Blog

Bourley Fly Fishing Club (BFFC)

2024

Activity for week 30 ending 29 July.

Apologies to members for the absence of blog posts over the last month, but an issue was encountered with the Recorder’s database which has now been restored.

Fishing at the large lake has been difficult over the last few days. There have been plenty of fish showing catches have been few. This past week only three fish have been caught at pegs 1, 7 and 11 on Damsel and Pheasant Tail.

Activity for week 25 & 26 ending 30 June

Unfortunately there is an issue with the stock database and as a result fishing statistics are currently unavailable. Please continue to report all catches via the App and as soon as the database is back online we will provide an update.

Activity for week 24 – ending 16 June

Another difficult week’s fishing on the main lake which has not been helped by the extremely changeable weather! However, there were a couple of full bags this week, and the largest fish of 4.5lbs was caught from peg 16 on a Copper John. The most successful fly pattern has once again has been the Boobie, indicating the fish are still mainly at the bottom of the lake, but a few fish have also been taken on dry fly (Grey Wulf). 22 members fished the large lake and managed to land a total of 26 fish.

The brown trout in the small lake are still providing good sport on most dry patterns, but sedge seem to be particularly successful.

Fish Caught by Peg

Activity for week 23 – ending 09 June

Despite stocking the main lake on the 6th June, it has been another very challenging week’s fishing, with 28 members landing 31 fish from the main lake. The predominant fly pattern this weeks was Booby accounting for 19 of the fish caught all from peg 1. So despite some movement on the surface most of the fish are feeding in the depths on the large lake.

On the small lake there has been some excellent sport on MayFly and Sedge patterns.

Fish Caught by Peg

Activity for week 22- ending 02 June

A very challenging week’s fishing. On the large lake 14 members fished this week and managed to land 7 fish between them, The largest fish weighted 4.5bls caught at peg 1 with a Damsel.

There was a report of some one using a spinning rod at peg 12, please continue to report instances of poaching to Longmoor and in your online catch returns.

There are now two sets of reading glasses in the hut and a landing net was found near the carpark, please drop the Secretary an email if its yours.

Fish Caught by Peg

Activity for week 21- ending 26 May

A challenging week’s fishing, despite the lake being stocked with another 150 fish, with 21 members landing 24 rainbow from the large lake primarily on Mayfly, Damsels, Grey Wulf and Boobies. There were a number of 3lb fish caught from around the lake on Mayfly and Boobies. Eight brown trout were reported as caught and successfully released.

There were several reports of youths riding motor bikes around the lake all of which were reported to the ops room, please continue to report any antisocial behaviour to Longmoor.

Lastly in case you did not see the email from Mike, a pair of reading glasses were found by the main gate and have been stored in the hut.

Fish Caught by Peg

Activity for week 20- ending 17 May

The Mayfly hatch continues, creating some good dry fly sport. This week 36 members fished and landed 52 rainbow between them. The largest fish 4.2lb was caught at peg 1 using a Boobie. Popular fly patterns this week included Mayfly, Grey Wulf, Damsels, Cat’s Whiskers, Daddies and Yellow Dancer.

There were four browns reported as being successfully caught and released on the small lake on Mayfly and Grey Wulf.

There have been incidents of poachers on the late, please report all sightings to the Ops room and mention it on your online return.

Fish Caught by Peg

Activity for week 19- ending 12 May

May Fly hatch is well under way, with members reporting the best hatches being around 18:30. This week 33 members fished the large lake catching 54 fish between them. There were three 4lb rainbows caught on pegs 2, 4 & 8 on Boobie, Orange Damsel and Fritz. Other popular flies included Grey Wulf, May fly, Muddler and Sedge.

On the small lake 5 browns were reported caught and successfully released.

An incident of vehicles blocking the main gate occurred on the evening of the 9th May, the same evening a someone was spotted using a spinning rod!

Fish Caught by Peg

Activity for week 18- ending 05 May

The May Fly hatch has started which provided good sport towards the end of the week as the wind speed dropped. This week 30 members managed to land 48 fish between them. The largest rainbow 4.6lb was taken at peg 16 on a Damsel. Other popular flies were May Fly, Cats Whiskers, Orange Bob, Grey Wolf and Cinnamon Sedge.

Five brown trout were successfully caught and released on the small lake. Members are reminded that the small lake is dry fly only as of the 1st May.

Can we please ask that when closing the main gate members ensure the shank/shackle of the padlock is the one of the chain links and not the piece to stainless steel attached to the chain by a tie wrap!

