Ian Gordon, Spey, Speycasting, Scottish Rivers, Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Thu, 10 May 2012 18:30:00 +0000

The Spey continues to be the river to fish with good catches on the Gordon Castle Beats, Orton and Delfur. Those clever enough to have booked fishing here this spring are now realising what they have been missing on those lower beats over the past few years, with most having had some really good sport, and some fantastic fish.
Just in time for my own week [next week]! Unlike the last few years, fish are holding all over the Castle and Brae with fish holding and being caught in many of the pools. I'm looking forward to Monday and Tuesday when I'll be fishing beats 4 and 5. Gutted that I'm missing the remainder of the week but am afraid work takes precedence over play, although it shouldn't really! A show and teaching in Austria means, this year, I miss the tail end of my favourite week of the year! And, during a year where there are lots of fish to be caught. GUTTED. Never mind, I'm sure my mates in the A Team will rub this well in when I get back!

I have news of a 32lb fish caught on the Spey. Have a feeling it may make the front page of a certain magazine next month!

The Changing Aspect of Our Fisheries

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Tue, 08 May 2012 11:32:00 +0000

In 1999 I wrote an article on the changing aspects of your fisheries and the effect of environmental change [See summery below]. Now 13 years later I find what I had written back then very interesting.

The Changing Aspect of Our Fisheries

Although It may appear odd given global warming, But the North West Atlantic has become colder recently. Over the past 20 years the UK has experienced some of the mildest winters on record. However, those mild winters have been caused by a persistent westerly airflow across the North Atlantic which means that when we have had it mild; the western Atlantic is cooled by very cold winds blowing off Arctic Canada. Linked to its more famous cousin El Nino, or southern oscillation, The North Atlantic Oscillation [NAO] would seem to be the culprit for those fluctuating weather patterns. As this cooling is most severe in the north-western most part of the Atlantic, it may come as no surprise that it is our MSW salmon, fish which migrate much further into the Atlantic than Grilse, are currently doing so badly.
Spring salmon numbers were exceptionally high from around the 1940s to the 60s, a period when winter and in turn sea surface temperatures in the North Western Atlantic were unusually warm, with Europe and the North Sea very cold. The exact opposite of what we have seen during the 1980s and 90s The 1930s and 40s saw some of the coldest winters on record, this trend carried on until the late 1960s, the winter of 63 being particularly memorable. During this 30-year period, the Spey, along with many other rivers, was producing Multi Sea Winter [MSW] Spring Salmon as its main stock component. This abundance could almost certainly be put down to the fact that the warmer waters of the north western Atlantic were providing an abundance of food for fish migrating to this area.

However, the same thing cannot be said for the 1980s & 90s, as the North Western Atlantic [Davis Straits] has cooled, our [European] winters have, generally speaking, been milder. The North, Norwegian and Barents Sea have all warmed up during this period, thus providing fish migrating to this area with better feeding. Is it any surprise that now, at least 50% of the entire stock-component are now Grilse, fish that are known to feed much closer to home!! Here on the Spey, the 1980s and 90s saw a high percentage of any early running MSW fish, heading straight to the upper beats, because, we are told, this is where all spring fish spawn. But is this where they have always spawned?? Of course not! This might be the case in the 90s, but it was not always the case.

One spring day in 1957 saw three rods fishing the Brae Water [A beat only 5 miles from the sea] landing 44 Salmon, [no sign of all the fish running to the top of the river at this time]. One of the main reasons for this was said to be the very low water temperatures, the cold snow water providing a natural barrier which slowed up the progress of fish. So, it would seem, not only do cold winters have an effect on feeding at sea, but also on the habits of fish when they return to the river. Talking to old Ghillies/Guides who remember those times of plenty Springer’s and breaking ice to fish for them, can help us understand the differences between 1950s and the 1990s spring salmon. The success or failure of everything wild revolves around our naturally fluctuating weather [The management of Grouse another obvious example]; we can make anything as complicated as we like but ultimately this is the case and thankfully it is something we have no control over.

Trying to enhance spring fish stocks in the 90s, with climatic conditions and lots of other things against it, seems to me to be a waste of resources, and it seems to me we are tinkering with nature in trying to do so. We must just be patient and wait until nature decides to give us Springer’s again. Until that time we should be content with what we have, warmer winter’s summer salmon and grilse.
[Ian Gordon 1999]

The past few years have seen what I believe is the beginning of a change in the “Salmon Cycle”. This change is natural and has happened at regular intervals since the last ice age. Rivers change from producing spring fish to Grilse, from Grilse to Autumn Fish, The time of year at which a salmon enters the river to spawn is, I believe, governed solely by environmental factors. It is unusual, in the same season to see a strong run of both Grilse and MSW fish, with 1978 and 80 being the exception. Interestingly, winters prior to both these seasons were NAO Low [see chart], almost the only time this has happened between 1970 and now. Understanding more about this phenomenon [NAO] should lead us to a better understanding of particular runs of fish, and to some extent, what we may expect during future fishing seasons.

The period between 1999 and 2005 has seen, in the UK, a general decline in numbers of Grilse, as well as a slight, but obvious, increase in MSW fish. It is beginning to look very like, as it did in the past, the cycle is beginning to change in favour again of Multi Sea Winter [MSW] fish again. It may be that over the next ten or twenty years, the summer will be no longer the time providing the best sport on the middle Spey! We may see an upturn in Spring Fishing! It must be said however, it is unlikely that this change will take place over-night. I believe we are seeing is a change, a different phase of a cycle that, in all probability it will take another 20 years or more to complete. Never the less, based on what I have observed here on the Spey, and on other rivers, I firmly believe that the tide is without question beginning to change in favour of MSW fish and possibly later running Grilse. Will we see a return to the hay-days of the 50s and 60s? I would think in the short term the answer would have to be no, but in the longer term, if salmon could be afforded more protection [from man] at sea, then the answer should be yes. Although some may herald this change, if it happens, as a great thing for the river, for middle and upper beats here on the Spey, I’m not quite so sure, the jury remains out!!
Ian Gordon 2005

Now we find ourselves in 2012, the pattern developing over the past few seasons has reinforced the ideas I mentioned above. Pro Rata, this spring has seen higher than normal numbers of 3 Sea Winter [3 SW] fish present in our river, another obvious change being the fact that those fish, irrespective of water height and temperature, are now very happy to stay in the lower half of the river, at the expense, it would seem, of those beats higher up the system. Whilst some will still put this down to cold, low water conditions [we certainly have had one of those this spring, but not both], for those who study the river closely, although cold and low water can influence, they are certainly not the main drivers. Studying the river over a long period of time has taught me a couple of things for sure –
1. Come hell or high water, if a salmon entering the river wish to go somewhere particular in the system, as the Spey has no natural temperature barrier, NOTHING, or certainly no particular water condition, will stop them!

2. The timing and abundance of salmon entering the Spey has always has been in a state of constant cyclical change; change linked to fluctuating weather patterns and the species insurance policy of having their off-spring returning to the river to spawn over a seven or more year period.

