Early in 1979, several SIR members from Branch 49 asked, “If SIR sponsors golf, bowling, horseshoes, bridge, travel, and other things... why not fishing?”  An initial organizational luncheon was held on May 16, 1979 with 16 people in attendance.  The group was called “Fishin SIRS” and the purpose was to enhance interest in fishing, to provide an organized means for getting fishermen together, and to promote fellowship that would encourage unscheduled fishing outings.

The first year, there were three ocean trips and several outings to Folsom and other nearby lakes.  The second year we had more outings and established a regular plan for three ocean trips a year.  The third year the organization continued to prosper and we changed our name to the “Jolly Hookers.”

The group grew  to 75 members in 1983 and we now  have a little over 100.  In 2018 we decided to become an independent nonprofit organization, no longer affiliated with SIRs.

To be a member of the Jolly Hookers you must be sponsored by a current Jolly Hooker.  (Come to a meeting and you can easily find a sponsor.) You do not have to own a boat to belong to the club.

Our meetings are held on the second Friday of each month.  Registration (where you sign in, pay for breakfast, get your name tag, etc) begins at 7am and breakfast starts at 8am.  We meet at the Rancho Cordova Elks Lodge, at 11440 Elks Circle in Rancho Cordova.  Most meetings have a speaker, plus discussions of future events and the status of the Fisherman of the Year.

My biggest worry is that my wife (when I'm dead) will sell my fishing gear for what I said I paid for it.

We have posted job descriptions of all our positions, from Head Hooker to those responsible once a year for a derby or outing.

Copies of current and past newsletters can be found here.