5th Street 707-999-7739

CE Stewart Chapel Mortuary

189 N. 2nd Street 707-374-2352

Delta Pharmacy

407 Main Street 707-374-5135

Continued on Page 8

January 2020

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The Longest Running Bass Derby in California The Rio Vista Bass Derby & Festival, coming Oct. 9-11, 2020, is now 73 years old. While it has become a Delta institution, the event is still evolving and changing to fit with the times and appeal to all ages and interests.

For the fishermen, the city of Rio Vista made a limited number of 3-day parking passes available for the parking lot adjacent to the Municipal Boat Ramp.

In 2018, the prizes for the fishermen in the Derby were doubled and more prize places were added. For striper catch, the top prize was $3,000, second prize was $1,500, and third was $1,000. For salmon and sturgeon, prizes were increased to $1,000 for first, $500 for second and $200 for third. Additional merchandise and cash prizes were handed out to 8 other participants. These prize levels will be the same for the 2020 Derby.

This year, some of the tried-andtrue Festival favorites will be returning, such as live music at the Pole Barn, the Midway of Fun Carnival rides, food and drink booths, arts & crafts/vendor displays, Lions Club Car Show, old-fashioned Sunday parade down Main Street, pancake breakfast, Farmers Market and Food Pantry’s Treasures Sale.

The 2019 Festival added some interesting new features including the Planter’s Nutmobile and the Kaiser Permanente Mobile Health Vehicle, which dispensed free flu shots on site.

Tickets for the Derby will be on sale starting September 1, but there will be pre-sales at the Sportsmen’s Expo in January. Prices will remain at $50 per adult entry, and the child’s ticket will be $10 this year. Those purchasing tickets at the Expo will receive a free Bass Derby t-shirt.

Getting around the three-day Festival was a lot easier with the addition of a Delta Breeze transit shuttle bus between the Trilogy and Homecoming developments and from Sandy Beach County Park. All during the event, the Western Express people mover ran up and down Main and Front Streets, carrying attendees from one place to another.

To keep up to date on the full schedule and ticket sales, check bassfestival.com or call the Rio Vista Chamber at 707-374-2700.

Adventure Guide to the Delta

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January 2020

Rio Vista--Open for Business Health con’t

Money

Dentistry of the Delta

139 Bruning Avenue 707-374-6863

Bank of Stockton

230 Main Street 707-374-5032

Hastings Chiropractic

327 Main Street 707-374-1412

F&M Bank

133 Main Street 707-374-5711

Hospice of San Joaquin

209-957-3888

O’Connor Woods

209-476-4030

Rio Vista Care Inc.

125 Sacramento Street 707-452-0801

Rio Vista Holistic Health Center

500 Main Street 707-374-3142

Vera Sunada DDS

Montezuma Street 707-285-7663

Your Home Nursing Services

707-428-5733

Your Perfect Touch Massage

6 N. 5th Street 646-724-2754

Home

Delta Drapery Designs

327 Main Street 707-724-9294

Donnelly Floral & Event Design

111 Sacramento St. 707-374-2120

Highway 12 Laundromat

642 State Hwy. 12 916-207-0135

R&D Termite & Pest Control

707-320-1277

Rio Vista Air

707-374-5992

Indulge Apothek

61 Main St., Isleton 916-623-4133

Real Estate

Rio Vista Outfitters

122 Main Street

Robin’s Nest Thrift

295 Front Street 707-628-5259

Stay

Rio Sands Lodge

204 State Hwy. 12 707-374-6374

West Wind Mobile Home Park

50 River Road 707-374-5589

113 Main

113 Main Street 707-374-2703

Al Morton Real Estate

342 Brockton Place 925-786-3745

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

214-597-7236

Airport Road Self Storage

1604 Airport Road 707-374-5050

Century 21 M&M Associates

39 N. Front Street 707-374-3900

Rio Vista Mini Storage

590 Airport Road 707-374-2007

Highway 12 Industrial Park

319 Southern Hills 209-603-6765

River Front RV Storage

200 N. Front Street 707-374-6877

McGahey Real Estate

303 Main Street 707-374-6683

Elsa Renteria

510-331-0440

Judith Mori Realtor

916-505-7904

Resler Realty

540 South 2nd Street 707-486-7642

Richards Real Estate

25 S. 3rd Street 707-374-6491

Rio Vista Real Estate

113 Main Street 707-374-6760

Shafer Real Estate

121 Montezuma Street 707-374-5277

Shea Homes

707-374-1000 644 State Hwy. 12 707-374-2262 707-374-3456

Flamingo Lounge

110 Main Street 707-374-2473

Waldie & Associates

Rio Vista Farms

11 Richard Brann Drive 833-424-4283

Wood Real Estate

Rio Vista Liquor

610 State Hwy. 12 707-374-5525

Rio Vista Smoke Shop

135 N. Front Street 707-374-4044

Recreate

Store

Corvettes are highlighted at Abel Chevrolet

Vroom

Abel Chevrolet Buick Co.

