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Wild Fisheries Review
Trout Fishing in Tasmania
Welcome to the February 2015 issue of ―The Flyfisher Magazine‖ the free online
magazine by keen fly fishers for keen fly fishers throughout the UK and Abroad.
If you wish to advertise within the magazine or the
www.flyfisher-magazine.com please email [email protected] for an advertising rates
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Parent website: www.flyfishingdirectory.co.uk
Sister website: www.flyfisher-magazine.com
If you would like to contribute a free story or 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.
Editor: Robin ―The Cormorant‖ Lambert:
Email: [email protected]
Contents
Wild Fisheries Review 2014 Report: Page 3
Trout Fishing in Tasmania: Page 5
The Newsletter for Fishing Travelers to New Zealand: Page 8
Why Do I Go Fishing: Page 10
Review Time: Page 11
Fishing Reports: Page 12
Recipe of the Month: Page 17
Fly of the Month: Page 18
Kingfisher News: Page 20
Atlantic Salmon Conservation Foundation: Page 22
International Flyfishers Club: Page 26
Editors Thanks
Many thanks to all fishing buddies; magazine readers, Facebook and Twitter followers for your kind messages over the last
two months whilst I went through my cancer operation and severe infection afterwards. I am pleased to advise I am slowly
getting there and looking forward to getting out on the water again.
Just seen the specialists and it looks like my cancer was only on the surface of the bladder and was hopefully fully removed,
however it has been graded as a high risk cancer and will be undergoing further tests and aftercare medication (chemo) every
two months for the next 3 years. There is a 50/50 chance of it coming back; if it does there‘s the possibility of losing the
bladder completely and having a permanent catheter fitted (mind you would be handy for standing in the river all day or out in a
boat with a female during a competition; don‘t have to worry about going LOL).
Am looking at the possibility of maybe undertaking a solo 48 hour nonstop (except for meals and toilet stops) once I am fit
enough to raise funds for Cancer UK. Will update you all later on this.
Many thanks again
The Editor
© The Flyfisher Magazine
Wild Fisheries Review 2014 Report
Scotland is recognized throughout the world as one of the greatest locations to fish whether it is
for salmon; wild brown trout; grayling or a fishery stocked with rainbow trout.
Scotland has some great and diverse fishing available to meet all gender and income
requirements.
But what adverse effect will the Wild Fisheries Review have on the various fishing within
Scotland, especially if they introduce the new and controversial Rod Licence in Scotland?
Game Fisheries
Rod Fisheries for Salmon and Trout: anglers have fished with rod and line in Scotland for
hundreds of years. The number of anglers has increased in recent years and the sport
continues to grow.
Net Fisheries for Salmon: net Fisheries include the traditional methods of fishing for salmon: net
and coble, and fixed engines, such as bag nets and stake nets. Drift-net fishing for salmon off
the coast of Scotland was prohibited in 1962, and the ban remains in force. The net fishery has
declined in recent years, with the number of nets deployed now only about one-third of that
recorded a decade earlier.
Today, the opportunity to fish for salmon and sea trout is highly prized, and the high level of demand is reflected in the price. While fly fishing
is the most popular method, bait fishing, where allowed, may be equally if not more effective under certain circumstances. Anglers often
restrict their methods to those that make the salmon less easy to catch, and many now practice catch and release. Fly fishing is also the
usual method of fishing for Brown trout, although many people also use worms as bait.
Rod fishing for salmon is prohibited on a Sunday, and annual close times vary across the country, but are usually from the beginning of
November until the middle of February.
There is no weekly close time for fishing for Brown trout. The annual close time extends from 07 October until 14 March, and applies
throughout Scotland.
Section 6.5 of the Wild Fisheries Review states the following:
Charges for Licenses to Kill Salmon
Section 7 of this report includes recommendations in relation to the introduction of a compulsory ban on the killing of wild salmon in Scotland
except under possession of a license to do so. This element of the review panel‘s recommendations will, if implemented, involve significant
extra costs that are not currently incurred. In particular, if licenced cull levels are to be set accurately and an overly precautionary approach is
to be avoided, then additional (and potentially expensive) expenditure on data gathering will be necessary.
Given the material benefits that accrue to the individuals concerned, the panel are of the view that the cost of implementing such a system
(including additional research and data collection costs) should be fully covered through charges paid by those who wish to harvest fish in
this way.
Furthermore the panel recognise, given the impact of killing fish on the interests of anglers fishing on a catch and release basis, that there
may be justification for deriving from these charges an element of extra funding that can be deployed for wider wild fisheries management
activities.
Recommendation 30
Powers should be introduced whereby a charge may be made by the appropriate licensing body, on at least a full cost recovery basis, for the
issuing of licenses to kill wild salmon within the context of the recommendations contained in section 7.
Fishing for Grayling: Fishing for grayling is a popular sport, especially during the annual close times for salmon and trout
Coarse Fisheries
As a result of the widespread distribution and abundance of game fish species, there has been less of a tradition of angling for coarse fish in
Scotland than elsewhere in the UK, although the popularity of this branch of the sport is growing.
According to the Scottish Federation for Coarse Anglers, there may be as many as 20,000 people in Scotland who fish for coarse fish, about
1,000 of them specialist anglers who target particular species. The number of coarse anglers is estimated to be increasing at 2-4 per cent per
year. Permit prices vary, but may cost as little as £10 per day in some places. There is an expanding interest in pike fishing in Scotland,
especially by visiting anglers from other parts of the UK. There is also an increasing interest in fishing for cyprinid fishes, particularly carp,
tench, rudd and roach. Most species of coarse fish are concentrated in the south west of Scotland, the Central Belt, Loch Lomond and the
Perthshire lochs.
There are no weekly or annual close times for fishing for coarse fish in Scotland.
Still Water Fisheries
There are put-and-take fisheries for Rainbow trout throughout Scotland, the fish usually being supplied at catchable size by fish farmers.
Prices vary, but a day's fishing can cost as little as £15 to £35. In recent years, many ponds have been created to support these fisheries.
There are also numerous examples of lochs containing populations of wild native fish that have been stocked with Rainbow trout.
Within the report they are also looking at introducing a Rod Licence within Scotland which may have an adverse effect on the Stillwater
Fisheries and the people on low income who to get away from the various humdrums of life use fishing as a means to escape and relax.
Section 6.5 of the Wild Fisheries Review states the following:
Rod Licence
One of the most contentious and polarising issues considered by the review has been the possibility of introducing a compulsory rod Licence
scheme for Scotland. Systems based on charging all anglers an annual Licence fee, often at differential rates according to quarry species
and sometimes including a permit to fish in certain waters, have been established in a number of other countries.
The arguments made in their favour focus on the fact that anglers are exploiting a public resource and should therefore contribute to the cost
of maintaining it in good health.
The arguments against note that anglers in Scotland must already pay to fish through permit charges made by owners of fishing rights, and it
is therefore these owners who should finance the management system.
The review has considered the issues associated with a rod licence with some care. While some submissions on the issue have been
discouraging of the idea, many have underlined the opportunity that a significant new income stream would represent for the sector, in
particular with regard to increasing participation and extending the range of angling opportunities that are available.
While there are some stakeholders who are relatively inflexible in their opposition, the review panel has gained the impression that overall
support might be considerable if the funds raised were demonstrably and transparently used for purposes related to development of the sport
and improving access to sustainable fishing.
The panel has therefore concluded that serious consideration should be given to introducing a rod licence in Scotland, but firmly within the
context of providing the funding mechanism for a well organised national angling development programme.
Recommendation 28
Relevant stakeholder organisations, with support from the National Unit, should be invited to develop detailed proposals for an Angling for All
Programme for Scotland, of which an integral element would be a National Rod Licence scheme the income from which is dedicated to
financing the programme.
Recommendation 29
Ministers should be given the statutory power(s) required to introduce a national rod licence scheme, but should do so only if/when they are
satisfied that the other elements of a well-Supported national Angling for All Programme is in place.
To read the full report just click on the following link to download the report: - http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/marine/Salmon-TroutCoarse/fishreview/WFRFinal
As previously stated in Issue 21 November 2014:- The additional taxes from the Rod Licence would only benefit the private land owners and
consortiums who own the rights to all the wild trout and salmon fishing within Scotland and probably most of them are affiliated to the
government bodies and making the stupid suggestions for a Rod Licence to benefit their own means. Like the Wild Fisheries report says the
money brought in from a Rod Licence ―would allow the stakeholders of the Wild Fisheries to get what they want done; in other words we‗ll
take the money from ordinary Joe Bloggs and benefit our own ends.