So when people ask me - Why are all those fish suddenly now staying and being caught in the lower, and not the middle and Upper River? With a degree of certainty I can say that it’s linked to the weather and the salmon’s insurance policy; but neither I, nor anyone else will ever give you the definitive answer. What I can say for sure however, is, the habits of our salmon will continue to adapt/change and 100 years from now people will still ponder over the same questions.

I feel for those people intent on finding the answers to the above. Instead, they should really just go and enjoy salmon fishing!! [Ian Gordon 2012]

I have another blog page focusing more generally on the Spey at - http://speyonline.wordpress.com/

How long can sea lice stay on salmon in fresh water?

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Tue, 01 May 2012 23:27:00 +0000

I have been asked this question so many times on the river and have to say, I’m not really sure can answer this. Some say 24 hours and others 48 and some will say even more than this. I had an interesting phone call recently from one of my clients whom I had arranged fishing for. He caught a salmon on Beat 2 of the Brae Water on the river Spey, which, due to the ghillie marking the fish, they knew for a fact it had been caught on the adjacent beat the previous Monday and now, after 4 days in fresh water, the fish still had sea lice attached to its body!! The above tells us for certain that Sea Lice do in fact can remain attached to their hosts for some time longer than the 24 or 48 hours previously thought by me and many others.

bluecharm-themovie Trailer

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:44:00 +0000

After a brilliant show at the EWF, I'm still in Germany about to start a two day casting course with on the Isar river. Engoy the trailer for my new film about how to fish a small, medium and large Scottish river. It covers the basic and most important elements of six different flycasts and fault finding. However, this is not a casting movie, its a fishing movie also, I cover simple fishing tactics using some graphics to highlight key points in reading and fishing a salmon pool. The movie will be available to buy in July.

Never say Never!

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 07:13:00 +0000

Never say never; A statement highly applicable to salmon fishing!
Trusting one’s own instincts, whether it be size, speed or depth of fly, or, whether to fish in the first place, is always a good thing to do. So, having read all the negative garbage on the internet and been told there is little or no chance of a fish because the weather’s too bright, or the water too low, a good thing to remember is, until you hook them, the salmon are neither on line, nor do they read books and articles about why they don’t take a fly!

Following your instinct and remaining confident is the key to success in this game of salmon fishing. All too often, especially in those days of very quick transfer of information, as a salmon angler, you are given no chance before you even start, thinking, well, there no fish being caught, or none on the beat, so I’ll not bother.

A favourite saying of my old boss, Sir David Wills, was, “there’s always an enchanting moment”! And how true also was this statement, so many fish I have seen caught in adverse conditions by thinking a little more about what you are doing. No matter how much doom and gloom, and what the “experts” say, following this simple statement, inevitably, will put a smile on your face as you add that difficult fish to your diary whilst sipping your well earned dram at the end of the day.

Howard Croston with a nice wee springer form the Dee in conditions he was given no chance. Interestingly, one of three contacts.

Something to be said for enjoying your fishing for things other than catching fish. However, everything is much more rewarding when difficult to find i the first place.

Review of Double Handed Rods from Hardy&Greys

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 21:03:00 +0000

How gratifying it is to be part of the team which has taken to the market one of the most versatile ranges of double handed fly rods. After 3 years in the planning and hard work, to finally bring our new Double Handed Rods to the market feels very nice indeed.

Both Hardy Zenith and Artisan have been constructed using Hardy and Greys unique and world-beating Sintrix resin system, whilst Marksman S and T along with Greys XF2 rods have been specifically designed and engineered to compliment what we know are the most common styles of casting a double handed rod, thus providing our customers with exactly what they require.

It would seem we are not the only ones excited about those products. Of the three rods reviewed in Trout and Salmon, the UKs premier fishing magazine, all received what can only be described as, more than favourable comments.

Well done to the whole team at Alnwick and beyond for bringing such a fantastic range of rods to the market. Whilst some feel the product should be made exclusively here in the UK, there is no doubt in my mind a great deal of the success of this product comes down to the input from our overseas partners, all of whom, just like those at our Alnwick factory are very much part of the well-oiled cog which makes the product shine above others.

The line rating system on all of those new rods, I hope will be the precursor to, getting rid of, once and for all, the totally confusing AFTM rating on double handed or Spey rods. For those buying and looking to match a line, I would urge you to forget the obsolete AFTM rating and follow the new system found just above the handle on each rod. Hopefully most will follow or hopefully even better this system.

Click here to visit the hardy home page and the full range of Double Handed Products.

Brilliant Victory for Salmon in a European Court!

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:19:00 +0000

Dear Friends of the Salmon (and all other migrating species),

Wednesday, February 8 was the verdict of the highest court in the Netherlands (The 'Council of the State' in The Hague) in the lawsuit of Sportfishing Netherlands and the Meuse Angling Club (VVM) against the minister of Waterways (Ministry of Infrastructure and Environment) about the license given by this ministery for the construction of an hydro power station in the Meuse at Borgharen (Maastricht).

And we have won this appeal case!

We had already won the case in the Court of Maastricht, last year.

But both the firm who wanted to build the hydro power plant and the sportfishing organisations appealed. We appealed because we had lost on some important points like the wrong implementation of the European Water Framework Directive and the Benelux treaty on migrating fish species of 2009.

The minister of Waterways reluctantly followed after the parliament applied some pressure to appeal and uphold the license.

In the verdict of February 8, the Council of the State upholds the earlier verdict of the Court of Maastricht that nullified the license given by the minstry of waterways for the construction of the hydro power station. The council agreed with the Maastricht court that the mortality caused by the two existing hydro power plants in the Meuse River is already too high, so there is no room for a third hydro power station. But the Council of the State added some new arguments.

We won the point that the ministry should have made an Environmental Impact Report to weigh the (enormous) damage caused to the fish populations by the hydro power station against the production of (very little) renewable energy. The ministry should at least have proven that such an Environmental Impact Report was not necessary. They did not succeed in convincing the council of that.

The Council of the State found that especially recent research on the delayed mortality of salmon smolts and silver eels was not taken into the account.

Another important argument that the Council of the State added, was the fact that the European Water Framework Directive was not implemented in the right way. Especially they did not sufficiently examine if the quality of the Meuse River deteriorated in such a way that it did not stay within the class where this water is now attributed to.

The arguments of Sportfishing Netherlands and the Meuse Angling Club were very well supported by two scientific reports. One by Dr. Jörg Schneider from Germany and one by two equally brilliant fish scientists from Belgium (Ovidio and Philippart).

As our lawyer noted: "By this verdict water is no longer a free-for-all and beyond the law"

She thought this was an important victory.

We lost the point of the bad implementation of the Benelux Treaty on Migrating Fish Species, but we are still considering to bring this point to the European Court. Because a non-functional fish guidance system and a less effective fish ladder can not be considered as 'mitigating' or 'compensating' measures as meant by the Benelux Treaty!