280 N. Front Street 707-374-6317

Abel Collision Center

1012 State Hwy. 12 707-374-6348

Chevron Gas Station

300 State Hwy. 12 707-374-7555

Cobalt Fleet Maintenance LLC

10 Esperson Ct. 707-580-6527

Contra Costa Radiator

160 River Road, Bldg C 707-374-2993

2nd Street Gym

40 N. 2nd Street 707-389-1914

Dole’s Spot Free Car Wash

502 State Hwy. 12

The Golf Club at Rio Vista

Trilogy 707-374-2900

Eagle Tire & Wholesale

Our House Gym

40 N. 2nd Street 510-304-7213

200 State Hwy. 12 707-374-5337

Kwik Serve Gas

1009 State Hwy. 12 707-374-2690

NAPA Auto Parts

608 State Hwy. 12 707-374-5567

Rio Vista Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep

1006 State Hwy. 12 707-374-6411

Rio Vista Auto Care

80 Main Street 707-374-2796

Rio Vista Muffler Hitch & Welding

1105 Airport Rd # D 707-374-2484

Rio Vista Tire/Williams Mobile Service

3047 Cattey Lane 707-374-6000

Shell Gas Station

419 State Hwy. 12 207-374-5620

Wilson’s Auto Care

2360 Airport Rd B 707-374-2739

Shop AJK Unique Int’l Emporium

241A Main Street 707-378-2041

Books Rio V

187 Main Street 707-374-5650

Brand You Consignment

299A Main Street 707-374-2000

Delta Pharmacy

407 Main Street 707-374-5135

The Flamingo Lounge’s historic sign

Donnelly Design

Insure

111 Sacramento Street 707-374-2120

Family Dollar Store

1001 State Hwy. 12 707-639-1694

Augusto Insurance Agency

32 N. Front Street 707-374-6309

Fool Crow

33 N. Front Street 530-409-4391

Griessel Tiffany Group

925-209-6514

Natasha’s Attic

299A Main Street 707-374-8690

Rio Vista Insurance & Financial Services

6 N. Front Street 707-317-1552

Rio Tees

707-374-5631

Wander Vagabundos Del Mar Travel Club

190 Main Street 707-374-5511

January 2020

Adventure Guide to the Delta

Page 9

Fishing for The Big Ones

Stripers and Sturgeon and Salmon, Oh My!

By Stacia Olson On almost any given day you can follow a truck pulling a fishing boat into Rio Vista via the California Delta. Rio Vista has been known as a key spot to fish for Striper, Salmon & Sturgeon in the California Delta for as long many fishermen can remember.

Not far from Rio Vista in the small town of Collinsville where fishing roots run deep as the area was originally known for being the hub for Portuguese Fishermen. Fishermen might tell you they are fishing near Rio Vista but they still guard fishing spots like 007.

Many fishermen’s wives would say fishing is an addiction. Is it the comradery fishermen feel when they hang out with their buddies on the river or rush when the pole dips ever so slightly showing signs of “Fish on?” These days it is not just a Man’s Sport as many more women are getting out, being bitten by the fishing bug.

The fishing industry is a multi-million-dollar business with $200+ fishing rods and all the high-tech gear, & expensive fishing boats.

The one thing about fishing is that you don’t have to own the expensive boat to have a fun experience. Kayak and one-man pontoon fishing have really increased in popularity in the recent years and offer easy transportation and the thrilling experience of catching a fish.

Year-round Striped Bass, Salmon, and Sturgeon are the species of choice for most fishermen with boats. Black Bass is also a popular species to fish for in the Delta, but not so much around Rio Vista. Striped Bass and Sturgeon are around all year but are also migratory fish, coming in from the Pacific Ocean and migrating up the Sacramento River. Salmon are migratory in the fall when they return from the Ocean to head upriver to spawn. In October when the weather is changing from warm to cool and the waters cool down the fishermen come out for the best chance to catch one of these elusive species.

Weather, water clarity & water temperature are all factors for fishing conditions.

For 73 years Rio Vista has held the famous Rio Vista Bass Derby, a 3-day event that brings fishermen from afar to fish for Striped Bass, Sturgeon and Salmon. The Derby is always held the second weekend in October for the very reason that when the weather is changing, the Striped Bass and Salmon are migrating up the river right under the Rio Vista Bridge. During this time of the year you can see beautiful fish being caught out of this several miles stretch of the Sacramento River.

The Rio Vista Bass Derby has evolved over the years from “The Biggest Fish” to a “Target Length” to prevent overfishing the species. Each

The 2019 Rio Vista Bass Derby winner in the Striper class was Steve Cruz, taking home $3,000

species of fish has different fishing styles and different fishing gear, so fishermen are given the opportunity to fish for any of the three fish over the three days. For years the Derby gave a boat as the big prize but more recently have evolved into cash prizes. In addition to the Adult Derby, a Kids Derby is held with prizes for Striped Bass and Catfish.

Fishing in Rio Vista can be done by boat or by shore. Boat launching in Rio Vista can be from one of three places: City of Rio Vista Boat Launch, Delta Marina and Solano County Sandy Beach Boat Launch, all of which are open to the public for a fee. The City of Rio Vista installed a new dock in 2019 at the foot of Main Street just to the edge of the City of Rio Vista Boat Launch Ramp. Additionally, the Rio Vista Fishing Pier is located at the edge of the Rio Vista Bridge allowing shore fishermen to get a little farther out into the river.

Max Jeffries brought in a 20-pound Salmon during the 2019 Rio Vista Bass Derby

Launch ramps for a fee can also be found Just a few miles upriver from the Rio Vista Bridge on Hwy 160 at Vieira’s Resort, a few miles downriver off Hwy 160 at Brannan Island State Park, and at Eddos Harbor and Sherman Lake Marina, on opposite sides of Sherman Island.

The Delta Loop also offers two launch ramps open to the public for a fee, at B & W Resort and Pirate’s Lair, both on Brannan Island Road.

Adventure Guide to the Delta

Page 10

Since 1896 Augusto InsurAnce Agency, Inc. 32 North Front Street P.O. Box 816 Rio Vista, CA 94571 Office (707) 374-6309 Fax (707) 374-6804 www.augusto-insurance.com License #0369812

United

MeMbers of Valley insUrance serVices

Taqueria Mexico 133 Main Street

707-374-2680 Open Daily

Live a Healthy Life Style We’re more than just a gym, we’re a space designed to get active, build community, and feel good. Whether you’re looking for a gym workout, a fitness class, or to indulge in a massage/facial, there’s something for everyone.

Good for 1 free class/shower pass 40 N. 2nd Street, Rio Vista, CA 94571 707-389-1914 2ndStreetGym.com

January 2020

January 2020

Adventure Guide to the Delta

Page 11

The only Delta Map you’ll ever need!

Comes folded down to 4”x11” size, but expands to full size for easy viewing. And it’s printed on non-rip, waterproof paper for boaters’ convenience.

Map Designed and Published by Kelli Pearson, MapCo Marketing online store: www.

