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The Fly Fisher’s
Free Emagazine
Issue 9
November 2013
Grayling Fishing the River Tweed Tackle Reviews
Fishing the River Almond New Zealand Reports
Tying the Foxy Shrimp Help for Heroes Competition
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Welcome to “The Flyfisher” the free Emagazine by keen fly fishers for keen fly fishers throughout the UK and Abroad. To advertise within the magazine or the website http://theflyfisher.webs.com please email [email protected] for an advertising rates quote Parent website: www.flyfishingdirectory.co.uk Sister website: http://theflyfisher.webs.com Front cover photo WaterAid Fly Fishing Challenge 2013: Courtesy of Alan Carter If you would like to contribute a free story, a fishing report along with photographs please email them to [email protected] Please include a bio about yourself so that it can be added to your article.
Robin Lambert: Editor “The Flyfisher” Email: [email protected] . Contents Grayling Fishing the River Tweed: Page 3 Coldingham Loch: Page 7 Tackle Reviews: Page 8 Fly of the Month: Page 10 Fishing the River Almond: Page 11
Fishing Reports: Page 14 News Letter for New Zealand by Sue Farley: Page 23
Andes Drifters by Chip Drozenski: Page 26 New Zealand Fly Fishing by Peter Ryan: Page 28 Keeping Warm When Fishing: Page 29 Tying the Foxy Shrimp by Fish Skull: Page 30 Help for Heroes: Page 35
Are you searching for a great family holiday with some fantastic fishing?
Do you want the very best accommodation coupled with fantastic fishing?
If your answer is yes then your search ends here. Check out the parent website for some fantastic fishing holidays around the world.
http://theflyfisher.webs.com/fishing-around-the-world
© The Flyfisher
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Grayling Fishing the River Tweed
The grayling is not an indigenous species to the River Tweed but was introduced in the late 1800s, and they now flourish on the river and many of the tributaries. However, until recently grayling fishing on the River Tweed and its tributaries was a well kept secret, known only to the local trout anglers who wanted to extend their fishing season through the winter months. Thanks to the view taken by many of the riparian land owners and excellent coverage in a number of fly fishing magazines over the past couple of years, there has been an increase in anglers fishing for 'The Lady of the Stream' and the grayling has now become a valued sporting game fish after the trout season has ended. Despite being a salmonid the grayling does not share the same spawning time as other species within this group. Whereby salmon and trout spawn in the winter months, the grayling does not spawn until mid to late April. The grayling season starts around mid June but considering that the fish may still be recovering from spawning any that are caught whilst the angler is trout fishing should be carefully returned. Although many grayling are caught during the summer months using traditional methods, a different approach has gained popularity over the last few years and grayling anglers now predominantly use the Czech nymph style of fishing with extremely good results. As the season progresses the grayling reaches peak fitness during the colder winter months of November right through to the end of January and at this time they tend to form tight shoals and a fair amount of searching will be required to locate them, however, once found, anglers can expect sport to be fast and furious as catches of a dozen or more are not uncommon. At this time anglers should adhere to the Tweed Angling Code for Grayling in respect of other species that will be in the process of spawning. Most angling associations allow grayling fishing on their trout permit and some associations and proprietors also allow grayling fishing on their beats in the winter, however, there are rules/regulations set out by the River Tweed Commissioners. The rules for fishing for Grayling state that written permission must be obtained before commencing to fish and must be carried by the fisher. Precedence must be given to salmon fishers when there is an overlap of the seasons. Care must be taken not to wade, or fish, in obvious salmon spawning areas (the practice of 'shuffling' is strictly prohibited). Only one single handed hand held fly rod is permitted using a line with a maximum breaking strain of no more than 4lbs. There is a size limit of 10" and a bag limit of two fish is recommended. To read the current regulations in full please see Tweed Angling Code for Grayling. The season for grayling is from 16 June to 14 March, when the game fishing season draws to a close the grayling fishing is at its peak, this allows the fly angler the opportunity to fish all the year round. With grayling the experienced and novice angler has an opportunity to learn the art of grayling fishing, although not easy to catch, they are not as easily frightened as trout or sea trout.
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Known for their nomadic tendencies, grayling are relatively free-ranging under normal flow rates. However, confronted by a big spate or freeze their movements are often restricted to only handful of key places. Developing invertebrates help keep grayling ticking over through harsh winter months. Larvae and nymphs cased caddis, shrimps and stonefly nymphs all provide a welcome meal for the fish. These nymphs spend much of their time ambling about in the comparative safety of a riverbed. Whilst many small nymphs can be imitated on hooks ranging from size 12-16, some stonefly species and cased caddis easily reach an inch or more in length, when it's possible to copy them with hooks as large as size 8 or even a 6.
Key species to imitate include free-swimming caddis larvae, cased caddis and shrimps. To all intent and purpose the first two are a grub like creatures. The only difference being, one type prefers to build a shelter (cased caddis) whilst others take their chances seeking cover beneath rocks.
Where to Fish for Grayling in Scotland
River Annan Annan Estates, Kirkwood, Hoddam. Permits £8 per day, £45 per week; contact the Fishery Manager at Newbie on 01461 202608. Upper Annan Angling Association, Upperannan and Applegarth beats, call 01683 300592 for information and permits. River Ayr Ayr Angling Club offers fishing for grayling on the river Ayr, call 01292 268833 for permits. River Avon (Clyde) 18 miles of fishing for salmon, sea trout, trout and grayling. £31 per year for visitors or £20 for locals for salmon (allowing fishing for trout and grayling) and £17 for trout and grayling. Call 01698 791436 for information and permits.
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River Clyde The Clyde rises in the borders hills near Moffat and offers exceptional trout and grayling fishing in gin clear water. The ongoing rehabilitation of the lower Clyde, which was until recently deplorably polluted, has made it possible for salmon and sea trout to re-establish themselves in this once prolific river. As with all major rivers in Scotland the Clyde is covered by a Protection Order under the Freshwater and Fisheries Act. Because of the pollution problem salmon had been excluded from the Clyde for over two centuries, as a result the Clyde became reknowned as a trout andgrayling water and the effect of the Protection Order has been to enhance access to fishing as there were no conflicts with salmon interests. Fishing permits are available along the length of the river from Angling Clubs, Post Offices, shops and hotels. Lamington and District Angling Improvement Association. 9 miles of mostly double bank from Boat Bridge, Thankerton to Bower Pool, Roberton. Stocked annually. Log on to www.lamingtonfishing.co.uk for full details of this quality value for money water. United Clyde Angling Protection Association, permits are available to The Secretary, UCAPA, c/o Civic Square Post Office and Newspaper, 39, Civic Square, Motherwell, Lanarkshire, ML1 1TP. River Earn Crief Angling Club. Day permits for wild brown trout £5, Grayling £5, from Boyds Newsagents, Crief, call 0176465387 or from office of the Perthshire Tourist Board in Crief, call 01764 65278. River Ericht Blairgowrie, there a several trout and grayling fishing opportunities on the Ericht detailed out on an excellent web site, www.anglingintayside.co.uk/fishingcentres.asp click on the Blairgowrie and Coupar Angus button. River Gryfe Strathgryfe AA, salmon, Sea Trout, Brown trout and Grayling. Permits from Blackwood Butchers, 15 St james Terrace, Kilmacolm, The Cross Caf£, The Cross, Kilmacolm. £3 per day. Bridge of Weir AC, salmon, brown trout, grayling, call 01505 703808. River Isla Aberbothrie, call 01250 873990. Blairgowrie, there a several salmon, trout and grayling fishing opportunities on the Isla detailed out on an excellent web site, www.anglingintayside.co.uk/fishingcentres.asp click on the Blairgowrie and Coupar Angus button. Keithick Angling Club, call 01250 873990. Strathmore Angling Improvement Association, grayling £10 per season, call 01382 667711. River Leader Earlston Angling Association have 5 miles of fishing for trout and grayling on the lower 5 miles of the river which is a tributary of the Tweed, Permit cost £2 from local shops, contact Andrew Foggin on 01896 848183. River Nith Nith Fishing Improvement Association have 62% of all fishing available on the river offering excellent access to the river for fishing. Log on to www.rivernithfishings.co.uk River Tay There a several salmon, trout and grayling fishing opportunities on the Tay detailed out on an excellent web site, www.anglingintayside.co.uk/fishingcentres.asp click on the Blairgowrie and Coupar Angus. Aberfeldy Angling Club, permits from Wade Newsagent, call 01887 820397. Perth & District Angling Association offer permits for course fishing on several stretches of the river, permits from Mallochs in Perth, Ballinluig Inn, Kettles in Dunkeld. River Teviot Jedforest AA, 5 miles of fishing, 2 miles left bank 3 miles right bank between Jedburgh and Kelso, excellent fly water for grayling with fish of over 3lbs taken every year and reports of much bigger fish lurking in the pools, all grayling should be returned safely, permits from Shaws Newsagents, call 01835 863245 or Sanford Country Sport call 01835 863019, both are in the Cannongate in Jedburgh or go to their web site on www.jedforest-angling.co.uk Permits cost £7 per day or £20 per week. Hawick AC, have extensive fishing for salmon, sea trout, brown trout and grayling as well as fishing for brown and rainbow trout on nearby lochs. The river fishing includes the Ale ale Slitrig although the salmon fishing is on the 10 miles of the Teviot over 3 beats of double bank fishing. Fishing on Acreknowe and Akermoor loch. Contact E.J. Stewart, 24, Borthaugh Rd, Hawick, TD9 0BZ, call 01450 376272.
