Health and Safety When Fishing

Fly Fishing for Beginners - Part 1

Fishery Reports

Fly of the Month

Tried & Tested Review Page

The Flyfisher Emagazine

Issue 1

March 2013

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Editors Comment

Welcome to the new Monthly “The Flyfisher” Emagazine

for all keen fly fishers throughout the UK and abroad.

Within this first issue I will be advising on fly fishing for beginners. The article will be broken down into separate monthly instalments.

Within the magazine each month you will find monthly reports and news on fly fisheries throughout the UK and abroad. I hope you all enjoy this month’s first edition and hope you will come back.

Robin Lambert: The Flyfisher Editor

Email: ukflyfisher@gmail.com

Modern fly fishing is normally said to have originated on the fast, rocky rivers of Scotland and Northern England. British fly-fishing continued to develop in the 19th Century, with the emergence of fly fishing clubs, along with the appearance of several books on the subject of fly tying and fly fishing techniques. In southern England, dry fly fishing acquired an elitist reputation as the only acceptable method of fishing the slower, clearer rivers of the south. In fly fishing, fish are caught by using artificial flies that are cast with a fly rod and a fly line. Todays fly lines are mostly coated with plastic and is heavy enough to cast in order to send the fly to the target. Artificial flies can vary dramatically in all morphological characteristics (size, weight, colour, etc.). Fly fishing is a distinct and ancient angling method, most renowned as a method for catching trout and salmon, but employed today for a wide variety of species including pike, bass, panfish, and carp, as well as marine species, such as redfish, snook, tarpon, bonefish and striped bass. There are many reports of fly anglers taking species such as chub, bream and rudd while fishing for trout. There is a growing population of anglers whose aim is to catch as many different species as possible with the fly, but a true angler will say it is for the enjoyment and the thrill of piting your wits against the fish (who normally come of the best). Two great fly fishing websites www.flyfishingdirectory.co.uk www.flyfishing-holidays.co.uk

I’m holding an Open Individual Fly Fishing Challenge on behalf of Help for Heroes, to be held on Saturday 13 April 2013 at the Glencorse fishery on the outskirts of Edinburgh. My Help for Heroes sponsorship page:- www.bmycharity.com/RobinLambert. Please kindly donate and pass it on so that I can raise as much as possible for the charity. Photos supplied by Chip Drozenski

To advertise within the magazine, please email ukflyfisher@gmail.com for an advertising rates quote

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Contents

The Gs Parasite: Page 4

Fly Fishing Safety and First Aid: Page 5 Fly Fishing for Beginners Part 1: Page 7 Fly of the Month: Page 12 Recipe of the Month: Page 13 Tackle Review: Page 14 Have your say: Page 16 Fishing Reports: Page 17 UK Fishing Permits: Page 18

Fly Fishing Knots: Page 20 Entomology Part 1: Page 24

Three priests were fishing on a boat when they ran out of bait. The first priest got up and walked across the water to get some more bait. After 2 hours they ran out of bait again and the second priest said he would go get more bait...so he got up and walked across the water. After 3 hours of fishing they ran out of bait again and the third priest said he would get more bait. So he stepped out of the boat and went straight to the bottom. The first priest turned to the second priest and asked, "Should we have told him where the rocks were?

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The Gs parasite, what you need to know

Just come back from Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Spain or Sweden? Ensure your equipment is not carrying the highly contagious Gs parasite which has the ability to wipe out freshwater fish stocks.

What is the Gs parasite? The Gs (Gyrodactylus salaris) parasite is a highly contagious bug that has devastated freshwater fish stocks in a number of countries. In Norway for example, salmon stocks in 20 rivers have been virtually wiped out. Less than half a millimetre long, the Gs parasite multiplies very rapidly, and it only takes one to start an epidemic. The Gs parasite is not currently in the UK. Please help to protect our £60m freshwater salmon industry in Scotland by drying out any wet watersports or fishing gear. What countries are affected? Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Spain and Sweden. Other European countries have an unknown status. Only the UK remains officially Gs parasite free – let's keep it that way. Where did the parasite come from? Gs occurs naturally in the Baltic rivers of Sweden, Finland and Russia. The fish there are tolerant of the parasite, but fish in Norway and the UK are unused to the parasite and have little or no tolerance to it. The parasite was transferred with farmed fish from Sweden to Norway where it spread to wild salmon stocks. We now have to ensure that it doesn't reach the UK and harm our £60 million freshwater salmon industry in Scotland. How could it get here? The Gs parasite is capable of surviving for several days in damp and/or wet conditions (such as on waders, fishing equipment, bags, canoes and windsurf gear). Therefore it could be accidentally introduced by anyone (fishermen or watersports enthusiasts) who visit rivers in the affected countries – for work or pleasure – and then uses the same equipment in Scotland without taking the necessary precautionary measures. The Gs parasite can also survive on other fish species including the eel. Here's what you need to do The Gs parasite needs a wet environment to survive. If you are travelling to or from the affected countries make sure any watersports equipment (such as waders, fishing equipment, bags, canoes and windsurf gear) is completely dry before use in Scotland. To ensure your equipment is not contaminated, please take one of the following precautionary measures: Dry equipment at a minimum of 20°C for at least 2 days; Heat for at least 1 hour at above 60°C; Deep freeze for at least 1 day; or Immerse in a Gs killing solution for minimum 10 minutes.

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Fly Fishing Safety and First Aid

When fly fishing it is always advisable to consider yours and other fly fisher’s safety, whether it is on the bank or in a boat. There is nothing worse to spoil a good days fishing by injuring yourself or falling and getting soaking wet. If you follow the 14 safety hints below it will enhance your days fishing and you will return safely to your loved ones and to fish another day. 1. In the event of an accidental slip while wading - always wear a wading belt with waist or chest waders to avoid filling up with water. If you do fall in whilst wading always try to try to make sure you feet are facing down stream if you can’t get up straight away or are swept away down stream. This is to ensure that you do not obtain a head injury, it is easier to repair a broken leg than a split head or worse a broken heart. 2. When crossing fast currents, make your way by wading downstream at an angle across the river. 3. Always carry a wading staff if fishing in unfamiliar or fast moving water 4. Always dress for inclement weather, it is advisable to multi lair your clothing as it is easier to take off clothes than trying to find extra clothing to put on when the weather changes. 5. Wear non slip shoes that are appropriate for the type of fishing you are doing. Rubber soles for sand, gravel or silt. Felt soles for rocky river bottoms, and cleated soles for swift water. 6. When fishing in fast moving water, always have an exit strategy. Water levels, especially in the mountains, can rise quickly. 7. A Personal Floatation Device is recommended when fishing on a boat or wading in deep water, it’s better to float than to sink even when wet. 8. If travelling far by foot, I always wear or bring extra food and water with me just in case the weather changes drastically and you’re stranded till it clears, a good Kelly Kettle for boiling up water is perfect as it not only gives you plenty of hot water, but it can also be a good source of heat if you hit inclement weather. 9. If you're hiking a long distance, maps, compass, and a GPS system are recommended to avoid getting lost. 10. Sunscreen and bug spray, I always wear Skin so Soft by Avon as the midges in Scotland don’t just bite they come at you with knifes and forks ready for a feast. 11. If possible carry a full first aid kit with you if you can, before every trip inspect and restock your first aid kit. Make sure that your container is waterproof and durable. It is important to know how to use everything and advisable to take a first aid and CPR course. 12. Before you go, make sure that you know about the hazards of the area that you are visiting. Poisonous plants, poisonous or dangerous animals, fire conditions and a weather report. 13. If possible, go fishing with a minimum of two people. 14. Always tell people where you are going and when they should expect your return.