DeltaBoatingMap. com or purchase for $10 at the Rio Vista Visitors Center, 33 N. 2nd Street, Rio Vista

Page 12

Adventure Guide to the Delta

January 2020

Aiming for the Sky

Hunting in the Delta Goes to the Birds Hunters in the California Delta are looking up most of the time, since the area is under a major flyway for migratory ducks and geese. They flock to the fallow cornfields or harvested rice fields for rich pickings during their long journey. There are also some opportunities for hunting upland game birds like pheasant and chukkar, but the primary focus is on waterfowl.

Many hunters put their boats in the water, load up their dogs and gear, and take off for the many waterways.

Others head to wildlife preserves sponsored by the California Department of Fish & Wildlife (CDFW), or to the private game reserves dotting the landscape. Or they choose to rely upon guides or sponsored hunts offered by the California Waterfowl Association. In any case, there are many opportunities to enjoy the bounty of the Delta during the prime months from Fall through late Winter.

One thing to note: California now bans the use of leaded ammunition for the taking of animals anywhere in the state. Hunters need to check all the regulations for what is permissible.

On the Water Those who freestyle it need to learn where the constructed blinds and favorite hunting spots are. This can be tricky, because blinds built on public waterways are open to the public, no matter who built them, and usually are first come, first served—which can lead to disagreements on par with the Wild West.

There are a myriad of complex regulations, so it’s best to be well educated before setting out. See Resources

Ducks on the Delta (photo courtesy of USFWS)

below for where to find regulations.

State Lands CDFW maintains a number of wildlife areas and ecological preserves where hunting is permitted. In most cases, hunters need to check and see if the location assigns access by random drawing, and what the particular regulations are for each site. Check visitcadelta. com/what-to-do/hunting for a map indicating many of these in the Delta area.

Waterfowl Association Hunts The California Waterfowl Association conducts hunts primarily in two locations, Staten Island which is 10 miles east of Rio Vista, and McDonald Island, closer to Stockton.

These locations are prime for access to wintering

ducks, geese, swans and cranes, and hunters can hunt from stand-up and pit blinds in natural and agricultural wetlands. The facilities provide blinds, stools and decoys.

Private Reserves Private hunting reserves such as Birds Landing (birdslanding.net) in the area east of Grizzly Island, Hastings (hihp.com) just outside of Rio Vista and McDowell further north on the Delta provide opportunities to hunt upland game birds such as pheasant and chukkar. They stock the area with birds according to how many hunters will be there.

In addition, they have rental equipment, shops to purchase equipment, and eating facilities, as well as offer sporting clay areas to practice shooting skills.

Resources

General overview of hunting areas: visitcadelta. com/what-to-do/hunting/ Waterfowl Regulations: fgc.ca.gov/Regulations/Current/Waterfowl#boszone Waterfowl Regulations: wildlife.ca.gov/Hunting/ Waterfowl#877768-regulations Regulations brochure: nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler. ashx?DocumentID=174138&inline State wildlife areas: wildlife.ca.gov/Regions/3/ Hunts/Waterfowl California Waterfowl hunts: www.calwaterfowl.org/ hunt-program/ca-delta/

January 2020

Adventure Guide to the Delta

Page 13

The Camping Life More Than Enough Choices for Sleeping Under the Stars With its web of sloughs and rivers, and the surrounding scenery of mountains, the Delta is a beautiful place to spend time in the great outdoors.

There are options to suit every recreational style.

Marina Life For those to whom the Delta represents a great place to run their boat, do their fishing or play at watersports, Delta marinas offer ways to dock the boat, sleep on land, and then easily get back to the water. Their camping facilities are usually a mix from tent camping to RV spaces with full hookups and even some custom-built cabins. See the complete list on page 15 and consult their websites for information on facilities and rates.

One marina/RV park and recreational facility that stands out for camping because of sheer size and variety of activities is Jellystone at Tower Park.

They offer nearly 400 accommodation sites, ranging from 88 cabins, some with hot tubs, to various types of RV sites and even some tent campsites.

Extras incllude two pools, beach, a mini golf course, outdoor theater, playground and watersport rentals.

By Summer 2020, they are expecting to have their waterpark open.

RV Dedication Living the RV life is a definite lifestyle, and there are dedicated RV parks in the Delta that provide the space and facilities to keep RV fans happy.

These Include Duck Island RV Park just a few miles from Rio Vista right on the Sacramento River, with 51 sites and 6 lighted fishing docks. The park has hookups for water, sewer and 30/50 amp service.

Rio Viento is also riverside in a more remote area from Rio Vista, located on Sherman Island where the Delta meets the Bay. It offers 70 RV sites with full hook ups and access to the Sacramento River for fishing and watersports.

Parks with Extras For those who like roughing it a bit more, there are two parks in the Rio Vista area that are ideal.

The largest is Brannan Island State Recreational Area, on Highway 160/River Road. The park has 102 family campsites with fire rings, picnic

table and room for multiple tents, and six group campsites. For boaters, there are 13 RV sites and walk-in campsites near the boat launch and berthing basin, with a boat berth for the same fee as a regular campsite.

Just south of downtown Rio Vista is Sandy Beach County Park, directly on the Sacramento River. It has a boat launch, 42 campsites with hook ups for water and electricity, picnic grounds, and true to its name, a sandy beach.

Tiny House Living A new lifestyle, living in tiny houses, is showcased at Park Delta Bay, where you can rent one of the houses by night or week. It’s camping at its best, plus the chance to try out the new concept.

