I have been off line with a faulty laptop for the past few weeks, but I am delighted to be back up and running now. There's not much fishing going on with the amount of rain we have been having (at last!), but there will be an update from the vice very soon.

Nice to see there are a couple of new followers too, so welcome along. Back soon!

~Dave

The rain has helped to push the level of my local rivers and streams up at least a little. I was introducing Michael to the river today, who was travelling from Middlesex to do battle with my local trout. The whole day was set up in support of the Monnow Rivers Association and fingers were crossed that Michael's long journey would prove worthwhile.

There were signs of rising fish from the off and we went off exploring the fast runs and riffles where the fish were likely to be hiding. Michael put his 6' #2 through its paces. I dare say we could have found earlier success, but we were both keen to target some rising fish - with the hope of some larger than average specimens with the dry fly.

Michael casts to a rising fish

With patience, we soon found rising fish for Michael to target and with some crouching and crawling, it wasn't long before a fish rose to his caddis pattern and a healthy bend formed in the rod. Parting company shortly after, it was to indicate the sort of stealthy approach required for success here. Shortly after, another fish obliged to the Caddis imitation.

As the day progressed, Large Dark Olives were taking to the wing and we were treated to a decent hatch around midday. As Michael slid into position, I was able to watch the fish from a concealed location. Fish watching is never wasted time and it was great to watch some very plump brown trout swinging in the current. picking off emergers. Worthy of note was the vast distance each fish would move across a pool to take an insect.

Eventually the fish turned onto the LDO Duns (sub-imago) and switch to a loop wing dun with collar hackle seemed to be the key:

Michael with a very feisty brown trout; falling for a loop wing dun pattern

A beautiful, fine-conditioned brown trout

Well done to Michael - he found some success with some very picky, wild fish. Many thanks to him for his generosity towards the MRA.

If you wish to join me for a day's targetting of some wild brown trout, please email me here or visit the River Fly Box.

~Dave

All change...

That change of wind direction has made a huge difference today - depsite the sun, the bitter northerly seems to have put the fish (and the fly life) down. At least there was some rain in the air this afternoon and more forecast for tonight and tomorrow.

~Dave

Opening Day

Opening day of the 2012 season: the River Wellow. Without any significant rainfall for some time, as expected, the river was low and suprisingly clear. Rising fish were evident from the off and anticipation was high.

Vince makes the first cast with the 'Duo'

 The river was bright and clear and it wasn't long before the trout started to take an interest in a CDC emerger. Out of practice perhaps, as the first rise was missed only to to see another attempt finish in a swirl and flash of golden flank. It's great to back on the water!

The water was painfully low in places and there was a lot of fine silt and blanket weed covering the bottom. The river is in need of a decent flush of water. The picture below drives this home as, three years ago, Vince stood in a very similar spot and the river was above his knees!

Eventually we found few fish shoaled up and change to a Tunsten PTN found a positive take. It was great to feel a wild brown bid for freedom. The season's account was opened:

One on a Tungsten PTN

A few more rises followed, but the fish were still somewhat lethargic. They were also very easily spooked (considering the time of year especially) and the whole system is in need of some water. It is great to be out again through in search of these wild, butter-bellied beauties.

~Dave