When fly fishing from either the bank or within a boat always think of safety first. In addition to the above information and safety tips, I would highly recommend that you wear sun glasses to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun which would spoil your enjoyment of fishing. The wearing of the glasses is also to avoid getting a hook in your eye, it is better to have the hook bounce off your glasses and hook you nose than to loose your eye. Did you know that when casting a fly can be travelling up to 90mph, imaging the damage to your body if hit by a car at 45mph then imagine the damage a fly/lure can do to your eyes at 90mph. Polarised glasses are the best type to wear in addition to protecting your eyes from the glare of the sun they will help you to see through the water levels a lot better. There are 3 types of polarised glass lenses for each type of condition you will be fishing in.

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When wearing the glasses always wear a lanyard attached to the glasses, its not the first time I have lost a pair of glasses in the lake/reservoir when being caught by a flying fly/lure. Always wear a good fishing hat or baseball cap to protect you from the glare of the sun, there is nothing worse than getting both sun burn and sun stroke when fishing. You might not believe it but whilst fly fishing during even a slightly sunny day you get more of a tan from fishing that you would from sun bathing on the beach or your back garden as the water bounces back the rays and magnifies their effect. So put on your cap/hat and plenty of high factor sun tan cream to lessen the effects. A good fishing hat/baseball cap also helps to protect your head from any untoward fly/lure that might go adrift when casting by yourself or your boat partner especially if it gets really windy. It’s not the first time and I doubt it will be the last time either when I have been hit on the back of the head by a missed cast lure either by myself or my boat partners. As recommended by the editor, an all in one Fly Fishing Waistcoat and Automatic Inflatable Fly Vest is the ideal life vest whether you’re wading in a large Salmon River or boat fishing on a reservoir or lake. The Wavehopper gives you the peace of mind and functionality of both a normal fly fishing vest and a life jacket. The Waistcoat/Life Vest provides ample storage for all your tackle needs when travelling light along the rivers and streams, also for all your spare spools, leader material, snips, priests and other tools required when boat fishing.

Airflo Wavehopper Inflatable Fly Vest

Product Description Can only be sent within the UK mainland

Manual & Automatic Set to be one of Airflo's biggest sellers The Wavehopper Inflatable Fly Vest has smashed the price barrier for this type of product often selling well in excess of £200. The Wavehopper is a superbly designed practical buoyancy device priced within reach of every angler. So, whether wading large salmon rivers or boat fishing on a reservoir the Wavehopper gives you the peace of mind and functionality never before available at this price.

Breakthrough Price Great Design Meets ISO12402/5 standards 120 Newton internal bladder. Manual or Fully Automatic Versions. Low Cost Re-arming Cylinders

Available in sizes: S, M, L, XL & XXL. UK mainland shipping only Only: £149.99 Available through the following websites: http://www.fishtec.co.uk http://www.fishingmegastore.com I highly recommend this product; besides being a top rate fly vest with more than enough pockets to keep the Flyfisher happy on a days fishing; it is also an all in one practical life saving device, whether your sitting in a boat loch style fishing or wadding a river or stream.

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Fly Fishing for Beginners Part 1

Fly fishing is a distinct and ancient angling method, most renowned as a method for catching trout and salmon, but employed today for a wide variety of species including pike, bass, panfish, and carp, as well as marine species, such as redfish, snook, tarpon, bonefish and striped bass. There are many reports of fly anglers taking species such as chub, bream and rudd while fishing for trout.

There is a growing population of anglers whose aim is to catch as many different species as possible with the fly, but a true angler will say it is for the enjoyment and the thrill of piting your wits against the fish (who normally come of the best). Some anglers say fly-fishing is more than a past time and hobby, it is a sport and an art, requiring a lot of concentration and patients from the angler. Its different to other fishing in that the angler uses fly’s which he can make or buy ready made from their local tackle shops. To watch an experienced fly fisherman/woman is like watching an artist in motion. It has taken the experienced fly fisherman/woman years to perfect their skills and to land his cast and fly delicately on the water no matter their surroundings. Of course it takes years to become a highly experienced fly fisher, but learning the basics can happen very quickly. The good part is that you don't even need a nearby river or fishery to practice on. You can practice in your own garden or nearest playing field. To learn to be a good fly caster, find an expert that will show you their talents and offer you advice on your technique. This could come by way of paying someone at your local tackle shop, taking a class at a local fishery. Usually I think you'll find that people who like to fly fish like to share their knowledge and expertise. If you are not fortunate enough to find someone to teach you first hand, the second option would be to buy a video and watch and study it and then go out and practice the techniques you’ve learned. But remember that you will pick up bad habits that can only be rectified by an experienced fly fishing instructor. You must become familiar with your fly rod and reel and the fly line itself. Make the fly rod an extension of your arm. If you keep your wrist rigid and your elbow relaxed at your side, imagine the rod as a finger now bring it up to the side of your face and with a quick flick of the rod stopping at the 10 o’clock position The fly casting stroke requires only two short bursts of speed, one accelerating straight backward with a quick stop and one accelerating straight forward with a quick stop. The key is to know at what point to change directions and at what point to stop. Unlike a golfer a fly fisherman/woman has no follow through when casting.

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When I first started; I used to use the football pitch around the corner from my home. The best method I found was to place a largish plastic ring (like a hoopla ring at the fair) and with about 20' of line extending out from the rod, plus a 9’ leader with a bit of cotton wool tied to the leader as a fly (you have to be careful in open areas where the public and dogs go). I would stand square to the ring with one foot slightly behind the other for balance. Holding the rod firmly just above the reel with my fingers wrapped around the cork handle and the thumb on top facing up. With my other hand, I would grab the line, and hold it next to my belt buckle. Keeping the rod tip low. Now remember, there are only four parts to a cast, the pickup, back cast, forward cast and presentation of the fly. With my wrist locked and elbow relaxed at my side, I would slowly move my forearm back in a smooth motion. The pickup lifts the line out of the ground. I would then slowly and smoothly accelerate the forearm into the back position being careful not to go past the two o'clock position. The line would fly over my shoulder and behind. I would then accelerate my forearm into the forward position being careful not to go past the ten o'clock position. As soon as the line straightened out in front of me, I would slowly lower the rod to the ground thereby presenting the line and the fly. The leader and the fly should flutter down slowly and rest gently on the ground and hopefully the fly in the middle of the ring. The most important thing to remember when fly fishing, is to relax. The more you relax, the smoother your casting will be, there is nothing worse than being all taught when fly fishing as it can affect your casting technique and also your muscles ache at the end of the day. Like they say “Practice Makes Perfect”. Let’s break down the fly casting technique as follows: 1. When you begin the cast, the rod is roughly parallel to the water as you start the pickup. 2. The back cast must be learned by feel, this will take time as you get used to the actions of the rod during the false cast as not all rods have the same type of action. Bring the rod backward with the elbow relaxed down by your side and the wrist rigid to about the two o'clock position where you stop and wait for the line to straighten out behind you. This is when the rod begins to "load". If you don't get this just right it can result in two totally different but equally frustrating results. If you wait just a bit too long, it will result in your fly either; landing behind you or lodging in a tree or other object. If you start the forward cast too soon it will result in a loud snapping or cracking sound which will ultimately result in your fly being dislodge, never to be found again or even worse the fly hitting the tip of the rod and breaking it.. 3. As soon as the line straightens behind you the rod is brought forward in a smooth accelerating motion to a stop at about the ten o’clock position. Wait for the loop to unfold in front of you. 4. Once the line straightens out ahead of you, slowly lower the rod to the water guiding the fly gently down and presenting the fly. When taking up fly fishing for the first time it can be a daunting experience not knowing what to purchase, hopefully the following information will be helpful in some way. When you do take up the art of fly fishing, try to get some lessons from a reputable fly fishing coach, that way you won’t pick up bad habits that will cause you to cast badly thereby catch less fish. The fishing coach will have a good idea of the type of rod, reel and line that will be suited to your casting technique, not everyone casts the exact same way due to many varying factors like:- body build; (male or female); left or right handed; the way that you cast etc. Some casting coaching is good as it helps to iron out any small faults that you may have picked up in the short time that you have started fly fishing. Next Month we will cover the basic idea of the fly rods, fly reels and fly lines that might give you an idea of what to expect when purchasing your first fly fishing outfit.