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River Till Tiptoe Beat, two rods on 1.5 miles right bank, sea trout, salmon, brown trout and grayling. Day tickets available at £20 per day in Feb to £35 in Sept / Oct. Grayling £7 per day. Call 01890 882177. River Tummel Lower Tummel : - Pitlochry, permits for trout and grayling fishing from Pitlochry down to Ballinluig from the Pitlochry Tourist Office, 22, Athol Pl, Pitlochry, call 01796472215 also Ballinluig Filling Station and Ballinluig PO. Upper Tummel: - Clunie Dam Down to Faskally, trout and grayling. permits from the Pitlochry Tourist Office. River Tweed Coldstream & District AA, have fishing on the Tweed between Carham and Milne Garden, brown trout and grayling, permits from Moffats Newsagents and the Viilage PO in Cornhill. Gala Angling Association, have 13 miles of fishing on the Tweed and 5 miles on the Gala Water. Permits from J & A Turnbull, Kingsknowes Hotel, Borders Angling Centre, and Clovensford Hotel. Contact the club secretary on 01896 755712. Kelso and District AC have fishing for trout and grayling on the Tweed and Teviot, permits from: Forrest & Sons,1 Bridge St, Kelso; Tweedside Tackle, 36, Bridge St, Kelso; Intersport, 43, The Square, Kelso; Borders Hotel, Woodmarket, Kelso and Springwood Caravan Park, Kelso. Call 01673 226810. Ladykirk and Norham AA have two miles of double bank, permits from the Victoria Hotel, call 01289 382437, or the Mason Arms, call 01280 382326. Peebles-shire Trout Fly Angling Association have a limited number of tickets available each day for visitors to their fishing on 23 miles of the Tweed and 5 miles of the Lyne Water. There are trout and grayling, catch and release for wild brownies but there are dye marked stocked
fish that can be taken, Contact the Treasurer / Secretary, Peter Reith, Minchgate, Traquir, call 08701317128.
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Fishing at Coldingham Loch
Gareth Taylor & Carmel Kennedy Coldingham Loch Fly Fishery
Westloch Road, Coldingham
Berwickshire,
TD14 5QE
Tel: +44 1890 771960
Gareth Mobile: 07747 003588
Carmel Mobile: 07971 188623
Email: [email protected] http://www.coldinghamloch.co.uk Coldingham Loch is a loch in the parish of Coldingham, in the Scottish Borders area of Scotland, in the former Berwickshire, between Coldingham Moor and St Abb's Head. The loch is a natural spring-fed 22-acre (8.9 ha) loch, about 300 yards (270 m) from the sea and about 300 feet (91 m) above sea level uniquely positioned in close proximity to the magnificent cliffs of the Berwickshire coast.
As the only Eutrophic (naturally nutrient rich) Loch in the Scottish Borders it offers the discerning angler the opportunity to fish for it’s hard fighting, fast growing, free rising trout. It is one of the countries oldest established Trout fisheries and has a reputation for providing top quality fly fishing from either boat or bank. The new owners for the past couple of years are Gareth Taylor and Carmel Kennedy. They have been busy improving the access to the bank fishing in response to request from anglers and this will give over a mile of bank fishing available for next season.
Fully finned Blue and Rainbow Trout averaging more than 2lbs and their own strain of Brown Trout from 1lb are taken regularly on dries and small nymphs from May onwards. Buzzer fishing in April and early May produce some fine over-wintered fish to 6lbs every year and there is always the chance of that fish of a lifetime at any time of year. Traditional Loch style methods work well all year and the evening fishing in July and August can produce the most fantastic rises of fish.
The Loch is stocked regularly throughout the season with high quality fish averaging over 2lbs and has an extended season from March to November. Numbers of rods are restricted to ensure that the anglers never feel crowded so booking is recommended. This is a stunning location to fish with the surrounding area of the loch looking one minute like moorlands the next looking like the highlands of Scotland and of course the panoramic view over the Firth of Forth. If you are looking for a fly fishing holiday, walking holiday, bird watching, scuba diving or simply exploring the local history, wildlife and fabulous coastal scenery, then Coldingham Loch can provide you with a warm welcome and a fantastic place to stay. The Loch and Holiday Cottages are under the new ownership & management of Gareth Taylor and Carmel Kennedy and we look forward to seeing you in this lovely part of the world.
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Tackle Review
This months tackle review is on the Fly Tying Vices and Tools from the Dragon Fly Tackle UK Limited All tackle reviews are impartial and honest reviews undertaken by the editor. If you want an honest and frank review of your fly fishing tackle please email me at [email protected]
Handmade Steel and Brass Rotary Vice
Product Description This vice has been designed to rotate a full 360 degrees while maintaining the fly on an even level plane. Able to take a wide variation of hook sizes. Vice Includes heavy duty clamp and allen key to adjust the angle of the arm Hardwood stand is not included but can be ordered with this vice if you so wanted.
SPECIAL INTRODUCTION PRICE: Only 47.99 Star Rating 5*
8 Piece Tool Fly Tying Set in Canvas Pouch
Product Description Included within this Professional Tool kit are Scissors X 2, Thread Bobbin, Rotary Whip Finisher, Dubbing Needle, Hackle Pliers, Tweezers and Bobbin The prefect tool set to make your prefect fly! SPECIAL INTRODUCTION PRICE: Only £10.79 Star Rating 3*
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Handmade Steel and Brass Midge Vice Plus Wooden Base Product Description Superior hand made fly tying midge vice with hardwood vice base This vice has been designed to rotate a full 360 degrees while maintaining the fly on an even level plane. Able to take a wide variation of hook sizes. Vice Includes heavy duty clamp and allen key to adjust the angle of the arm Solid Oak Hardwood Hand Made Vice Base, able to take vice shafts from 8mm to 11mm with a recess tray for all your bits and pieces. 210mm Length 160mm Wide 45mm High SAVE OVER 15% ON TOTAL PRICE SPECIAL INTRODUCTION PRICE Only £71.99 Star Rating 5*
When I first received the vices through the post and exemining them I found they looked extremelly well made and robust just the thing for making up my flies and lures for the next again season. The Midge vice was perfect for making all my smaller ackward dry flies; nymphs and buzzers due to the positions you could get the head into and the ease of use of the vice. I found the larger Steel and Brass Rotary Vice ideal for all my larger lures and salmon flies/tube flies. The ease of use of this vice and the robustmess of the vice was excellent and despite having to use the Allen Key against the normal threaded screw I had no trouble at all in changing the hooks. Plus with using the Allen Key on both the vices there was no petruding sharp objects to catch your thread on. Despite the vices being well made and worth the money, I think that both vices could do with a thread/feather retaining spring at the back. But this can easily be ignored if you are an experienced fly tier. The tool kit is good as well, nice sharp scissors and a good thread bobbin, it will come in handy when I take my small fly tying kit with me on the rivers and boat as I like to tie up some fresh flies to suit the hatch that's happening at the time. The bag keeps everything together
so I wouldn't loose anything on the river bank. Please note that the scissors are not gold handled and the tweezers are straight. Sorry but under the agreement with their supplier these vices which are all hand made can only be imported in to the UK by the distributor. If you are interest in obtaining one of the vices contact The Fly Tackle Company, or should you need to contact them for whatever reason however small your question, they would be happy to hear from you. Their Contact Information Dragon Fly Tackle (UK) Limited t/a The Fly Tackle Co 10 Lime Avenue Southampton Hampshire England SO19 8NZ Tel: 07923 160687 Email: [email protected]
http://www.theflytackleco.com
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Fly of The Month
Tying the Red Holographic Cormorant This is one of those all round lures, fish it on a floating, intermediate or sinking line at various rates of retrieve and it will still catch. It can be fished using many methods , under a bung, on a sinking line, using the washing line method. It can be used as a lure or nymph, from a retrieve that is static to one that is very fast.