With kind regards,

Teaching on the Findhorn

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 23:13:00 +0000

I had a great day on the Findhorn, teaching the guys and girls from the Forres Angling Association, It’s amazing where the time goes, I started doing this with the late Jimmy Sutherland, one of life’s real fishing characters, back in the early 1990s. This year’s event was attended by more than 40 people, from total beginners to seasoned rods, something I know would have put a smile on the face of Jimmy, and, is also a great credit to the organisers. This is a free day with those attending getting advice on fishing, casting and tackle from myself and other members of the club. The club in fact organises three days, normally three Sundays prior to the opening of the fishing season, and is now attracting people from well outside the area. This lovely piece of fly water is accessible to visitors at a very reasonable price throughout the entire season which runs from 11th Feb – 30th Sept .

New Scottish Fishing Season

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:09:00 +0000

With three of the big four rivers now open, the 2012 season in Scotland, again, is off to a fairly decent start with some lovely fish coming off the Tay system over the past two weeks, and today, [1st of Feb] the Dee and Tweed systems have opened with some lovely fish in the 2 and 3 sea winter class. For any serious salmon angler, those very early fish are the ultimate prize, showing the king of fish in their best condition and a pleasure to behold.

Conditions across Scotland today have been cold, with most rivers slightly lower than most Ghillies would like to see at this time of the year, but for most anglers this matters nothing at all as the first day of the new season is as much about being there and taking part rather than catching the ultimate prize. Mind you, to be one of the lucky ones represents the icing on the cake.

Although those large rivers tend to grab the headlines, they are not the only rivers in Scotland to be opening today; a good friend of mine, Mr Paul Davidson, equipped with his new Hardy Sintrix, Zenith 14’6” and Ultralite Reel, landed the first fish of the new season on Beat 2 of Cambusmore on the River Teith, another extremely productive, if less known Scottish river.

Although not breaking any records, the 1st of Feb 2012, never the less, will be remembered by those fishing as being a lovely day to have been on the river, with clear water and lovely overhead conditions for fly-fishing.
More fishing availabilty can be found here.

Paul Davidson with the first fish of 2012 from the River Teith.

Density Dependent - True or False??

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:15:00 +0000

Hypothesis such as – Every fish returned equates to 5000 more eggs being deposited, so 10,000 fish returned to the river equate to blah de blah de blah!! Then, in the next paper, explaining that salmon populations within river systems are in fact “Density Dependent”, which in layman’s terms means, Due to environmental factors /limitations e.g. –10,000 fish will produce the same number [maximum output for that given river] of smolts to that 50,000. So, no matter how many juvenile fish are produced, the river can only feed/sustain “X” number in it at any one time. The remainder are always excess/surplus to requirement and will die or be eaten! Any population is much the same. Again, in laymen’s terms, Ethiopia and Somalia, although extreme, are good examples of this. So, what does this mean? Well, if the above is in fact true; with regard managing our “recreational fisheries”, finding and understanding the minimum/maximum number of spawning adults in “your particular” river will be extremely important, because, if the population falls below the figure of e.g. 10,000, which, somewhat contradictory to the above, we are told is not the case here in Scotland, but would appear to be the case elsewhere, then the population could very quickly move into terminal decline.
Concluding and thinking rationally about the above, it would appear to me that – If, as we have always been told is the case, our rivers are producing their maximum number of Smolts, and they are in fact “Density Dependent”, then dramatic reductions in the population of Atlantic Salmon cannot be related or attributed to anything going on in fresh water, or, for that matter, the number of adult fish returning to spawn, but must be related to changes going on in the ocean, I.e. the increase from 5 to 200 thousand Grey seals around the UK coast over the past 100 years? Naturally changing weather patterns creating more intense low pressure systems moving across the Atlantic, which in turn cause changes in sea surface temperature in different parts of the ocean affecting timing of Plankton bloom in that area may also be a cause and due to the MSW salmons long migration will undoubtedly influence natural peaks and troughs seen in populations of returning adult salmon, but the catalyst for long term decline ultimately lies with Drift-netting with monofilament and increase in numbers of natural predators. Stop those two things; keep the water they swim in clean and bingo, no need for any more stupid and expensive projects to keep us all bamboozled and going round in circles achieving nothing fast.

Stewart Mackay

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 22:13:00 +0000

The untimely death yesterday, of my friend and great friend of the River Spey, Mr Stewart Mackay, of Home Farm Aberlour, leaves me saddened, as, at 58 years, he was far too young.

I had known Mackay Family since around the age of 14, when I shot pigeons on one of their farms near Elgin, but not until I moved to Knockando and begun to shoot pigeons on Stewart’s farm at Aberlour did I get to know him properly.

As with a lot of us, lack of time in his early years meant Stewart had little or no interest in either shooting or fishing, however, this all changed around the late 1980s when he decided to take up both, and I have to say, never have I been in the company of anyone, new to fishing or shooting, who embraced each sport for all the right reasons, and I know for a fact there will not be a ghillie or keeper in the whole of Scotland who would dispute my sentiment. Although a hard businessman, Stewart was a people person, more than anything, he loved company during any days sport, and would never dream of shooting or fishing alone. To him, it was never about the bag, but always about the company.

I can recall many wonderful days on the Spey, both at Knockando and on the Brae Water, where we caught a great many fish, but, of the many fun days we had, the one we had earlier this year, for me, epitomised everything he liked best about a day’s sport. Good company, good fishing, a good large long lunch, and most of all, a good laugh; and on this day, the laugh was to be on me!

Having taken all rods on beats 1 and 2 of the Brea Water he found himself one rod short and, instead of ghillieing, I was asked to join the fishing group. As was normal, lots were drawn and we all slipped away to our respective pools, me landing the Flats, a nice glide just above the Rock on Beat 2, knowing I would then drop down to the left bank of the Rock, I fancied my chances, however, as is quite normal in salmon fishing, the gods had penned a script, slightly different to that going on in my head!! As lunchtime approached and I had fished over a great many fish but caught nothing; knowing what this party was like, an ominous sense of foreboding begun to envelop me. The fact I had seen at least 5 fish being taken by the others, left me almost panic stricken in the midst of this mischievous party. Slowly each of the team arrived back at the fishing hut, and although still fishing more than 100 meters away, on surveying the scene, I could see the grins getting wider and more cheesy, none more so the Stewart himself! Eventually, at around ten past one, which it has to be said, only made matters worse, I begun the slow walk with head hanging, toward the now extremely happy group sitting on the lunch table outside the fishing hut. With each step I saw bigger grins and more teeth! “How many then Ian”, roared Stewart, ensuring all within ten miles could hear, whilst at the same time finding it hard to contain himself. Knowing what was about to come, I answered, Not a pull Stewart! What!!!!!! An expert fishing behind a load of beginners and catching nothing!!! “We’ll have less of the beginners”, came from the lunch table, and from that moment on, lunch got louder and funnier, my fishing prowess, or lack of it, at the heart of each, less than complimentary remark.