What‘s your thought on the report and the possibility of a Rod Licence in Scotland, do you agree or disagree with their finding and do you
think it would benefit the Scottish Fly Fishers or just the private land owners and consortiums who run the wild fishing in Scotland.
Send your thoughts to the editor at [email protected] and we‘ll get a good discussion going.
Trout Fishing in Tasmania
Tasmania's pure and remote waterways make it one of the world's
last great fisheries with easily accessible fishing experiences found
within minutes of city centers.
Since their introduction in 1864, Tasmania's wild brown trout are
now arguably the purest strain in the world, given Tasmania
remains disease free and has ample water supply to feed its inland
waterways. With over 3,000 rivers, streams and lagoons there's
plenty of spots to choose from and Tasmania's clear waters make
sight fishing a real attraction.
There's excellent fly fishing to be had everywhere from glacial
highland lakes and the rocky rapids of the South Esk and
Macquarie rivers to the calmer waters of the Huon River. The
Central Plateau World Heritage Area contains more than 3000
lakes, ponds and tarns, most brimming with wild brown trout.
Tasmania also has sensational game fishing waters – only 20
minutes from shore – and holds many game fishing world records.
Tasmanian game fishing waters stretch from Flinders Island in the
north-east, past St Helens and all the way down the east coast to
the Tasman Peninsula. In addition to its game fishing records, Tasmania holds six world records for Southern Bluefin Tuna.
Professional charters are available across the island state and casual fishing can be enjoyed in many of Tasmania‘s most beautiful locations.
The Huon River is the fourth largest river in Tasmania, Australia. It is 170 km in length,
and runs through the fertile Huon Valley. From Scotts Peak Dam at Lake Pedder where
it begins, it flows south-east to the Tahune Airwalk, where the Picton River joins, before
heading through the rural township of Glen Huon where, just to the south, flows down
rapids to merge with the sea water and become tidal. From there it then travels through
Huonville, Franklin, and Cygnet (Port Cygnet). When the river meets the Tasman Sea
near Surveyors Bay, it is more than 3.1 miles (5.0 km) wide. In the lower reaches, the
average depth of wide river is 10 feet (3.0 m) and maximum depth is 39 feet (12 m).
While the Huon River itself is a fantastic fishery during springtime whitebait migrations,
the smaller tributary streams are well worth fishing.
Suitable waters can be found all along the eastern side of the middle to lower Huon.
The fish caught in these streams are usually small - really quite diminutive when
compared to their lake inhabiting counterparts. While the numbers of fish that you can
catch in these rivers certainly adds to their appeal, the scenery that surrounds you and
the anticipation of what lies further upstream is what makes you want to return to these
stunning little waters.
Fly-Fishing the streams in this region.
On most warm days, from late October through until January, caddis hatch during the
afternoon and evening. Most fish feeding on these in the evening will be small, but they are
sometimes difficult to catch, particularly those in stiller water. Fish that take the emerging
caddis (especially stick caddis) have a real liking to thin bodied red tags. The standard red
tag is difficult to see at times and so it‘s better to add some white wings to make the tags
stand out better.
Later on in the rise, the fish usually start to concentrate on the caddis "moths" themselves,
and these fish are, at times, a real challenge.
Other good flies to try are small Elk Hair Caddis patterns, and black beetles either on the
surface or just sinking under the surface.
Most mayflies that inhabit these streams don't hatch like those in the larger lakes in the
region. Instead of floating to the surface to hatch, they crawl out onto rocks in the middle of
the river. As a result, the fish don't normally have access to them until they begin laying their
eggs later in the evening.
The Huon River is best described in three general sections.
The tidal reaches of the Huon River below the Huonville Bridge are wide, deep and slow moving and harbor plenty of resident and sea-run
brown trout, some of which grow to trophy size, escapee Atlantic salmon and rainbow trout. There is good shore access at many locations
between Huonville and Port Huon on both sides of the river although a boat is useful in this section.
Trophy fish tend to lurk deep during the day and for best results you need to get your lure right down amongst the drowned roots and logs snags and break -offs have to be accepted as a part of the challenge. The edges of rips and currents are also good holding places for trout.
Fishing is at its best in spring when sea-run trout and resident brown trout are chasing whitebait that tend to swim up along the edge of the
main current. These whitebait ‗runs‘ comprise of juvenile galaxias species,Tasmanian smelt (Retropinna tasmanica) and the Tasmanian
whitebait (Lovettia sealii).
Trout also like to ambush whitebait from cavities in the bank or from the calm water down current of small points and bars.
The Tasmanian whitebait often spawns on shallow reefs, while other species (galaxias and smelt) frequent the same places. Consequently
you will find that some rapids and riffles are renowned springtime hot spots, just below the
Huonville Bridge being a classic example.
The mid-reaches between Huonville and Judbury are characterised by steep, forest lined banks with deep drop-offs and the occasional
rapid. We have identified the best spots to access the river which can be productive for whitebait feeders early in the season and also for lure
casting and fly fishing during the summer months when the river is low.
The upper reaches of the Huon between Judbury and the Picton River at Tahune are surrounded by dense forest. The bank side vegetation
is almost impenetrable and most of the water is too fast to wade therefore the access points at the major river crossings provide the best
opportunities for angling. The summer months are recommended when the flows are lower and access along the river banks easier.
Above the Picton River confluence the Huon River cascades through steep rainforest. The only convenient access is via the Huon walking
track which extends into the Southwest National Park above Manuka Creek. Park fees apply. Please note bait fishing is not permitted in
National Parks.
Best time of year: September to December
Fishing Access to the Huon River
The Tasmanian Inland Fisheries Department has negotiated with SOME landowners along the Huon River to give fishermen access to
certain sections of the river. This fishing access is there because of the generousity of the land owners and no other reason. Access to
fishing locations over private land in other circumstances requires permission from the landowner and, unfortunately, a number of
landowners along the banks of the Huon River are reluctant to grant this because of the bad behaviour of some fishermen.
Anyway back to the approved access points. A PDF map of all of the Huon River's access points can be found on the IFS web site by
clicking here.
These access points provide stiles over the barbed wire fences and a rough track to the Huon River. Most of the access point as a short walk
to the river and the best fishing locations.
High water levels in the Huon River below Huonville do not affect the river access because these places are tidal. However once up river
from Huonville the high water levels will significantly affect the amount of Huon River's banks that can be accessed or fished from, this is
because higher water levels cover the banks up to the level of the scrub and trees which line the Huon's banks making walking and casting
impossible. Generally speaking water levels much above one meter will preclude fishing from most of the Huon's banks. The exception is
Judbury where there are several sections that can be fished even when the water level is up passed two meters. So if you are thinking of
fishing the Huon River check the water levels and the weather. If there has been heavy rain over a number of days up in the Huon's
catchment area then you can expect the water level to stay high for at least one week however if there has just been a day or two of rain
then the water levels can drop quite rapidly.
There are a number of factors to consider when planning a trip to fish the Huon River, probably the most important of these is to find out the
Huon River's water levels as this will determine which locations you can fish from. Fortunately the Bureau of Meteorology has a great page
which will give you the Huon River's water level at several locations along the river's length and which updates in real time every 15 minutes
all day. http://www.bom.gov.au/fwo/IDT60252/IDT60252.094179.plt.shtml
www.andesdrifters.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/ANDES-DRIFTERS/180189178520
Please mention The Flyfisher Magazine when booking your next great fly fishing trip
The Newsletter for Fishing Travelers to New Zealand
By Sue Farley
New Zealand Fishing Lodges
10 Days Stay/Fish Super Lodge Fishing Safari
This is the ultimate in luxury fishing packages, offering 7 luxurious nights in two of New Zealand‘s most beautiful fishing lodges, and 2 nights
in luxury 5-star boutique hotels along the way. You will get to fish in the iconic Taupo / Turangi area in the North Island, and then further
south in the wilds of the Fiordland and Otago regions in the lower South Island. Brown and rainbow trout are the target species and you will
experience some of the best trout fishing in the world on this memorable trip. Not to mention the wines, the food, the hospitality, the scenery
…
Lodges You Will Visit on This Itinerary
Eichardts in Queenstown
Mollies in Auckland
Huka Lodge near Taupo
Itineraries begin with an optional night in Auckland, the main international gateway to New Zealand – alternative arrangements can be made
if you are arriving through Christchurch, Wellington or Queenstown. If you are coming off a long flight from the northern hemisphere we
highly recommend this first night in Auckland before travelling to your first lodge. All itineraries are priced at high season rates, as mainly fly
and self-drive tours – private transfers are also available on all tour legs. Lodges can be substituted if unavailable.