The tying here is for the red cheeked cormorant which is my personal favourite. The method for most cormorant patterns is very similar to that listed here if the cheeks, tag and wire rib are dropped. Step 1 : Run the thread down the hookshank catching in some red holographic tinsel.. Step 2 : Wind the tinsel down around the hook bend and back up again to form a tag. Tie off and trim the waste tinsel. Varnish the tinsel and leave to dry. Step 3 : Now catch in some fine silver wire. Step 4 : Take 3 peacock herl's and catch them in tip first, wind the thread down to the start of the tag covering the herl as you go, then return the thread towards the eye. Step 5 : Wind the 3 peacock herls towards the eye, trying to keep them together as you wind. Secure them with thread at the eye. Step 6 : Trim the waste herl and any other herls that are overlapping the eye. Now with some scissors, trim the herl so that a tapered body shape is achieved. Step 7 : Now catch in two short lengths of red holographic tinsel, one either side of the hook. Step 8 : Wind the wire up the hookshank to create a rib, continue to the eye, trapping the red holographic tinsel cheeks as you go. Secure the wire with thread and trim the waste wire (The best way to do this is to "rock" the wire back and forth until it snaps, this is a cleaner method than cutting with scissors and it also saves the blades from going blunt). Step 9 : Take a bunch of marabou tips and strip any bulk from the base of the feathers. (TIP : Do this by placing the marabou tips in your left hand between index finger and thumb and with the right hand move your thumb and index finger nails down the marabou stripping the webby marabou bulk off the stems). Now catch the marabou in at the eye. (TIP : To make a neater head, wet the marabou ends and push them down with your finger, then cover with thread.) Step 10 : Finally catch in two lengths of red holographic tinsel, one each side of the wing, trim waste, build a neat head, whip finish and varnish the head a couple of times.
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Fishing the River Almond The River Almond (Scottish Gaelic: Abhainn Amain) is a river in east-central Scotland. It is 28 miles (45 km) long, rising at Hirst Hill in North Lanarkshire near Shotts and runs through West Lothian, draining into the Firth of Forth at Cramond near Edinburgh. The name Almond/Amon is simply old Celtic for "river". The river has a good example of an ox-bow lake near Almondvale West at Livingstone. Running through what were, for much of the 20th Century, areas dominated by heavy industry and coal mining, the River Almond has been notorious for its high levels of pollution. With the demise of mining and heavy industry in Central Scotland the river is now much cleaner and is being actively repopulated by wildlife, including a healthy population of Brown Trout and improving runs of both Atlantic Salmon(Salmon salar) and Sea Trout (Salmo trutta). There is a good array of birds to be seen around the River banks, including Dippers, Kingfishers and Grey Herons, with increasing numbers of Otter being reported. The river is still the primary means of transporting southern West Lothian's waste water to the sea. While the introduction of a number of water treatment plants have helped to mitigate the effects of pollution, the river still suffers from high levels of detergent pollution along with run-off from agricultural land. This has led to the river often having a distinct "chemical odour". This is most noticeable within Almondell and Calderwood Country Park, where there is a major outfall from the nearby East Calder treatment plant.
The river runs through the centre of Livingston before travelling through Almondell and Calderwood Country Park where it picks up the Calder and Murieston Waters. It then passes over a weir which supplies a feeder culvert which carries water into the Union Canal. Due to the height difference where the river passes under the canal, this feeder must run for many miles eastwards before reaching the canal. By following paths through the country park and along private land to the east it is possible to follow the river and feeder all the way to the Union Canal. The river then flows east under the Union Canal before turning northwards towards the Firth of Forth. Fishing on the lower Almond is leased from the Crown Estate by Cramond Angling Club, with both Day and Season Tickets available. The mouth of the Almond at Cramond formerly had a small passenger ferry. In 1997 the ferryman discovered the Cramond Lioness, a Roman-era sculpture, in the mud of the river bed. The sculpture is now in the Museum of Scotland, in Edinburgh.
The industrial heritage of central Scotland can be observed along the length of the river with numerous weirs, remains of mills and other riverside industries of the past. The M8 motorway follows the course of the Almond for much of its length.
More than 6.5 miles of mostly double bank fishing for Season Ticket and Day Tickets on the River Almond between Kirkliston and Cramond. There is good access to most parts of the river. For those who travel with public transport, getting to the river is not difficult at all, as bus routes are just minutes away. Main species are Brown Trout and Sea Trout. Salmon have also been caught although in a very small number, but year on year there has been an increase in the amount of salmon coming up the river. Following the 2011 AGM and recommendations from the Forth District Salmon Fishery Board the River Almond is now “Catch and Release” for all species,
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Permits Info regarding obtaining day permits. (Updated For Season- 2013) All agencies will only issue Day permits, Season permits are available from the Club Treasurer. Day Permit (NOTE: From Season 2012 – Day Tickets will no longer be available during September & October) Barnton Post Office, 199 Whitehouse Road, Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH4 6BU Crafteye, 13 Montagu terrace, Edinburgh, EH3 5QX Country Life, 229 Balgreen Road, Edinburgh, EH11 2RZ.
Season Permit (Club Membership)
How to join the club.
Please send completed application form to the Club Treasurer and include a self addressed stamped envelope and cheque to: 35 North Gyle Road, Edinburgh EH12 8EX. The application form for the club membership can be found on the Links page of their website http://www.fishalmond.co.uk . Members wishing to renew prior to the 31st January will be able to before membership is opened to new memberships.
2013 Cramond Angling Club Membership Form (MS Word)
2013 Cramond Angling Club Membership Form (pdf)
Prices
Type Season Day*
Adult £35.00 £10.00
Child (16 and under or Full Time Students under 18) £10.00** £1.00
60+ £10.00 £3.00
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The Art of Fly Fishing Calendar 2014
Continuing the tradition of producing fine art calendars that capture the true spirit of angling, nzfishing.com is pleased to announce that the 2014 Art of Fly Fishing calendar is now available.
These calendars are only available at nzfishing.com.
NZ$25 per calendar (US$19.80) which includes postage and packaging to anywhere in the world
Click on the link below to order a copy
http://nzfishing.com/Other/Calendar/Calendar2014/Calendar2014.htm
It Could Only Happen To A Fisherman
By Robin Lambert
Hundreds of funny jokes, quotes; quips and ditties to make your day. An ideal Christmas stocking filler for either yourself, a friend or your loved one. Available from www.lulu.com ether as a paperback or as an E-book. Paperback only £9.99 http://www.lulu.com/shop/robin-lambert/it-could-only-happen-to-a-fisherman/paperback/product-17580463.html E-book only £5.00 http://www.lulu.com/shop/robin-lambert/it-could-only-happen-to-a-fisherman/ebook/product-17364513.html
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UK & Irish Fishing Reports
Scotland Tel/Fax 01877 385664 www.menteith-fisheries.co.uk Lake of Menteith 25th September
Another win for Scots in Fly Fishing International
Above top: Piper Stewart Marshall of Cambusbarron lease the March. Above L to R: Manager Stan Headly, Derek Purves, Captain Wullie Leach and James Litster of the Scottish Team.
