English Lakes Trout Report

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English Lakes Trout report. Provide by the Friends of Dragonbat thanks Patrick

 

CUMBRIA - THE LAKE DISTRICT EDEN, ALSO EAMONT AND LOWTHER

 

Penrith Angling Association

 

Andrew Dixon tel. no. 01768 88294

 

e-mail penrithaa@ukonline.co.uk

 

website www.penrithanglers.co.uk

 

The Association, established in 1850, controls over 37 miles of bank on the Rivers Eden, Eamont and Lowther plus some minor tributaries. These waters offer some of the best Wild Brown Trout Fishing in the Country, set in the unspoilt and idyllic scenery of the Eden Valley.

 

The whole river system is a candidate European Special Area of Conservation (cSAC) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The Eden rises at Mallerstang in Cumbria, flowing over carboniferous limestone making it rich in habitat and species biodiversity. It meanders through beautiful meadows and woodlands with a large variety of wildlife, making a perfectly peaceful place for fishing - a rare treat for anglers these days.

 

Trout average 12" and just under 1 lb. in the main Rivers but 2 lbs. fish are not uncommon.

 

These wild native fish are hard fighters and fin perfect. A fish of a lifetime is always a possibility. In recent years at least two fish around the 4 lbs. mark have been caught with several over 3 lbs. The record Eden Brown Trout is 8 lbs. and at least four other captures over 6 lbs. have been recorded. Without a doubt, these leviathans still lurk in the depths but only rarely come to the artificial fly. It's just a case of being in the right place at the right time.

 

The Club, established in 1850, has an average of 300 Members from all over the Country. Members have access to several miles of fishing which is not available to visitors.

 

Trout, Grayling and Salmon provide all year round fishing. The Club has Exchange Tickets with 8 other local clubs, adding up to 100 miles of additional fishing. The Winter Grayling Fishing is for Members only.

 

For Membership details contact The Secretary : Andrew Dixon, 3 Newtown Cottages, Skirwith, Penrith, Cumbria CA10 1RJ tel. no. 01768 88294.

 

Visitor Tickets - Day Tickets £10.00 and Weekly Tickets £40.00.

 

Fishing is fly only. Most of the Club Water is available on the above Visitor Tickets, however, several miles are kept aside for Members Only. Anglers must be in possession of an Environment Agency Fishing Licence. There is a bag limit of 2 Brown Trout per day. All fish under 10" must be returned. Anglers are required to abide by the Club Rules and observe the normal etiquette of good sportsmanship.

 

Visitor Tickets can be purchased from :

 

Charles R. Sykes Sport Shop, The Punch Bowl Inn,

 

4 Great Dockray, Penrith Askham, Nr. Penrith

 

tel. no. 01768 8626418 tel. no.01931 712443

 

 

 

Langwathby Post Office and Stores, Pooley Bridge Post Office,

 

Langwathby, Nr. Penrith Pooley Bridge, Nr. Penrith

 

Tel. no. 01768 881342 tel. no. 017684 86266.

 

Fishery Report

 

The water level is currently high and coloured.

 

The Brown Trout season opens on 15th March. Although prospects for March will be better if the level drops and settles, fish can be taken in high coloured water provided conditions are settled. There will be hatches of Olives during April. Wet flies fished downstream will be effective with patterns such as Waterhen Bloa, Snipe & Purple, Partridge & Orange, Black Spider and Greenwells. Hook size : 12 - 18 for Wets and 10 - 26 for Dries.

 

EDEN

 

General : the recent bad weather caused massive spates and some of the highest levels for many years. Salmon caught before 16th June must be returned to the water unharmed.

 

Lazonby Estate

 

Howard Oliver tel. no. 01768 898229

 

Ghillie - Edwin Tailford tel. no. 01228 560122

 

The Estate offers 4.5 miles of Salmon fishing with opportunities for some superb Wild Brown Trout. Rods available for Season, Week or Day, in secluded, under-fished water. Accommodation can be arranged. Corporate Hospitality Days and Instruction can be arranged - contact the author, Patrick Arnold.

 

Fishery Report

 

The water level is currently high. There are no reports of any Salmon being caught on these beats.

 

The Environment Agency River Eden Spring Salmon Radio-Tracking Project : Spring Salmon have declined in the River Eden and elsewhere. Radio-tracking work in 1999 and 2000 was very successful and the Agency will be radio-tracking Eden Spring Salmon again in 2002. This will enable the Agency to verify and build on their knowledge of Salmon spawning grounds, to investigate the survival of rod-caught fish to spawning and to help examine the genetics of Eden Salmon. This information is essential to manage the remaining stock successfully.

 

The Agency hope to radio-tag 120 Salmon during 2002. The help of anglers is essential to this Project.

 

The local Agency Staff have been in close contact with Fishery Owners, Clubs and anglers along the Eden about what is required. Fish are retained in knot less keep nets which in many cases the Agency has provided and these are either allocated to specific individuals or placed in Fishing Huts on certain beats.