Fish Caught by Peg

Activity for week 17- ending 28 April

The large lake was stocked with 150 rainbow this week, and judging by the total weight some larger fish have been introduced to the water.

30 members fished the large lake and landed 51 rainbow trout between them. The largest fish was 4.8lb, caught on a Damsel at peg 2. Popular flies this week were Damsels, Cat’s Whiskers, Montana, Yellow Dancer, Grey Wolf, White Fritze, Buzzer and Silver Humongous.

Only one brown trout was reported from the small lake and it was safely returned to the water.

Fish Caught by Peg (Large lake only)

Activity for week 16- ending 21 April

This week 24 members fished the lakes. On the large lake 49 fish were caught on various Damsel patterns, Cat’s Whiskers and various nymph patterns.

The small lake has produced some good sport this week ,with 7 browns caught sedge and various small nymph patterns, all fish were released back to the water. However the prize of the week goes to rod number 82 who landed an estimated 6lb rainbow which was successfully released back into the water.

A cormorant was spotted this weekend, please report all sightings via the online returns form.

Fish Caught by Peg (Large lake only)

Activity for week 15 – ending 14 April

32 members fished and caught 56 fish, with the largest fish, 4.5 lbs, caught on a blue flash damsel at peg1.

Most fish this week were caught and various Damsel and Boobie patterns.

2 brown trout were caught on the small lake and returned safely. Members are reminded to familiarise themselves with the rules of the small lake and to use of dry fly all season. Use of a small nymph is permitted through the winter months of November until the end of April.

A red and brass priest was found at peg 17 and is now in the hut.

Fish caught by peg.

Activity for week 14 – ending 06 April

Despite this week’s blustery conditions 29 members fished the lake catching 36 fish between them. The largest fish was 4.2lbs caught at peg 3 on a Hare’s Ear. The most successful files this week were Cat’s Whiskers, Hare’s Ear, various Damsels, Black Spider and Boobies.

Several members reported catches (and release) on the small lake, with a total of 7 Brown Trout being caught on Sedge.

Fish caught by peg.

Activity for week 13 – ending 30 March

This week 23 members fished the lake catching 46 fish between them. The largest fish was 4lbs caught at peg 4 on an Green Damsel. The most successful files this week were Cat’s Whiskers, Hare’s Ear, various Damsels, Black Spider and a Yellow Dancer.

Bank Holiday Monday marks the start of the season, and the opening of the small lake for barbless catch and release of brown trout. Please make sure you are aware of the small lake catch and release rules!

Be aware that the lock on the main gate was changed on the evening of 31st March 2024.

Please be aware that a change has been made to the rules that will stay in force until further notice, see below.:

Full may fish any number of days. Half rods are limited to three days a week.

Full rods may take 3 fish per day to a maximum of 9 fish per week.

Half rods may take 3 fish per day to a maximum of 6 fish per week.

Fish caught by peg.

Activity for week 12 – ending 23 March

This week 19 members fished the lake catching 23 fish between them. The largest fish was 4lbs caught at peg 1 on an Olive Damsel. The most successful files this week were various Damsels and a Black Flash. The lake will be stocked this coming week.

A reminder to all members that membership forms need to be submitted as soon as possible and please be aware of the padlock on the main gate will be changed on the evening of the 31st March.

Fish Caught By Peg.

Activity for week 11 – ending 17 March

The lake was stocked with 150 rainbow on the 14th March. 17 members fished the lake this week catching 40 fish between them. The largest of which was 4lbs caught at peg 17 on a Cat’s Whiskers. A good selection of fly patterns were successful, including Killer Cruncher, various Damsels, Buzzers, Orange and Black Boobies, Orange Blob and Gold Head Daddy.

Fish Caught By Peg.

Activity for week 10 – ending 10 March

24 members fished the lake this week and 31 fish were caught, the heaviest of which was 4Lb and taken on a Gold Buzzer. Other successful fly patterns included various Damsel patters , Yellow Dancer, Black Buzzer, Hares Ear nymph, Cat’s Whiskers and Bloodworm.

Fish Caught By Peg.

Activity for week 09 – ending 03 March

This week 16 members fished the lake and caught 34 fish between them the largest of which was 4.5lbs, taken on a Green Booby. Other successful patterns included Blue Flash Damsel, Gold Head Damsel, Buzzer of various types, Cat’s Whiskers and Dawson Olive.

Fish Caught By Peg.

