Fishing remains tough despite a second injection of top grade fish in as many weeks. It is always a giveaway that somethings not right with the weather when two successive loads of new fish have barely been sighted.
The rainwater that has been pouring into the lakes lately has knocked the fish sideways – as seen by the final of the Eddie Brown last Sunday. At times attritional going, it was still some familiar names that came out on top, and huge congratulations goes to Dean Appleby for his win against a star studded field. Brilliant Dean and well done to all the podium finishers as well:
1. Dean Appleby
2. Glenn Appleby
3. Conner Metcalf
4. Ryan Matthews
5. Lewis Leng
All week we have had coloured water, which will clear when the torrential rain stops. As usual, Ross Lake is the muckiest of the three fly lakes with Chatton being the clearest. It is worth taking into account people largely stop fishing Ross when its coloured, so it should fish very well once it clears – due purely to a lack of fishing pressure, and the fact its rammed with fish!
This coming Tuesday we have the Chatton Cadence Codgers fishing their Christmas do, with a Christmas dinner planned in the lodge. Get in touch with Stewart Younger if you fancy a look along to what is great social day. PS Give us some warning so we know how much grub to buy.
Reddis Lake (bait fishing) is also mucky, so baits with plenty of scent might just work best.
As usual, when the conditions are so difficult it pays to move around very often as certain areas of the lakes will be inhospitable to the fish and they will huddle up in tight areas. This applies to all four lakes. Don’t linger in one spot if nothing is happening and change depths regularly. At some point we’re going to get back to bumper catches and it wouldn’t be the biggest shock if things switch back on very soon – if only we can steer away from the recent monsoons.
Forecast
Wind expected to be coming from the SW for the foreseeable. With very variable strength. Check before you leave the house as some days it looks perfect and others a bit lively. Generally dull and dreary with temperatures staying above freezing but below 10 degrees.
Closing time – 4.00pm every day.
Fishing starts – 8.30am.
Predicted Fly Box
In coloured water, black is the most solid colour so try these flies in that colour: Apps Worms, Mini Snakes, Bunny Leach, Diawl Bachs, Buzzers, FABs, Cormorants.
See you all soon.
David, Gemma and Owen
———> NOTICEBOARD <——–
Fly Fishing Lessons
Suitable for anyone wanting to improve their casting, understand better fly selection for Chatton or simply start fly fishing from scratch with a taster session. All tackle provided. Permit included. Ideal Christmas or birthday present. 7 days a week. Booking essential.
Enquire by email: stuart@cadencefishing.co.uk or via website www.siff.uk
Chatton Caravan Park
Closed for winter. Re-opening Spring 2026.
Please keep an eye out in the Events section of our facebook page and future reports.