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Lake Rotoroa Lodge by Sue Farley

“Just imagine you’re the fish,” Peter said as we sat at the front window of the lodge, overlooking the lake and watching the rain. “They always face into the current, and they sit watching the surface, waiting for a fly, a mosquito or a cicada to flick across. Then they jump up and eat it. “When fishing we walk up the bank behind them, so they can’t see us. We watch them, often for a long time. We watch what they eat, what attracts them – we call it stalking, although it’s not like that really. Then we look in our tackle box for a suitable fly, one that will look close to what the fish has been eating that morning. Or maybe we’ll make one to suit – wind a few things around the hook, maybe some horsehair or tiny feathers.” “Then we cast the line over the top from behind the fish, he goes for it, and we’ve then got to land it. But we’re careful with the fish, we net it gently, free it, then let it go. Brown trout take too long to grow to be killed,” he laughs. It’s this kind of passion and enthusiasm that makes a good fisherman, or woman. Peter (I'm not sure of his last name) is such a person. On the lakes and rivers of Buller and the Nelson Lakes area in the upper South Island, which comprise the undisputed capital of brown trout fishing in the world, it is standard practice to go out fishing everyday. He fishes there often. Within an hour’s drive of the lodge there are 25 fishable streams and rivers - not counting those requiring boat or helicopter access. Guides are available on request to take anglers to these and other lakes and rivers across the top of the south; didymo (a rather unpleasant algae) is now altering a few of these habitats but most remain pristine. Spare days can be filled with hiking the excellent tracks in the area, bird-watching, rafting or horse-trekking and evenings are spent relaxing through the big table d’hote dinner laid out each night. Lake Rotoroa Lodge was built in the 1920s, back in the days when well-heeled ladies and gentlemen travelled in a style few of us bother with these days; and when Lake Rotoroa was on the main trail through the area. Overlooking the lake, the lodge view opens across shiny silver water to the mist-covered mountains and dark valleys in the distance. Recently refurbished, it brings back all that high class and luxury in a time-honoured way. Décor is dark and luscious – thickly bunched burgundy drapes, leather and oak furniture, oiled floor boards and ornate colonial fireplaces. Dining is in the old style, around a shared table, where fine folk from around the globe mingle and chat while enjoying the best of local foods. Top quality fruits and vegetables, seafood and meats are sourced from around the top of the South Island. The chef then creates an elegant range of dishes suited to the foods of the day. Nothing is spared. Next to the dining room, the wine cellar and tasting room shines under candle light, its gold-leaf ceiling and leather-wash walls glowing in the flickering light as guests sample beautiful wines from Australia and New Zealand. Bedrooms – there are 10 – are spacious and traditionally furnished in a mix of colonial styles. Each has access to a verandah and overlooks either the lake or the surrounding trees and gardens. But surpassing all that style and elegance the scenery out the windows is truly stunning. Lake Rotoroa is the silent brooding partner of Nelson’s two lakes. It sits quietly in its steep-sided glacial valley surrounded by dense beech forest, the smell of sweet honeydew wafting on the breeze and the clunking chimes of dark green bellbirds and shiny black tui filling the air. Even in summer there can be snow on the tops and smoke curling out the chimneys. Sandflies are usually the only cloud on the horizon – often quite literally. Taking morning tea with Nancy from Denver, Colorado I was intrigued with her love of the place. “We have been here every February for the last 12 years now, and we wouldn’t want to go anywhere else in the world in February. The men fish every day, and when it’s not raining I like to ramble in the trees,” she said. Which is her charmingly American way of saying she goes for a walk in the bush while her menfolk stalk the riverbanks for those elusive brown trout. For more information and travel details contact Sue - sue@nztravelbrokers.co.nz www.newzealandfishinglodges.co.nz

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Lake of Menteith Fisheries is one of my favourite fishing locations within Scotland not just for the beautiful scenery but for the great fishing as well. The rainbow and brown trout within the lake are full finned and fighting fit. The Fishery Manager Quint and Fishery Ranger Douglas stock the waters on a weekly basis. The both of them are a great source of information on how the water is fishing and what the fish are being taken on. This year there is a brand new fishing lodge being opened up with all the necessary facilities for the fly fisherman/woman. Amongst the heather clad hills and valleys of Scotland there are some very nice fly fisheries that offer a great choice of waters for the discerning fly fisherman/woman from natural brown trout waters to large Lochs like Loch Leven for that wild brown trout experience and Lakes, like the Lake of Menteith who can offer you 700 acres of pure fishing pleasure for both brown and rainbow trout. All the fishery managers, whether they are a small or large fishery will give you a great Scottish welcome and the best advice for your days fishing on their water. As they say there is nothing better than a “Guid Auld Scottish Welcome”.

The Lake of Menteith (Scottish Gaelic "Loch Innis Mo Cholmaig"), is a loch in Scotland, located on the Carse of Stirling, the flood plain of the upper reaches of the rivers Forth and Teith, upstream of Stirling. The only settlement of any size on the Lake of Menteith is Port of Menteith. There are a number of small islands in the loch. On the largest, Inchmahome, is Inchmahome Priory, an ancient monastery. The priory served as refuge to Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1547. She was only four years old at the time and stayed for three weeks after the disastrous Battle of Pinkie Cleugh in September of that year. The Loch is not particularly deep and can freeze over completely in exceptionally cold winters. If the ice becomes thick enough — at least 7 inches (18 cm) — an outdoor curling tournament called The Bonspiel or the Grand Match is held on the loch. The event can attract thousands of curlers despite its rarity. The last Grand Match was held in 1979. The planned 2010 Bonspiel was abandoned on health and safety grounds. The Lake is stocked weekly with 1000 to 1500 quality trout, and yields an average landed fish weight of over 2lbs. In 2012 the average 2 man boat (8hr) catch was 5.8 fish for 13.9lbs oz. The catch and release percentage was 35.7%. The 30-strong fleet of Lomond (Sweeney) Boats has recently been upgraded, and all are equipped with Yamaha or Suzuki outboards. The fishery cabin with wood burning stove and tea/coffee are available to the anglers. Additionally a catering van is present The Lake has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its exceptional fauna and flora. Historically the lake has much to offer, with the impressive and tranquil ruins of the 13th century Inchmahome Priory situated on the largest of the Lake's three islands. These attributes make the Lake an outstanding venue for some of the most prestigious fishing competitions and a great day out for all anglers. For boat booking please call the fishery at 01877 385664. To book by email please use booking@menteith-fisheries.co.uk. Booking Address: Elma Nisbet, Lake of Menteith Fisheries, Ryeyards, Port of Menteith, Stirling FK8 3RA

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Fly of the Month

The Hot Head Spider

This pattern is essentially a black and peacock spider. The traditional pattern is excellent in a midge rise on both still waters and rivers. The addition of the hot head bead to substitute a thorax gives the fish a hitting spot. The big advantage of this pattern is that it can be fished at all depths with any kind of retrieve. If the fish are in an aggressive mood pull this fly and it will reap dividends. As the pattern resembles naturals in the water the fish will not be put off as per a standard lure from seeing the same fly too often. Fly Tying Method Hook - 16 to 10 Thread – Black Hackle - Black Hen Body - Peacock Herl - you can substitute the herl for U.V micro-fibre either in black/blue or black/silver Rib - Fine Silver Wire Thorax - Hot Head Bead Lime Green. Tying Procedure 1. Slip on the glow bead and place near the eye of the hook. Bed the hook with thread from behind the bead. 2. Tie in the peacock herl and silver wire rib. 3. Cut off excess; continue bedding hook with thread and return to just behind the glow bead. Wrap the body with peacock herl and tie in. Trim the excess and rib the body with the silver wire, Tie off, trim excess and whip finish behind the glow bead. 4. Push the bead slightly back onto the body and bed the hook between the eye and the bead. Tie in a black hen hackle at the point. I personally prefer a longer than standard hackle due to the extra movement. Here experiment to obtain the look and movement you require. 5. Trim the tip of the hackle fibre and give the fly 1 or 2 turns of hackle. Catch the hackle in, form a neat head, whip finish and varnish.