Campgrounds -- in addition to Marinas on pg. 15 Brannan Island State Recreation Area

Highway 160 at Three Mile Slough

916-777-6671

www.parks.ca.gov

Duck Island RV Park

16814 Highway 160, Rio Vista

916-777-6663

duckislandrv.com

Eddo’s Marina & RV Park

19530 Sherman Island E. Levee, Rio Vista

925-757-5314

eddosharbor.com

Jellystone at Tower Park

14900 W. Highway 12, Lodi

209-354-8706

towerparkresort.com

Park Delta Bay

922 W Brannan Island Rd., Isleton

916-777-5588

deltabay.org

Rio Viento RV Park

4460 W Sherman Island Rd,, Rio Vista

925-382-4193

rioviento.com

Sandy Beach County Park

2333 Beach Dr, Rio Vista

707-374-2097

solanocounty.com/depts/rm/countypark/sandybeach.asp

Eddo’s Harbor & RV Park

California Delta, USA

"Striper Central On The San Joaquin" 19530 Sherman Island E. Levee Road Rio Vista, CA 94571

(925) 757-5314 Look us up on Face Book Eddo's Harbor & RV Park

Family owned and operated since 1968

Adventure Guide to the Delta

January 2020

OFFICIAL DEALER 506 State Hwy 12, Rio Vista, CA 94571 (707) 374-6434

Page 14

Adventure Guide to the Delta

January 2020

Page 15

A Hole in the Water

Boating is a Way of Life on the Delta

By K.C. Nash As a East Bay boat owner in the 1990s and 2000s, I came to know the California Delta as a delightful playground where the lifestyle revolved around all the things you could do with a boat. The memories my family made will last me a lifetime.

We would drive our 20-foot SeaSwirl powerboat (with a small cuddy cabin) to Brannan Island State Park on a Friday afternoon and set up our huge 3-room family tent (dubbed The Apartment) in a campsite with other boating friends nearby. Then it would be time to launch the boat at the park’s ramp, and take our first quick spin around the slough, under the drawbridge and out into the Sacramento River. Many times we would cross the river over to Rio Vista to fuel up at Delta Marina, if the waves weren’t too daunting.

When it was really hot and a lot of activity seemed to much, we would divert into a side stream or quiet slough and drop anchor, rafting up with friends. We would then pull out the coolers of sandwiches and drinks, put the jazz tapes on, and spend a relaxing afternoon eating, swimming, and having hilarious conversations that often involved fish tales or making fun of our friend John’s inability to keep his boat clean, operational and hazard-free.

When the day got really lazy and the water was smooth, we would sometimes decide to stay right where we were, sleeping on the boat rather than traveling all that way back to the campground.

There were all those restaurants and marinas At the right time of the year, we could see the to visit around “The Loop” and up into Isleton salmon running in the river. Other times we and Walnut Grove. There were the beautiful would catch sight of sea lions. We were always sloughs like Georgiana where it was enough on the lookout for something unusual, like just to gawk at the well-placed homes along the Humphrey the Whale that came to visit Rio water and dream of a better life.

Vista in 1985.

Slowly we learned the rules of the Delta. It The best things to do with a boat besides was not hard to figure out that if you went more fishing were numerous. We could stop by the than 5 mph in a No Wake Zone, you would be Outrigger Café for a crawfish feast right on the yelled at, be the target of an airhorn, and—it deck. Or we would inflate our inner tubes, hook was rumored—possibly even shot at. up lines, and spend an afternoon racing down During busy weekends, you didn’t moor up one slough after another, having a blast.

John’s boat, circa 2018, well maintained and running full out

to a dock by a restaurant and then just sit there, taking up room so others couldn’t get near the place. Same with taking endless amounts of time to drop your boat in the water at the boat ramp. You get it and get out, next!

And you always planned to be at Mandeville Cut for the Hilton fireworks show on the 4th of July.

Over the years the Delta culture has changed in many ways, but in others it has stayed pretty much the same. Boating on the 1,000 miles of waterways is still a priority and lifestyle for many an avid boater. Everyone has their favorite watering holes, striper holes and special places to hang out. That’s the charm and the wonder of the Delta!

Marinas -- for all your boating needs Arrowhead Harbor

4396 Holland Rd., Clarksburg

916-775-0077 arrowheadharbor.com

B&W Resort

964 Brannan Island Rd., Isleton

916-7776161

Boathouse Marina

13900 River Rd., Walnut Grove

916-776-1204

Brannan's Island Time Marina

1200 W. Brannan Island Rd., Isleton

916-777-6084 brannansmarina.com

Clarksburg Marina

36339 Riverview Dr., Clarksburg

916-744-1274 clarksburgmarina.com

Courtland Marina

11740 Hwy 160, Courtland

916-775-1063

Dagmar's Landing

14176 Hwy 160, Walnut Grove

916-776-1961 dagmarslanding.com

Delta Marina Yacht Harbor

100 Marina Dr., Rio Vista

707-3742315

www.deltamarina.com

Delta Bay Marina

950 W. Brannan Island Rd., Isleton

916-7774153

sacdeltabaymarina. com

Delta Shores Resort & Marina

601 Brannan Island Rd., Isleton

Eddo's Harbor

bandwresort.net

Ko-Ket Resort

14174 Isleton Rd., Isleton

916-776-1488 koketresort.com

Korth's Pirate Lair Marina

169 W. Brannan Island Rd., Isleton

916-7776464

Landing 63

14031 Hwy 160, Walnut Grove

916-776-1050

New Hope Landing

13945 W Walnut Grove Rd., Thornton

209-794-2627

Owl Harbor Marina

1550 W. Twitchell Island Rd. Isleton

916-777-6055 owlharbor.com

Ox Bow Marina

100 Ox Bow Marina Dr., Isleton

916-777-6060 oxbowmarina.com

Perry's Boat Harbor

500 Brannan Island Rd., Isleton

916-777-5000 perrysboatharbor.com

Riverboat Marina

106 W Brannan Island Rd. Isleton

916-777-6462 riverboatmarina.com

korthsmarina.com

Rivers Edge Marina & 1100 W Brannan Island Rd., Isleton Resort

916-777-6172 riversedgemarina.info

5140 W Sherman Island Rd., Rio Vista

925-978-2877

916-777-5577 vistaresorts.net

Sherman Lake Marina Snug Harbor

19530 Sherman Island E. Levee Rd., Rio Vista

925-7575314

3356 Snug Harbor Dr., Walnut Grove

916-7751455

Spindrift Marina

8250 Freeport Blvd., Sacramento

916-665-1555 freeportmarina.net

841 W Brannan Island Rd., Isleton

916-777-4041 spindriftmarina.com

Freeport Marina

Vieira's Resort

15476 Hwy 160, Isleton

916-777-6661 vieirasresort.com

Heidi's Outrigger Marina

17641 Sherman Island Levee Rd., Rio Vista

916-777-6480

Willow Berm Marina

140 Brannan Island Rd., Isleton

916-777-6313 willowbermmarina.com

Hidden Harbor Marina

3100 Ryer Rd., Walnut Grove

916-775-1313 hiddenharbormarina. com

Wimpy's Marina

14001 W. Walnut Grove Rd., Walnut Grove

209-794-2544 wimpysmarina.com

www.eddosharbor.com

snugharbor.net

Page 16

Adventure Guide to the Delta

January 2020

January 2020

Adventure Guide to the Delta

Page 17

On the Water

Many Choices in How to “Be” on the Water The California Delta offers a wide variety of different types of waterways, from fastmoving rivers to narrow sloughs, from wide open “lakes” with shallow bottoms to marshes with lots of vegetation. This gives watersports enthusiasts many choices on how to actually be on the water—and choosing a motorized vehicle like a boat or personal watercraft are not the only choices.