Day 1
Arrive in to Auckland and make your way to your accommodation at Mollies in St Marys Bay in central Auckland. It‘s a beautiful place to
unwind after your journey to New Zealand. Spend the remainder of the day exploring the city‘s galleries, museums and restaurants. Take a
harbour cruise or just relax with a cool beer down at the Viaduct. Overnight at Mollies luxury boutique B&B. .
Day 2
Leave your accommodation and drive or enjoy a luxury transfer to Huka Lodge, a 3.5 hour drive south of Auckland. Travel through the gentle
green farmlands of the Waikato region before reaching the thermally active Taupo area. Settle in to your luxury lodge accommodation beside
the Waikato River. Overnight at Huka Lodge .
Day 3
This is day 1 of your fishing package at Huka Lodge. Spend the day fishing with your guide at one of the many local fishing spots. Overnight
at Huka Lodge. .
Day 4
This is day 2 of your fishing package at Huka Lodge. Spend the day fishing with your guide at one of the many local fishing spots or opt for
an exciting day of heli-fishing (extra charge). Overnight at Huka Lodge. .
Day 5
Leave Huka Lodge this morning and drive or transfer to Taupo, just a short drive away. Check in at Taupo Airport for your flight south to
Queenstown in the beautiful southern lakes area. Pick up your rental car at Queenstown Airport or join your luxury transfer to your lodge
accommodation – it‘s a 1 hour drive on a sealed road to the top end of Lake Wakatipu. Overnight at Blanket Bay. .
Day 6
This is day 1 of your fishing package at Blanket Bay. Spend the day fishing with your guide at one of the many local fishing spots. Overnight
at Blanket Bay. .
Day 7
This is day 2 of your fishing package at Blanket Bay. Spend the day fishing with your guide at one of the many local fishing spots or opt for
another exciting day of heli-fishing. Overnight at Blanket Bay.
Day 8
This is day 3 of your fishing package at Blanket Bay. Spend the day fishing with your guide at one of the many local fishing spots. If you
haven‘t got there yet, try for a flight into the wilds of Fiordland for some extraordinary fishing, weather permitting (extra charge). Overnight at
Blanket Bay. .
Day 9
Leave your accommodation today and head back to Queenstown. Take a relaxing break for the day, go for a game of golf at nearby Jacks
Point, the Hills or Millbrook. Check in to your accommodation at a luxury boutique hotel on the shore-front of Lake Wakatipu and take the
opportunity to dine in one of Queenstown‘s fabulous restaurants. Overnight at Eichardts .
Day 10
Leave your accommodation and enjoy the morning further exploring Queenstown. Check in at Queenstown Airport for an afternoon flight
back to Auckland.
• Huka Lodge accommodation is in Junior Lodge Suites and includes a full cooked English breakfast and 5-course dinner. Private luxury
cottage and full lodge suite options are also available. A day of guided fishing includes use of a guide, tuition, transport, lunch and all your
fishing gear
• Blanket Bay accommodation is in luxury Lodge Rooms in the main lodge and includes a full cooked breakfast and a 5-course dinner. A day
of guided fishing includes use of a guide, tuition, transport and all your fishing gear
• Mollies accommodation is in luxurious 2 room suites. A full cooked breakfast is included
• Eichardts accommodation is in beautifully appointed mountain view suites. A full cooked breakfast is included. Lake view and apartment
suite options also available
Package price – per person, twin share $NZ 13207.00 GST incl (approx. $US 10,280.00)
•pricing is per person, twin share (high season rates), ex-Auckland
•single traveller rates are available on request
•includes rental of a large car, eg Toyota Highlander, where necessary. Insurance may be extra
•includes internal NZ flights if required
•private transfers are available – ask for pricing
•fishing licences are not included and are best purchased at the lodges
•all fishing gear is supplied by the lodges/guides
•Cancellation fees may apply
•Currency converter available here
Pricing may be subject to change before confirmation of booking due to availability, seasonal changes and any unforeseen circumstances.
Exclusive stay and low season rates are available – please ask.
Email us about your fishing travel needs today. We can give you a quote, check availability and help develop your itinerary.
[email protected]
New Zealand Fishing Lodges
http://www.newzealandfishinglodges.co.nz
Why do I go fly fishing and why I think its a great sport?
By Bob Wakeford (Fly Cast)
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fly-Cast/1474363382835131
Now that‘s a good question. I started fishing at the grand age of
10 with my mum on a Northumberland pier as I lived next to
coast. My Dad never fished but my Mum fished with my
Granddad in Brecon Wales where she was born. I started fishing
with a throw line as did all the kids at that time and we used to
catch more than the rod guys which annoyed them somewhat.
Then as I got older after a lot of saving of my pocket money I got
a rod and reel. Now I was a proper fisherman. It did not catch me
more fish as local knowledge helps a great deal but it felt better
somehow. After a few more rods etc. everything changed as my
parents decided to move to of all places Oxford.
I was a sea fisherman and they moved about as far from as you
could get from the sea.
So I gave up fishing for a long while (girls, parties and other
things) and then I got the itch.
Now all fishermen will know what I mean when you get the itch.
It‘s hard to explain to those poor people who have never fished,
It‘s like a primeval urge to catch that wonderful creation called
The Fish. It‘s like fishermen can‘t cross a bridge over a stream
without having a good look to see what‘s in there.
So I did not know what to do as it‘s hard to nip out and do a couple of hours Sea fishing from Oxford. A friend of mine was into coarse fishing
and he asked me to have a go with him. Now I have nothing against coarse fishing and I know that thousands of you do it but it‘s just that for
some reason I just could not get into it. So I was back to square one. Then it happened. I watched the telly. A big mistake as who was on?,
that bloke Hargreaves with Out Of Town. That got me thinking that I might get into that.
So of to that great place of knowledge the library (it‘s a pity that a lot more people don‘t use it). So after a lot of reading and research (Don‘t
forget no one had heard of Google then) I got my first rod a Daiwa GF-48Z Procaster which I still use on my stand and a Daiwa reel. After
catching my first trout at Farmoor Reservoir on a dry daddy long legs the rest is history (I will write that book one day).
One of the reasons I like fly fishing is that you are always doing something whether casting or retrieving and you are always concentrating on
the end of that fly line for the slightest twitch. I always tell people that you could drop a bomb behind me when I am fishing I would not hear it
(mind you I would not like anyone to try it, not at my age). Plus you have the added pleasure of tying your own flies which is a hobby in its
self.
There is nothing more satisfying than catching a fish on a fly you have tied yourself. Another great aspect is not just the fly fishing but all the
lovely places you go to and the great people you meet from a high court judge to a dustman. It does not matter how expensive your gear is
or from what walk of life you are from it‘s a level playing field when you fish.
Fly fishing now need not be expensive as there are some great kits for beginners out there. I think that is the way to go to start with and if
you rely like it you can always upgrade later on. As for learning to cast etc there are some excellent DVDs for beginners by the great Hywel
Morgan. Then you can get out onto a playing field as I did and practice your casting or get some lessons until you get reasonable at it
because its no good going to a fishery until you do as all you will do is scare the fish away.
I always say that it‘s not the casting that‘s the hard bit its catching the trout. Don‘t worry if everything looks a little daunting I have been fly
fishing for more years than I care to remember and I am still learning. That‘s another thing about this sport is you are always learning and If
there is a person who says that he knows everything about fly fishing then take him with a pinch of salt as he must be the best fisherman in
the word or the biggest story teller.
So do I recommend fly fishing to anyone?. It must be a resounding no (that fooled you). Of course it‘s a yes. It‘s a great sport for all ages, A
sport for all the family yes including the Mums (I am going to get a bit of flack for that one).