Recipe of the Month

CRABMEAT & PRAWN STUFFED TROUT

INGREDIENTS

4 whole trout 1/2 lb. small shelled prawns

1/2 lb. white crabmeat 4 fresh rosemary sprigs

2 tomatoes, skinned, seeded & diced 1 onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fine bread crumbs salt and pepper

1. Clean the trout under cold running water and set aside. 2. Dice the onion, cube the tomato, mince the garlic and mix with the crabmeat and prawns. Set aside. 3. Sprinkle, the salt and pepper to taste, onto the inside of each fish. 4. Place a sprig of rosemary inside each fish. 5. Spoon the crabmeat, prawn, tomato, onion and garlic evenly inside each of the fish. 6. Fish may be sewn shut, using a high quality thread to hold together if required. 7. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over each fish. 8. Place uncovered under the grill for 10 minutes each side, or until done. 9. You may wish to bake uncovered in a preheated oven 200 C (400F, gas mark6) for approximately 20 / 25 minutes. This dish is nice served with fresh boiled baby potatoes and green vegetables like broccoli, brussel sprouts or peas. Alternatively, you may wish to serve with a nice fresh green salad and cold potato salad and lemon wedges. The choice is yours.

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Patagonia 2013 Fishing Report San Martin de los Andes Rivers; Malleo Collon cura Chimehuin Alumine Calefu Limay Conditions: Rivers in excellent condition Weather extreme variations (very hot periods) Fishing: Lots of dry fly activity using mayfly imitations and big attractors when no hatches are happening. Many 17 -20 inch browns and bows with occasional 22-25 inch fish caught daily. Evening hatches are producing very well for those that are fishing till dusk. Early morning fishing using small streamers is producing some memorable fish. Inch worms from the willows has been especially good on the chimehuin. Malleo sight fishing for big fish is very challenging but for the skilled angler it doesn’t get any better!! On our trophy river known as the River of Monsters big fish fishing is just started. Some 4 & 5k browns and many 3k bows.

CChhiipp DDrroozzeennsskkii AAnnddeess DDrriifftteerrss wwwwww..aannddeessddrriifftteerrss..ccoomm

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Tackle Reviews

This month’s reviews are on the Stillwater performance Fly Rods

and the new Airflo Airlite Nan-Tec Single Hand Fly Rods

Stillwater Performance Fly Rods

Product Description The all new Performance Fly series from Stillwater represent a stunning new range of four piece fly rods. Stylish and distinctive as well as practical, the range has been designed with the angler in mind. Available in 3 sizes, the selection offers something to handle most fly fishing situations this country can throw at you. The range features durable, quality 4 piece constructions, providing you with reliability and portability, without compromising on performance. The rods also all come with a tough Cordura rod tube and quality rod sock for protection. Features: 4pc Carbon Construction Lined Stripper Guides Oversized American Snake Guides Handsome Matt Black Finish Full Wells Handle on 9ft6 and 10ft Models Half Wells Handle on 9ft Model Durable Cordura Rod Tube Protective Rod Sock RRP: £69.99 Now Only: £49.99 I purchased 6 of the 9’-6” 6/7 rods to use as practice and competition rods for the novices entering the WaterAid Flyfishing Challenge that I run each year up at the Lake of Menteith. When matched them up with the Stillwater Reel and Stillwater Floating Fly Line they handled like a dream and the novices were able to cast good distances extremely easily after a couple of hours practice lessons the night before. The rods look very nice and finished to a high standard I took one out myself on a couple of occasions to give it a thorough work out to see if it could handle all conditions and methods. Sorry to say I wasn’t very light handed with them in the boat or when fighting the fish; they got a right good going over. Happy to say they managed to survive and still look good for the job. Even though they are on the cheaper end of the price range for a fly rod they look and handle as good as one of my £200+ rods. So they would be the perfect rod for the beginner to start off with. You can purchase the rods directly from the Glasgow Angling Centre at http://www.fishingmegastore.com

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Airflo Airlite Nan-Tec Single Hand Fly Rods

Product Description Airflo have pulled out all the stops when redesigning their new Airlite Nantec series to incorporate high-tech Nano technology and I think you'll agree these are simple stunning rods. The use of Nano technology increases the impact resistance of the blank immensely but also has added benefits like incredible lifting power and quicker tip recovery and even greater energy transfer for super smooth casting performance. So using all this technology Airflo had to finish the rods of with the highest quality fittings including single chromed leg snakes to reduce weight, High grade custom made reel seat and of cause it comes complete in its own cordura case. Features: Single leg chrome rings Lined stripper rings Custom reel seat Cordura Travel tube High grade cork handle Only: £199.99

I have used the 9’-6” 7/8wt rod since they came out on the market and have found that even though it is a fast tip action rod it can easily load up within a couple of false casts and cast a good line out without any effort and is an excellent rod for playing the fish whether you are fishing on a small fishery or on a large loch or reservoir from a boat Loch Style Fishing. I have used this rod over the past year mostly for any competitions that I had entered as I knew it won’t let me down. I would say this rod is on par with the best of them like the Loomis GLX fly rods so you won’t have to break the bank in getting a good rod for your money. When using it down at Rutland last September during a competition the rod tip got caught on the oar lock and snapped. But with Airflo’s Lifetime Guarantee you are at piece of mind if anything goes wrong with your rod like mine you just phone them up and explain to them what’s happened and they will replace the part or rod for you free of charge except for the postage and packaging; a small price to pay for peace of mind.

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Have your Say Send your emails to ukflyfisher@gmail.com

With your comments on anything related to fly fishing.

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Fishing Reports A monthly round up of fishing reports and news from around the UK and abroad

Scotland

Swanswater Fishery Sauchieburn, Stirling FK7 9QB Tel: 01786 814805 Web http://www.swanswater-fishery.co.uk Despite the sometimes very unpleasant weather conditions, with cold winds combined with sleet and snow showers, the water conditions have remained good with excellent clarity. Although the water is fairly cold now, at 3 degrees centigrade, those braving the elements were generally well rewarded for their efforts. The majority of fish were taken around 5 to 6 feet deep, with most being caught on lures, such as Dancer, Cat, and Damsel. Some fish were also taken on buzzers and small nymphs, with Diawl Bach being the favourite. Tiger Trout are continuing to feature in the catch returns with a lot being caught nearer to the water surface and closer to the banks. Allandale Tarn Fisheries, Gavieside, West Calder, West Lothian. Scotland. EH55 8PT. (01506)-873073 http://allandaletarn.com Mixed weather conditions for our first day of being ice free and open for fishing in a couple of weeks!. The day started off wild, but by the time the first few bodies ventured out the winds had dropped away to a nice ripple & the sun was even shining.. The rest of the day constantly switched on & off the winds. This certainly didn't put the fish off & this was reflected in the fact that most of today’s fine fish were caught on or within a few feet of the surface! A few patterns were working, including teams on traditional flies; Diawl Bachs or even a single Pink Apts; however the most consistent single flea, fished off a floating line, was the simple wee sparse tied Yellow Spider!