So, on this particular day it was me, on many others it was Stewart himself, whilst on others it was one of his many sporting friends. Every day I ever spent on the river with Stewart Mackay ended with words to this effect – Well thanks for another fantastic day Ian, “By Christ we had a lot O fun” and abody enjoyed themsells”! Just Great!! But, in essence, it was himself who made the day fun.

I for one, and I know many others, will miss his humour and fantastic appreciation, not only of the river but also those living and working on it.

My First Salmon on Fly part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 00:35:00 +0000

Please read part one "my first salmon on the fly" before reading this, all will make better sense!

My initial thought when the fish took was – My fly must have almost been on the bank! Although the water was deep directly below my feet, the fly could not have been 30cm from the bank when the fish took. I was recall this many times in the future when fishing pools with similar character, making sure I fished the fly right to the edge and many times, taking off a sinking to so as I could fish the fly even closer to the shore without snagging the bottom. How many times this tactic worked during my time on the river? Countless!!

Anyway, back to the story. The fish pulled hard and in an enormous first run of more than 100 meters, almost vacated, not only the pool I had hooked him/her in, but the one below that also. I knew I had to try and keep the fish from running into the Stable flats as access to this was difficult and meant a dangerous wade around a deep rock ridge, fortunately however, the fish must have felt safe in the depths of Banff Rock and decided to stop. A war of attrition ensued, with me standing precariously on the 40cm wide walkway, pulling as hard as I dare with my home made 12’6” Glass fibre rod. My main problem was, having not had any fish on fly, how hard could I pull? Fortunately for me, my father, who had heard my Shakespeare reel singing during that first hard run, had made his way to the high bank behind me and begun to give guidance. I shall never forget being amazed at just how much pressure he asked me to apply! Again, this valuable lesson would come back to me many times in the future to help a great many others who found themselves in that similar situation. With new found confidence I begun to apply even greater pressure, bending the strong rod in a manner I would not have dreamed of prior to my father’s advice, and soon, and for the first time, I saw the colour of my 15lb Maxima and around two fathoms below, the first glimpse of my silver prize. Shocked at the length of the fish I eased up, releasing some pressure, only to hear from behind me the authoritative voice of my father say, “no”, “don’t let him dictate”, “keep the pressure on and when he gives you an inch, take a mile, as he/she will do the same”! With those words ringing in my ear, again, I tightened on the fish, which after four or five hard runs which took me into my backing, was now becoming a little less active, yielding more ground with each turn of my reel. After some 20 minutes and an incredibly aching arm, both my father I could see the wonderful silver specimen rolling on its side, but agonisingly, just out of reach in the lifeless water on the far side of the stream. He/she was not yet mine. I was now beginning to feel my rod was just not big and strong enough to deal with such a fish, my underlying excitement was slowly giving way to a sense of frustration, which, again fortunately for me, was also detected by my father who calmly told me to “get below my fish” and use the current to my advantage whilst applying side strain to the fish.
Again, how many times I would use this later in life.
With side-strain now being firmly applied and my rod now pointing upstream and bent double over the narrow walkway, my father, seeing the fish was ready to be nettwd, slid down the high bank and confidently slipped the net under the beast, which, because of the angle I now had my rod, was now coming through the fast current close to me like a torpedo on the surface, its giant [to me] head almost out of the water; at last the battle was over and the 19lb sea liced hen fish was mine. The small fly, lodged firmly in the lower jaw, would never have came out. I had my first salmon on the fly; and what a fish!!

Interestingly, It feels every bit as good relaying the story right now as the moment I caught the fish. It may be a long time ago but salmon fishing in the company of friends provides us with the most fantastic memories.

My First Salmon on Fly

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 01:11:00 +0000

As a boy I was fortunate to have access to some of the finest salmon fishing in the country, The Forglen beat of the river Deveron was 2.5 miles of double bank fishing, which at that time, could only be fished by invitation of the owner. My father and I were privileged to know the owner and had almost an open invitation to fish here any time we wanted, and, more often than not, were the only two people fishing the water! Very lucky for any boy!!

My first fish came on a Saturday morning in early September 1977, although I had caught a few fish on worm and bait, I had yet to score with the fly, and wow, when it came it was certainly worth the wait.

The day was calm and overcast, the river low and clear but with lots of fish present in almost every pool. Mid way through the morning, my father and I arrived at a pool called Banff Stream, a slow deep holding pool with very narrow, but fast flowing run of no more than 15 feet wide which flowed tight to the walkway under our feet on the left bank. The far side of this run was dead water with no current, stretching a further 25 feet before reaching the tall reeds of the far bank. The pool was shaded by overhanging oak and ash trees on this, the left bank, all of which had been there for at least 150 years. Looking downstream this stream run into the deep holding pool which was Banff Rock, itself giving way gave way to The Stable flats, a shallow, but at that time, as I was about to find out, very productive pool with all fish lying tucked under the far bank and requiring a good fishing technique to catch them. At the end of this 100 meter long pool and nestling on the top of the hill was a house, an imposing building, the type of which I had only ever seen in film. A stately home fit for a king and with much character and history. Although empty most of the time, when fishing here I felt people watching as we fished, those were not people from the present, but from the past, keeping an ever watchful eye on their river, enjoying the fact nothing much had changed in the 100 years or so of fly-fishing there. As a boy, I found this place rather eerie and a little frightening, and certainly like to have my father close by when fishing there.

On that particular September morning I recall looking downstream and watching my father take four fish from the Stable Flats. A fact which was a little frustrating as he had told me to go there in the first place, but feeling there was a better chance where more fish were showing, I chose to stay in Banff Stream. Feeling somewhat dejected at my lack of success, which on reflection, was because I was constantly stuck in the trees behind me, I sat down to reflect [always a good thing to do when things are not working whilst fishing for salmon]. After a short piece of advice from my father, I shortened my line, made a roll cast of no more than 25 feet and watched my number 8 silver shrimp, slowly at first, before picking up pace at it swung through the fast current, eventually come to a stop around a foot from the bank, I slowly retrieved the line and begun to raise my rod, a movement which must have been too much for the fish to resist, for just at this point, I felt the resistance, not of a rock or weed, but of a strong pull from the opposite direction. Instinct told me to let go of the slack line which I had previously retrieved, the rod tip bent and I was in contact with something heavy, much heavier than I had felt before, not just the tip, but the whole rod begun to bend, I felt the rod blank flex through my upper hand and knew something very sizable indeed had taken hold.....

"T" and "S" rods from Hardy & Greys - The Concept Explained

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 20:56:00 +0000

As the full range of both Hardy and Greys rods reach the market, I’d like to offer those who may not be familiar with this concept exactly what it’s about.

Having seen the success of previous rods and having a good idea of where the market was going, back in 2009, we decided on a more “Holistic” approach to the design of both rod and line. Basically, ensuring we have something to fit all. That is – All fishing and casting scenarios and even delving into the murky waters of casting technique. Although it has its sceptics, this approach will, I believe set the precedence moving forward.

