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
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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Adventure Guide to the Delta
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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
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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
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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
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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
Page 20
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
Page 22
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
January 2020
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
s ’ l u
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.