If any of ya live in the eastbay area or are in the are you should really check out creative sports fly shop in pleasant hill. Really good people run it and they always have what I have needed at the same price as if I was to order it online. Its a small shop that is well stocked. Just thought i'd give my local flyshop a plug.
If you're over the hill, inside the bay, Fish First in Albany is an awesome place as well. Leo Siren who is the owner is a great guy and go out of his way to help you out!
I got started going to Fish First and taking their class. Got my Sage and Ross there too. Bit out of the way for me and pricey but they're nice and they have the goods.
What's the address for Creative Sports? I got lost once trying to find it. How do I get there from Border's?