England

Bellbrook Farm, Oakford, Tiverton, Devon EX16 9EX Tel 01398 351282 Web: http://www.bellbrookfishery.co.uk/fishery/index.asp Bellbrook Fishing Report 17

th Feb 2013

We’ve had a couple of weeks of really shocking weather but finally we have been blessed with some good conditions. We had the 2

nd heat of the Bellbrook Winter Warmer on Sunday 17

th February which was well attended and the lakes fished

well. The day was won by Angus Willis of Tiverton with 5 fish for 13lb 13oz. The best fish of the day went to Tim James of Peasedown St John with a rainbow at 7lb 6oz caught on a green Montana. Jamie Pankhurst (14 years old) of Exeter also had his best fish during the week with a 7lb 15oz out of one of the specimen lakes. Mark Pierce of London fished during the week and found a Damsel very effective catching 3 fish for 8lb 9oz fishing a half day “normal” ticket. Clair Meade of Leamington Spa was pleased with her haul catching 2 fish for 9lb 8oz off the specimen lakes. The Bellbrook Heat of the Troutmasters will be held at the fishery on April 14

th – those who have qualified should have

received their invitation but if not please contact the fishery on 01398 351292

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Wales

Ireland

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Welcome to Skeena Wilderness Fishing Charters fresh fishing excursions. The Skeena river and her tributaries is the ultimate fly fishing playground. Skeena wilderness fishing charters has been in the guiding business for over 40 years. We are the local professionals. My two sons work with me in our business and have been raised and trained by me on all of these local rivers. They are excellent double handed spey and single handed fly casters. They read the water very well as fishermen and as skilful safe boatmen. We run top quality Alumaweld and Wooldridge jet boats. Alumaweld drift boats and Avon rafts. We use Sage, Loomis and Thomas & Thomas rods, Ross reels and professionally tied flies. Everything is first class. We offer day trips, ALL INCLUSIVE trips and remote helicopter trips. Something for everyone. We are licensed to guide on ALL the classified and unclassified rivers in the Terrace, Kitimat and Prince Rupert area. No other guiding operation is licensed to guide ALL the rivers that are. Our license includes the CLASS 1 ZYMOETZ (Copper) CLASS 1 GITNADIOX. Our CLASS 2 rivers include ZYMOETZ 2 (Copper) KALUM , KWINAMASS, SKEENA 2 plus all the unclassified waters. We are also licensed for the restricted ISHKEENICKH and KINCOLITH in the NASS area. All these rivers are the home of all the world record steelhead and salmon. If one river is blown out we are licensed to guide you where the best fishing is. We all have experienced the disappointment of arriving for your week of fishing and finding that the water is too high or too low or that you should have been there last week. The last thing that you need is to travel all the way to CANADA to find that the same thing can happen. The SKEENA watershed has a number of different angling areas with different weather patterns and the tributaries that flow through these areas have different characteristics and different water level requirements for successful fishing. There is always somewhere to go. The right guide will have licenses to fish all these rivers allowing you the best chance of a memorable rather than miserable trip. It need not happen to you if you book with the right guide. We are that guide that is licensed for ALL the rivers. SKEENA wilderness's fishing lodge is situated right near the SKEENA river, minutes from the ZYMOETZ (Copper) and KALUM rivers. We are right in the heart of the best fishing. Best to first e-mail or give us a telephone call to determine the best time to book your customized fishing adventure. Everyone has different priorities. We want to book your priorities first. If you do not book with us we both LOOSE. Contact Stan Doll 5131 McConnell AVE. Terrace BC. V8G 4W9 skeenawilderness@telus.net www.bc-steelhead.com toll free 1- 800-485-7696 lodge 250-635-4686 fax 250-635-4681 cell 250-638-2893

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North to Alaska

By Robin Apart from Scotland being the Mecca for Salmon and wild Brown Trout fishing; many other countries around the world still have some fantastic rivers to tempt the avid fly fisher and to get the pulse racing. Alaska is one of those countries where you will still find a large river, a small stream or a large lake to tempt you to get the fly rod out for an enjoyable days fly fishing. Alaskan fly anglers are truly blessed. The Alaskan continent has some of the best blue ribbon water trout and salmon fishing in the world. Unlike the British Isles, where most trout waters are private, the best fishing in Alaska is open to the public and relatively easy to access; apart from some parts of the outbacks of Alaska where you will need a good seaplane to get about.

Situated at the northwest corner of the North American continent, Alaska is separated by Canadian territory from the coterminous 48 states. Alaska is the largest of the 50 states, with a total area of 591,004 sq mi (1,530,699 sq km). Land takes up 570,833 sq mi (1,478,456 sq km) and inland water 20,171 sq mi (52,243 sq km). Alaska is more than twice the size of Texas, the next-largest state, and occupies 16% of the total US land area; the E-W extension is 2,261 mi (3,639 km); the maximum N-S extension is 1,420 mi (2,285 km). Alaska is bounded on the North by the Arctic Ocean and Beaufort Sea; on the East by Canada's Yukon Territory and province of British Columbia; on the South by the Gulf of Alaska, Pacific Ocean, and Bering Sea; and on the West by the Bering Sea, Bering Strait, Chukchi Sea, and Arctic Ocean. Alaska's many offshore islands include St. Lawrence, St. Matthew, Nunivak, and the Pribilof group in the Bering Sea; Kodiak Island in the Gulf of Alaska; the Aleutian Islands in the Pacific; and some 1,100 islands constituting the Alexander Archipelago, extending SE along the Alaska panhandle. The total boundary length of Alaska is 8,187 mi (13,176 km), including a general coastline of 6,640 mi (10,686 km); the tidal shoreline extends 33,904 mi (54,563 km). Alaska's geographic center is about 60 mi (97 km) NW of Mt. McKinley. The northern-most point in the US Point Barrow, at 71°23′ 30″ N, 156°28′ 30″ W lies within the state of Alaska, as does the western-most point Cape Wrangell on Attu Island in the Aleutians, at 52°55′ 30″ N, 172°28′ E. Little Diomede Island, belonging to Alaska, is less than 2 mi (3 km) from Big Diomede Island, belonging to Russia. Alaska has a longer coastline than all the other U.S. states combined. It is the only non-contiguous U.S. state on continental North America; about 500 miles (800 km) of British Columbia (Canada) separate Alaska from Washington state. Alaska is thus an exclave of the United States. It is technically part of the continental U.S., but is often not included in colloquial use; Alaska is not part of the contiguous U.S., often called "the Lower 48". The capital city, Juneau, is situated on the mainland of the North American continent, but is not connected by road to the rest of the North American highway system.

The state is bordered by the Yukon Territory and British Columbia in Canada, to the east, the Gulf of Alaska and the Pacific Ocean to the south, the Bering Sea, Bering Strait, and Chukchi Sea to the west and the Arctic Ocean to the north. Alaska's territorial waters touch Russia's territorial waters in the Bering Strait, as the Russian Big Diomede Island and Alaskan Little Diomede Island are only 3 miles (4.8 km) apart. With the extension of the Aleutian Islands into the eastern hemisphere, it is technically both the westernmost and easternmost state in the United States, as well as also being the northernmost.

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Alaska's size compared with the 48 contiguous states.

Alaska is the largest state in the United States in land area at 586,412 square miles (1,518,800 km2), over twice the size of

Texas, the next largest state. Alaska is larger than all but 18 sovereign countries. Counting territorial waters, Alaska is larger than the combined area of the next three largest states: Texas, California, and Montana. It is also larger than the combined area of the 22 smallest U.S. states. There are no officially defined borders demarcating the various regions of Alaska, but there are six widely accepted regions: South Central: The most populous region of Alaska, containing Anchorage, the Matanuska-Susitna Valley and the Kenai Peninsula. Rural, mostly unpopulated areas south of the Alaska Range and west of the Wrangell Mountains also fall within the definition of Southcentral, as well as the Prince William Sound area and the communities of Cordova and Valdez. Southeast: Also known as the Panhandle, this is the region of Alaska closest to the rest of the United States, and hence was where most initial non-Native settlement occurred following the Alaska Purchase. It contains the state capital, Juneau, the former capital, Sitka, and the large town of Ketchikan. The road systems leading from these cities are strictly local; no roads connect these communities to each other or any other communities apart from their own suburbs. The region is dominated by the Alexander Archipelago as well as the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States. Interior: Mount McKinley is both the highest peak in Alaska and in all of North America. The largest region of Alaska, much of it uninhabited wilderness. Fairbanks is the only community of any significant size. Small towns and Native villages are scattered throughout, mostly along the highway and river systems. Denali National Park and Preserve is located here, home to Mount McKinley (also widely known by its local name of Denali), the highest point in North America. Southwest: A sparsely inhabited region stretching some 500 miles (800 km) inland from the Bering Sea. Most of the population lives along the coast. Kodiak Island is also located in Southwest. The massive Yukon–Kuskokwim Delta, one of the largest river deltas in the world, is here. Portions of the Alaska Peninsula are considered part of Southwest, with the remaining portions included with the Aleutian Islands (see below). North Slope: The North Slope is mostly tundra peppered with small villages. The area is known for its massive reserves of crude oil, and contains both the National Petroleum Reserve–Alaska and the Prudhoe Bay Oil Field. Barrow, the northernmost city in the United States, is located here. The Northwest Arctic area, anchored by Kotzebue and also containing the Kobuk River valley, is often regarded as being part of this region. However, the respective Inupiat of the North Slope and of the Northwest Arctic seldom think of themselves as one.