As in all fishing I have seen in the last 10 years a lot more women getting into fishing with quite a few world champions. In fly fishing you can
fish all the year round and if the weather gets too rough or you can‘t go fishing you can always do some fly tying. So it‘s an all-round sport for
everyone Young and Old ,Male and Female, Firm and Infirm in fact everyone. So get out there and give it a go and you can blame me for
giving you the fly fishing bug because once you get it there‘s no turning back..
Review Time
This month‘s review is on the Stillwater DryTherm 2pc Suit and the Stillwater Hot-lite
Boots
All 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] and I will be happy to review
your products.
The Stillwater Dry Therm suit
has been designed to provide
superior weather protection in
all but the harshest of
environments. With 10000mm
hydrostatic head waterproof
rating, the DryTherm will keep
you warm and dry.
When I received the Stillwater Dry Therm suit from
the Glasgow Angling Centre it looked just like any
other jacket and bib & brace available on the market.
However once used I found it to be completely
comfortably and and had plenty of room for fly fishing.
Features:
Adjustable Storm Hood
Hood peak can be adjusted
as not to obscure your vision.
Normally I would wear a fleece under the jacket for
additional warmth when standing on the banks but
found it wasn‘t necessary. As a suit for keeping me
warm in inclement weather, it‘s thermally lined to
provide significant protection from the elements.
Jacket
Generous cut to give more
freedom of movement. with 2
large cargo pockets and 2
hand warmer pockets fitted
with storm flaps.
The storm flaps cover the zips and pockets are great
as they prevent water , snow and wind penetrating
the suit whilst the velcro adjustments on the sleeve
cuffs keeps moister from leaking in through your
arms.
The jacket also boasts a high collar, for all round
performance whatever the conditions.
Zips & Storm Flaps
Quality zips are covered by storm flaps for added water protection.
Sleeve Cuffs
Velcro adjustable storm cuffs to eliminate water ingress.
The Bib & Brace were excellent as well, instead of the
usual braces the bib & brace has an additional
thermal back panel to give you additional protection
and warmth.
Bib & Brace
Wide opening leg bottoms. with Velcro adjustment.
RRP: £79.99 Now From only: £39.99
Stillwater Hot-Lite Boots are as light as a
feather and keeps you dry as a bone!
Stay warm, dry and comfortable all day
long with these ultra-light weight thermal
boots.
The super cosy fleecy lining, 100%
waterproof EVA rubber construction and
tie top ensure warmth and insulation
while the cleated sole offer superb grip
on the bank.
Features •Thermal liner for total
insulation
•Warm and comfortable
•Ultra lightweight reducing fatigue
•Removable washable liner
•Stays supple even in the lowest temperatures
RRP: £39.99 Now Only: £29.99
Fishing Reports
http://www.swanswater-fishery.co.uk/index.html
Swanswater Fishery offers excellent fishing for trout for the bank angler
as well as those that prefer fishing from a boat as there are a few boats
available on Swanswater. (Float Tubes can also be hired). Located in
Bannockburn, Stirling it is ideally situated for anglers visiting the City of
Stirling and Central Scotland.
It was a very wet and blustery week at Swanswater with over 5 inches of
rain and only a few anglers braving the conditions on certain days.
Those who did come out were nearly all rewarded with fish and there
were some excellent bags for those who persevered in rain, hail, sleet,
snow and strong winds, plus a lot of fish caught and released by those
electing not to take fish home.
Although the water was coloured by the rain at times, there is such a
volume of water flowing through the main pond that most of the dirt is
flushed away very quickly. At the start of the week the fish were in the
channel between the island and the roadside, but towards the weekend
they were to be found in the more sheltered water of the far bay, mostly at a depth of between 2 and 4 feet. Damsel, Dancer, Buzzer,
Bloodworm and Cat‘s Whisker were the flies taking most fish this week.
South West Lakes Trout Fisheries
South West Lakes Trout Fisheries 2015 season information (January 2015) Burrator has fished really well in December and January with the
majority of anglers catching their two fish limit (£8) and releasing many more. Gordon Slaney and his brother managed 8 fish on New Year ‘s
Eve to just over 2lbs on catch and release. The fishery will close at the end of February before the new season opens on 15th March.
All the South West Lakes Trust‘s Trout Fisheries (Rainbow and Brown trout waters) will open on Saturday 14 March 2015, with a season
preview day (bank fishing only) for season ticket holders on 13 March.
Drift Reservoir (near Penzance) is now included in the Trust‘s range of trout fisheries, offering quality stocked Rainbow and Brown trout
fishing, with float tubing and kayak fishing available (see the Trust‘s website for more information – www.swlakestrust.org.uk
The stocked rainbow trout waters will again be stocked with some ‗Blues‘ in addition to traditional rainbows. Brown trout fishing at
Colliford, Fernworthy and Roadford starts on the 15 March. Day tickets and boats may be booked using the popular on-line booking system
(see website) – otherwise tickets may be purchased on site or from local agents (see the website for more details) – season tickets are
available either on site, or from
Summerlands tackle (westward Ho!). For more information, including 2015 ticket prices, see the Trust‘ website www.swlakestrust.org.uk
telephone the Trust‘s Head office (01566771930) or contact your nearest water.
The Trust‘s 2015 Trout Fishing leaflets will be available from February – either pick one up on site, or call the Trust‘s Head Office to receive
one by post.
The Trust will again be running its popular ‗Best of the Best‘ competition throughout the season, culminating in a grand final at the end of the
season at Wimbleball (4 October), with fabulous cash prizes (£5000) to be won, as well as tackle prizes from sponsors.
The Snowbee Siblyback team competition will be held on 12 April, the Peninsula Classic individual bank competition at Kennick on 7 June,
and the Wimbleball Open Boat Pairs competition on 5 and 6 September.
The South West Fly Fair, now in its third year, and proving to be more popular each year, will be held at Roadford Lake on Saturday 28
February in anticipation of the new season. There will be fly-tying demonstrations and clinics from the experts, with the opportunity to have a
go, trade stands, fly-casting demonstrations and clinics (both single and double-handed), split cane rod making, a chance to talk to local clubs
and organisations, as well as an opportunity to try out the latest equipment. Float tubes and kayaks will also be available to try, with experts on
hand to answer any questions.
There will also be talks and presentations by experts throughout the day on different fly fishing topics (including River, Stillwaters, and
Saltwater). The event is being organised jointly by the South West Lakes Trust and the Westcountry Rivers Trust, with Charles Jardine now
the show‘s patron. The event will run from 10am to 4pm, with a bar and refreshments available throughout the day.
For more information e-mail [email protected]
The Trust is again pleased to support SW Fishing For Life (the breast cancer project) in 2015, with regular sessions at Wimbleball, Kennick,
and Siblyback (for more information see www.southwestfishingforlife.org.uk
Bellbrook Fishing Report November 2014
Any questions about the fishery please call Chris on 01398
351292.
Best wishes
Chris Atwell
www.bellbrookfishery.co.uk
07967 335159
The Bellbrook - £1000 cash prize
Announcing the new exciting event at Bellbrook Fishery. As celebration of being
placed 33rd by Trout Fisherman magazine we have decided to launch a new fishing
completion called The Bellbrook. With eye catching prizes - including £1000 cash to
the winner - we are confident the event will be a success and go on to be a popular
annual event. As well as the cash prize there will be various other prizes and
opportunity for sponsorship for the local angling shops.
The Rules:
There will be 9 qualifying heats between March and November with each heat having
a maximum of 20 anglers. Each angler is required to fish 3 heats chosen from the 9 published dates. Each angler will have the opportunity to
catch up to 6 fish in a series of 6 fishing sessions that are 45 minutes each. One point is scored for each fish caught in a heat and an
angler‘s final score will be their total for the 3 heats fished. The entrants and their scores will be published on the Bellbrook website after
each heat in a league table.
To make it to the final in November you will need to be in the top 20 places after the heats are held. If there are anglers with the same
number of points the weight of all three bags will be used to determine who goes through. The final will follow the same format as the heats.
The cost of each heat and final will be £45 each. The dates of the heats are below and the number of places available shown on the website
– booking your place will be on a first come first served basis. There is no entry fee but when you sign up you will be asked to commit to your
3 dates at which point you will be liable for those entry fees – whether you fish or not. You can sign up by calling or emailing the fishery.
