Easter Observations… 21st April

April 29, 2019

We all have our favourite bits we like to fish. Places where we feel comfortable or where we’ve had success in the past. Whilst this is great if you only have limited time to spend on the water, it can make us a little lazy as fly fishers.

There’s no need to explore or experiment on a familiar spot or so we literally wade straight in, paying little or no attention to what might be going on around us.

 

When we approach new water on the other hand, we are forced to be much more observant as it will have totally different characteristics including it’s own unique blend of invertebrates, topography and substrate.

So what should we be looking for?

If there are no flies in the air on on the water, a quick kick sample or simply turning over a few rocks will give you an idea of what the fish MIGHT be eating sub surface. Also, check the bankside vegetation and the aquatic weeds for clues. It should at least give you a starting point.

 

During the recent bank holiday I was given a choice.” It’s either DIY or you take me fishing!”
DIY would probably involve some manual labour and several trips to B&Q whilst fishing would mean an excruciating bank holiday drive into Derbyshire followed by “sharing” a rod with Chiara. Decision? FISHING…but it was close!

 

We were planning to explore some new water and on arrival we were greeted by noted Fly fishing guide and entomologist, Stuart Croft’s who was busy collecting samples for a river project. How fortuitous! A quick look into his trays proved VERY helpful.

Large Brook Dun Nymph
Blue Winged Olive (BWO) Nymph

 

Stuart gathering images for his next book.
…and releasing the insects back into our swim!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Personally, I prefer to be off the beaten track when fishing. Chiara on the other hand, loves an audience. The April sunshine brought the bank holiday revellers out in force. Many I assume had heard about her last visit to the area and were armed with cameras and the email address for “You’ve Been Framed”.

 

I am happy to report though that this time there were no mishaps and she delivered a dry fly masterclass to the hoards that had gathered to watch. Stuart and I watched on proudly as Chiara pulled out fish after fish to the applause of the ever growing crowd. She even took questions!

I might have to invest in a PA system.

The crowd builds as Chiara pulls in yet another fish!
It’s important to encourage tomorrows Fly fisherwomen!
Happy Easter!
I was eventually allowed to touch the rod.

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