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Aleutian Islands

More than 300 small, volcanic islands make up this chain, which stretches over 1,200 miles (1,900 km) into the Pacific Ocean. The International Date Line was drawn west of 180° to keep the whole state, and thus the entire North American continent, within the same legal day. However, because some of these islands fall in the Eastern Hemisphere, this makes Alaska the northernmost, easternmost and westernmost state in the union, with the southernmost state being Hawaii. Two of the islands, Attu and Kiska, were occupied by Japanese forces during World War II. With its myriad islands, Alaska has nearly 34,000 miles (54,720 km) of tidal shoreline. The Aleutian Islands chain extends west from the southern tip of the Alaska Peninsula. Many active volcanoes are found in the Aleutians and in coastal regions. Unimak Island, for example, is home to Mount Shishaldin, which is an occasionally smoldering volcano that rises to 10,000 feet (3,048 m) above the North Pacific. It is the most perfect volcanic cone on Earth, even more symmetrical than Japan's Mount Fuji The chain of volcanoes extends to Mount Spurr, west of Anchorage on the mainland. Geologists have identified Alaska as part of Wrangellia, a large region consisting of multiple states and Canadian provinces in the Pacific Northwest which is actively undergoing continent building. One of the world's largest tides occurs in Turnagain Arm, just south of Anchorage; tidal differences can be more than 35 feet (10.7 m). (Many sources say Turnagain has the second greatest tides in North America, but several areas in Canada have larger tides.) Alaska has more than three million lakes. Marshlands and wetland permafrost cover 188,320 square miles (487,747 km

2)

(mostly in northern, western and southwest flatlands). Glacier ice covers some 16,000 square miles (41,440 km2) of land

and 1,200 square miles (3,110 km2) of tidal zone.

The Bering Glacier complex near the southeastern border with Yukon covers 2,250 square miles (5,827 km

2) alone. With

over 100,000, Alaska has half of the world's glaciers From an angler’s perspective, Alaska is absolutely enormous; fishing all the waters available to the fly fisher would require one to cast across a million square acres of streams, lakes and water-lapped shorelines every day for a full year. Think of it as the old anglers’ quandary; so much water, so many fish and so little time; but on a much wilder and grander scale. Alaska has many lakes, rivers and streams with monster trophy trout lurking below the surface, yet very few fishermen have tapped into the great trout fishing experience that Alaska has to offer or even seem aware of the fact that Alaska has a reputation for truly giant sized rainbow trout. Other species of fish, typically salmon and halibut, dominate the fishing scene in Alaska making trout fishing that much more rewarding of an experience for those seeking to find some solitude during their Alaskan fishing adventures. Rainbow trout fishing in Alaska is about one of the most unappreciated and least understood sport fishing alternatives available in the state. Many excellent fishing guides within Alaska will take the mystery out of this affordable and plentiful yet electrifying experience that you should include in your next fishing trip to Alaska. Be it fly-fishing, or trolling, guided or unguided, trout fishing in Alaska is one of the best experiences you will ever have in your lifetime. Rainbow trout are found in most of the freshwater lakes, rivers and streams in Southeast Alaska as well as on the Kenai Peninsula. Although these areas have an abundant population of rainbows, it's the Bristol Bay watershed that really shines in producing some of the best in trout fishing found in Alaska today. Rivers like the Nushagak, Mulchatna, Kvichak and Wood Rivers are truly legendary in respect to outstanding rainbow trout fishing, it doesn’t end there. There are so many smaller less known streams and even more lakes where rainbows are plentiful. These streams include the legendary waters of Upper Talarik Creek and the Koktuli River while lakes like the great Lake Iliamna and Lake Clark top everyone’s list in top trout fishing waters.

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Fishing in Alaska Bear Safety

Alaska has some of the largest bear populations on the planet and every year people in Alaska are attacked by bears.

Remember that when you are out fishing in Alaska you are in bear country. The bears depend on the same rivers for food that you fish in, and you are competing with Bears for the same food supply of salmon when you go fishing. Bears attack humans in Alaska every year, and statistics show that attacks can occur both in remote locations, and right inside cities and towns. People have been attacked by bears in parks, towns, neighbourhoods, campgrounds, remote areas, and nearby rivers and lakes. Many people think "it won’t happen to me," but the smart thing to do is to always be safe and vigilant so that bear encounters never happen. Bears attack people for a variety of reasons including being surprised, protecting cubs, protecting territory, protecting food, or sometimes believing that humans are prey. The best defence against a bear is avoiding bear contact in the first place.

Dangerous Bears, 10 ways to Stay Safe 1. Fish with a group of friends. Bears are much less likely to approach a group of people, more eyes looking out mean better awareness, and a friend can help you out if a dangerous situation occurs, and things turn for the worst. 2. Carry some Bear Protection. Bear spray is a pretty good deterrent, and in some locations is the only protection you are permitted to carry. That being said, I would never want to be in wild bear country without a powerful firearm, just incase. You need to be sure it is a weapon with enough stopping power to drop a bear; this is not a time to bring along your .22 rifle or .30 pistols. Think BIG guns, with lots of mass and power in the projectile. Shotguns with slugs, high powered hunting rifles, or large calibre high powered handguns are really the only options you should consider. 3. Carry the Bear Protection. Many times mauled bodies of bear attack victims are found with guns or bear spray just a short distance away from them. They never got to them to use them. A gun or can of bear spray in the car will do you no good in bear attack situations. If you cannot get to it within a second or two it may be too late. 4. Don't Tempt the Bears. You must always keep your area clean and keep your fish in the water or inside a closed airtight container or cooler. Bears have an amazing sense of smell, and will home in on your location if they smell food or blood. Cut a gill and bleed your fish in a shady spot in the water and then place it in an airtight cooler. This way you are less likely to put out the scent of fish feast, attracting hungry bears from the entire area bears right to your spot.

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5. Don't leave out food. Never leave open food containers lying around you camp or fishing area. This basically goes right along with #4; you should always avoid doing things that will attract bears to your area. 6. Be aware of your surroundings. You don’t want a bear surprising you, and more importantly, you do not want to surprise a bear. Use all your senses, especially your eyes and ears. Constantly scan the shoreline in both directions, look on the opposite bank and watch and listen behind you. 7. Be LOUD!!! Make plenty of noise. Make noise, talk in a loud voice, sing songs, play music, and be sure that bears know you are there. Bears usually want nothing to do with people, and many times a bear will avoid humans all together. Certain times of year though, bears need to fatten up for winter, and because of that bears in the summer and fall, will frequent a river to feed, even when humans are present. 8. If you see bears AVOID THEM! If a bear approaches your area from a distance, try to move (not run) away. If a bear is close to you or your group, you should stand your ground. Never ever try to run away from a bear. Running can provoke a bears natural hunting and chasing instinct. If a bear is a good ways off, and coming in your general direction, moving away at a normal pace can often avoid bad bear contact. When you leave, be sure to take all your gear and especially you fish and food with you. If you leave fish or other food behind that bear will begin to associate fishing activity with an easy meal, and will become more dangerous to people.