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Clean Sweep of Medals
(left to right) Colin MacDonald (Biggest Fish), George Barron (IFFA President), Wullie Leach (Capt.) with the team trophy and Ray Anderson with the Brown Bowl for best bag. In the recent international at the Lake of Menteith, Scotland waded out easy winners with 135 fish, Ireland 107, Wales 106 and England 99. Top bag was Ray Anderson from fife with 18 trout. A lot of the best bags on the day came from the Shear Point Drift. Ray was fishing a sink tip line with a booby (biscuit and cut throat) and diawl bach combination. In all, the anglers netted 477 fish, giving a catch average of 8 fish per angler with an average weight of 2lbs 12oz. 2nd top bag was Scot Ken Oliver with 16 and Kenny Miller of Scotland was 4th overall. Normal Fishing Report Great catch averages and with just over a month to go there are still plenty of fish to be stocked – so let’s hope for a mild autumn.
Frank Boggie was down from Aberdeen and landed this nice brace of browns in his five fish bag limit.
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2013 Scottish Club Champions Change ‘B’
Sponsored by Speyburn Single Malt Whisky and Angling Active
Change ‘B’ , aka L to R Carl Nixon (11 fish), Wullie Leach (16 fish) and Jim Crawford (7 fish), were worthy 41st winners of the Club Champions Silver Salver. On a calm day the top bag was Wullie Leach with 16 fish – fishing buzzers at Gateside. Carl was fishing buzzers in at Gateside and Lochend and Jim was fishing buzzers at Lochend. All were using a large floating fly as an indicator (I think). Change B won the Championship in 2008 – with Jim McBride in place of Carl Nixon. In 2nd Place were past winners Newtonmearns (John Buchanan 9 fish, Billy Dewar 10 fish, Kenny Hunter 7 fish) and 3rd placed were Alba Orvis A (Gregor Fleming 10 fish, Dave Bonnington 8 fish, Paul Garner 7 fish). In all the 60 anglers netted 359 fish and killed 117 fish for 331lbs (rod av. 6 fish, fish av. wt 2lbs 10oz). Full Report: www.sannac.org.uk. With water temperature steadily declining the fish have been taken in very shallow water as well in the deeper drifts and the fish are well spread out. Fishing buzzers static with an indicator has been a popular tactic in recent weeks. A good shallow water buzzer method is to stick a buzzer in the middle between two dries (also helps to sink your nylon). Best bag yesterday that I spoke to was 12 trout by Jamie Lees (usually a fly pike man) who was fishing a couple of blood worms static, on a floater.
Notable catches: Jim Ferguson is the new St.Mungo Champ, EKAC with 9.5 boats killed 26 for 68lbs and retuned 33, Stewarton 7 boats 21 fish killed for 59lbs, KAAC 5 boats 23 fish 63lbs plus 15rtd,
Above Andy Boylan of Grizzlecats with a nice blue caught on clubs final day – showing the lack of ripple.
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John Buchanan Champion of Champions 4 a 3rd Time.
John Buchanan of Newtonmearns AC and Stirling Resident has won the Scottish Clubs Champion of Champions competition for a record third time. John AKA “Boo” and renowned expert at fishing the booby, won the comp by fishing a Di3 line with two boobies – a pseudocat booby on the top and an olive booby (one of Billy Dewars) on the tail. The boobies were fairly close (6ft) to allow him to fish the shallower water and the fish were caught evenly on both flies with the rig and flies remaining unchanged all day.
John (pictured left, courtesy of Tom MacTaggart), caught 14 fish and was fishing the west side of Gateside Bay - along the rope and by the lily pads up to the metal fence. The fish on the day were averaging 3lbs but John managed 7lb 4oz in his two weighed fish, and this with a 2lb allowance for the 12 returned fish gave him a total weight of 31lbs 4oz. In second place was Mike Willis of Bridge of Allan with one more fish, but his first two fish for the scales weighed a mere 4lbs 15.8 oz. Hard lines Mike! Mike was fishing a midge tip
line with a red ribbed diawl bach on the dropper and a pseudo whitecat booby on the tail. Mike netted 9 fish in hotel bay, 5 on the road shore and 1 in Tod Hole.
In 3rd place was James Litster with 13 fish. In all the 58 anglers killed 104 fish which weighed 309 fish and returned a further 159, giving a rod average 4.5 fish for 13lbs 10oz. The competition was sponsored by FAMOUS GROUSE and SNOWBEE.
Some nice fish in the catches as you’d expect with an average weight of nearly 3lbs. Catches have been coming from all areas of the loch… Gerry Taylor from Milngavie AC was out with Grandson Archie and captured this nice 6lb 8oz fish. Some cold nights have dropped the water temperature and slowed the fish down a little. At the weekend St.Peters AC 6 boats caught 30 fish for 91lbs and returned two, Brechin AC 6 boats 28 fish 79lbs, Heriots AC 8 boats 10 fish for 22lbs 7oz and returned 12, Priory AC 4 or 9 boats? 14 fish for 45lbs plus 5rtd, KAAC 5 boats 16 fish plus 3
returned.
With only 9 days to go of the 2013 season, stocking is continuing at the Lake at around 2/3rds of summer levels. 600 went in last week, and 600 are being put in this week. We will hopefully manage to squeeze in what we have left in the pens next week – but we never know exactly what we have till we go through the pen. The stockies are currently averaging around 3lbs and represent some of the best looking fish we have put in this year (they’ll look even better after a winter in the Lake), there are plenty of resident fish in the baskets as well. Unfortunately we are currently fully booked until Monday 28th October. Left: Andy Walker of Pitlochry AC.
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Best areas have been all over but Gateside , Lochend and the Butts probably deserve a special mention. Sink tip with a booby or two or lures (cat, humungus, Jim Milne of the Alloa Angling Centre has been doing well on Ally McCoists) are doing the trick. Buzzers are an option for the more educated bow.
The Menteith Young Persons Fishing Club “the Cormorants” had their final outing of the season. 12 year old Jamie Carruth from Blanefield finished off the season in good form by winning the club championship (aka the Tam Denholm Memorial Chase) and the Cormorants Shield. He is pictured left after being presented with the trophy by Menteith “Champion of Champion” John Buchanan. Water Temperature stayed steady at 10.5C last week and clarity has also remained similar. Notable Recent Catches: RAF Northern League 11 boats 49 fish 148 lbs plus 9 rtd, Scotsman AC 3 boats 20 rainbows 57lbs plus 4rtd (Champion John Levi), A.Mair Milngavie 2 fish 14lbs 12oz, J.Milne Alloa 7 for 24lbs, T.McBride Balloch 6 fish for 19lbs 8oz plus 11 rtd, Thack AC 6 boats 38 trout 106lbs plus 12rtd., McLean and Ritchie 10 fish 36lbs 4 oz……
Burnhouse Fishery, Burnhouse Farm, Bonnybridge Stirlingshire FK4 2HH Tel: 01324 840404 Mob : 07742 755737 Website: http://www.burnhouse-fishery.co.uk
After major improvements to the dam wall, completely new paths around the whole Loch and the construction of new bridge we now have the water level back up to capacity.
With the water temperature holding at 14oC, anglers are getting some excellent top of the water sport returning some really nice catches.