Across both brands, so the new Hardy Marksman and Greys XF2 Ranges of double handed rods will support either, “S” = Scandi, and “T” Traditional. So in each range we have two separate rods with very different actions and cosmetics, providing the angler with something which best fit’s their personal approach to both fishing and casting. It is also designed provide those giving casting and fishing tuition an easier platform to help customers make the correct decisions when purchasing a rod.

Generally speaking, “S” Series rods are slightly softer in the butt, but much stiffer than their “T” cousins in the tip. Handles, both upper and lower, are shorter on “S” rods than those of the “T”. Specifically designed to encourage casters to hold, not the cork, but the ball at the end of the handle, “S” series rods will have a familiar feel to most people familiar with the underhand technique. Those more used to longer, more traditional casting strokes will feel much more at home with the longer handles found on the “T” series rods. The action of each has also been designed with what I know to be the most popular/common casting techniques in mind. Of course this leads to murky waters and grey areas, but for the most, I know this will prove to be positive, rather than a negative step.

Extensive testing with High speed cameras working at 200 fps, also provided us with what were optimal ring spacing’s on each series. Most “S” series rods have 11 rings whilst for the “T” series this is 13.

Whilst at the heart of the concept is my own perception of what are the most common casting and fishing styles, the addition of the optimum weight of fly-lines present us with system where, no matter what line type the customer asks for, the shop owner will know instantly what is optimum for that particular rod. This of course is where we find those “grey areas”, however, when I use the word “Optimum”, I’m of course talking about how the rod will perform when using the most common casting techniques.

There are many of us who, because we fish a great deal, can adapt our technique to suit almost any weight of line on any rod, but for those walking into a shop and asking for a rod and line set up for a particular size of river, our “optimum line weight and length” [OWL], will prove invaluable to both them and the people in the shop.

Both “S” and “T” series rods have the “OWL” marked discreetly on the underside of the blank just above the cork. Each rod has marked similar to this -

e.g. - SH 32g, SS 38g, MS 44g LB 54g, showing the range of weights optimum for that rod. This also points out, although designed for a short or mid head line the “T” series rod, will also perform with a Short or Long Line depending on the ability of the caster.

SH =[Short Head], SS =[Short Spey], MS = [Mid Spey] and LB = [Long Belly]

Of course there will be those who like to pick holes in this concept, it’s the nature of the beast, but for whom it is aimed at, “Mr Average”, I know it will make things a whole lot easier than they are right now….

Salmon on the Brink!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 13:39:00 +0000

The eruption of an Icelandic volcano around 80 years ago provides us with the final piece of the jigsaw when searching for answers to how salmon numbers are affected by changes to the environment on which they have both adapted to depend! The affect of this particular event was enormous, as, the deposition of millions of tonnes of ash rendered 95% of the rivers spawning capacity sterile and unfit for purpose. This event saw the rivers capacity to produce salmon drop, interestingly, by around 95%, with natural recovery, over the short term [2 – 400 years] impossible, due to the lack of suitable spawning habitat and the time this natural process would take.

This event shows very clearly what can happen to the population of salmon in one specific river if nature flexes her muscles and throws something else into the mix.
Clearly the size of the population above was linked to the extent of suitable spawning habitat. Take this away and the population goes into free fall and collapses.

Looking at our own rivers, although we don’t have great “long term” records, we do know that, in the past, populations of salmon were infinitely greater than those levels seen today. What are thought by many people to be good levels, realistically, could only be described as a drop in the ocean if compared to those seen in the past. Salmon populations are monitored exclusively by those involved with salmon angling, a pastime which benefits from, but is non reliant on large numbers of salmon being present. "Very good" salmon fishing is nothing more than a “by-product” of an abundance of fish present. Of course, we know levels of salmon in our rivers have dropped significantly over the past 100 or so years, but why?
Their population dynamics, although very much influenced by weather and its affect on food in the ocean, never the less, remained at relatively high levels between the 15th and 19th centuries. Given this obvious abundance, why now, do we find ourselves protecting the last of this once bountiful and extremely healthy food source with such punitive and draconian measures? As one of Scotland’s most iconic creatures, surely we have an obligation to afford them the best chance to restore populations back to where they were in the past.

Firstly however, we must ask ourselves, what is the target? What really is a healthy salmon population? What is an acceptable level? Well, if the goal is to provide just enough to provide anglers with pleasure, then those punitive and draconian measures already in place would be more than enough to satisfy this multi million pound part of the tourist industry.

However, if the goal is to manage the salmon as it was in the past, as a “Sustainable food source” for the greater public, with angling being a mere by-product, then we must begin to look properly at the variety of problems, many of which we know we have created ourselves, and actually do something about them.
Statistics relating to salmon populations and their abundance prior to the 18th century are sketchy to say the least. However, we do know that, as early as the 14th century, large numbers were pickled and exported to England, France and the Baltic region, suggesting, at this time, good numbers of Salmon. Information relating to Scotland as having abundance can clearly be gleaned from the observations and accounts of early travellers who thankfully knew the long term value of putting pen to paper. Although In these days of proving everything beyond doubt, this may not be accepted, never the less, it provides us with the only accounts so must be taken seriously.

The 18th and 19th Centuries provide us with such information. Cromwellian Trooper, Captain Franks, writes of an abundance of this fish in every part of Scotland. Of the Forth he writes – “The Forth relieves the country with her great plenty of salmon”, so plentiful they are they here that, no Master shall compel servants or their apprentices to eat them more than thrice weekly! Their value is no more than a sixpence. Amazingly now, 99.99% of the public will never now taste a wild salmon in their entire lives! A hundred years later, English Engineer Officer, Captain Burt, writing from Inverness, says that the price of salmon there was a penny a-pound, and that the “meanest servants who are not on board wages will not make a meal upon salmon if they can get anything else to eat”. Around the same time, on reaching Aberdeen, Defoe writes – “The rivers Dee and Don afford salmon in the greatest plenty that can be imagined, to that degree that in some of the summer months the servants won't eat them but twice a-week, they are so fat and ful-some; it 's almost incredible how they spread”. Another “gentleman” traveller writes around the same time – “The salmon fishery is particularly the delight and the boast of the Scots”! They talk about salmon being barrelled up in great quantities before being exported abroad for considerable profit. These, and other statements provide us with good evidence of large numbers of fish present in all Scottish rivers on an annual basis, and also of a very considerable export of the fish in a salted state.

Around the beginning of the last century it became apparent, for various, well documented reasons, with the exception of only a few rivers, numbers of salmon in all rivers begun to decline, a decline seen by those few who understood, as an “extermination” of the species. The main reasons for this decline were known to be the increase of land drainage, obstructions and pollutions as a consequence of a rise of population and industry on the banks of rivers, the killing of spawning fish, the brevity or mistiming of the close-season, and over-fishing.