More detailed rules together with a sample peg plan are shown at http://www.bellbrookfishery.co.uk/competitions-bellbrook
The Bellbrook 2015
Fly Fishing Competition
£1000 Cash 1st Prize
Final 29th November 2015
“A true test”
A new annual event where anglers qualify for the final via 3 heats.
For full rules and details go to
http://www.bellbrookfishery.co.uk/competitions-bellbrook
or call the fishery on 01398 351292
PACKINGTON TROUT FISHERY
Tel: 01676 522754
www.packingtonestate.net
Last week 54 rods caught 168 fish for an average of 3.11 fish per rod.
The windy conditions that prevailed for much of the week meant that the fishery was
quiet for most days. Those that braved the wind found sport to be good with plenty of
fish in the 3 – 5lb range along with the odd bigger fish.
The biggest fish of the week was an estimated 10lb rainbow caught by Jonathan
Preston of Solihull who was fishing the bank of Cocks Close and he caught it on a
Peahead Lure fished on an intermediate line and this was the best of a seven fish
catch. Rod Lacey of Nuneaton fished from a boat on Cocks Close and caught a 9lb
rainbow in a nine fish catch which fell to his favourite Diawl Bach Nymph. Allan Bowen
of Birmingham fished from a boat on Cocks Close and caught seven fish to 7lb and
these all fell to Bloodworm and white/green Goldheads.
The hotspots on Cocks Close were the high bank, road bank and old boat jetty corner.
The top patterns have been Cats Whisker, black Tadpole, large Damsels, Bloodworm, black Buzzer, Diawl Bach and the fish have been
deeper down so intermediate lines have been best.
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE, www.packingtonestate.net
Also see us on Facebook (Packington Trout Lakes).
Cwm Hedd Lakes
Croesheolydd Farm, Bassaleg, Newport, NP10 8RW. 5 mins J 28 M4
www.cwmhedd.co.uk
email: [email protected]
https://www.facebook.com/cwmheddlakes
Extended opening hours: Monday and Tuesday: closed; Wednesday – Sunday
8am-5pm; last admission 2.30pm. Gates closed at 5.15 (or at 3 if everyone
has left by then)
Hi – I‘m late again sorry – my multi-tasking must be slipping!
My desk is a complete tip today and I can‘t find one of my day sheets, so
apologies if you haven‘t had a mention!
The water temperature is a chilly four degrees, so with optimum water
temperature for catching being 6-12 degrees it‘s no surprise that the fish are
not very active. To Rob Collier‘s delight an 8lb brown trout put in an
appearance though, caught and returned by Rob on the far bank on a damsel
and intermediate. Rob released another, while son Tom also took and released one. During the week, Keith Higgins also caught and
released a brown that he thought was around 3-3 and a half pounds, which is great news as that must be another resident rather than a
stock fish. Keith also took a rainbow and returned two on a damsel and intermediate.
Paul Elsworthy, Graham Davies, Rob Mien, Ken Pascoe, Vernon Williams, Matthew Russell Barrie Powell all took fish this week, with Vernon
on a little black buzzer and a floating line, Ken on a black daddy and sink tip, Rob on a Dawson‘s olive, floating line and Graham on a damsel
and intermediate. Matthew Russell took one and returned six on a sunburst blob and a floating line.
I was very pleased to see Jason Williams and Max Williams at Cwm Hedd this week and their good humour brightened up a dull and damp
day. Jason has a cumbersome cast on his leg, so we found a chair for him and despite his frustrations at having to sit down for most of the
time, his impressive casting and angling skills were a joy to watch. Jason took one and released six on damsels and buzzers and a floating
line, even though he had to put up with me taking photographs and yacking to him. As Earnest Hemingway apparently said in the days
before electronic communication took over the world: ― Somebody just back of you while you are fishing is as bad as someone looking over
your shoulder while you write a letter to your girl.‖ Max took one and released two, on a diawl bach, damsel and buzzer, and a floating line.
Anglers have already taken advantage of the January ‗cheer-up ticket‘, so find a friend who‘s been thinking of coming along and you can bag
a bargain. New to Cwm Hedd this week, Jo Thomas from Blackwood came back for a second visit this week with his two brothers Sean and
Matthew, and had his own five hour ticket for £8.75, as did Tim Wellman from Bristol who brought friend Mark Miles, so happy days! A keen
salmon angler Jo is very happy to have found us to take his mind off the interminable wait for the salmon season to begin. All took fish on a
range of flies – humungous and olive cat the choice of Jo, Sean and Matthew, while it was snakes for Tim and Mark.
To remind you of the offer in case you had a nana nap when you read the report last week: if you have fished at Cwm Hedd since
October 2014, bring a new angler along and get your ticket on the day for half price (either a 5 hour or day ticket). The angler you bring to
experience the delights of Cwm Hedd must not have fished here before and must be paying at least a £15 concession or £17.50 five hour
ticket.
Congratulations
Cwm Hedd regular Luke Thomas took first place in the Welsh International Bank trials held at Garnffrwd on Sunday. Luke is through to the
finals on the 15th February. We‘re all very proud of you Luke – must be all that practice at Cwm Hedd lol
More congratulations!
Brian Haynes from Pontypool was startled and ecstatic to find he had hooked the tag fish last Thursday. Although the pot was quite modest
at £32, Brian was over the moon as he also won a day ticket voucher, saying that he never wins anything! Well done Brian.
Bridge update
The new bridge is in place, but not quite ready for action, unless as hubs Chris put it you have ‗the leap of a gazelle‘. It‘s rather beautiful as
well as being the means of transporting you to fishing heaven on the island. Thanks to Chris and son Tom for designing and constructing the
bridge, with only a few tiffs on the way - the alpha male and the young buck resolved a few disagreements without descent into locking of
horns. Martin Turner and David Burns helped to get the bridge onto the water and in situ: images on facebook of course and a few videos to
be posted shortly for your entertainment
Events and competitions Please help to promote the Welsh International Coaching Day at Cwm Hedd, on Saturday 21st February. As you know I only send out one email a week, but his week I hope you will not mind me sending an extra e-mail about the forthcoming coaching event on 21st February, and
that you will be kind enough to help promote the event by forwarding the event e-mail to as many friends and colleagues as possible as well
as liking and sharing event posts and news on facebook and twitter. The event is a golden opportunity to learn from Wales‘ top
internationals so spread the word!
The fundraising event is being organised by Lisa Povey and Renee Carlsson, member of the Wales ladies fly fishing team and is for anglers
of all abilities – from complete beginners through to experienced anglers. Book a session with one of Wales‘ international anglers: the cost
will be £15 per hour for adults and £10 per hour for under 18s, with all proceeds going towards team funding.
There will also be fly tying in the lodge and instruction for beginners on how to set up a rod, tie a fly on, and advice on choosing rods and
reels (no charge for activities in the lodge). Booking forms are available at the lodge and on the event facebook page
www.facebook.com/groups/543578475778926/ , or contact Lisa Povey via e-mail: [email protected]
Iain Barr Bank Masters - sponsored by Airflo
I am very pleased to confirm that a heat for the above will take place at Cwm Hedd on 22nd March 2015. Visit
http://www.iainbarrflyfishing.co.uk/ for details on how to enter this prestigious event. In addition to the competition entry fee the Cwm Hedd
ticket for the day will be £22.50 payable in advance, with a minimum of fifteen paid entries and fishing tickets required by 15th March. I will
of course be including a free bacon sandwich, bread pud/cakes/tea coffee etc and mopping your brow if required during the day. I am
relaxing the rules on fish to be released for the day, so it will be take the first fish and release up to 15, with the format as regards moving
platforms and scoring etc available soon . We‘ll be putting all this on the Cwm Hedd website and fb in the next day or so.
Gwyn Williams Memorial competition
The date for the memorial competition will be Saturday May 16th. Entry will be £20 plus sponsorship: release up to ten fish and take any
one: the four anglers with the heaviest fish will win a day ticket each. If anyone would like to sponsor further prize/prizes then please let me
know, but as those of you who saw last week‘s e-mail will know, the aim is for this to be an informal comp with the emphasis on having a
good day with friends. I have already had several anglers who want to put their names down, so will make a provisional list, but to be sure of
a place get your entry and payment in when I‘ve sorted the entry form and sponsor forms. Bacon sandwich etc included on the day: if the
weather‘s good there will also be a barbecue (will have to enlist hubs for this as I‘m useless on this front).