 

Anglers taking part must either have a mobile phone or be close to a land line otherwise the time taken for the EA Staff to come out and fit the radio-tag would be too long, stressing the fish and thereby putting it at risk. If the EA Staff are unable to attend quickly (half an hour to one hour very maximum) the angler will be asked to return the fish.

 

Letters of dispensation from the National Salmon Bye-law for the sole purposes of this study have been issued to the relevant Fishery Owners and Clubs. This, however, only refers to the immediate release - ALL fish must be returned to the river whether the EA tag them or not.

 

These Salmon will also be tagged with numbered yellow external tags. Anglers catching one of these fish should telephone the Agency on 01768 866666 and ask for Fisheries. Out of hours call their answer-phone on 01768 892580 and inform them of the tag number, date and location of capture. For this information there is a Reward of £15.

 

If after the 16th June an angler chooses to keep the fish please return the radio-tag which is located in the fishes stomach.

 

Remember ……………… to gain the information from this Project in order to help these fish, they must be allowed to spawn. It is hoped that all these radio-tagged fish will be returned. When returning the fish please do so as quickly as possible and try to avoid moving the fish from the river.

 

The Grayling Season ends on 14th March. Anglers during February landed a few Grayling on heavy Nymphs fished close to the bank.

 

The Brown Trout Season opens on15th March and this stretch of the River is well worth a visit once the weather improves.

 

DERWENT

 

Anglers are urged to comment on the River Derwent Salmon Action Plan. The Environment Agency is giving anglers the chance to comment on the management of the Salmon stocks in the River Derwent. The Draft Plan was presented at an Open Meeting in the Trout Hotel, Cockermouth, on the 23rd January. The consultation document sets out their plan of action for the river. It highlights the present status of the river and it's current Salmon stocks. It also sets out issues and proposes actions to investigate or address. The Agency welcomes the views of anglers, riparian owners, conservation bodies and any other individuals or organisations with an interest in the river Derwent. Copies of the Salmon Action Plan may be obtained from Jackie Currie at the Environment Agency office in Penrith, tel. no. 01768

 

KENT

 

Burneside & District Angling Association

 

Day Tickets : Jolly Anglers' Inn, Burneside 01539 732552

 

Burneside Post Office 01539 726114

 

The Kent River system is a candidate European Special Area of Conservation (cSAC) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) with its headwaters in the upper Kentmere Valley.

 

The Club water is on the upper stretch of the River below Staveley and through to just beyond Burneside. The upper beats are on undulating farmland whilst the middle beats have more urban characteristics and the lower beats returning to more open countryside where the Sprint joins the Kent. The upper beats offer some excellent opportunities for Brown Trout and later in the season all beats provide opportunities for Salmon and Sea Trout.

 

Fishery Report

 

The water level is currently high.

 

The Brown Trout Season opens on 15th March but prospects should improve from early April onwards. Early Season tactics are downstream wet fly. Try a Greenwell's Glory on the dropper with a Black Pennell on the point. Black Spiders also work well. Some local anglers prefer traditional patterns such as Alexandra, Teal Blue & Silver or Peter Ross. Hook size : normally 12 - 16 or in very high water size 10 with a faster retrieve.

 

RIVERS UPDATE - from information provided by the Environment Agency. Sea Trout redd counts were hampered by high waters but Salmon counts in December were good, especially on the Kent with fish spawning into the New Year. The Leven ova collected is down on last year due to the capture of fewer adult fish for stripping. The final total finished at 6,880. Ova was also collected from fish in the Crake these produced 8,320 Salmon and 3,800 Sea Trout. The ovum is being used to exam survival rates in the Crake. To date all the ovum are in good health.

 

Provisional Final rod catches for 2001 (returns are still trickling in but the overall total will not change that much).

 

Salmon Sea Trout

 

Border Esk 470 949

 

Eden 1041 296

 

Derwent 935 385

 

Irt 28 14

 

Ehen 125 48

 

Calder 11 2

 

Cumbrian Esk 43 86

 

Kent 230 202

 

Leven 3 53

 

Crake 10 29

 

Duddon 24 126

 

LANCASHIRE

 

RIBBLE

 

For Members of Windermere, Ambleside & District Angling Association there is an Exchange Ticket System with Ribchester Anglers. For further information contact Grahame Hall, tel. no. 015395 60614.

 

RIVERS UPDATE - from information provided by the Environment Agency.

 

Updated rod catches for 2001 on the Lune so far are 481 Salmon and 924 Sea Trout. On the Ribble and Hodder 319 Salmon and 463 Sea Trout. A lot of licences were returned due to Foot and Mouth Disease. On the Wyre the updated rod catches are 8 Salmon and 22 Sea Trout.