Looking closely at the above, it becomes apparent that the same problems sighted over 100 years ago still plague salmon today, namely, apathy and greed! Although, as stated above, most reasons for the decline were well known 100 and more years ago, this did not stop, 50 years later, those same “Vehicles of extermination” to be developed, only this time on a much grander scale. The period between 1950s - 8s,saw a massive programme of drainage for forestry across Scotland, accounting for an increase from 2% -18% of Scotland's landmass being drained, and with it a destruction of the fragile ecology of our river systems. Alongside this, the 40s and 50s saw the building of dams for Hydro power, something which, similarly to land drainage for forestry, those in power knew full well would have a lasting environmental impact on our rivers. Although to a lesser extent than those above, drainage for farming has played its part also in changing the hydrology and geomorphology of our rivers and their beds, thus also played its part the “extermination” of our salmon in quantities which could be recognised by those travellers of the past.

Sold to the Scottish people as socio-economic progress, something Scots will benefit from in the form of jobs from Forestry, Farming and Water, in actual fact, our land, environment and salmon have been systematically destroyed by this hypocrisy. Relative to the environmental damage caused, there has been no net gain, only the loss of 90% of this Iconic species and with it a healthy and sustainable food source which should be feeding the people of Scotland.

So, what if we took stock of the above and decided to try and restore populations to those seen in the past. If our aim today was feeding the population with salmon whilst ensuring spawning targets are met, is there anything we can do?
Well, after playing politics with both our environment and indirectly, our salmon for the past 100 years, finally we have now in place, certainly on our major rivers, people who understand and who’s sincere wish it is to do something to reverse the affects of the above. Various projects are underway across Scotland to this end. However, If salmon are to once again be a cheap and viable food source for the nation, the nation must first get behind the salmon.

Whilst we marvel in awe at the migration of the wildebeest across the vast Serengeti, or Emperor Penguins in Antarctica, compared to the migration of our own Salmon, both represent a mere walk in the park.

It’s sad to think of one of Scotland’s most Iconic creatures now so fragile, their populations near the brink. Although salmon angling across Scotland may be healthy, as a species and potential food source, the same cannot be said of our “Iconic” “King of Fish”!

On potential extinction of Species – Scientists say - “We must do what we can to protect habitat”! A quote made more than 100 years ago and still being used today!

Clean Water, Clean Gravel and Protection. Provision of those three will once again see those Iconic creatures thrive.

Try before you buy!

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 21:46:00 +0000

Why not try before you buy, was my advice to the guy who called earlier in the season. Personally I think it’s a no brainer, when spending hard earned cash on what is an expensive piece of equipment, not to at least have a feel of it in some water prior to purchase.

Having supreme confidence in the range of rods of both Marksman and Zenith rods we have recently designed for Hardy, and XF2 rods for Greys, knowing full well the range has something for all, I spent a couple of hours this morning fitting one of those to the technique of a customer who was surprised at the difference in actions of all those rods and also the difference the particular line made. The end of the session left the client in no doubt that the Zenith 15’1” with the new Hardy multi tip line was what he will be fishing with next season. Almost every person who has tried this combination wants one! Although he really liked the Marksman 14’8” with the same line, the Zenith rod, constructed with our groundbreaking “Sintrix” material, suited his individual technique that bit better.

There is no doubt that casting the rod on water gives you a much better idea of what it is you are buying. This is just another in the long line of customers who save money by buying the correct tackle. The new range of rods has something for everyone, from traditional [long and slow], to super fast [Scandi] style, we have something to fit every casting technique, any fishing scenario, and importantly, at every price point. Contact me over this winter for further details of - “Try before you buy”.

Salmon and Sea Birds

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 11:17:00 +0000

I’m sure we all learn so much from conversation with those who possess a great deal of practical knowledge and as a listener, I learned a lot from conversation with my Grandfather, a man who, with the exception of a spell with the Merchant Navy during the war, spent his whole life fishing the Moray Firth and sometimes the West Coast, from his small 45’ seine-netter.

One of the main things I remember and it rings true with what is happening today, was the fact he always maintained the sea has the power to feed the world and everything in it ten times over if properly managed, with failure to do so ending in a collapse, the first signs of which being a drop in numbers of sea birds reliant on sand eels and Herring sprats, also a reduction in numbers of salmon and Trout migrating back to our rivers! He maintained – if the first 3 miles of the sea around the coastline was healthy, not over fished, the balance of predators kept in check and the water’s not overly polluted, then all will be fine with both sea birds and migratory fish. However, failure to understand properly the impact of – over-fishing, pollution or predators would lead to all sorts of problems, the obvious sign of which would be a reduction in both birds and migratory fish.

Interestingly, yesterday I heard on the news that the RSPB were “Seriously Concerned” about the “Internationally Important” Sea bird colonies around our coast, many of which have halved in size over the past 30 years. Also interestingly, they put most of this down to “Global Warming” and the effect of warmer sea surface temperatures [SST] on Plankton and so the beginning of the food chain. I would think there is something in this theory, indeed, fluctuating SSTs have been common knowledge for the past 80 or more years, with those living with it, adapting to an ever changing ocean.

If we look rationally at the above we see that SST have increased, something which both we and our forefathers knew about but physically, other than adapt, can do nothing about. However, if we look at other possible reasons for the demise of the Birds, like most of those things, it might just be a combination of factors causing the rot! So what do we categorically know? And, more than this, can we do anything about it?

We know – Seal Populations have risen from 5000 – 250,000 in the 100 years between 1900 and 2000. Fact! Mind you, we, the tax payer, are still paying people to ascertain whether or not those actually eat salmon! No action to take place until we find out. More research needed!

We Know – The Danes and others have hovered up Sand Eels by the millions of tonnes over the past 30 years, decimating the feeding and breeding grounds of Herring and other key species on which salmon, sea trout as well as Sea Birds depend. Mind you, although 99.99, we’re not 100% sure about this either, Sand eels are a Dynamic and incredibly complex species – More research needed!

We Know – Because of over fishing inside the 3 mile limit, species dynamics changed. A once abundance of Cod, Haddock, Herring gave way to Prawns and Mackerel, now under pressure themselves; and all the time the warning signs are staring us all in the face – Diminishing numbers Sea Birds are a sure sign something is wrong, and to a lesser extent salmon and sea trout which have the insurance policy of their offspring spending more time in the river prior to migrating to the sea thus increasing their chances of survival in the ever changing ocean. Not complicated at all, in fact, very simple!

At one time 99.99% would have been enough to introduce some preventative measures, but, like all else today, we now must be 100% sure!

What has happened to our once inventive nation of forward thinkers who prized common sense above the nonsense we surround ourselves with today? Oh MY, The King has no clothes on, again!

Salmon never swim through the fishing hut!!

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:39:00 +0000

Reflecting on a very different week fishing with my usual group of friends on the Deveron leaves me pondering over the enigma that is salmon fishing, a sport it would seem, when the chips are down, belief, as well as perseverance, play a huge part in success or failure.

No matter what conditions, there are those who always catch fish and others who only ever seem to catch when more fish are clearly in the mood.

On most rivers this year, autumn fish have just not played the game. Although there in good numbers only the people above have actually managed to hook and land them, but why? Last year, was different, at this time on the Tweed for example, catching fish was so easy I could have tied a fishing rod to my dog and he would have caught one, but this year the salmon are having the last laugh.