There are still some fish being taken on dries, John Gould (Bellshill) had 3 on a Black,Spider/ Black,Buzzer, Andy Cardigan (Cumbernauld) had 1 on a Kate McLaren, Allan Davidson and junior had 2 for 4lb 4oz and realeased another 2 on an Orange Blob/ Kate McLaren, D MaGuinness had 8 on a Sedgehog, Hugh Morgan on a sporting ticket had 1 on a Kate McLaren, Davie Cairns had 4 on a mini Yellow Dancer, Ian Martin (Banockburn) had 2 for 4lb 10oz on a Kate McLaren , Mick Quinn (Motherwell ) had 2 for 4lb 7oz
on Yellow and Black Fritz, Jim McAllum (Falkirk) had 5 on a Daiwl Bach/ Black Buzzer, Adam Crossley (Denny) had 2 for 4lb 4oz on Yellow Bloodworm, Derek Leaper (Larbert) had 1 for 5lb 2oz on Gold Headed Damsel, Eddie Cannon had 1 for 2lb 5oz on Yellow Dancer, Ian McNaught had 2 for 4lb 6oz on Hot head Dancer, Stevie O’donnell (Cumbernauld) had 3 on an Orange Blob/ Damsel. Club booking - Goth Angling Club Fallin had a good day on Sat 5th Landing 32 fish in Total. Billy Wier had the heaviest bag with 4 fish for 12lb 6oz, John Thomson had the heaviest fish 1 for 6lb 6oz. Billy Wier also had 1 for 5lb 7oz, Connar Laiden had 4 for 10lb 6oz - Well done to all.
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Linlithgow Loch Tel: 01506 671 753; http://www.fafa-linlithgowloch.org.uk The loch is having a fairly good back end of season. The fish are still feeding in shallow water and cssting daiwl bachs and corixa close in to the bank is the best method. Cormorants in their various colours are also worth a swim. Perth RASC AC had a good day with 4 boats managing 26 fish for 66lbs. On the same day Catch 22 AC with 4 boats managed 17 fish for 43lbs – mostly on the washing line (Fab and daiwl bachs) Gartcosh AC with 7 boats had 35 fish for 90lbs and on Monday two anglers from Heriots AC had their 12 fish limit for 30lbs. On Thursday, Ken Wood and his partner had 9 fish for 18lbs and Ian Dobbie had his limit of 6 fish for 18lbs plus 6 returned. Wilson Hogan’s records show us that there are around nine and a half thousand pounds of trout still in the loch. This year’s stocking you must keep moving around till you find them. The season closes on Thursday 31st October 2014 Advance Bookings please use booking form on website or email Janet. For further information or booking please phone the lodge on 01506 671 753
England
Bellbrook Fishing Report week ending September 2013 Beautiful fishing weather and the fish are responding well. The flies working at the moment are Green Nymph, Blue Damsel and Daddy Longlegs. The fish have been taking in mid water – 4 to 6 feet from the surface – and there is still the occasional take off the top. David Hill of Ideford fished a Rover Classic and netted a bag weighing 8 3/4lb – he favoured the Green Nymph. Toby and Robin from Taunton enjoyed a morning’s instruction and caught 3 specimens between them for 10-8 making good use of the Black Damsel fly. Mike Clayton and his fishing friend from Shaldon had a half day ticket and managed to get a couple in the net for 4-8. Frequent visitors to the website will have noticed a revamp and that there is now a webcam overlooking Ironmill. This captures an image every 2 minutes and is designed to let regulars see how busy we are or what the conditions are like. For
newcomers it is a chance to get an idea what one of the lakes looks like.
Any questions about the fishery please call Chris on 01398 351292. http://www.bellbrookfishery.co.uk/
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South West Lakes Trout Fisheries (October) By Chris Hall http://www.swlakestrust.org.uk/leisure-activities/fishing/trout-fishing
General: The cooler air temperatures and rain showers early in the month meant that the water temperatures at last started to drop (to around 16°C), and the fish generally started to feed more eagerly, with corresponding increases in catch rates. Damsels have continued to hatch, and with Daddies and Sedges on the water, and fry in the margins, there have been a wide variety of successful patterns and methods (although floating lines have proved to be the most successful, and only a few fish have been feeding in deep water).
Water levels are generally two to three metres down, although they are now starting to rise slowly. Bank fishing will be extended throughout November on a number of sites – see the Trust’s website for details. Fishing: Kennick – the most productive areas have been at the top end of the water, with most fish being caught (from both boat and bank) off the Laployd and Smithacott banks as well as in the Narrows – bank fishing has been more popular in October. With a number of surface feeders, dry patterns have caught well (particularly Sedge patterns, and Black Gnats and Beetles). Popular nymph patterns included Diawl Bachs (particularly green), Buzzers, and Damsel Nymphs, while the occasional fish has been picked up using a Booby fished on the bottom. Best fish have included a 3lb 2oz Brown Trout caught by Mr C. Campbell (from Mauchline) using a Diawl Bach from the bank, and a 3lb 2oz Rainbow caught by Mike Malpass (from Chudleigh) using a Daddy from the bank. Heather Lamacraft caught a bag of six fish using Pheasant Tails and Hares Ears from the bank, and Chris Bee (from Cockwood) also caught six rainbows from the bank using a Montana. Siblyback - the fishing here really picked up as the water temperatures dropped, with anglers averaging 4 fish-plus per rod. Mr D Butt from Looe managed two cracking fish of 3lb 4oz and 3lb 2oz on a Bibio (he also caught 11 brownies to half a pound!). Gary Haydon from Kilkhampton had a cracking evening session with 6 fish (3 returned) all on a single dry fly, fishing Two Meadows and on the west bank. He commented ‘the fish were everywhere but I had to get the fly to land on their noses or they would not take – there were hundreds of fish, very close in, fantastic sport’. Mrs Pat Gray from Bude caught two rainbows to 3lb on a Black and Peacock spider. Wimbleball – Rod averages the over the past few weeks have been over four fish per angler. The Orvis sponsored boat pairs final was won Paul Jones and Tony Chipman from Cornwall with 16 fish for 26lb 3oz. (An orange blob on a Di-3 line helped Paul boat 11 of the fish and a Damsel accounted for 5 fish for Tony, with a drift across from Bessoms to Ruggs the most productive area) Andy Strawbridge from Chard has again been in the action, catching 8 rainbows in two visits, mainly on a sedge pattern, as well as 23 brownies to 2lb 8oz (he commented afterwards -‘Fantastic fishing, don’t change anything’). Mike Stone from Starcross caught 6 fish including one blue trout on an orange blob from boat at Cow Moor, and Russell Spencer (from Bradworthy) caught his limit with fish to 2lb 5oz using buzzers. Stithians – The fishing has been steady over the month, with both Stickleback fry and Daddylonglegs present in good numbers. Mr Griffiths (over from France) caught a 3lb rainbow, using a fry pattern fished from the bank near the dam. Mr D.Briant (from Erminstow) caught a 2lb rainbow using a Daddylonglegs fished on the surface at Yellowort Bay. Wistlandpound - Mike Newey continued his good form at Wistlandpound, catching 10 rainbows to 2lb 6oz on a Hatching Olive pattern and a Bloody Butcher, and 11 brownies to 1lb on a Hatching Olive and a Pheasant Tail nymph, in two trips. Conditions were damp and overcast with a light wind, fishing a wet fly, 2 inches below the surface. Burrator – The water level is now down sufficiently to allow fishing from most of the bank areas around the reservoir – the most popular area has been on and around Longstone Point. Surface feeding fish have been caught using Bibios, Sedge patterns, and Daddies, with Green Montanas and Damsel nymphs catching subsurface fish.
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Ireland
Blackwater Lodge Newsletter - October 2013 by Ian Powell
A Fantastic Day on Saturday, October 5th. As the River fines off.....Nine fish to 15½lb. caught with fish of 9, 12, 13 & 15lb. also landed.