 

Final figures for Salmon and Sea Trout runs for 2001 (2000 in brackets) - there is no specific split between Salmon and Sea Trout. Information is quoted as Counts Up and Counts Down.

 

Hodder Up 3694 (4854) Down 820 (549)

 

For the majority of the 2000 data the Counts have not been verified. From the middle of May the Counts have been verified. This is clearly identified in the results when looking at the monthly analyses. For these months that are not verified they are minimum estimates.

 

Ribble Up 7364 (8638) Down 797 (1029)

 

This information is in the same format as above, being movements upstream and downstream.

 

In December the Counter had to be switched off due to technical problems.

 

The Counts for the Ribble indicate that 2001 was a poor year.

 

Redd Count figures will be available shortly.

 

WEST YORKSHIRE

 

WHARFE

 

Bolton Abbey Estate

 

Mark Whitehead tel. no. Estate Office 01756 710227

 

Mobile tel. no. 07752 887 556

 

Tickets are available for fishing the Estate Waters on the River Wharfe, a stretch of approximately 4.5 miles along both banks, from Barden Aqueduct downstream to Kex Beck.

 

The Brown Trout Season for Season Rod Members starts on 25th March and for Day Tickets on 1st April.

 

Recommended Fly Patterns for April include : Wet - March Brown, Waterhen Bloa and Snipe & Purple ; Dry - Grey Duster and Double Badger.

 

LAKES

 

ULLSWATER

 

This is a beautiful and dramatic Water with Place Fell as a backdrop. Whilst the Brown Trout Season opens on 15th March the Lake is high and water temperatures low after all the rain and snow melt. It will take a couple of warmer and more settled weeks before conditions for fly fishing are right.

 

Boat anglers should drift along the shoreline staying within 6' - 8' of water. Use an intermediate or sinking line such as a DI - 3 to keep the flies down.

 

For bank anglers, there are a number of good areas off the A592 Glenridding to Pooley Bridge Road on the North-West Shore adjacent to the roadside. A good stretch is from Aira Point and fish down towards Glencoyne Bridge. When wading beware of drop-offs and fish parallel to the shoreline. Try a team of flies with a Black Zulu on the top dropper, a Pheasant Tail Nymph on the middle dropper and a weighted Stick Fly on the point.

 

Recommended patterns include : Mallard & Claret, Black Pennell, Black Zulu, Pheasant Tail Nymph and a Stick Fly on the point.

 

WINDERMERE

 

Windermere is England's largest natural Lake and with it's tree-lined banks and magnificent surrounding fells, one of the most beautiful. At the time of writing this is particularly so as many of the tops are covered in snow. The Brown Trout Season opens on 15th March but as the Lake is high and water temperatures low after all the rain and snow melt it will be a difficult start for fly fishermen. It will need a two or three weeks of warmer and more settled weather before conditions for fly fishing are right.

 

The South Basin is more productive during the early part of the Season. Boat anglers should try around the Islands keeping to the shallow water. Alternatively drift loch style close to the shoreline keeping within a depth of 6' - 8' of water - anglers should always just be able to see the bottom. The wind direction will dictate which side of the Lake to fish but early in the Season the Western shoreline usually fishes better. Use an intermediate or sinking line such as a DI - 3 to keep flies down.

 

Bank anglers should try the Graythwaite Shore along the 4 miles controlled by Windermere, Ambleside & District Angling Association - for further information contact Chris Sodo, tel. no. 015394 45083. Tickets from Tourist Information Centres. This shoreline is situated on the Western bank of Windermere's South Basin. Parking is available on the roadside or in the Fishery Car Park.

 

Recommended patterns include : Mallard & Claret, Black Pennell, Bibio and Blae & Black.

 

Hook size 10 - 12 depending on the wave. Other good Season patterns are : Caddis - Stick Fly - on the point, Ombudsman and Cock Robin.

 

Competition News ……………..

 

Windermere, Ambleside & District Angling Association Competition for Club Members : the Maurice Martindale Competition is on Sunday 5th May and the Jim Tierney Competition is on Wednesday 8th May. Both Competitions are held on Windermere. For further information contact John Newton, tel. no. 015395 38869.

 

CONISTON

 

This Water opens for Brown Trout on 15th March. Here to conditions will be difficult until the weather warms up as water levels are high and water temperatures cold.

 

Bank anglers can access the Water from the following areas : East Shore - at Low Peel Near, Bailiff's Wood, Machells Coppice and Monk Coniston. The shoreline from Machells Coppice (Brantwood) to Low Peel Near car park is as popular stretch. West Shore - at Sunny Bank.

 

Boat anglers should drift loch style close into the shore in depths of 6' - 8' of water.

 

Recommended patterns include : traditional Dark Wets such as Mallard & Claret, Black Pennell, Bibio and Blae & Black.

 

OTHER LAKES AND TARNS opening on 15th March for Brown Trout include : Buttermere, Crummock Water, Loweswater, Ennerdale Water, Haweswater, Derwent Water and Blea Tarn, Langdale.