I have today been catapulted further into the mad whirl of social media in the form of Twitter: https://twitter.com/CwmHeddLakes , so feel free
to tweet away folks using #cwmheddlakes . I‘m very blonde about it all at the moment, but I‘m sure I‘ll get there!
TROUT CHOWDER
Ingredients:
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 tablespoon butter
2 cups milk
1 cup ranch salad dressing
1 pound boneless trout or salmon fillets, skin removed
1 1/2 cups frozen broccoli, thawed
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
paprika, optional
Method:
In a large skillet, saute onion in butter until onion is tender. Transfer to slow cooker;
add milk, salad dressing, fish, broccoli, cheeses and garlic powder.
Cover and cook on high for 1 1/2 hours to 2 hours, or until soup is bubbly and fish flakes
easily with a fork. Sprinkle with paprika if desired.
MEXICAN STYLE TROUT Serves 4
Ingredients
2 large 1 1/2 lb (700 g) or 4 small gutted trout
1 large onion
1 red pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 dessertspoon sherry or white wine vinegar
Juice of 2 limes
3 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
2 dashes tabasco sauce
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the avocado dip
1 ripe avocado
1 tablespoon natural yoghurt
Method:
1. Peel and thinly slice the onion. Halve, de-seed and dice the pepper. Heat the oil in a frying pan, add the onion and vinegar and cook over
a moderate heat for 5 minutes.
2. Add the pepper and cook for a further 2 minutes. Then add the juice of one of the limes, 2 tablespoons of the parsley, and the tabasco.
Mix thoroughly and remove from the heat.
3. Brush an ovenproof dish with a little oil, place the trout in the dish and season lightly. Spoon over the onion and pepper mixture. Tighty
cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven for about 30 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, halve the avocado and remove the stone, then peel away the skin.
Blend the avocado, the juice of the second lime, and the yoghurt together in a liquidiser - or mash them together with a fork.
5. The dip can be gently heated before serving but should not be kept warm for too long.
6. Garnish the baked trout and the dip with the remaining parsley. Serve the dip with the fish or in a separate bowl.
7.
Fly of the Month
Caddis ~ Delta Wing
Peacock Caddis
The Delta Wing Caddis is an adult sedge imitation. Fish it singly on a
long fine leader either static or twitched across the surface.
The Peacock Caddis is an adult sedge imitation. Fish it singly on
a long fine leader either static or twitched across the surface.
Take the thread down the hookshank to a point just past the barb.
Take the thread down the hookshank to a point just past the
barb. Catch in the peacock herl. Wind the thread back up towards
the eye, stopping where the hackle will be tied in. Create a level
body up the hookshank by winding the peacock herl, tie off with
thread leaving enough room to tie in the wing and hackle.
Dub the moles fur onto the thread to create a rope. Create an
tapered body up the hookshank to a point 2/3 towards the eye,
leaving enough room to tie in the hackle.
Level off the position with thread that the delta wings are to be tied in
at, so that the wings lie flat across the body.
Take two grizzle hackle tips and tie them in flat, spent and delta.
Catch in a Grizzle and Brown cock hackle, wind the grizzle hackle
first up towards the eye, tie off and cut waste. Wind the brown hackle
up towards the eye, tie off and cut waste.
Create a neat head and Whip finish
Take a bunch of elk hair and even the ends using a "hair
stacker".
Catch in the elk hair and secure, trim the waste ends.
Catch in a Grizzle and Brown cock hackle, wind the grizzle
hackle first up towards the eye, tie off and cut waste. Wind the
brown hackle up towards the eye, tie off and cut waste.
Create a neat head, whip finish and varnish.
Classifieds
Fisheries
To advertise please email [email protected]
Bamboo Rods
490 Grand View Drive, Luray, VA 22835 2660
Tel:540 743 7169
Email: [email protected]
http://www.shentel.net/canerod/
Tackle Manufacturers
For 25 years Airflo have manufactured,
distributed and exported fishing tackle
to more than 25 countries worldwide. In
1998 Airflo entered the fishing tackle
mail-order market and now operates four
market leading brands
http://www.bvg-airflo.co.uk
Glencorse Fishery
www.glencorsersv.co.uk
1163 South Main Street in Historic Angels Camp,
California In California's Gold Country
Tel: (209) 736-9197 Email:
[email protected]
http://www.highsierrarods.com/
Fly Tying
http://www.inverawe-fisheries.co.uk
Inverawe has something for everyone,
be it fishing, finding out how salmon is
smoked, exploring the many trails and
tracks, feeding the fish, trying our new
play area, browsing through the shop,
or enjoying our delicious food in the
smokery café.
VENIARD
FLY TYING
The Abel Reel, 165 Aviador St., Camarillo,
CA 93010, Phone us: (805)484-8789, Fax
us: (805)482-0701
e-mail us: [email protected]
http://www.abelreels.com
Umpqua Feather Merchants
594 S. Arthur Ave, Louisville, CO 80027 Phone:
303.567.6696 E-Mail: [email protected]
http://www.umpqua.com/
Grakka Limited,4 Halwell Business Park,
Halwell, Totnes, Devon UK TQ9 7LQ Tel: +
44 (0) 1803 712712
http://www.newhayliefishingloch.com
Fishing on a 3.6 Acre hill side loch with
aspects over the Cumbrae isles, Isles of
Bute and Arran. One of the most
picturesque trout fisheries in Scotland.
http://www.americantackle.us
Veniard Ltd.
69 Gloucester Road
Croydon
CR9 2DD
Tel. 020 8684 2288
Fax. 020 8684 2277
[email protected]
http://www.veniard.com
http://www.deversprings.co.uk/homepage
The fishery comprises two spring fed
lakes totaling six acres and a half mile
stretch of the River Dever (a tributary of
the legendary River Test), a big fish
water where 20lbs+ rainbows and large
browns are taken each season.
American Tackle Company, 44 Nauset Rd.
West Yarmouth, MA 02673
Phone: (508) 957-2164 Toll Free: (888)
516-1750 Fax:(800) 966-9430 Intl Fax:
(508) 957-2165
Telephone: +44 (0)1963 31623
email:[email protected]
http://www.partridge-of-redditch.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
http://www.bradleysmoker.co.uk/
http://www.kenyasportfishing.net/index.htmlhttp
Santa brings Kazkazi winds...
It's been hot and very still while we waited for the winds to change. This wind
change begins a chain of events which fuel our season and we welcomed it
when it came late November. All the boats have been busy and productive
catching the full spectrum, reminding everyone of what is actually out there.
The Sailfish and Black Marlin are definitely here…waiting for you.
Malindi is starting to fill up as holiday makers arrive for the Christmas
festivities. Its been a big year for us at Kingfisher and we are going to enjoy
our gathering. Family has already started to arrive from UK and up-country
and the house is becoming busy with daily chatter. Its going to be good!
From all of us here at Kingfisher Fishing, all the very best wishes to you and
your family over this festive season. We'll see you in 2015.
Here is a brief catch-up on what's been going on…
We had a brief visit from Guy Raemaecker, who fished on both Neptune and Snowgoose early in November. Having a few productive days
with Sailfish, Kawakawa, Dorado and a massive 450kgs of Yellowfin Tuna.
Eric d'Echallans also had a busy day fishing with Eclare, getting Sailfish, Kingfish, Wahoo, Barracuda and Dorado.
And for something different, Neptune fished closer in shore, getting a Spinner shark, 6 Giant Trevally's, Kingfish, Barracuda, Dorado and
Kawakawa.
Neptune seemed to be in 'shark' mode again on 20th. Catching and successfully releasing 2 Black Tip Reef sharks. Each weighing in at
about 80kgs. Well done to client and crew who dug in and did the work. They also got Kingfish, Dorado and Kawakawa to round off the
catch.
The shark-fest continued on into early December, with a 115kg
Black Tip Reef shark, plus Rock Cod, Giant Trevally, Wahoo, Barracuda and KoliKoli.
The Berning party also got themselves a 95kg Black Tip Reef shark,
along with a HUGE 65kg Yellowfin Tuna, a 27kg Giant Trevally,
Dorado and Barracuda. Someone must have had sore arms the next
day!