Looking at the week just passed, there is no doubt in my mind that the answer to this lies in a mix of “Belief and perseverance”! Of the four fish landed, all could be attributed to this. One was caught when the weather was so bad; no one else was on the water, a mixture of the above was the vital ingredient. The second I could put down to the same; having fished the pool down 3 times with the fly for nothing, to then see it fished twice with the spinner, also for nothing, wouldn’t fill most people with enthusiasm to fish it again. However, as I said – “Sitting here won’t get you a fish”! “I’ve never known the salmon to swim through the fishing hut”! The sixth time down and with a small fly, perseverance paid off and a fine 10lb fish was landed. The two other fish of the week were landed during what seemed much better conditions, only, no one had told the fish that and although there, were only ever going to be caught by those people who really believed they would!

Tam Broon with his fish caught sixth time down the pool, testimony to persistence, belief and the fact that, irrespective of how much we talk about them there, “Salmon never swim through the fishing hut”!

Linked to this, I had a friend who, this year travelled to the Varzuga river and was told by one very experienced rod – The only fly to use here was a large Green Highlander tube, a fly which although he had confidence, in those conditions [low clear and warm], he felt was not the correct choice. Leaving them to fish with their “Green Canaries”, he changed to a small, lightly dressed fly, tied on a Salar hook. Net result – Small fly – 59 salmon, experts fishing “Green Canaries” – 7! The bottom line here was very simple, a little like women, salmon like confidence, and confidence in what you are fishing with [flies and lines], coupled with perseverance and belief, even when the chips are down, will always produce the goods.

Double Handed Course in Austria

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 19:15:00 +0000

Really pretty lake to do the beginners course.

My first Grayling

Another wee cracker

Reflecting on 10 fantastic days of teaching fly fishing with the double handed rod in Austria, mixing some fishing with teaching provides the best of both worlds, like having my cake and eating it! The past week, spent in the company of Armin Piajwitz and his family comes right out of the top drawer in both respects. Seldom have I come across people with so much passion for what they do. All three courses were brilliantly organised, a mixture of real progress and lots of fun. Both the trout and Grayling fishing were also exceptional, and whilst we all dream about the perfect destination, I was blown away by the stunning scenery around me whilst both fishing and teaching. I will really look forward to returning here for some follow up courses next year. A truly exceptional 10 days which saw me teaching 18 people, catching my first Grayling and, most important of all, making a lot of new friends.

The Fishing School in action on the lake.

John Norris open Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:10:00 +0000

Another great weekend down at John Norris of Penrith. Lots of interest in the new Zenith and other new Hardy Products. They are due to be with us around the begining of Decemeber, so hopfully everyone will have them in time for Christmas! Lines are also on the way, I will be testing some second samples for both Hardy and Greys products on my return. Maybe even get a fish or two on the Deveron.

A quality shop for salmon fishing products with knowledgable and first class staff.

Thankfully they don't sell musical instruments!!

The Survival of Salmon

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 12:13:00 +0000

The Atlantic Salmon - Is a highly adaptive, but also, a less complex species than some would like to believe. As with most other wild fish, Salmo Salar is driven by two strong primeval instincts - To eat and to reproduce! Nothing else! The same could be said some humans I know, but that’s another story!
If we remember these two simple points, it becomes easier to understand
What remains constant in their world? Light – Moon – Stars – Tide and Threats!
Threats to salmon come in many forms, the biggest by far being that of human activity. But if we take that out of the equation for now, it will enable us to focus on the salmon in a natural sense.
We shall start at the beginning, the moment of fertilization.
Our egg will be one of many, and I use the word many because although scientific data can provide us with rough estimations, it cannot provide us with exact data regarding how many of the females eggs are actually fertilised. As would be obvious to anyone, this figure will change dramatically if spawning were taking place in ideal or adverse conditions. The effects of a large spate at this time would dramatically decrease the number of eggs fertilised. From this we can deduce – Weather, a natural element, is playing a part right at the beginning. But, as with all fish, the salmon has an insurance policy – Large numbers of eggs.
A large number of fertile eggs are now buried in the gravel. Slowly Developing! The important word here is SLOWLY! Salmon eggs take longer to develop and hatch during colder than average winters. During extremely mild winters and higher water temperatures, eggs may begin to hatch in the month of February, with alevins emerging from the gravel during March, a time at which the river does not produce an abundance of natural food. If, on the other hand, the winter is extremely cold and we have a “proper winter”, this will not take place until April, a time the river will obviously produce more natural food, leading to the survival of more fish to the fry stage. As spring fish tend to spawn slightly earlier than both their summer and autumn cousins, the effects of a colder winter would have obvious benefits to that particular cohort. On the other hand, couple earlier spawning with a mild winter and you have a high number of offspring from this cohort hatching far too early in the year. Prolonged frost can also have an adverse effect on our developing eggs. Streams used by spring fish tend to be small and higher up the river system. In extreme cases these will dry up, leaving eggs starved of oxygen. Thankfully this does not often happen, and when it does, salmon always have their insurance policy of safety in numbers. However, add water abstraction schemes and land drainage and over a period of time you create potential for disaster to that particular cohort. Mind you, when we are talking about huge numbers of eggs, their loss will be someone else’s gain. Offspring from both summer and autumn salmon, because they tend to spawn in the main river, will have less than normal competition for food! Not really complicated at all.

Scottish Salmon growing bigger! Or are they??

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 19:05:00 +0000

As salmon fishermen we all have our own theories about the King of Fish and their mysterious habits. After all, the fact we don’t know for sure is what leads to all the fishing hut and dinner table discussion, with each of us taking the lead from whatever theory appears to be most logical. The enigma of the salmon both stimulates and frustrates, our natural quest for answers to all questions
An recent article in our local paper, the Press and Journal, brought a wry smile – To a salmon fisherman, the headline – “Scottish Salmon Growing Bigger”, is always going to raise an eyebrow. The article, published on the 26th September, focused on the fact that there appeared to be many more large fish in Scottish rivers this year; a fact which anyone fishing Scottish rivers with any regularity over the past few years could not have failed to notice. There is no doubt there are more fish which have spent 2 or more winters at sea, something which in the past was so common in most large rivers, it would not have raised as much as an eyebrow. So, after many years of grilse being the dominant stock component on almost every large river, now, as in the past, it would appear weather and climate conditions are now favouring fish which have spent 2 or more years at sea; so, nothing new here!
Enter the comedy act – People who call themselves fisheries biologists, or should I say statisticians or politicians! I’m not really sure they know what they are themselves! In the article one is saying, salmon are growing bigger due to the “Changing temperature of the North Sea caused by Climate Change”! Ah yes, good old Global Warming. When in doubt blame it on Climate Change, two words frequently used by the scientific community to spread fear and panic, and normally a precursor to more pointless research. Whilst in the same article, another scientist, obviously with a slightly different agenda, is saying, “Statistically”, salmon are actually getting smaller! I thought; how interesting, two professors with completely polarised views. I wonder which one of those “experts” will be right?
Well, apparently, the answer is the one with the beard and sandals, who miraculously, was the surviving recipient of the first ever head transplant, unfortunately however, a surgical error ended with the professor being given the head of a border collie, a mistake which the surgeon stressed would not pose too much of a problem as the collie is an intelligent dog! Amazingly he has been proved right, as not 3 weeks after the operation his beard had grown sufficiently enough for him to secure a job in a laboratory in Tayside. Although there are those who are questioning some of his new habits, most see his uncontrollable urge to get up the arse of senior colleagues as completely normal!!