 

STILLWATERS

 

THE BORDERS

 

BROOM FISHERIES - Annan

 

John Wright & Carole Lloyd tel. no. / Fax 01461 700209

 

e-mail : broomfisheries@btinternet.com

 

This is a Troutmaster Water

 

The Fishery consists of 4 Fly only Lochs which are well stocked with Rainbow, Brown and Golden Trout ranging from approximately 2 lbs. - in excess of 20 lbs. The Lochs are set in beautiful naturalised surroundings with prolific natural aquatic life forms. These waters are ideal for Nymph and Dry Fly Fishing.

 

Fishery Report

 

This Water is fishing well with many anglers returning double figure bags with plenty of Trout between 3 lbs. and 5 lbs. Whilst the fish are slow to take they start to feed avidly during any mild spell. When the conditions are suitable the best tactics are a floating line with a long leader and Red Buzzers or Bloodworm patterns fished static. In colder conditions use a sinking line as the fish are then 6' - 8' down. Use small mini-lures - size 10 or even 12 - such as Cat's Whisker, White Fritz or Green Fritz.

 

.

 

CUMBRIA - THE LAKE DISTRICT

 

BLENCARN LAKE FISHERY

 

Ken Stamper tel. no. 01768 88284

 

This 15 acres Fishery, opening on 23rd March, lies in peaceful farming countryside in the Eden Valley well known for it's scenic beauty, with a splendid panorama of the Pennines, dominated by its highest Peak, Cross Fell, can be enjoyed from the shore of the Lake.

 

Expect good results from floating line tactics with Nymphs or alternatively sinking line with a Montana Nymph or mini-lures such as Cat's Whisker or Viva.

 

Competition News …………….

 

The Airflo Heat will be held on Saturday 18th May.

 

WATENDLATH TARN TROUT FISHERY

 

Stephen Edmondson tel. no. 01768 777293

 

This is a Troutmaster Water

 

This Fishery lies at the head of the Watendlath Valley in magnificent scenery.

 

Fishery Report

 

This is an exposed Water and due to the recent weather conditions anglers have not been out.

 

As soon as there is some milder and settled weather prospects are good and the Trout will start moving up higher in the water. Try intermediate lines with mini-lures and Nymphs or a floating line with a long leader and a team of Buzzers and Nymphs.

 

Anglers planning to visit this Water should contact Stephen Edmondson on the above number to check local weather conditions prior to setting out.

 

Patrick Arnold is a Fly Fishing Instructor, Guide and Ghillie and will take anglers out on this Water.

 

KNOTT END TARN - Ravenglass

 

Bill Arnold tel. no. 01229 717255

 

Fax : 01229 717698

 

e-mail : bill@arnold.net

 

This Water opens on the 1st April.

 

This three and a half acre Tarn is stocked with Brown and Rainbow Trout. Dry Fly or Surface Nymph fishing only. Floating line only. No sinking or sink tip lines. Barbless hooks. Size 10 max. No lures. For booking see above information.

 

Prospects are good as the water should have warmed up by Opening Day.

 

KENTMERE

 

Joe Harrison tel. no. 01768 88263.

 

This Fishery, made up of two Lakes and a short stretch of the River Kent, nestles at the bottom of Ewe Crags, just below the village of Kentmere. The scenery is stunning.

 

East Bay Lake - this Rainbow Trout Water has been open throughout the Winter.

 

Fishery Report

 

This is another exposed Water and water levels are currently high after all the rain. Few anglers have been out due to inclement weather.

 

Prospects are good - on milder days the Trout have been feeding just below the surface.

 

The best tactics will be intermediate lines with mini-lures and Nymphs or floating lines with a long leader with Nymphs and small Black Buzzer patterns.

 

Competition News ………………

 

The Airflo Heat is on Sunday 14th April.

 

Main Lake - this Brown Trout Water opens on 15th March. As the Lake has the River Kent flowing through it the water level is high and the temperature cold after all the rain and snow melt. Prospects are good from the end of March/early April.

 

Boat anglers should concentrate at the top end of the Lake or alternatively drift loch style along the shorelines. Use an intermediate or sinking line such as a DI - 3 and a slow retrieve. Good early Season patterns are Bibio on the top dropper, Dunkeld on the middle dropper and a Black Pennell on the point.

 

The bank side offers plenty of opportunities for anglers.

 

Patrick Arnold is a Fly Fishing Instructor, Guide and Ghillie and will take anglers out on this Water.

 

ESTHWAITE WATER

 

David Coleman tel. no. 015394 36541

 

e-mail : trout@hawkshead.demon.co.uk

 

This is a Troutmaster Water

 

Esthwaite Water is a beautiful Natural Lake extending to 280 acres with deep basins and extensive shallows creating a rich and varied Fishery. It is a first class, well-managed Fishery, in the idyllic scenery of the English Lake District near to the picturesque village of Hawkshead.