Marco and Caro spent 3 days with Abudi on Snowgoose and did
very well to get 9 Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Barracuda,
Wahoo and a well sized 48kg Black Marlin.
Oaf Schiolt had 2 really exciting days with Swabri, getting 5 Sailfish,
Wahoo and Dorado on the first day and 14 good sized Yellowfin
Tuna and Snapper on the second.
Mid November saw the arrival of our good friends and almost
residents Ronald and Tine from Holland. They put together some
exciting packages for their clients and this time was not different.
Fishing 3 boats over 4 days, they collectively caught 26 Sailfish, 8
Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo, Barracuda and Dorado. They also
successfully released 3 Giant Trevally's…each between 20 and 25kgs. They had a further day out on Eclare, getting 4 well sized Yellowfin
Tuna, Grouper and Snapper.
Ralf Mantez fished on Eclare, successfully releasing 4
Giant Trevally's, 2 Sailfish, Dorado, Barracuda and Kawakawa.
Another familiar face around town, fly fisherman Con Jooste had
a few days on Eclare, getting 4 Sailfish.
Caught on fly…this is always a great achievement.
Danny and Douglas were out on Snowgoose on the 18th.
Doing very well with 2 Sailfish, 2 20kg Giant Trevally's, Kingfish
and Dorado.
The Schultz party were out on Eclare, releasing 2 Sailfish and 3
very well sized Giant Trevally's.
Clearly Swabri had found a sweet spot, because the day spent
with Irek, Andriev and Henrik saw them release 6 Giant Trevally's
plus getting a mixed bag of Kingfish, Kawakawa and Frigate
Mackerel.
Another 'almost resident' was in town briefly. Peter Hoffman was out with Neptune,
getting 4 Sailfish, Wahoo and Frigate Mackerel.
Early into December, the Pfuze party had 2 excellent days on Eclare. Catching a
mixed bag of Wahoo, Kawakawa and Frigate Mackerel, they also got a nice 20kg
Giant Trevally, a 13kg Cobia and released a hefty 150kg Bull shark.
A last minute entry into the newsletter is that Angus has just returned from a 7day
fishing safari with the Flyfishing Jooste brothers. Fishing up around Lamu, Manda
and Kiwayu, this has once again proved to be a brilliant offering and outstanding
fishing. They have promised to write us a story all about the adventure and we'll
share it and some of their pictures with you soon.
http://salmonconservation.ca/en
West River, PEI
Once the Central Queens Branch of the PEI Wildlife Federation (CQWF) decided to expand its salmon habitat restoration efforts, there was
no shortage of enthusiasm and support. The ambitious West River Enhancement Project takes in the whole of the West River watershed,
about 25,320 ha with roughly 216 km of stream.
Two key elements have threatened the survival of Atlantic salmon in the watercourses of PEI.
The first is sediment—the soft, red sandstone that gives the island its striking red soil erodes easily, particularly where row-crop farming and
clay roads occur. The second was the 1950-60‘s installation of highway culverts that limited or prevented fish from reaching spawning
grounds.
―Culvert design has been improved in recent years to enable fish passage, but many of the old culverts continue to be a problem,‖ says
Megan Harris, Conservation Biologist with the CQWF and Coordinator for the West River Watershed. ―At the same time, the lack of effective
soil conservation strategies in agriculture and road-building, until quite recently, has produced a historic load of in-stream sediment. The
sediment, at times a metre deep, has smothered fish spawning and nursery grounds.‖
The West River watershed problems were decades in the making, and the CQWF are under no illusions that there is a quick fix. ―This is a
long-term, 20- to 30-year project that will require sustained effort by the communities, landowners, volunteers and conservation
organizations,‖ says Harris.
The Atlantic Salmon Conservation Foundation provided grants in 2011-2014, and measureable progress has been made on key goals. ―We
completed three major fish passage projects, restoring access for salmon and other finfish to areas in the watershed that had been blocked
for decades,‖ says Harris. The access restoration work involved creating rock riffles below the roadway to increase the water height
downstream, providing better access through the culverts.
―Rock riffle projects on PEI can be expensive,‖ says Harris. ―Island rock is sandstone that erodes quickly, so we have to import granite rock
from the mainland. The cost in rock for two projects was about $10,000. We were fortunate the provincial Department of Transportation and
Infrastructure Renewal covered those material costs for us.‖
In-stream habitat restoration work included the flushing of sediment to expose buried gravel by removing excess alder growth and speeding
the water. Mobilized sediment was intercepted with sediment traps and brush matting. Work in 2011 also included: a walking survey of the
watershed to determine sources of sediment entering surface waters; development of a ―priorities‖ list of locations for more sediment basins;
and completion of the mapping of critical salmon habitats.
―We did electro-fishing and redd surveys in the fall and now have a map of redd locations‖ says Harris. ―It is evident that certain areas in the
watershed are very important to spawning Atlantic salmon and the CQWF will develop plans to protect these critical habitats.‖
The project‘s over-arching goal is to expand and implement the Watershed Management Plan to include the new West River territories. The
long-range vision is a more cohesive effort by all communities within the watershed to restore and protect its habitats and develop recreation
opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Yours in conservation,
Stephen Chase, Executive Director
The Atlantic Salmon Conservation Foundation 480 rue Queen Street, Suite 200
Fredericton, NB E3B 1B6
Phone: (506) 455-9900 Fax: (506) 455-9905 [email protected]
Volunteer profile – Rémi Bujold
Meet the Honourable Rémi Bujold, the chairman of the ASCF‘s board of directors
A lawyer by profession, Bujold has also worked for government in many capacities at both the federal and provincial levels; he now works as
a consultant. He was named board chair when the ASCF was founded, and continues to serve in that role today.
Bujold grew up in Cascapedia-Saint-Jules, Quebec; he now splits his time between Quebec City and Gaspé. He spent a lot of time on the
Cascapedia River as a youngster with his father
―I‘ve always loved fishing,‖ said Bujold. ―Especially salmon fishing.‖
Bujold is passionate about conservation and has been involved in salmon protection for more than 30 years. ―The conservation of wild
Atlantic salmon is necessary to ensure the survival of the
species,‖ he said. ―We (the ASCF) are a grassroots organization and community support is very important. We need more members in order
to continue the conservation work being done. We need people on all the salmon rivers in the region. With global warming it‘s more
important than ever to protect salmon; conservation is important for the future.‖
Volunteers are crucial to the work ASCF does, and each month we will introduce you to one of our stellar volunteers to say thank you for all
the work they do in Atlantic salmon conservation.
Two Day Spring Spey Casting Course on the River Towy
Dates: 11th & 12th April 2015 - Price: £100 p/p, per day
One of Sportfish's most successful courses is back
for 2015. Join them on the beats at Golden Grove on the River Towy for a "brush up" casting clinic; it's a great way to start the season. The
aim of the course is to help anglers become more efficient with the casting element of double handed fishing – but there is the chance of
making a fantastic catch!
Price Includes:
Fishing & instruction at Golden Grove (per day)
River side lunch (per day)
10% off your pre-trip purchases at Sportfish prior to your trip
Day Stillwater Trout - Reading
The Sportfish one day stillwater trout fly fishing course is tailored for those who are
new to fly fishing or would like to improve their current skills. Includes tea & coffee
on arrival, full instruction, lunch plus a 1 fish ticket on Haywards Farm Fishery.
£99 p/p. Many dates available throughout March to October 2015!
Three Day Salmon - River Tyne
Enjoy three days fishing the River Tyne at the famous Bywell fishery with
Sportfish experts. Learn how to catch spring salmon & fish this famous beat.
Includes full board accommodation at the Duke of Wellington, all fishing &
instruction plus a free casting lesson prior to trip.
£999 p/p. Dates: 16th/17th/18th or 19th/20th/21st February 2015
Bass - Chichester Harbour
Spend a day's guided fishing for bass, on your own boat for up to 3 people,
from Chichester Harbour. Anglers of all abilities are welcome, whether you
are familiar with saltwater fishing or new to this type of sport angling.
£525 per boat per day (3 rods max). Dates available in July & August 2015
Sea Trout - Abercothi
Three days/nights fishing on Abercothi Estate, River Towy. You'll learn day
time reconnaissance and river craft, tactics for night fishing and sea-trout
behaviour. All fishing/instruction included plus full board accommodation at
Abercothi farm house.