Yiv gotta ti laugh!!

River Dee & Beauly

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 21:14:00 +0000

Harry Bennett with a cock fish about to put the fear of death into its neighbours.

Having just drawn breath after looking after clients on very successful trips to both of the above rivers, I found it interesting that, during September, fish, even the old ones, on each of the above, were a whole lot more willing to take a fly than anywhere here on the Spey! The only difference I could note was – The River cleared much quicker on both rivers above, whilst here on the Spey, due to the many rises in water this year, it stayed black as ink for so much longer. Interestingly, this black water clears much quicker in the early spring and early summer, with only the late summer and autumn being badly affected.

None the less, we have had some very good fishing this year, so cannot complain. The fishing at Lower Invercauld on the Dee was simply fantastic; a wonderful beat with so much variation for fishing the fly. Mr John Scott for one was a happy bunny when his first salmon was followed by 6 more.

Nice Beauly Fish about to swim off.

And another about to be landed.

Meanwhile, on the lovely Beauly river, persistence paid off for the host, Mr Leith Robertson, when, after watching most of his friends catch a fish, it would seem, all he needed to do was drop his fly in the water and, another fish would grab it.

What I enjoyed most about both trips above, was the fun had by all fishing. Friends enjoying their time fishing together and with the exception of anyone who had yet to catch one, little or no emphasis on “HOW MANY” were caught. In fact on the Beauly, I have yet to hear how many were caught, as the main interest by the host and group was ensuring all in the party were successful. NICE! REALLY NICE!!

Speaking words of Wisdom

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 18:15:00 +0000

A recent trip helped remind me of a valuable lesson I learned very early in my guiding career – Although we all like casting the rod and fishing, as ghillies and guides, the reason we are there in the first place are our clients and too ensure “their personal” enjoyment of their weeks fishing! After all, it is they who pay the cheque!
The enjoyment of salmon fishing can be measured in many ways, but ultimately, the first objective for most clients or guests is to catch a fish. To this end, it is the job of the host or organiser, to provide their guests with the relevant information about – The water they will be fishing and what they are likely to expect by way of – Size and flow of river, numbers of fish to expect at this specific time of the year, suitability for elderly or young people, how much fishing is expected to be done over one day, what type of lure/lines are most successful at that time, single or double bank, etc, etc. After this is it the job of the ghillie or guide to ensure all of the above is carried out to the best of his or her ability in a physical sense.
I was fortunate to have been trained by the best in the business. In the late Sir David Wills, I saw the perfect host, a man of vast fly-fishing experience, who’s goal when hosting a fishing party was, not to prove how good a fisher he personally was, but to ensure, fish or not, all his friends had a really good time, leaving the river at the end of the week, with something more, be it fish, knowledge, deeper friendships or, as was the case most of the time in his company, a mix of all of those! His head ghillie/guide, at that time, had more than 40 years working for both him and the previous owner, and, like many such people, had a wealth of experience, not only in Salmon and how to catch them, but much more importantly, to provide guests with information, encouragement as well as physical assistance in their realising their goal. A combination of the experience of those wise people helped shape my approach to entertaining and guiding clients, and provides the backbone of historic salmon fishing culture in Scotland.
As a young ghillie I looked forward immensely to Saturday evening, when, after the departure of Sir David’s friends, he would invite his ghillies to have a cast with him. How fortunate I was to be fishing some of the finest waters, at the best time, and in the company of a man with such wisdom. All I could do was learn, and not only about fishing, but importantly with regard to guiding, about people! It took me some time to realise why, even if his fishing guests were thin on the ground, Sir David would very seldom have Ghillies or guides fish whilst they were there. Only as my understanding of the profession developed did the penny drop, and I finally realised, in this setting, it was so important for those clients with less casting/fishing ability not to be out shone by the ghillie or guide. Although as a young man, I could not quite grasp this, over time, it became apparent to me that, in fact, superior knowledge/ability, if used in the wrong way, leads only to others feeling inadequate and is the tact of guides, not with a poor experience of fishing, but of people! The realisation of this so early in my guiding career led me to take a different course, one not of keeping my knowledge and from time to time, showing how clever I can be, but at every opportunity, of passing this knowledge on to my clients, friends and acquaintances, and also, other guides; thus ensuring their long term development in the sport of salmon fishing and guiding and keeping strong our long history and culture in sport fishing. Hopefully it will continue in this way!?

noreply@blogger.com (Ian Gordon) — Sun, 21 Aug 2011 10:25:00 +0000

Good Fisherman!

Sea Lice Problem!!

Into another!

The last few weeks have been eventful and tiring to say the least. The particularly busy spell started with the CLA Gamefair where interest in Double Handed Sintrix and Marksman rods was incredible. Matching the line to the specific action of those rods was seen as a huge hit for all who tried them. Both Sintrix and Marksman will be available for Christmas and I know will be the hot product for 2011.
After the CLA it was off to the movies for me, and for all who feel being a porn star would be a great job, let me tell you, after 10 days of Dawn till Dusk, it gets more than a little tiring! Filming the movie, which OK, was more about fishing and casting was a lot of fun though and very typically our fantastic Scottish Rivers produced the goods with a few nice fish caught, one or two on my old Greenheart rod. This was so much fun to fish and I really can’t wait to see the bars of silver being landed on this. Some of the places visited in the film are stunning, truly breathtaking scenery as well as some of the finest fly fishing in Europe.
I have just dropped another very satisfied customer to the airport this morning, his trip to the Spey ending with 9 fish landed including eight caught in 4 days fishing on the Gordon Castle Water, which I have to say, when on song, nothing can touch at this time of the year. Quality hard fighting sea liced fish of – 5, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16 and 17, the reminder of the party also did well with Ann Taylor landing a brace 10 and 12 and her husband Peter with a nice 15lb fish. Apart from losing his line [snapped at the backing] after playing a fish for more than 20 minutes, his two days fishing still produced nice brace of 12 and 15lb for Frenchman, Mr Albert Pujol. This on top of the other fish he landed at Tulchan earlier in the week ensured he went home happy. The final member of this group was Mr Tony Craig, who landed 4 fish in his four days. All in all a very nice four days sport amongst nothing but fresh sea liced fish.
With the exception of a few of the smaller fish, all those above were caught on the “Red Capper” http://www.speyonline.com/salmon_flies.htm which confirms the theory of John Ashley Cooper, “It doesn’t matter what colour the fly is, as long as its black”!!

They dont come better than those.