 

There are long drifts for true loch style fishing. Even in the worst weather there are sheltered bays. Fly life is prolific on this Water, especially in the Spring and early Summer, affording boat anglers the best boat fishing using imitative tactics in the North of England.

 

This Fishery is well worth a visit.

 

This year's Open Day takes place on Sunday 17th March featuring a range of events including Heat 1 of the Shakespeare Sponsored Esthwaite Water 2002 Open Pairs Competition, a Casting Clinic, a Casting Competition, Fly Tying Demonstration, Special Offers on Tackle and free Refreshments. The full Team of Staff will be there on the day to help and give advice about the fishing on Esthwaite and the forthcoming season. Paul Proctor, Angling Writer for Trout Fishermen and Trout & Salmon, will be on hand. Anglers and their families will be made very welcome. There is a small pool by the Office where children can try their hand at fishing.

 

Fishery Report

 

Anglers who have been out have been recording bags, including over wintered Rainbow Trout up to 5 lbs. on fast sinking lines and lures - Sparklers, Boobies, Cat's Whisker, Appetizer and deeply fished Fry patterns. The best areas for boat anglers have been just off the Ticket Office and around the cages. For bank anglers the Car Park in the South Basin.

 

Prospects for March - early April :

 

The first major stocking of the season has taken place and trickle stocking on a weekly basis will continue until October. The immediate prospects on this Water are excellent.

 

The best bags will be taken in the South Basin on fast sinking lines or slime lines, using a variety of lures including Sparklers, Boobies, Maid Marion, Consett Budgie, Viva Variant and Cat's Whisker. If the fish are in the top 3' - 4' of water, anglers using a DI - 7 will need to strip back as soon as the flies hit the water.

 

As soon as the weather warms up, expect hatches of Black Buzzers, especially in sheltered areas. Anglers looking for top of the water or sub-surface sport should always have a rod set up with a floating line, with Black Buzzer Pupa, to take advantage of any sudden rises. It may be necessary to put an Epoxy Buzzer on the point. Alternatively, try an intermediate line with Nymphs such as Diawl Bach, Pheasant Tail and Gold Ribbed Hare's Ear as well as a Buzzer Pupa in the team. These methods will be most effective for the over wintered Trout, many of which are 5 lbs. plus.

 

Best areas : South Basin - in front of the Ticket Office, off the Main Car Park, Stockie Bay, and, possibly, off The Cages.

 

Competition News …………

 

The Shakespeare Sponsored Esthwaite Open Pairs Competition is an established major and very popular event. The top two pairs go through to the Final from each of the 6 Heats. Dates : Heat 1 - Sunday 17th March ; Heat 2 - Saturday 6th April ; Heat 3 - Saturday 27th April ; Heat 4 - Saturday 11th May ; Heat 5 - Saturday 8th June and Heat 6 - Saturday 6th July. The Final is on Saturday 7th September 2002. For further information on this Competition, contact Fishery Manager, David Coleman, above as Entries are currently being taken.

 

A New Competition the John Norris Loch Style Pairs will be held at Esthwaite Water on Sunday 19th May. There will be some excellent prizes. For further information contact John Norris or Howard Croston on tel. no. 01768 864211.

 

The Troutmasters 2001 Fish Off will be on Sunday 21st April.

 

The Lakeland Fly Dressers' Guild Boat Fishing Competition will be held at Esthwaite Water on Wednesday evening, 12th June. Further information from Guild Secretary, Martin Thompson, tel. no. 015395 61257.