9. Never harass, approach, or feed bears. This should go without saying but there are some idiots out there. Tourists sometimes try to get close enough to the cute cuddly bear cubs for a picture. Sometimes they think throwing food at the bear is acceptable. Mother bears will kill you to protect their cubs, and bears that have been fed are being programmed to attack people. 10. Protect yourself if necessary. Sometimes you just have to stand your ground and protect yourself using any means necessary. If a bear is focused on you, exhibits aggressive behaviour, or is otherwise posing a threat stand you ground. Talk to the bear in a calm voice. If a bear continues to approach your area and gets too close, it is time to use bear spray or fire a warning shot at the ground or water in front of the bear. Guns should never be used to make up for foolish behaviour in bear country. Avoid getting into the situation. If you do have to defend yourself from an aggressive, attacking, or charging bear with a firearm you should shoot at the vital areas, just like you would if you were hunting. For those non hunters out there this means take shots at the Chest (Heart and Lung). Be sure to take multiple shots… a wounded bear is even more dangerous, and can cover lots of ground injured and still kill you dead. This is not the time to 2nd guess yourself or to be shy, if you need to shoot you need to shoot to kill. Any bear killed to protect you must be reported. In Alaska bears killed in defence of life or property are to be reported to the law enforcement or game wardens. They will make you take the bear’s skull and hide and turn it in. This may seem cumbersome, but it is to prevent people from illegally hunting bears and then profiting by taking the valuable skull and hide, while claiming it was self defence.

Bear contacts that require lethal defence are very rare. You should always try to avoid contact with a bear if possible.

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UK Fishing Associations

Scottish Anglers National Association Limited www.sana.org.uk English Fly Fishing Association www.effa.co.uk Welsh Salmon & Trout Angling Association www.wstaa.org Irish Trout Fly Fishing Association www.shannon-fishery-board.ie Other Useful Links:- Wild Trout Trust Tel: 023 9257 0985 www.wildtrout.org The Wheelyboat Trust Tel: 01798 342222 www.wheelyboats.org Salmon and Trout Association Tel: 0171 283 5838 Fax: 0171 929 1389 www.salmon-trout.org Federation of Irish Salmon and Sea Trout Anglers Tel: 00353 7330300 www.fissta.com

This fisherman goes to the river to check an illegal fish trap that he owns. He looks around to make sure there are no Fishing Inspectors about and proceeds to pull the fish trap out to check it. An Inspector steps out of the bushes, "Ahha!" he said and the fisherman spun around and yelled "Shiiiit!". The Inspector, who wasn't expecting such a response said "Settle down, I'm the Fishing Inspector". "Thank God for that" said the fisherman, "I thought you were the bugger who owned this fish trap".

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UK Fishing Permits

Rod Licences: Unlike in England, Wales or Ireland in Scotland you do not need to have a fishing licence from the Government. The only exception to this is the Border Esk which flows into England and is therefore considered to be an English river for legal purposes, hence you need a current rod licence for it. The opposite is true on the Tweed, where the English part is considered to be Scottish for legal purposes, so even there you do not need a licence. However when fly fishing in Scotland it can be a bit of a daunting experience but the main points to be aware of are as follows: Permission to fish: Please be sure to get the correct permissions before you go fishing, as otherwise you may be committing an offence. For salmon & sea trout, it is a criminal offence (the state can prosecute you) to fish without written permission from the owner of the fishing rights, or his agent. For trout, it is a criminal offence to fish without permission where there is a Protection order in place, or where a loch is in single ownership. In all other cases, it is still a civil offence (the owner can prosecute you). For other types of freshwater fishing it is a criminal offence to fish without permission on a single ownership loch and a civil offence in all other cases. For more details see the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 2003. For fishing in the sea, by boat or from the shore, no permission is required. Closed seasons: Salmon and trout fishing on rivers are subject to a close season during which it is illegal to fish. These vary from river to river.

The earliest Salmon River to open is the Helmsdale on January 11th and the latest to close is the Tweed on 30th November. However most salmon rivers open on 1st February and close sometime in October.

River trout fishing dates are 15th March to 6th October but many fisheries do not let outside the period from 1st April to 30th September. There is no legal close season for rainbow trout, grayling, coarse or sea fishing, although some fisheries do not operate in the winter. Sundays For salmon or sea trout fishing in Scotland, Sunday is a closed time and it is illegal to fish then. For other fishing, it is not illegal and most commercial Stillwater fisheries operate on Sundays, although many river fisheries do not. Keeping fish: In Scotland it has recently been made a criminal offence to sell a salmon or sea trout, so always put your fish back unless you intend to eat it yourself and then only do so if the conservation rules of the river allow it; which some don't! There are no legal restrictions on keeping other fish types although many fisheries will impose limits. Tackle: The requirements vary according to species being fished for and the area of Scotland in which you are fishing. Fishing is legally restricted to rod and line only, but many rivers have extra legal restrictions, such as the Tweed where you can only fish by fly for much of the season. Other rivers have conservation codes which mean that fishery owners will ban the use of spinners, prawns, worms etc for all or part of the season

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Fly Fishing Knots

In fly fishing, as in all fishing, the knot the fisherman uses is crucial to success, as many of us have learned to our cost. It is important to get our fishing knots right, in securing our backing line to the reel; in connecting our backing line to the fly line; in joining our fly line to our leader; and in tying on our fly.

A number of the most reliable fly fishing knots are illustrated below. These are the fishing knots used in salmon, trout and sea trout fly fishing. These knots are simple, strong and reliable and include some of the most popular fly fishing knots in use today, such as the Perfection Loop and the Water Knot. For those who like to attach their leader to the fly line by a loop-to-loop connection,

It is important not only to select the right knot for a particular job but to tie it properly. Poorly tied knots will mean a lost fish or two and can cause some frustration which could also spoil a goods days fishing. Here are a few basic steps to follow when tying all knots for fly fishing. Before you tighten a knot, lubricate it with saliva or by dipping it in the water. This will help the knot slide and seat properly. Lubrication also decreases excessive heat which dramatically weakens monofilament. Heat is generated by the friction created when knots are drawn up tight. Tighten knots with a steady, continuous pull. Make sure the knot is tight and secure. After it is tied, pull on the line and leader to make sure it holds. It is better to test it now than to loose a fish. Use nippers to trim the material as close as possible without nicking or damaging the knot. On the next couple of pages you will find some of the major knots you will require during your fly fishing

Backing to Fly Reel

Used to attach the backing to your fly reel.

Step 1: Pass tag end of backing around spool hub two times and bring it out again between the same set of reel pillars. Tie an

overhand knot in end of line and tighten.

step 2:

Tie a second overhand knot around the standing part of line.

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Step 3: Draw second overhand knot tight.

Step 4:

Pull on standing line until the overhand knots tightens against reel hub.

Loop - Loop The loop to loop connection is for connecting your leader material to the fly line.

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PERFECTION LOOP

A reliable leader loop which lies in line with the leader. The loose end can be trimmed very close to the knot. Not as difficult as it seems at first sight. Use the thumb and forefinger of the left hand to grip the knot while manipulating the loop with the right hand. To tie the perfection knot follow the instructions below:

Step 1 Step 2

Step 3 The Finished Loop

THE WATER KNOT The water knot is stronger and more reliable and easier to tie than the blood knot. Although the typical advice is for three turns, you can use only two turns and the resulting knot seems quite reliable. Note that the length used for the dropper should be the one pointing away from the reel. Usually the length of the dropper is on average 10”, however some people prefer one between 6” and 8” due to the possibility of tangles.

1. With the "reel end" to your right, cut the leader at the point where the dropper is required and overlap the ends by about 10 inches, depending on the length of dropper .

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2 Form an overhand loop with the doubled nylon and grip firmly at point "A" with the right thumb and forefinger.

3 With the left hand, pull the dropper length along with the whole lower section of the leader through the loop at least twice.

4 Moisten, draw tight and trim the end which points towards the reel.

THE SLIP KNOT

I have used this knot for many years to attach my leader and droppers to my flies and it is an alternative to the half - blood knot.