(with or without foot pedals or motors) that fishermen favor to the “sit in” types enjoyed by bird watchers and general outdoor enthusiasts.

They come in various sizes, colors and even in two-person styles. Then there is all the accessories and trailers to consider. Just like with other boating, it never ends.

Kayaking

The best way to get started is to join a tour with experienced kayak guides.

Companies like Kokopelli Kayak on the Loop in Isleton, Delta Kayak Adventures in Antioch, and Headwaters Kayak in Lodi offer tours as well as equipment rental, and are very familiar with the waterways and attractions of the Delta.

The allure of kayaking lies in the ability to connect with the water, the environment and your own skills in unique and intimate ways.

Seating is for the most part on the bottom of the watercraft with your legs spread out in front, either on top of or inside the structure.

Propulsion is by paddling, so you rely on your own strength to get you where you are going. It is quiet and serene, allowing you to get closer to animals, birds and marine life.

One visit to a kayaking supplier like Kayak City in Citrus Heights or Stockton will impress you with how many different types of kayaks there are—from small, flat “sit on top” types

biggest craze in watersports over the past several years. It is said to have originated from surfing enthusiasts, and seems like a cross Continued on Page 19

Paddleboarding Stand-Up Paddleboarding (or SUP) has become the

Montana Olsonand Colin Lira explore a favorite part of the Delta on a tandem stand-up paddleboard (photo by Stacia Olson)

Adventure Guide to the Delta

Page 18

January 2020

We welcome you to the beautiful city of Rio Vista on the Sacramento River halfway between Sacramento and San Francisco Organizers of the annual Rio Vista Bass Derby & Festival, bringing over 15,000 people and 400 fishermen to our community every year

Open 7 Days a Week

bassfestival.com

For Bass Derby and Rio Vista merchandise plus information and maps on our businesses and partners here and elsewhere on the Delta, stop by our Visitor Center, open Tuesday-Friday 10 am to 4 pm, and Saturdays from 10 am to 1 pm.

33 N. Second Street Rio Vista, CA 94571 707-374-2700

riovista.org

New Homeopathic, Affordable, HGH Gel

40+ Health Benefits ALL in ONE solution Call Lupe Finch for info: or text “more info” for a link to an 707-374-2466 amazing informational video

• Cookies • Donuts • Cakes • Pastries • Ice Cream • Breakfast Sandwiches • Sandwiches “Happiness Starts Here” • Soups • Coffee 150 Main St, Rio Vista, CA 94571

January 2020

Adventure Guide to the Delta

Page 19

What to Do On the Water - con’t Continued from page 17

between surfing and kayaking with a flat board and oars to propel it.

Take It from the Windsurfing Pros

But there are differences between kayaking and paddleboarding. Standing or kneeling on a flat board is great when the water is calm and warm, and you don’t have any gear to contend with (so it’s not so great for fishing). You are just there, slowly going through the water and enjoying the ride.

Advice from the Staff at Delta Windsurf Company

On the other hand, kayaks can accommodate fishing gear and wrap you in a protective coating of plastic to protect from cold water and weather. They are easier to navigate in rough seas and strong winds. And because of the sitting position, you can go for a longer period of time, quicker, so you cover more distance.

Most suppliers of paddleboards and tours in the Delta are the kayak companies, since it’s a natural outgrowth of their business. These include Delta Kayak Adventures, Fourteen Mile Kayak, and Delta Windsurf and Watersports Co. Windsurfing The strong winds coming from the west make certain areas of the Delta prime for windsurfing and kiteboarding. The cross winds at Sherman Island, at the mouth of the Sacramento River, is one of these internationally known places, with lots of chop for fun bumps and enough wind at times to get the kites up.

The major company operating there is Delta Windsurf and Watersports, offering windsurfing and kiteboarding equipment and instructions. They also offer special Kids Passes, through their afffiliation with the Rio Vista Windsurf Association.

Resources Kayaks and Paddleboards Delta Kayak Adventures, 5 Marina Plaza, Antioch, 925-642-5764 Fourteen Mile Kayak, 6649 Embarcadero Drive, Stockton, 209-951-1551 Headwaters Kayak, 847 N Cluff Ave, Ste A6, Lodi, 209-224-8367 Kayak City, 1818 West Fremont St., Stockton, 209-462-5400 Kokopelli Kayak Rental, 151 Brannan Island Rd, Isleton, 707-365-3865 Windsurfing Delta Windsurf and Watersports Company, Sherman Island, 916-777-2299

Is the Delta a good place to learn to windsurf ?

supportive, fun community…and it’s as good as it gets!

If you're currently in the Sacramento Delta and not windsurfing or kiting, you're missing out BIG TIME. Sherman Island is one of the best locations in the country to learn: warm weather, flat water, and a shallow, sandy beach combine with a supportive community, great instruction, and easy equipment.

Why do you teach?

Who is it for?

Everybody! If you can swim, you can windsurf.

Is windsurfing hard to learn?

It’s very easy with good instruction and equipment. Every time we talk to a customer, our primary goal is to get them out on the water having an awesome time. Our program makes it easy to get on the water and stay on the water.

What can students expect during a lesson?