Yesterday the river was fining off nicely having dropped to fly height. Clarity 2 feet or so & peaty. The Total Catch for yesterday (5th.) was nine fish. The Best Fish of the Day was Tim Harty's 15½lb (2 pics above) which was a very clean fish. This was the only fish taken on the lower beats, but there were 8 fish lost after being briefly hooked. Fish were taking short as the clarity on the lower river was worse than on the upper river at barely 2 feet. On the upper beats where clarity was rather better at 2-2½ feet, fish were taking well. Guide Conor Arnold had a Red Letter Day with 3 fish of 12, 13 & 15lb . The 13 pounder was a clean fish especially from on of our very top beats
Tim Harty 15.5lb Dave Walsh also had a 5 pounder from the same beat. There were other fish of 5, 6, 7 & 9lb from other upper beats and teenage angler Jack McNally landed two from the very top beat. To prove this was no fluke he has already reported another two fish for today by 12.00 from a lower beat one of which was a clean 12 pounder - Good Lad Jack! There are also a couple of 6 pounders already reported from another upstream beat as well. Prospects There is just some light rain forecast for Monday & we will have a dry spell up to Friday. Sport is excellent in spite of the fact that all the fish in the estuary don't appear to have run into the main river as yet. If the do - all hell will break loose! Conor Arnold 15lb Time marches on and there are now just 6 days of the season remaining, now is the time to get fishing. As last year, the 6 remaining days in October will be Fly Only and Catch & Release. Availability of both fishing & accommodation is limited for September & better for October. Social Networking Facebook - Ian Facebook - Lodge page FaceBook - Glenda Twitter For any further information, please contact: Blackwater Lodge & Salmon Fishery, Upper Ballyduff, County Waterford, Ireland
Skype: bwlodge Ireland: Phone: 058 60235 From UK: Phone: 0844 202 33 33 International: Phone: +353 58 60235
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This Show will feature the largest host of fly tyers and game angling stands under one roof in Ireland ever at an angling show. A host of the greatest fly tyers, fly casters and angling celebrities from all over the globe will once again gather at the Galway Bay Hotel, in Salthill to participate in the 4th Irish Fly Fair and International Angling show on the 9 and 10 of November 2013. Visitors come from all over the world to this celebrated event and will have the opportunity to see some of the finest fly dressers from around the world practice their art , while champion fly casters will be available to demonstrate and advise on fly casting techniques and fishing tactics. Last year's Irish Fly Fair saw some of the greatest fly casters and fly tyers in the world descend on The Galway Bay Hotel in Salthill, the show was a fantastic success with many of the fly dressers, demonstrators, exhibitors and tackle trade rebooked for this year’s event. With thousands of visitors to the show the feedback was exceptionally positive, with many saying it was the best angling show they have ever been to! The tackle trade will be very well represented at this year’s event with a huge quality trade stands in form of tackle, outdoor clothing, and fly tying gear and many others, so something for everyone! The event organizer Stevie Munn would like to welcome back angling celebrities, Hywel Morgan, Glenda Powell, and Peter O’Reil ly who will be demonstrating and advising on all aspects of fly fishing! We also would like to welcome our new guests including, fishing legend Charles Jardine. We also have tuition from qualified angling instructors APGAI who will give free casting and fly tying lessons during the two day exhibition. Experts from the Inland Fisheries Ireland, Dr Ken Whelan, FISSTA and many more will be hosting talks and seminar on various angling related topics. Also the "Youth Fly Tying Competition” giving the kids a chance to show the “Pro Fly Dressers” what they can do. The Irish Fly Fair has already been hailed as one of the finest shows of its kind in Europe, a great weekend to meet up with old friends and make new ones! This show is a must for all Angling enthusiasts. A Big Thank you to all that support the show. Including our sponsors Veniard, Partridge & Emerger Tackle . This is the undisputed best Fly Fishing and Fly Tying Show in all of Ireland, and one not to be missed. In one of Galway’s best Hotels, many visitors come for the weekend and experience the whole atmosphere of the show. Please come along and give it your support angling needs feel good events like this. For more details see web. www.irishflyfair.com or contact Stevie Munn. Email, [email protected]
We would like to thank our event Sponsors
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The Newsletter for Fishing Travellers to New Zealand
By Sue Farley
Trout and saltwater fishing lodge news, reviews and information ph 64 21 555836, [email protected]
www.newzealandfishinglodges.co.nz
The new 2013-14 fly fishing season in New Zealand is now open and by all reports there are plenty of good-sized fish being landed.
The lodges are all looking great with good forward bookings through the season. Check out our suggested itineraries below.
There's good fishing for rainbow and brown trout in many parts of New Zealand with sight fishing on most rivers.
Boat charters open up good lake fishing and there's heli-fishing to get you into the remote spots where the fishing can be nothing short of divine.
Hopefully we'll see you here later in the season - there are lots of awesome fishing opportunities awaiting you.
So what are people booking this year? So far there has been a mix
of fishermen booking late for pre-summer trips in October and November, and others planning ahead to fish through February, March and April. if you are thinking of a trip to New Zealand this season it's important to bear in mind that mid-December to mid-February is mid-summer, which means there are lots of locals out enjoying the fishing, camping, hiking and mountain biking in the great outdoors as well. So if you're thinking of travelling at that time then book ahead, now is good, as availability in some places is already filling. But if you're flexible with your dates, or plan to travel outside the mid-season there are still plenty of options. You can also get some good shoulder season rates in October and April.
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This month we feature a new lodge on our 5 Star New Zealand site. Arthur's Pass Wilderness Lodge is essentially that - a luxury wilderness lodge - but it's close to some excellent trout fishing and also salmon, in season. We also talk about a few of the suggested itineraries on our New Zealand Fishing Lodges site, to get you thinking about some of the options for when you get to New Zealand to fish. Featured Lodge - Arthur's Pass Wilderness Lodge Arthur's Pass Wilderness Lodge sits under the Southern Alps in mid-Canterbury, with a wide view across the upper Waimakariri river valley and the Arthur's Pass National Park. The lodge was opened, and is still run by, the McSweeney family, well known in New Zealand for their dedicated work in the conservation field. The lodge gives guests the chance to enjoy this passion with a good selection of environmental activities, hiking, kayaking and, of course, fly fishing. This may sound strange, but neither trout nor salmon are native to New Zealand waters so they are not threatened species, unlike many of New Zealand's own native and endemic birds and fish. Fishing guides can take you to a good selection of wilderness rivers within an easy distance of the lodge, and there is heli-fishing if you want to go further afield. While you're up in the sky you can also fly over some of the Southern Alps glaciers or land on an alpine plateau. Accommodation is in four luxurious Alpine Lodge suites or 20 lodge rooms, some interconnecting for larger groups and families. Dining is a set menu, which changes daily, and the tariff includes dinner, breakfast and accommodation. Some Suggested Itineraries for New Zealand Fishing If you're looking for ideas on how, when, where to fish in New Zealand we've put together a few suggested itineraries to get you started. These are a mix of 8, 10, 14 and 21 day itineraries and give a sample of what is available. All the itineraries can be customised to suit your needs and are designed from your touchdown in Auckland (or wherever you may first land in New Zealand) to your departure. We book internal flights, lodge stays and fishing packages, guided fishing, lodge transfers, rental vehicles and insurance. And if you need your international airfares we can do them as well. So what have we got? Try out these three for starters 8 Day North Island Central Plateau Sojourn - this is a short North Island stay that can be done any time of year. Stay at two beautiful lodges and fish for brown and rainbow trout in the rivers or lakes 10 Day South Island Fishing Adventure - this one is all in the South Island and is best done in summer. But there are other options available over the winter months if you wish. Stay at two iconic New Zealand fishing lodges and enjoy top wilderness trout fishing 21 Day Two Islands Fishing Foray - this one is a real treat with time in both islands while staying at three very popular lodges. There's a minimum of four day's fishing at each lodge with some sight-seeing time in between. Lots of good fishing adventures on this one, with time for heli-fishing as well
What's Happening Around the Lodges
Owen River Lodge in the South Island is one of only two fly fishing lodges in the world to be a fully authorised Sage dealer. They have demonstration models available for guests to try out.
Poronui has two off-peak specials worth trying - save 20% on a 4 night fishing package (3 days fishing) from 1 October to 31 December. They also have a longer 7 night package (6 days fishing), also 1 October to 31 December. Contact us for details and availability.
Bay of Many Coves Resort in the beautiful Marlborough Sounds is a great spot for sea fishing. Join a luxury charter boat for a day of sheltered in-shore fishing for blue cod or head
further out to fish for gurnard, snapper, terakihi and kahawai. This is an especially great place in summer. Huka Lodge has recently won Favourite Overseas Holiday Hotel in Australasia and the Pacific as voted in the UK's Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Travel Awards 2013. Well done Huka - that's a great achievement!