Moisten and tighten the knot well and don't trim too close to the hook.

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Entomology

Part 1

When considering trout fishing it is important to understand what they eat and when in order to choose the appropriate fly. Aquatic Insects are insects that live in the water. They have a lifecycle that includes an aquatic nymph stage and then they grow into a winged adult. The adults, who only live for a few hours or days, then return to the water to mate and lay their eggs. They include mayflies, stone flies, caddis flies, damsel flies, and dragon flies. Terrestrial Insects are insects that live on the land and become fish food by falling in the water or are gobbled up form low lying growth. They include ants, beetles, grasshoppers, leafhoppers, crickets, wasps and bees, spiders, and worms. Crustaceans are an important part of the trout food chain. They generally crawl along the bottom of the water. Freshwater crustaceans include scuds, sow bugs, and crayfish. Various aquatic bugs are only available or in season at certain times. Fly fishers should try to imitate bugs during their prime periods. This isn't essential since almost any fly can catch a fish at almost any time. However, the truly excellent fly fishing occurs when the trout are taking a certain bug and the fly in use represents that bug. Knowing when to expect those bugs and using a fly to match can significantly improve your odds for some really great fishing. The behavioural patterns of trout vary significantly between the species, the size and the circumstances in which they are found. The trout’s habits also change at different times of the day, and again this is dependant on the weather conditions. Feeding habits and behaviours also change between faster and slower waters of the rivers, and within the lochs and lakes. Below are only a few of the major aquatic bugs that you will find throughout the fly fishing season, it is not the full catalogue of the larva, nymphs and flies found in fly fishing. To list the full spectrum of them all, it would take another full book of information. To learn more about the life cycle and lifespan of the aquatic insects, why not buy one of the great entomology or fly tying books from either the internet or from your local tackle shop. Caddis flies, (or called Caddis, Caddis fly, Sedge) Caddis flies go through the egg, larva, pupa and adult stages. The first Caddis hatches of the year will vary with elevation but normally start hatching about the last week of May. The numbers and frequency increase until about the last week of June or first week in July and then steadily decrease for the remainder of the season. Chironomids, (or called Blood Worm, Midge, Gnat) the eggs hatch into larva and form mud tubes from bottom material and mucous. A few species have free swimming larva such as the Bloodworm. Various species of Chironomids hatch whenever there is water free of ice. Seasonal peaks occur from the third week in May to the second week in June and then steadily decline into the fall months.

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Damselflies, (or called Damselfly, Damsel) The adult has four wings that fold over the back. The male of the most common variety is blue while the female is more of a slate colour. For the nymph, a fairly large and bulbous head sits on a tubular shaped body. The eyes of the damsel are fairly pronounced but not as large or pronounced as the eyes of a dragonfly nymph. Mayflies, (or called Mayflies, Mays, Upwings, Duns, Spinners, Dippers, Fish Flies) 'Hatches' from nymph to sub-imago can begin in the last half of April. Dragonflies, The main hatches of the dragonfly from nymph into adult peaks about mid July with lesser hatches both before and after that time. Not to be mistaken for its cousin the damselfly, the adult dragonfly cannot fold its wings along its back. Dragonflies are usually much bigger and thicker bodied than damselflies. Both are very predacious in both the nymph and adult stage. Nymphs will feed on almost any creature in the lake including very small fish If fishing is slow, and you see some rises in the shallows, and you have seen some Mayflies, and you are willing to catch the smaller fish, try a dry Mayfly pattern in the shallows. It will often provide some excitement on what could otherwise be a slow day. On occasion, even that larger fish may be taking the dry May. Entomology is rooted in nearly all human cultures from prehistoric times. Most insects can easily be recognized to order such as Hymenoptera (bees, wasps, and ants) or Coleoptera (beetles). However, insects other than Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) are typically identifiable to genus or species only through the use of Identification keys and monographs. Because the class Insecta contains a very large number of species and the characteristics separating them are unfamiliar, and often subtle (or invisible without a microscope), this is often very difficult even for a specialist. Insect identification is an increasingly common hobby, with butterflies and dragonflies being the most popular. Many entomologists specialize in a single order or even a family of insects, and a number of these subspecialties are given their own informal names, typically (but not always) derived from the scientific name of the group: Apiology (or melittology) - bees Coleopterology - beetles Dipterology - flies Hemipterology - true bugs Lepidopterology - moths and butterflies Myrmecology - ants Orthopterology - grasshoppers, crickets Trichopterology - caddis flies Fly fishing men and women who fish for salmon; trout and grayling requires a good knowledge of entomology; the study of insects that form a large part of the fish’s diet. The four main types of insects used in fly fishing are of interest to the angler so that they can match the correct insect with the correct time of year. Entomology Part 2 will be on Tricoptera - The caddisflies are an order, Trichoptera, of insects with approximately 12,000 described species. Also called sedge-flies or rail-flies, they are small moth-like insects having two pairs of hairy membranous wings. They are closely related to Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies) which have scales on their wings, and the two orders together form the superorder Amphiesmenoptera.

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Some really good books for you to read, all available either in paperback or in download format directly from www.lulu.com The books would make a perfect Birthday or Christmas present or just as a gift for your loved ones.

This is and ideal book for the person who Full directory of fly fisheries, rivers and

is new to fly fishing. The book is laid out lochs/lakes through out Britain & Ireland in layman’s terms so that it is easily with full contact details. Only £12.99 understood. Only £12.99

100 great tasty trout and salmon recipes Hundreds of funny jokes, quotes and A guide to smoking fish, beef, game for you to use when you catch your fish quips to keep you laughing during the and poultry, with some lovely recipes. Only £12.99 days you can’t get out to wet a line or Only £12.99 two. Only £12.99

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Putting My Finger On The Trigger

By Chip Drozenski

I have been fortunate to be part of a small group of fly fishermen and fishing guides who readily share information for pattern design, application of material, creative techniques and some really crazy ideas in the quest to deceive trout. Over the last thirty years there have been many “me too” designs and failures but there has been some real GOLD in these pursuits plus some great friendships. My tying techniques were initially grounded in the “Catskill” style but has evolved over the years. For me, effective design keys on profile, silhouette, material movement and triggers. Gary La Fontaine, Rene Harrop, Mike Lawson, Charlie Broe and Hans Weilenmann are a few of the tiers that have had a significant influence on my patterns which gravitate to impressionistic with a natural movement. One of the great fly concepts is the CDC & ELK introduced by Hans. I was intrigued by the application of the CDC and the tying technique as I already had many patterns combining CDC and elk that were productive but not special. My fly series, THREAD FLIES, already had proven that CDC movement and profile were very key for highly effective May fly patterns especially for very selective fish. Abandoning most of my old caddis patterns for the CDC and ELK was easy, it became my best producer. With a slight change to the body it also is “killer” as a TRICO cluster. I also noticed that swinging a wet sparse CDC & ELK during certain phases of the hatch would, at times, produce. A diving version was now my quest. My initial attempts failed as I drifted off course making the modifications too complex, altering its effectiveness. I needed a profile and trigger that could really get the fish going. I had added various colour teardrops early on but had no noticeable success. After much trial and error I went back to my early teardrop variations searching for a difference maker...a small olive/grey parachute with a black post and amber antron shuck is my “go to” baetis. The X-CADDIS with amber antron is a favourite. With a bead head for weight and a teardrop profile, viola, the amber teardrop diving CDC & ELK started to immediately produce. Just a slight change, but now I am confident during the hatching phases top to bottom. I vary the size and colour of the CDC & ELK but not the colour of the teardrop. I have received lots of feedback from fishermen and guides worldwide that like the results. In many places they fish it as a dropper off a small bugger and in the Box Canyon on the Henry’s Fork they drop it off a large stone fly. Give it a try and any feedback is appreciated!! Oh, well! Back to the vice…………. Chip Pattern and tying instructions: http://danica.com/flytier/cdrozenski/teardrop_diving_cdcelk.htm

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