I have two goals for every lesson. First, the student has to learn enough to become self-sufficient. Usually students are nervous if they’ve never tried it, but once they learn a few basic skills they’re off to the races. It’s a mindset change. It’s magical to see everything click when the student suddenly “gets it.”

The second goal is to get them stoked.

What exactly is “stoke”?

Stoke: joyful, primal interaction with an invisible force of nature. Combine this with a

I think it’s crucial that everyone has an activity they can do that connects them to nature and to their bodies. I also believe that a business should do something useful.

Windsurfing won’t save the world, but making people incredibly happy is not a bad thing to be doing.

Who do you think you are?

Delta Windsurf Company is a small shop, located in a barn on windy Sherman Island, midway between SF and Sacramento. Our shop is seasonal, open from April – November.

We run group progression classes that get you addicted and quickly make you self-sufficient. We also offer rentals, monthly passes, private lessons, and sell new / used windsurf and kite equipment. We host free events and grow the community. We empower customers to be their own superstars. We put gear in your hands and make it easy to get stoked and stay stoked!

Delta Windsurf Company 916-777-2299 deltawindsurf.com

Adventure Guide to the Delta

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January 2020

“It’s Not A Video Game!”

Diversions on Land for the Little Ones Ok, it’s hard to believe that kids can’t find enough to do, between the wakeboarding, tubing, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing on the Delta. But there are down times when they may just want a break, and the only alternative shouldn’t be video games.

There are a few diversions that will take you off the water and into communities around the Delta for some other fun.

For example, the Western Railway Museum, located between Rio Vista and Suisun City on Highway 12, is a delight for those who love Resources Jelly Belly Factory, 1 Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield www.jellybelly.com/california-factory-tours Rio Vista Museum, Front Street, Rio Vista 707-374-5169 riovistamuseum.com Western Railway Museum, 5848 State Highway 12, Suisun City 707-374-2978 www.wrm.org

trains. It has two cars, an historic streetcar and an interurban rail car, where you can actually take a ride on tracks.

Over 50 rail cars are on display in the 22-acre park along with a library, picnic area, small café and gift shop.

In the Fall, the museum hosts a Pumpkin Patch, and at Christmas Historic streetcar at the Western Railway Museum there are train rides with Santa and hot chocolate. recall bygone days in the city and on the Delta.

For those with a humongous sweet tooth, the Jelly Belly Factory is further down Highway 12 near Fairfield. This major manufacturing plant has free daily tours where you can see exactly how the little sweets with the big flavors are made.

The Rio Vista Museum on Front Street in Rio Vista has photos, documents and displays of clothing, household goods and more that

Bruning Park in downtown Rio Vista is a family center for outdoor exercise, with the Simonsen Delta Swim Center (open summers only), a newly constructed basketball court, a barbecue area and children’s playground.

Val de Flores Park, located behind DH White Elementary School on Scott Street , has 6 structures for skateboarding and a picnic area, plus a dog park.

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VAGABUNDOS DEL MAR BOAT AND TRAVEL CLUB 190 Main Street, Rio Vista, California 94571 www.vagabundos.com info@vagabundos.com 800-474-2252 or 707-374-5511

Adventure Guide to the Delta

January 2020

Page 21

Capturing the Beauty

Delta Scenery Brings Out the Best in Local Artists As you can imagine, a scenic place like the California Delta seems to attract a number of very talented artists and photographers, whose works reflect the flavor and beauty of the area.

Local galleries such as the ones mentioned below provide showcases for this unique collection.

Wandering Gypsy This is a gallery and workspace for jewelry artist and photographer Zahna Flemming Smith and tattoo artist Harley Smith in Isleton, and also displays some works by other local

Because of the wealth of talent, there are often “pop-up” shows sponsored by marinas like Delta Bay and Delta Shores, as well as a juried art show open to the public at Trilogy, the 55+ community in Rio Vista. Watch for notice of these shows at the Delta News page on Facebook.

Turtle Island Art Treasures Native American art and an eclectic mix of contemporary art, jewelry, vinyl albums, comics, Native blankets and clothing are on display at this interesting gallery space in Isleton. They are open Saturdays and Sundays from noon-6 pm or by appointment, 916-7776795.

Street Fairs

RioVision Gallery Located on Main Street in Rio Vista, this gallery displays the works of local Delta artists, including custom jewelry, original paintings, photographs and much more. They also host open houses on a frequent basis when new exhibits are mounted and they want to spotlight certain artists. Open from 11 am to 5 pm every day but Sunday, call 707-360-5244 for information.

artists. They don’t post regular hours, so call ahead for opening times and appointments, 916-777-5544.

RioVision Gallery on Main Street

Some of the best displays of local talent take place at street fairs, notably Sidewalk Saturdays and the Rio Vista Bass Derby & Festival, sponsored by the Rio Vista Chamber, and Hog Amazing wire bending August Bites, put on jewelry from Zahna

by RioVision.

Flemming Smith

Places of Worship In Rio Vista Calvary Chapel

401 Montezuma Street

707-374-2579

Church of Christ

57 N. 3rd Street

707-374-6741

Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints

628 Montezuma Street

707-374-5003

First Congregational Church

230 Sacramento Street

707-374-2033

Grace Pointe Church

125 Sierra Avenue

707-374-2015

Lighthouse Christian Ministries

101 Montezuma Street

707-334-8548

New Pilgrims Fellowship 610 Francis Way

707-374-2187

Re: church

1110 State Hwy. 12

707-374-5442

St. Brigids Episcopal Church

218 California Street

707-374-2667

St. Joseph's Catholic Church

130 S. 4th Street

707-374-2155

Windborn Church

300 Main Street

707-374-4910

Deed Transfers Divorce Eviction Packages Wills & Trusts Civil Court Forms & More 26 North 2nd St, Rio Vista

(707) 673-7330 We are not attorneys and cannot give legal advice. We are an affordable alternative.

Solano County LDA 150002

Adventure Guide to the Delta

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January 2020

Welcome to Rio Vista!

Help us keep as many items out of the landfill as possible! Please recycle correctly.