£825 p/p. Date available: 27th to 29th August 2015
NEW Chalkstream Fishing Opportunities for 2015
The Farlows Group are proud to announce a new partnership with Famous Fishing. Famous Fishing is the leading chalkstream agent
offering the very best quality trout fishing in the South of England. Farlows have carefully selected a great variety of fishing to suit all levels,
from beats featuring big wild brown trout to the heavily stocked beats of the middle Test.
Jean-Luc Verstraeten with a superb fish, weighing 25 ½ lb, caught in early June 2014 on our Bogen Sondre Beat.
The last salmon season turned out to be not very productive in large parts of Norway, hence the fishing on the Gaula was very difficult. The
amount of snow during the winter and spring was unusually low as there was virtually no snow. The Norwegian summer was extreme
especially in the Gaula region with unprecedented heat records. July was the warmest month the province of South-Trøndelag has recorded
since records began more than 110 years ago, "the warmest July ever," as the newspapers wrote. The weather in August was very similar
and the water levels unusually low with the water temperature super high. Perfect swimming weather, but extremely poor conditions for
salmon fishing!
In the middle of August it finally began to rain heavily and consequently the water level rose, whilst the water temperature was dropping.
After some hours, the Gaula had turned into a real river again: Many fish were showing, new fish which had been waiting in the estuary for
better river conditions started to run and immediately we experienced good fishing with the opportunity to land one of the Gaula‘s famous big
fish at any time. The largest fish of the season were caught during the last part of the season. The number of salmon, which we saw during
the last days of the season made us very optimistic regarding a good spawning season. During the end of the season all of our important
pools were holding many big salmon and some real monsters. As usual, we were able to see huge jumps of the biggest fish over a distance
of one kilometer and more.
Also the large number of grilse running during the last season gives us high hopes for a good 2015 season with good numbers of medium
sized salmon between 10 and 15 lb. which we can expect, because the number of grilse caught this season with 1.311 fish was significantly
higher than in the years 2011, 2012 and 2013, which shows that the survival rate of this year class was quite high. For this purpose please
have a look on the graph of the research nets in the Trondheim Fjord below. Here you can see that the amount of grilse caught on the Gaula
rose from 2013 (blue) to 2014 (red). The not yet complete official result for the Gaula is a catch of 3566 salmon with a total weight of 16.313
kg (35.970 lb.). Despite the difficult fishing in June and July, there were 837 more salmon caught than in 2013, weighing 1.728 kg (3.810 lb.)
! The expectations of runs of large salmon for the coming season 2015 are quite good, because this year yielded more medium sized salmon
(1424) than the previous two years. The large three-seawinter salmon which we expect in 2015, are belonging to the same year class as the
two-seawinter fish which seemingly had a promising survival rate, indicated by the strong runs of medium sized fish this year!
The new NFC lodge was very popular with all our guests. Of course, the cheaper accommodation in one of our completely renovated
country houses will be also available next season, but many of our guests have decided to take advantage of the cosy comfort which the
lodge offers and prefer to stay in our lodge during their future fishing stays.
The pleasant atmosphere of an international fishing lodge, with the constant exchange of information, good drinks and fine food is very
attractive for all our guests. The lodge has become the NFC center and is seen by many as the icing on the cake. Also our guests with
country house accommodation like to visit us regularly during their stay which shows that the Lodge is a real asset!
The "old" Lodge on the left and the new building with 12 rooms and 2 suites on the right.
Since the 2014 season are we able to offer our guests first class accommodation directly on the river. The lodge accommodation can be
booked with half board (breakfast and dinner) or full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner).
The open fire place inside the lodge is only topped by the open fire place on the river veranda outside the lodge facing the Gaula.
The spa area in the new NFC Lodge.
As you can see, things have changed a lot during the last two years at the NFC and we are pleased now to be able to offer probably the best
accommodation on the entire Gaula river! With this combination of first-class accommodation and our renowned exclusive rotation fishing on
the most conveniently and strategically located areas on the lower, middle and upper Gaula, we are now able to offer you the ultimate
fishing experience. Take advantage of this opportunity and join us next year on the Gaula!
We await the 2015 season with high hopes and have, as pointed out above, many reasons to be really optimistic!
If you are interested, we would like to send you our 2015 price list. Prices are lower than in the past and the exchange rate for the
Norwegian koner is more in your favour than it has been for years.
As a special Holiday Offer for the 2015 season we have reduced prices for a few selected weeks – this promotion is available only until the
th
15 of January 2015 and just for a limited number of rods!
Christmas offer:
-15% discount in week 24 big fish week! (6 rods)
-20% discount in for a double week booking weeks 23&24! (6 rods)
-15% discount in week 29 - prime time! (4 rods)
-20% discount in weeks 33 & 34 – (6 rods week 33, 5 rods week 34 -week 34 was the best week 2014! (based on single rod prices on our
2015 price list, please get back to us and we will provide you with our price list for 2015)
We will be happy to make you an individual offer for next season, because with an early reservation you make sure you get one of the
coveted places, either in our prime time, or in the cheaper weeks. If you don‘t have our printed brochure, please let us know your postal
address and we will send you one.
Please do not hesitate to contact us with all further questions.
Best regards
Manfred Raguse and the Team of the International Flyfishers Club
For more information please check our website www.internationalflyfishersclub.com
E-Mail: [email protected]
Tel.: ++49 (0) 40-5892302
NEW 3 Day Fly Fishing Courses
on the River Annan
HOTEL | WEDDINGS | ROOMS | OFFERS/BREAKS | MEETINGS/EVENTS | FISHING COURSES | LOCATION
Improve your technique with a Fly Fishing & Tying Course
We are pleased to announce three dates for our new 3 Day Fly Fishng Course and Fly Tying during 2015.
The Course includes accommodation at the Hetland Hall Hotel in Carrutherstown while the course, guided by
professional fly fishing instructor, Leigh Fidell, will enable you to "cast a fly line with confidence".
There will also be fly tying in the evenings, designed for beginners to ‗have a go‘ and for improvers to pick up
some tips, courtesy of Griffin Fly Tying.
Beginners and improvers, ladies and gentlemen, couples, groups and friends are all welcome to experience
the rare opportunity of fishing on a private beat of the River Annan, South West Scotland.
Only £359 for this 3
day course ...
Bring your partner
along ...
Call us to make your
booking ...
Imagine being absorbed in your
favourite pastime for 3 whole
days!. Well, it could be yours for
just £359 - heaven!
All we ask for is a £65 nonrefundable deposit now and the
balance will be payable upon
departure.
Not everyone may be as
passionate about your pastime
as you but there's no need for
them to miss out. Why not invite
them along for a relaxing 3 day
break with full English breakfast
and dinner. You may even earn
some brownie points for just:
£50 per night
It's simple to book any of our
2015 fishing courses.
Please quote 'FISHCO' when
you call the Hotel Reception on
01387 840201 or
Central Reservations on
either freephone 0800 433 4581
or 01386 881848
FULL COURSE DETAILS
CALL NOW TO BOOK
Courses start on: 29th March, 24th June & 27th September
Call us on 01387 840201 now to improve your technique
Terms & Conditions
3 day Fishing Course Breaks will begin with arrival at the Hetland Hall Hotel on 29th March, 24th June and 27th September 2015, subject to
availability.
It is based on 1 adult course attendee in a standard double or twin room and includes 3 Nights‘ Dinner, Bed and Breakfast, all tuition and
guiding.
Non-fishing partners sharing the course attendee‘s room will be charged £50 per night for Dinner, Bed and Breakfast.
A £20 per room per night supplement will be charged for Executive Rooms and the Honeymoon Suite.
Children from 4 to 14 inclusive will be charged for meals as taken.
Under 4's will be free of charge.
Dogs will be charged at £10 per dog per night.
A £65 non-refundable deposit is payable upon booking.
The balance is payable upon departure. Card charges apply.
Should you need to cancel your reservation please do so by 3pm,
2 days prior to arrival. Failure to cancel your booking within the cancellation period will result in a charge of the first night's accommodation.
Maximum number 8 per course.
General Enquiries: [email protected]
Hotel Reception: T: +44 (0)1387 840201
Bedroom Reservations: T: 0800 433 4581 or +44 (0)1386 881848
(opening hours 9am to 5pm)