Fishing improved. Prospects good. Top chef visits.
We’ve definitely had more consistent catches this week and the forecast for the week ahead is a hopeful one. Winds from the SW are better than the easterlies we’ve had recently. With longer nights now meaning less time for the sun to heat the water – and conversely more cooling time – it feels we’re turning the corner on the worst of the fishing. There have been a lot more 4/5/6 catches this week, which is great to see.
Special mention to Chris McLachlan, who had 32 fish over several mini sessions. Chris has been staying on the Caravan site, which has meant he’s been able to pick his moments. Successful flies have been on the surface, with CDC’s, Beetles, Daddies and F-Fly doing most of the damage. 3 good brownies were among the 32. Very well done Chris, it has been great having you.
Also doing superbly with almost identical flies was Joe Ryle, who had 13 fish – mostly off Ross Lake. A brilliant session and top daily rod of the week.
Most of the mid-range catches have been on dries, but Will Emery and John Metcalfe bucked that trend, sharing 11 fish on snakes. Allan Goodwill (7) had a good day on Shammies, Humungous and Buzzers, so it’s not all about surface fishing if you fancy going down deeper. Dries have definitely been best though.
There have been plenty of gnats in the air this week – specifically fungus gnats. Despite the name, they are quite a bonny fly. The fish have been responding to them and if you tie your own, you’re looking at a size 20 hook. Alec Harvey’s Nothing Fly might be your best bet if they’re about this week.
Finally, in what felt like a huge wind up, we had a visit from Fortnum & Mason Head Chef, Justin Horne, who was looking after a shooting party on the nearby moor. Justin needed a rainbow trout for the evening meal so rang the lodge to say he was on his way and could we catch a fish in the next half hour – time was tight. It created panic in the ranks having to catch to order in bright sunshine – thankfully achieved in injury time (Hares Ear Shipmans).
As well as putting the frighteners on local fisheries, Justin has an incredible CV, being prominent in the UN’s Zero Hunger campaign and is the founder of the first zero waste, organic plant based restaurant in Europe. Among many other things. It was great having you Justin.
Fair to say a Chatton Cheeseburger might not make those menus, but they’re still lush with a bit of relish. Why not order before you tackle up and don’t forget the bacon or sausage sarnie in the morning?
Closing time now 9pm
(except Saturday, which is always 5pm).
Predicted Fly Box
Beetles, F-Flys, Ants, PTNs, Nothing Flies, Damsel Nymphs, Top Hats, Daddy Longlegs, Chatton Ships. Apart from Daddies, keep things on the smaller side.
See you all soon.
David, Gemma and Owen
———> NOTICEBOARD <——–
Fly Fishing Lessons
One to one coaching for absolute beginners or existing anglers. All tackle provided.
Enquire by email: stuart@cadencefishing.co.uk or telephone 07887 556693.
Chatton Caravan Park
Our caravan park is right next to Chatton Lake. You could be sat with a cold beer in seconds after fishing or at Holy Island, Bamburgh Castle, Alnwick or Cragside in no time. We really couldn’t be located any better for so many attractions outside of fishing.
Wednesday Night Club
– £15 Discounted Wednesday evening ticket
– Closing time is dark. Not a specific time.
– Tickets must be bought between 5pm and 6pm. Strictly no entry after 6pm.
– Please sign out on whiteboard before leaving.
– Available every Wednesday until end of summer. No booking necessary, just turn up.
Please keep an eye out in the Events section of our facebook page and future reports.