YES

Cardboard, Tin, Glass, Aluminum, Newspaper, Plastic Bottles & Containers

NO

Soiled Containers, Hoses, Wood Wires, Clothes, Diapers, Oil, Batteries, Foam, or Syringes

REDUCE

Plastic Bags, Single-use Plastics, Take-Out Containers, Junk Mail, Chipboard, Disposable Coffee Cups, & Yogurt Cups

We are so proud to be a part of the Rio Vista community. We hope you enjoy your stay.

Together Rio Vista and Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery are trying to keep as many items out of the landfill. Please help us by recycling correctly.

Please, no garbage, liquids, or dirty material in the recycling carts.

We appreciate you helping us keep this beautiful city clean.

January 2020

Adventure Guide to the Delta

Page 23

The Farming Life

Find Tours, Tastings and More on the Delta Farm & Wineries Trail The California Delta is one of the richest agricultural areas in California, producing everything from orchard fruits, honey and wine grapes to vegetables, olive oil and nuts. You can explore this amazing area on a specifically designed trail called the Delta Farm & Wineries Trail that is located along Highway 160. Just pick up a map at the Rio Vista Chamber office or other locations around the Delta or online at sacriverdeltagrown.org, and then look for signs along the road with the logo shown here.

In all, the map shows 17 locations, ranging from Scribner Bend Vineyard in the north near Sacramento, to the Delta Farmers Market near Rio Vista to the south. Some stops along the way include: • Steamboat Acres, growing organic pears and cherries, and featuring a farm stand with these and other produce. In Courtland, steamboatacres.com • Double M Farms, with u-pick Bartlett pears and a farm stand offering stone fruit, apples, pomegranates, citrus, and free-range eggs. The site also offers a hunting preserve for pheasants, chukkar and quail. On Grand Island, mcdowellestate.com • Heringer Estates vineyards and winery, offering a tasting room for their certified sustainable Clarksburg appellation wines.

In Clarksburg, heringerestates.com

• Wallace Chan Farms with a heritage going back several generations, and vintage farm equipment on display. In Courtland • Hemly Cider, growing Bartlett pears and apples to create hard ciders showcased at their Cider Garden in a converted airplane hangar. Near Courtland, www.hemlycider. com • Scribner Bend Vineyard offers estate grown wines from vineyards established 35 years ago, and is also a premier site for weddings and special events with an onsite caterer. Near Sacramento, scribnerbend. com • R Kelley Farms is a family farm growing vegetable such as tomatoes, beans, okra, corn and peppers along with melons. The farm has a produce stand, picnic area, tours and offers u-pick services. www.rkelleyfarms.net • Maggi’s Farm is recognized by the pear stand in the front yard of the family homestead, selling fresh organic Bartlett pears from their orchard. Near Sacramento • Bogle Vineyards & Winery is run by the 6th generation of Bogle farms, now tending to over 1,600 acres of wine grapes and producing wines gaining considerable international recognition. In 2019 it was selected as American Winery of the Year by Wine

Spectator. They also host public events such as barbecues and concerts. In Clarksburg, boglewinery.com • Delta Farmers Market is a year-round market offering the fruit and organic vegetables from Gregory’s Farm as well as local wines, baked goods, dairy, honey, nuts, relishes and snack items. Near Rio Vista, deltafarmersmarket.com • Clarksburg Wine Company has created a custom crush facility to produce wines from the Clarksburg appellation, and offers a tasting room for people to sample their products. www.clarksburgwineco.com • Stone Lake Farms is a small organic farming operation that fulfills online orders by having people come to the farm to pick up the fresh produce and free-range eggs. Near Hood, www.stonelakefarms.com • Juliette Winery is in a bucolic setting near Clarksburg and has an extensive wine tasting room as well as facilities for weddings and special events. juliettawinery.com • Consumnes River Farms is a family owned farm with over 140 acres of vineyards, producing wine, vinegar and olive oil. In Thornton, consumnesriverfarm.com

The area around Courtland has numerous pear orchards, some where you can pick the fruit yourself. (photo courtesy of California Delta Chambers)

• Grand Island Vineyards produces worldclass wines from 450 certified sustainable acres on the Sacramento River. The site offers special events and space for weddings and ceremonies, as well as a tasting room.

Near Walnut Grove, grandislandvineyards. com

Page 24

Adventure Guide to the Delta

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Adventure Guide to the Delta

January 2020

Page 25

Where to Wed Combining the Best of the Delta for Perfect Wedding Settings The Delta has ideal venues for one of the greatest adventures of them all— getting married! The rolling fields, colorful vineyards, stands of eucalyptus and fruit trees, and peaceful, winding waterways give the area many picturesque and varied settings for that perfect wedding day.

Because of the Delta’s location away from major cities, it becomes even more important for the wedding venues to offer full service or access to local resources for everything from planning and catering to equipment and entertainment.

All of them have people on hand and on call to make your special day a perfect one.

Delta Diamond Farm Delta Diamond Farm is located between the City of Rio Vista and the City of Isleton on Hwy. 160, on 25 acres of beautiful farm land along the Sacramento River.

A beautiful farm house built in 1884 sits on the property along with our Old Green Barn. Brides and grooms have their choice of two ceremony locations, the lush English Garden Courtyard with Bridal Suite or outdoors or the rolling 4-acre lawn with a white arch.

The farm hosts all types of ceremonies, including civil unions, religious, non-religious and same sex weddings as well as vow renewals. They also make the facilities available for corporate events, birthday parties, celebration of life, car shows, and more. The owners can refer you to local resources for every need. deltadiamondfarm.com Belle Vie Vineyard & Event Center At the southern end of the Delta is Belle Vie, a full service event center and

Delta Diamond Farm Event Center

“Where your wedding dreams come true”

A beautiful outdoor wedding at Delta Diamond Farm

Chardonnay vineyard sitting on the banks of the San Joaquin River.

The 37-acre estate on Sherman Island offers venues for indoor and outdoor ceremonies, including the Villa with a foyer, party room and grand hall, suitable for different sized events; the Cypress Courtyard with columns and cypress trees defining the space; the Pier with views to the Antioch Bridge; and the Pavilion Lawn with center patio and a background trellis covered in jasmine.