 

~~~~~

 

The Fishery's aim for 2002 is to continue to provide a high level of sport and they will endeavour to continue to improve their facilities. Feedback from anglers is always welcome and the Management is always willing to take on board your comments. Please do not hesitate to write or e-mail the Fishery on trout@hawkshead.demon.co.uk with your suggestions.

 

Individual Fly Fishing Tuition, Courses, Junior Days and Corporate Days with the author, Patrick Arnold, can be arranged.

 

MOSS ECCLES

 

John Newton tel. no. 015395 38869

 

This Brown Trout Water opens on 15th March. Moss Eccles, an SSSI, is an upland Tarn that fishes well once the weather warms up at the end of March/early April. The 20 minute steep climb up to this Water is well worth it due to the view and tranquility.

 

Recommended patterns : Mallard & Claret, Bibio, Black Pennell, Pheasant Tail Nymph and Stick Fly.

 

DUBBS RESERVOIR

 

John Newton tel. no. 015395 38869

 

Opens on 15th March.

 

This upland reservoir fishes well from the start of the season, especially if the weather is mild. Try an intermediate or sinking line with mini-lures such as Viva, Cat's Whisker and Orange Fritz. Alternatively, try a team of Wet Flies - Dunkeld, Black Pennell and Parmachene Belle on the point.

 

GHYLL HEAD

 

John Newton tel. no. 015395 38869

 

Opens on 15th March. Water levels are high after all the rain.

 

Ghyll Head is a matured and generally sheltered Water and the setting can only be described as beautiful, with the Dam End of the reservoir offering wonderful views of the South Lakeland mountains. These views are particularly spectacular if there is snow on the tops.

 

This Water is always worth fishing early in the season. Most anglers will use intermediate or sinking lines with mini-lures such as White Fritz, Green & Black Fritz, Orange Blob and Viva.

 

On milder days it is well worth prospecting the sheltered bays for over wintered Trout with a floating line and a team of Buzzers and Nymphs - try Black Buzzers, Diawl Bach and Gold Ribbed Hare's Ear. Anglers who concentrate on this imitative approach should enjoy some wonderful sport.

 

This Water contains tagged Rainbow Trout up to 6 lbs. plus - many of these will be over wintered - these must be immediately returned to the water unharmed.

 

HIGH NEWTON

 

John Newton tel. no. 015395 38869

 

Opens on 15th March. This Water contains tagged Rainbow Trout up to 6 lbs. plus - many of which will be over wintered - these must be immediately returned to the water unharmed.

 

This upland reservoir is situated nearly 600' above sea level and set in beautiful surroundings overlooking Morecambe Bay and the Winster Valley. It is an exposed Water and can be cold early in the season.

 

Tactics at this time of the year vary according to conditions. When cold and windy try a sinking line with lures such as White Blob, Pink Blob, Orange Blob, Black & Green Fritz and a Cat's Whisker. Keep changing depth until the Trout are located. Retrieve should be slow. In milder conditions use a floating line with a team of Nymphs such as Gold Ribbed Hare's Ear, Pheasant Tail, Diawl Bach and a weighted Montana or Damsel Nymph on the point.

 

This Water contains tagged Rainbow Trout up to 6 lbs. plus - many of which will be over wintered - these must be immediately returned to the water unharmed.

 

BIGLAND HALL TROUT FISHERY

 

Tony Myers tel. no. 015395 31361

 

Mobile tel. no. 0777 1686 319

 

This is a Troutmaster Water.

 

This Fishery is situated within the Lake District National Park and is sensational in it's beauty, peacefulness and magnificent vistas. As fly life is prolific this is one of the best imitative fisheries in the North of England for bank anglers.

 

For the time being Sport Tickets only are available : £10.00 for 8 hours or £5.00 for 5 hours.

 

Fishery Report

 

Few anglers have been out due to the weather but those fishing the deeper water have been catching on sinking lines and mini-lures.

 

As soon as the weather picks up try prospecting the sheltered Bays using a floating line and a team of Nymphs and Buzzers on a long leader. Start by fishing close to the margins. Expect savage takes from the over wintered Trout.

 

Patrick Arnold runs Courses and gives Individual Tuition at Bigland Hall Trout Fishery .

 

WYCH ELM

 

Ken Gill tel. no. 01524 781449

 

Fishery Report

 

This Water is fishing exceptionally well with a rod average for February of 4.2 Anglers using floating lines and Buzzers are still recording the biggest bags but Olive lures brought in a number of double figure Rainbows up to 14 lbs.

 

Best recent Rainbow Trout : 12 lbs. 8 ozs. taken on a Cat's Whisker by Chris Fallows.

 

Best recent catches : Roy Anderson 18 Rainbow Trout, Paul Procter 14 and Brian Whitlock also 14. All taken on Black Buzzers and Bloodworm patterns.

 

This Fishery is well worth a visit.

 

Patrick Arnold runs Courses in "Imitative Fishing Techniques" and gives Individual Lessons on this Water.

 

NORTH LANCASHIRE

 

TEWITFIELD

 

Les Bratby tel. no. 01524 730331

 

This is a Troutmaster Water

 

Fishery Report

 

Anglers visiting this Water are enjoying some excellent sport - the current rod average is a phenomenal 5. Anglers using floating lines and teams of Buzzers out performing those using sinking lines and lures - although lures have accounted for the heaviest recent fish. During the past two weeks 24 Rainbow Trout over 4 lbs. have been recorded

 

