Today I decided to step up from the tributary I visited on Tuesday to its parent river in my search for the seasons first wild brownie.

The thinking was that even though it’s still very early in the season, the water might be a little warmer which might bring some insects and in turn, some trout to life.

 

Sadly, the water was still ice cold and the air temperature had dropped a massive 12 degrees from the balmy conditions I experienced just two days ago.

On the positive side, it kept the crowds indoors and I was able to pinpoint EXACTLY where my waders were leaking.

 

The slightly swollen river produced no Trout but a trickle hatch of Olives encouraged a few ‘still active’ Grayling to take dries.

Ironically, this time last month I’d have given anything for that scenario but I’m almost ashamed to say that today, they were a bit of a nuisance.

Timing as they say, is everything!

Bring on day 3.