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Aussiefly Your Online Fly Fishing Discount Super Store With Delivery* to any where in the World. All processed via our very Secure Server. Your One Stop Fly Shop Aussiefly stocks from Fly Tying Materials to Rods and Lines that are suitable for both
your Saltwater and the Freshwater Fly Fishing and Tournament Casting. From # 22 Hooks to a range of single handed rods to Talon RA's WMD Double Overhead rods to Talon's 18 foot Double Handed competition salmon rods, from nymphs to squid flies from Russian Raccoon to Kangaroo and more. Fly Lines, we stock both Spey and Overhead lines for Double Handed rods and the normal range of Talon Fly Lines.
For over 22 years, a family of high-tech design engineers has successfully produced a series of revolutionary fishing reels. In 1997, Accurate Fishing Products introduced its first, revolutionary, dual-drag system fishing reels. A little over ten years later, Accurate has expanded its high-tech reel series to include seven blue-water models and eight light-tackle models, all of which have been readily accepted by serious saltwater sport fishermen. Check out our full range of products at http://www.accuratefishing.com/index.php
Handcrafted Split cane Priest: A perfect gift for any Fly Fisherman this Christmas. Handmade hexagonal split cane shaft with solid brass head, collar and end plate with fly engraving. Complete with Claret, Green ties. Or to order a colour of your choice to match your existing tackle. Complete with velvet pull string bag. £28.60 Buy Now and save 15% http://www.norman-agutters.com/index.htm
Innovation and cutting edge technology is what Jon Bauer introduced to fly fishing over a decade ago. The award winning MacKenzie large arbor reel revolutionized fly fishing design forcing every major manufacturer to follow. Bauer has continued to advance fly reel design by developing and testing new technology. Our products are put to the test daily by our customers, guides and staff. Our goal is to step outside
the norm to pursue superior performance and not to accept convention as "good enough". Our passion for fly fishing drives our goal to create innovative, quality products that enhance the fly fishing experience. Join us in the pursuit of excellence. http://www.bauerflyreels.com/index.html
Shenandoah Rods are premium handcrafted bamboo fly rods created for the discriminating angler. I have created an unique series of rods designed specifically to satisfy the demands of the accomplished angler when fishing the freestone streams of the Blue Ridge Mountains for Native Brook Trout. These rods will make short, accurate, and delicate casts with ease while
retaining power in reserve. These rods along with their custom hexagonal spalted maple wood case represents the finest fishing implement made today for these demanding conditions
http://www.shentel.net/canerod/
At Galvan, our fly reels aren't just the result of 20 years of dedicated design and innovation, they're part of an ongoing tradition. A tradition of family-run, American-made, and time-honored craftsmanship that's built into every reel we make. The industry has changed a lot in our time, but it's what hasn't changed
that makes us who we are.
http://www.galvanflyreels.com/
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Argentina is a country that offers many venues for outdoor adventure, eco, hunting, fishing and touring. Rich in history and tradition with the gauchos alive and well in a landscape that’s as good as it gets.
Most of the fishing articles are about Tierra del Fuego with its big winds and sea run browns and recently the new emerging rainbow fishery called Jurassic Lake but I will focus on the best that Patagonia has to offer. Bariloche/ San Martin de los Andes, Esquel/ Rio Pico and the‘River of Monsters’.
Names like the Chimehuin, Alumine, Malleo, Collon Cura, Limay, Arroyo Pescado, Rivadavia, Lago Tres just for starters begin an endless list of possibilities. Big rivers, small rivers, spring creeks, famous bocas, lagoons and stillwaters abound and offer the angler all the trout fishing one could do in a lifetime.
Bows on steroids chasing the floating minnows on the Calefu, big brook trout on the Corcovado and really bigggggg browns give the angler a shot at trip and lifetime fish!!
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I really enjoy some camping experiences as well. Sitting by the camp fire with a sky glittering with stars, single malt in hand and recalling the day’s experiences is hard to beat.
COME and EXPERIENCE the BEST PATAGONIA has to offer.
Chip Drozenski [email protected] http://www.andesdrifters.com
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New Zealand Fly Fishing Update – October 2013
By Peter Ryan
Wind, gales and more wind. The Land of the Long White Cloud has been blown hither and yon since season opening in the lowlands earlier this month. After abandoning a swollen river looking for sea runs I’ve
retired to safety, and as I do the pines outside my window are bent to breaking point. Nobody can cast in this. You know it’s bad when you keep hearing ‘once in
a generation’ from the old anglers.
As a long country that runs north to south, bisected by mountain ranges – including the great spine of the Southern Alps – New Zealand’s weather is highly variable. That’s especially true in spring. One district
can be apocalyptic while another barely thirty miles away is settled and calm. That’s where good guides
earn their keep, always scheming ahead for a backstop location in the event of the dreaded hot nor’wester or
freezing southerly. Those doing NZ solo should stick to the same philosophy when planning a trip to a dream river…what’s the fallback option?
The gales and torrential rain that swept through some areas shortly before opening day were extraordinary, but for all that it’s a tribute to
our fisheries that some great catches have been made anyway. Some serious fish have been caught by opportunists keen to exploit rivers that have not seen an angler in months.
In either event calm, settled weather is coming, and the Met Service seems to agree that many areas could be looking at a long, warm summer. New Zealand trout fishing is always at its best for those who can think fast and change tack, and this season will be no different.
By the time the next update appears the high country season will have had its November opening, and the truly legendary rivers and streams of Kiwi angling will have begun their season. Summer is almost upon us – beetles, mayflies, cicadas and the rest - and good luck to you all.
Pete Ryan
Pete Ryan’s writing has appeared in quality hunting books and magazines around the world. His first book Wild South - Hunting and Fly Fishing the Southern Hemisphere has just been launched to critical acclaim – available in print edition, Kindle and other formats. More at www.faraway.co or the official Facebook page
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Keeping Warm When Fishing By The Editor
Winter is slowly but surely starting to creep in here in the UK and this is the time to start thinking about your personal health and safety when out fishing during the colder weather. To keep warm is all about wearing the right clothing layers and the correct fabrics.
First of all there is the base layer which you wear next to your skin, and don’t think about the old fashioned granddad long johns and vest, start thinking about more modern specially made clothing for this purpose. Most modern base layer clothing is made of polyester and polypropylene which are often mixed with Lycra or Spandex to give some stretch when you’re bending and moving about. You can either go for a lighter or heavier layering depending on how you are fishing, if you are just moving around the fishery on foot, I would recommend a lighter layer, however if you are just standing nearly in the same spot all day or sitting in a boat a heavier layer is recommended. I like the Imax Vapour Mesh Base Layer as this provides an internal grid structure which provides comfortable airflow and the lightweight yarn wicks moisture away quickly from the body so that you don’t get cold and wet.
The mid layers are a good shirt that has air vents and slightly looser than the base layer. I like the Simms Montana Shirt, even though I mostly wear it during the summer months as it gives me freedom to move but keeping me cool also, this also works the other way round during the winter months as it also helps to keep me warm but not sweaty as this also leaks out any moisture.
On top of the shirt I wear a Microfleece Pullover this is a great thermal regulating layer that can be worn all year round. The microfleece has a high neck and a zip. The microfleece gives a useful level of insulation while also helping to regulate body temperature meaning it is ideal as a mid layer or as a base layer. The trousers I would recommend are the Simms Cold Weather trousers as it sure is nice to put on fleece-lined Nylon shell pants on a frosty morning headed out to the river. The DurapelPlus finish and COR3 technology make this cold weather pant a winner. The trousers are 100% Nylon shell fabric with COR 3™ technology and Durapel Plus finish; 100% Polyester fleece lining and hand warmer pockets. The outer layer depending on the weather I would wear my normal over trousers and weather proof jacket.