The facility offers its own catering and beverage service and a coordination team of certified event planners to make all the arrangements easy. They can customize packages for exact needs, combining the talents of their own people and outside vendors. www.bellevievineyard.com Grand Island Mansion This historic landmark in the heart of the Delta offers an elegant and stately setting for the most unique weddings, as well as a property offering complete services from catering and set up to accommodations for the wedding party.

The 4-story, 58 room Italian Renaissance styled villa has been carefully maintained since its construction in 1920. Evidence of the high quality of care is seen in its many marble fireplaces, unique handmade tile work, inlaid parquet flooring and imported wood paneling, enhanced by luxurious period furnishings and authentic artwork. It is surrounded by classical Italian gardens, a large pool, and extensive patio perfect for outdoor weddings.

15175 Hwy. 160. Isleton, CA 95641

(916) 777-5800 www.deltadiamondfarm.com Instagram: deltadiamondweddings Pinterest: delta diamond farm Facebook: Delta Diamond Farm Event Center

The mansion also has 11 guest suites with private baths , a ballroom and a full kitchen that serves a renowned Sunday brunch to the public.

Adjacent to the grounds is a pier on Steamboat Slough where the manion’s 1976 Chris Craft Constellation is moored. It too is available for rental to add another party space for weddings and special events. grandislandmansion.com Vineyard Locations The rich agricultural lands around the Delta are home to a number of wineries and heritage farms that offer suitable grounds and services for weddings and ceremonies. These include Steamboat Acres, Scribner Bend Vineyards, Heringer Estates and Julietta Winery.

To find out more, see their listings on page 23.

Adventure Guide to the Delta

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January 2020

Where to Eat Rio Vista Dining Known for Local Ownership and Variety The wonderful, refreshing fact about Rio Vista and most of the Delta area is that you will not find chain restaurants and big corporate entities here. Although there is a smattering of fast-food chains in Rio Vista, for the most part the eateries are locally owned, long-standing places that have stood the tests of time and local tastes.

Moore’s Riverboat, Spindrift, Korth’s Pirate’s Lair and Ko-Ket Resort’s Bar & Grill. And a little more afield is Wimpy’s Marina Café just outside Walnut Grove.

Comfort Food in Town Rio Vista offers a variety of cuisines in the downtown area including Lucy’s Café, the Pizza Factory, Hong Kong Seafood RestauThe Classics rant, Taqueria Mexico and Agnello’s Corner Deli. Then on Highway 12 you’ll find other There a few granddaddies of them all, places choices, including the Highway 12 Diner, that have been around forever and are favorTortilla Flats and Burgerlicious. ites. Foster’s Bighorn Grill in Rio Vista is one Fast and Filling that is known throughout the region and beYou can’t get much closer to the water than at The Point in Rio yond for its unusual décor and great food.

If time is of the essence, you can always stop Vista at one of the bakeries, Rio Vista Bakery or Sam’s Waterfront Dining Another long time favorite, especially for Custom Cakes, both on Main Street, or Human breakfast, is Raul’s Striper Café. It’s easy to spot The one place everyone thinks of first when Bean on Highway 12 for a drive-thru coffee fix. on Main Street by the vintage neon sign. You’ll looking for a great restaurant with water views Or you have the choice of good old fast food, find a lot of local regulars there for breakfast, is The Point in Rio Vista. The view to the from McDonald’s and Subway, to Taco Bell and one of the best in the area. bridge and up and down the Sacramento River KFC. is impressive and ever changing.

Other classics in neighboring Delta towns Rio Vista has its own food trucks, too, inMost of the other waterfront restaurants are include Peter’s Steak House and Rogelio’s Dine cluding Long Island Larry’s Hot Dogs on Hwy. at marinas along the Loop on Brannan Island & Sleep, both in Isleton, and Tony’s Place in 12, and the new Da Cheese Philly Cheesesteak Road in Isleton. These include boaters’ favorite truck on Front Street.

Walnut Grove.

“Best Breakfast on the Delta”

We Have

Specials

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Ra

ast in the Delta

Locals Eat!

We have Daily Specials her’s Day Special “Where the Locals Eat”

New York Steak

o Eggs, Potatoes andSt. Toast 210 Main 1720 North Texas St. Rio Vista, CA 94571 707-374-1965 5:30am to 2:00pm daily daily

$14.75

Fairfield, CA 94533 707-423-1965 5:00am to 2:00pm daily daily

e Corn Beef • Big Ham Steak• Chile Beans Carne Asada

California’s Largest Community Bank Agricultural Lender!

Call for all your banking needs.

Joe Miner Senior Vice President, Market Manager 707-947-7831  jminer@fmbonline.com Member ©2020 Farmers & Merchants Bank of Central California. All rights reserved. MSR 7783 1/20.

Luxury Adult Living at an affordable price!

Trilogy at Rio Vista An Active Adult Community for residents 55 years and older.

As a Trilogy homeowner you'll enjoy: ~ World class 18-hole golf course with clubhouse, restaurant, and bar. ~ The magnificent 27,000 square foot Vista Clubhouse. ~ Heated indoor lap pool, spa, and elevated running track. ~ Outdoor Pool and BBQ, tennis & bocce ball courts, walking trails. ~ Deluxe billiard room, state-of-the-art gym, cyber-café, & more. ~ Groups, clubs, regular activities, & exciting entertainment events.

Plus: HOA dues at under $200 per month!

Call us today for a personalized tour of this vibrant community. We’re happy to answer all your questions.

WOOD Real Estate

Specializing in Trilogy Homes since 1996 Open Houses Every Weekend!

Ask for a map at the front gate.

707-374-3456 For more information visit us at:

Cheryl Wood Broker/Owner

510-220-1514 DRE# 01002783

Chris Boothe

Debbie Werter

916-798-7674

707-673-7667

Realtor Assoc./GRI DRE# 01419822

Realtor Associate DRE# 01125366

Charlene Fowler

Realtor Associate/SRES®

707-372-0203 DRE# 01988913

www.WoodListings.com TRILOGY® is a registered trademark of Shea Homes.

Wood Real Estate is an independent resale brokerage firm and not affiliated with Shea Homes.