Best recent Rainbow Trout : 15 lbs. 8 ozs. taken on a Cat's Whisker by Steve Drummond. Junior Angler, James Moss (age 15), landed one of 10 lbs. 4 ozs. using a floating line and Black Lure.

 

Best recent catches : Colin Parkin 15 taken on Buzzers, Rick Nuttall 13, including 2 Blues also on Buzzers, and Richie Allen 12 up to 10 lbs. on Nymphs and Buzzers.

 

Competition News …………..

 

The Airflo Heat is on Saturday 27th April.

 

The Troutmasters 2001 Fish Off is on Sunday 12th May.

 

The Tagged Fish Competition prize, fund which stood at £300, has just been claimed by a lucky angler ! - H. Kariayigit from Lincolnshire. The fund has been restarted with £50 and anglers entering the Competition pay a £1 so it rapidly builds up again.

 

The first Cash Prize Competition was held on Sunday 24th February 2002 and the winner of £50 was John Vass with 3 fish weighing 9 lbs. 12 ozs. ; in second place for £30 was Derek Moore with 3 fish for 9 lbs. 8 ozs. and third for £20 was Dave Jones with 3 fish for 8 lbs. 7 ozs. There should be another similar Competition at the end of April or May. For further information contact Les Bratby on the above number.

 

Patrick Arnold runs Courses in "Imitative Fishing Techniques" and gives Individual Lessons on this Water.

 

CONDER VALLEY

 

Colin & Ken Newsham tel. no. 01524 752566

 

e-mail : colin@forresthills.demon.co.uk

 

Fishery Report

 

This is another sheltered Water and is producing some good catches on sinking lines using Damsel Nymphs, Pheasant Tail Nymphs or alternatively floating lines and a long leader with Buzzer and Bloodworm patterns. Other successful patterns : Gold Head Damsels and Red Tag.

 

River Conder

 

The three quarter mile stretch of the River Conder opens for Brown Trout on 15th March.

 

Downstream Wet Fly tactics should prove successful. Recommended flies : small traditional patterns such as Mallard & Claret, Black Pennell also Gold Ribbed Hare's Ear and Pheasant Tail Nymph. Alternatively, try a team of small Black Spiders.

 

Patrick Arnold runs Courses and Individual Tuition at Conder Valley on ‘Imitative Fishing Techniques’. Anyone interested in the next Course should contact Patrick Arnold or Colin or Ken Newsham at Conder Valley.

 

Further information on Conder Valley Fly Fishery, Corporate Hospitality Days and Fly Fishing Courses can be found on the Fishery website : www.forresthills.net

 

BANK HOUSE

 

Jan Dobson tel. no. 01524 770412

 

e-mail : Bankhouseflyfishing@bt.internet.com

 

This is a Troutmaster Water.

 

As there are only a number of limited rods, it is always advisable to telephone the Fishery before visiting to avoid disappointment and a wasted journey.

 

Fishery Report

 

This Water continues to fish well with a current rod average of 3.1 which does not reflect the quality of some of the bags recorded. During milder spells the Trout are only 3' down so use floating line tactics. Most anglers find a team of Buzzers - Black or Red - and Nymphs the best approach. Others find they prefer a sight indicator with two small Gold Head "Buzzers" - Orange or Yellow. Another successful pattern is a Yellow "Nymph" with a short marabou tail fished static.

 

Best recent Tiger Trout : 8 lbs. 8 ozs. taken on an Orange Gold Head Buzzer by Stewart Roden.

 

Best recent Rainbow Trout : 12 lbs. 3 ozs. taken on a Black Buzzer by Dave Morris.

 

Best recent catches : Peter Dobson landed 2 superb fish totalling 14 lbs. 8 ozs. - a Rainbow Trout of 8 lbs. 8 ozs. and a Tiger Trout of 6 lbs. both taken on a Gold Head Daddy Longlegs.

 

Terry Baxter and Dave Rump each with11 taken on Buzzers.

 

Best flies : as above and also White Montana Nymph.

 

Best tactics : as above. Any angler using an intermediate line and Nymphs must ensure a slow retrieve.

 

WYRESIDE LAKE

 

Bob Birkin tel. no. 01524 792093

 

Fishery Report

 

Few anglers have been out but on milder days Trout have been taken on floating lines using a Cat's Whisker or White Fritz lure. An angler who braved the high winds and fished the windward bank landed 5 Rainbow Trout to 4 lbs. 8 ozs. on a floating line and Nymphs fished close into the bank.

 

As soon as the weather improves this Water will be well worth a visit, as fish will be feeding just below the surface. Floating lines with teams of Buzzers or Nymphs will be the best approach.

 

CLEVELEY MERE FLY FISHERY

 

Peter Brown tel. no. / fax. 01524 793644

 

Mobile tel. no. 07769 716890

 

Fishery Report

 

No anglers have been out recently due to the weather. As soon as the weather improves there should be some excellent sport on this Water. For boat anglers fish the deeper water at the far end of the Mere with either sinking lines and mini-lures or fishing close to the margins with a floating line using Nymphs and Buzzers. Many fish have been seen right in along the banks.

 

Bank anglers should stalk the margins.

 

Mid-March / early April should see the first of the Buzzer hatches. This is the time to prospect the sheltered Bays. A visit is well worthwhile at this time of the year.

 

There are vacancies for Members - for further information contact Peter Brown on the above number.

 

New Developments ……………

 