For your head during colder weather, I know that a the fishing baseball caps are good for keeping the sun out of your eyes even during the winter months, but try and get one with fur lined pull down ear muffs. Or wear a balaclava under your cap and pull it down when your ears are just starting to get too cold. Don’t forget about your hands and feet when out fishing as there’s nothing worse than a touch of frost bite. Always wear a good pair of thermal socks and a pair of thermal boots that can stand up to the cold, I always wear the Stillwater Snow Boots Moonboot style wellies for the ultimate in warmth and comfort, these boots have a really thick sole and a removable thermal Liner. No more cold feet with these boots they can withstand cold weather up to minus 25deg. Finally I hate wearing gloves when I’m fishing as you can’t grip the line very well, I always take a long a couple of hand warmers and spare charcoal, they not only heat up your hands but keep you warm as well with the heat permeating through your trousers or jacket pocket. If you do wear gloves ensure that they are neoprene gloves as they will keep your hands warm and dry. An
excellent new product on the market is the Airflo Hardwear Heated Gloves, they keep your hands and fingers warm during the cold winter months with these waterproof, easy to operate battery heated gloves. Available in medium and large sizes,
Remember; you don’t have to be the height of fashion as long as your warm and comfortable fishing
as the cold can spoil a good days fishing and make you lethargic, thus leading to accidents and a spoilt day on the river or fishery and especially when in a boat on a reservoir, lake or loch. I should know this as quite a few years ago when out boat fishing on a reservoir and new to the sport I didn’t have the right clothing on for the inclement weather, by the end of the day I was cold miserable and wasn’t fully aware of my surrounding due to being a bit lethargic, whereby I ran the boat aground causing me to fall over in the boat breaking my wrist.
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Foxy Shrimp The Foxy Shrimp™ is tied using the Fish-Skull® Mini Sculpin Helmet™ and incorporates a stainless steel hook tied “hook up” to be effectively fished in grass or sand flats for a variety of saltwater species. You will find it easy to tie, but we have provided detailed step-by-step instructions to get you started. MATERIALS: FLY VARIATIONS #1 NAME FS FOXY SHRIMP COLOR WHITE HOOK SIZE #4 MATERIALS 1 Head Sculpin Helmet, MINI size (Silver) 2 Eyes 3.0 mm Silver (ICE) 3 Hook #4, Stainless, Std Saltwater 4 Rubber Legs (clear) Crazy Legs "Clear/Pearl Flake" (or similar) 5 Body Fox Fur (White) 6 Flash Crystal Flash (Pearl)
7 Thread Dam colour Pink
TYING INSTRUCTIONS Summary of Tying Steps: 1. Tie on the rubber legs and crystal flash. 2. Tie in the Fox Fur. 3. Fit the Sculpin Helmet. 4. Stick on the eyes. 5. Trimming down the rubber legs and crystal flash. Step 1: Tie on the rubber legs and Crystal Flash.
This fly is tied in the hook upwards position. Secure the hook in the vice as shown. Attached your thread (mono or white) to the hook. Note: Leave a large gap between the thread and the eye of the hook to make room to fit the Sculpin Helmet.
Take a strip of Crazy Legs (or similar silicone “rubber legs”.) Cut it into 4 sections. Note: You will use one section per fly.
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Tie in rubber legs.
Use 4 or 5 tight thread wraps. Make sure the rubber legs are completely wrapped around the entire hook shank (360º).
Tie in 6-8 strands of Crystal Flash.
Step 2: Tie in the Fox Fur
Rotate your vice so the hook is facing downwards. Take a small, sparse amount of Fox fur and tie it in. Spread the fur around so it covers the top half of the hook shank.
Tie in the fur. Note: This is the bottom of the fly.
Rotate you vice, so the hook is back in the hook up position. This is the top of the fly. Take another sparse clump of Fox fur and tie on the top half of the fly. Note: make sure the fur (top and bottom) completely covers the hook shank and is wrapped evenly around all sides (360º).
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Tie off your thread. Note: there is still a large gap behind the eye of the hook which leaves you room to fit the Sculpin Helmet.
Step 3: Fit the Sculpin Helmet.
Put some super glue all around (360º) the thread wraps.
Fit the Sculpin Helmet onto the fly.
Make sure the Sculpin Helmet is seated firmly in place against the materials. Note: there should be a small gap between the eye of the hook and the Sculpin Helmet.
This is the top view.
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Re-attach pink thread to the front of the Sculpin Helmet between the Helmet and the eye of the hook. Use 10-15 thread wraps to create a “thread dam” which secures the Sculpin Helmet firmly in place.
Tie off your thread and use head cement.
View from the top. Notice the pink “nose” on the fly.
Step 4: Stick on the eyes.
The next step is to stick Living Eyes onto the Sculpin Helmet.
Put a small drop of super glue in the middle of each eye socket. Drop an eye into each socket.
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The eyes are now in position.
Step 5: Trimming down the rubber legs and crystal flash.
The final step is to trim the rubber legs so that they are the same length or slightly shorter than the Fox fur. In this photo you will notice they are too long and need to be trimmed shorter.
Trim shorter using your scissors. Note: Do not make the rubber legs the same length. Make them different lengths which make them move better in the water. It also promotes a more natural look. Note: Be careful not to cut the Fox fur while trimming the rubber legs.
The finished fly. Notice the crystal flash and rubber legs are not longer than the Fox fur.
Now go out and catch a big fish!
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Help for Heroes Open Individual Fly Fishing Challenge
Saturday 12 April 2014 Linlithgow Loch
Linlithgow
Format: Each competitor will be paired up on a first come first served basis and fishing will be to the fishery rules.
Costs: Entry to the challenge is £30 plus as much sponsorship money raised on behalf of Help for Heroes.
Prizes: 1st Place - £150.00 Glasgow Angling Centre Vouchers 2nd Place - £100.00 Glasgow Angling Centre Vouchers 3rd Place - £50.00 Glasgow Angling Centre Vouchers
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Entry Form
Name of Entrant…………………………………………… Telephone No…………………………............………
Email Address ……………………............…………………………………………………………………………
Contact Address………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Signature: -
TOTAL £ .............
Organising an event of this nature places a significant strain on the Charity’s resources. We would ask that if you are entering you remit the full amount you have raised on the day of the competition, either in cash or cheque. Cheques must be made payable to “Wateraid Flyfishers”. Completed form along with entry fee to be returned to Robin Lambert, Help for Heroes Fly Fishing Challenge, Scottish Water, 55 Buckstone Terrace, Edinburgh, EH10 6XH
Closing date for receipt of entry form is Friday 28 March 2014
Event Sponsors and Raffle Prizes required for the event, please contact Robin Lambert directly at [email protected] with your sponsorship or raffle prize pledge.
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The Small Print
1 The Linlithgow Loch Fishery Safety and Fishery Rules will apply for The Challenge. The Linlithgow Loch Fishery Rules can be obtained from the fishery office. All competitors will fish at their own risk and the Organising Team can take no responsibility for the safety and welfare of participants during The Challenge. 2 100% of all monies received, by the Organising Team on behalf of Help for Heroes, after all payments necessary for the organisation of The Challenge have been made, will go to Help for Heroes. The Entry Fee covers the cost of Boat Hire, other Challenge Costs such as Prizes etc. 3 In the event of The Challenge being over-subscribed any competitor failing to secure a place will have their Entry Fee refunded. Any additional donation will be refunded at the discretion of the competitor. 4 In the event of the event being cancelled, the Entry Fee will be refunded for the amount of the balance remaining after any non-refundable payments have been made, for The Challenge, by the Organising Team on behalf of Help for Heroes. Any additional donation will be refunded at the discretion of the competitor. 5 In the event of an entrant cancelling its entry to The Challenge neither the Entry Fee nor any additional donation will be refunded. The Organising Team recommends that the competitor finds a replacement competitor for their entry.
Help for Heroes
Individual Open Fly Fishing Challenge Saturday 12 April 2014
Programme of Events
08:00 – 08:45 Registration at Fishing Lodge 08:45 Briefing at Fishing Lodge 09:00 Fishing Starts (Boats leave Harbour)
16:00 16.00 Fishing Stops (Boats return to Harbour – please allow enough time to return to Fishing Lodge by 16.00) 16:15 Weigh in at Fishing Lodge 16.30 Presentation of Prizes Raffle Prize Draw
Challenge Bag Limit
Bag Limit 6 fish per person Catch and release after limit; 2lb bonus per fish caught during catch & release. Barbless hooks must be used during catch and release. Fish must be landed in the net then released to count. Catch & Release form must be signed by boat partner.