This Spring should see the completion of the First Phase of a major Development Programme for this 23 acre Water with it's covered Boat House and fleet of boats. There will be some luxury accommodation available to anglers. There will also be some discreetly placed fishing piers and to encourage young anglers an area specifically set aside for them. Further information will be given in subsequent issues of the Northern Game Angler.

 

Corporate Hospitality Days and Instruction can be arranged on this water with author – Patrick Arnold.

 

STOCKS FLY FISHERY

 

Ben Dobson tel. no. 01200 446602

 

This Fishery opened on 1st March.

 

Fishery Report

 

During the first three days 134 anglers landed 267 fish for a rod average of 2.

 

Best recent Rainbow Trout : 7 lbs. 2 ozs. taken on a Nomad by bank angler A. Woodward.

 

John Parker, Bernard Shaw, Ian Ritchie and G. Hallsworth all landed Trout between 5 lbs. 12 ozs. and 6 lbs.

 

Best recent catches : bank angler Craig Smith 12 Rainbow Trout taken on lures ; a number of other anglers recorded double figure bags.

 

Fly life : Mid-day and early afternoon are seeing small hatches of Black Buzzers - size 14.

 

Best flies : Orange lures ; Black lures ; Black & Green lures and Black Buzzers.

 

Best tactics : due to the cold weather the fish are very close into the bank thus bank anglers are out fishing boat anglers. Early morning has been difficult due to cold nights and the fish are coming on mid-day as it warms up. Use floating or intermediate lines.

 

Best areas : the West Bank is out fishing all other areas. The Dam, The Lawn, Hollins Bay, off The Boat Jetty, The Quarry, Bell Point and the limit at Grange Point.

 

Prospects : New Close Bay and the area around The Islands opens for fishing on 15th March. These areas should fish well as the weather warms up and Buzzers start hatching. Expect savage takes from quality over wintered fish. As the water warms up the fish will spread out and there will be some excellent sport for boat anglers.

 

Competition News ……………

 

The Guide Loch Style Championship

 

Very generous prizes - up to £5,000 worth of tackle to be won. This is a 4 man team event fished from drifting boats under Fishery Rules. The Heats and the Final have a 4 fish bag limit. Once competitors have landed their 4th fish they carry on fishing Catch and Release using barbless hooks. The Competition will be judged on the total number of fish caught by each team. Teams must qualify in one of the 4 Heats to fish the Final. The Heats are on Sunday 28th April, Sunday 5th June, Friday 12th July, and Saturday 20th July with the Final on Sunday 22nd September. Each day will commence with a briefing at 9.30 a.m. and close with a free buffet and prize giving.

 

The Hardy Dry Line Masters

 

This is a New Competition for 2002 sponsored by Hardy and Tony Plant (Stockport Fly Fishing).

 

This Competition is set to be a Classic : it will be fished from a drifting boat with the use of floating lines only. The morning session will be fished over four hours (10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m.) then there will be a break for lunch before fishing the afternoon session (3.30 p.m. to o7.30 p.m.). Hardy Prizes for the winner of each session and the overall winner. Each angler can only receive one prize. Date : Saturday 10th August.

 

The Masterline Pairs

 

Last year's Competition was a great success. This is a Pair's Competition with a difference. One member from each pair fishes from the bank and one from the boat. Anglers kill their first four fish and then fishing barbless Catch and Release. The Competition is judged on the total number of fish landed by each pair, which ensures everyone fishes right up to the final whistle.

 

There is a trophy to be won together with Masterline / Cortland Prizes. Date : Sunday 18th August.

 

The Trout Fisherman European Open

 

The Heats for the Trout Fisherman European Open, an individual competition, are on Friday 3rd May and Saturday 4th May with the Grand Final at Grafham Water on Saturday 24th August. This is a loch style Competition fished to International Rules, superbly run by John Horsey. It is definitely the No. 1 Competition in the Country for Individual Anglers. Participants last year thoroughly enjoyed this event - the atmosphere not only at the Heats but also at the Final. There are some excellent Prizes.

 

Money Bonanzas

 

These are Open Bank Competitions. There is a 4 fish bag limit and once a competitor has caught their fourth fish they receive a time bonus of 2 lbs. for every hour remaining of the competition. These are good fun days and somebody always leaves £400 the richer !!

 

1st Prize £400 ; 2nd Prize £150 ; 3rd Prize £100 ; 4th Prize £50 ; and there are also Tackle Prizes for the Best Rainbow Trout and the Best Brown Trout of the Day. Dates (All Sundays) :

 

7th April ; 2nd June ; 7th July ; 25th August ; and 6th October.

 

For further information contact Ben Dobson on tel. no. 01200 446602.

 

Other Fishery News …………….. Jim Curry has joined the Staff of Stocks. Jim is a qualified Instructor - A.P.G.A.I. and S.T.A.N.I.C. - and will be assisting anglers with casting and fishing techniques.

 

NEW FISHERY ……………

 

Patrick Arnold will soon be reporting on a very exciting New Fishery to be opened in the early Summer of 2002.