Activity for week 08 – ending 25 February

Great to see the members who managed to make it to the AGM this week.

The main lake was stocked with another 150 rainbow trout on the 22nd February. This week 20 members fished the lake and caught 34 fish between them the largest of which was 3.5lbs, taken on a buzzer. Other successful patterns included Black Damsel, Blue Flash Damsel, Gold Head Damsel, Fritz, Buzzer of various types, Cat’s Whiskers and Montana.

Please don’t forget to renew your membership and a reminder that the padlock on the entry gate will be replaced on the 31st March.

Fish Caught By Peg

Activity for week 07 – ending 18 February

This week 25 members fished the lake, catching 34 fish between them, the heaviest of which was an impressive 4.75lbs, Most fish were caught at the beginning and end of the week when the weather and barometer were most stable. Successful fly patterns were Fritz, Hears ear, Goldhead Yellow Tadpole, Blue Flash Damsel and Black & Silver Damsel.

Look forward to seeing everyone at the AGM next Tuesday at The Garrats Club.

Activity for week 06 – ending 11 February

Wet and blustery conditions did not deter 31 members from fishing and between them they landed 31 fish, the largest of which was 3.75lbs on a mixture of patterns, Buzzer, Damsel, Cat’s Whiskers and Montana.

On the 8th February the lake was stocked with another 150 hard fighting rainbow trout – tight lines to all members.

Activity for week 05 – ending 04 February

Over the last few weeks the lake has been fishing exceptionally well, with over 100 fish caught in the last three weeks, despite the access issues caused by a fallen tree. The largest fish caught was 4.5lb, taken on a Ca’s Whiskers. Other successful flies include all patterns of Damsels, Buzzer, Bloodworm and Damsels. One lucky member landed a brown trout.

Last week there was a report of poachers on the lake with spinning rods, please report all incidents of suspected poaching to the operations room.

Activity for week 02 – ending 13 January

The change in the weather has lead to challenging fishing conditions at the lake. This week 15 members fished and landed 15 fish between on Cat’s Whiskers, Daddies and various wet flies.

This week a priest has been found on the bank it will be stored in the hut during this week.

Please note there will be a two week gap in the blog which will return on the 4th February.

Activity for week 01 – ending 06 January

Happy New Year to all!

The lake is still fishing well despite the weather, this week 20 members landed 43 fish between them. The most successful fly was the Damsel in various colours and buzzers.

2023

Activity for week 52 – ending 30 December

Despite the blustery conditions 14 members caught 28 fish between them, the heaviest if which was 3.75lbs. Popular flies were Yellow Dancer, Damsels and Hot Head Mop.

Happy New Year to all!

Activity for week 51 – ending 23 December

The lake is fishing extremely well with 17 members landing a total of 35 fish this week, the heaviest of which was 4.8lbs! Successful flies included Cat’s Whiskers and various patterns of Damsel. The reports indicate that the occasional lice infected fish is being caught, please dispose of these fish responsibly.

Activity for week 50 – ending 16 December

The wet weather this week has not dampened the fishing. 21 members fished and landed a total of 43 fish two of which were 4lbs. Popular patterns this week were various Damsels, Orange Bob, Green Mop Fly and Cat’s Whiskers.

A large amount of leader was found at peg 16, please take all used leader home and dispose of it responsibly.

Activity for week 49 – ending 09 December

The lake has fished well this week with 20 members landing a total of 47 fish the heaviest of which was 4lbs. There are still a few diseased fish being caught, but on the whole the recently stocked fish have good fight. This is the best the lake has fished since the summer, although wind speeds and gusts made difficult fishing on on the 9th.

Most successful patterns this week were Cat’s Whiskers, Damsels of various colours, Buzzers, Montana and Gold Head White Bugger.

Activity for week 48 – ending 02 December

A cold week but rewarding for those who braved the weather. Twelve members fished the lake catching 26 fish between them, the largest of which was 4lb. Successful files included Damsel of various patterns, Stonefly and black buzzer.

Activity for week 47 – ending 25 November

This week 20 members fished the lake and caught 39 fish between them, the largest weighing in at 4lbs.

Popular flies were Black Buzzer, GHD, White Damsel, Boobie, Green Damsel, Cats Whiskers & Zulu.

Unfortunately, we had another incident of the access gate being left unlocked, please make sure you lock the gate on entering and leaving the site.

Activity for week 46 – ending 18 November

17 members and 1 guess fished this week catching a total of 26 fish. The fish were caught on various coloured Damsel, Yellow Dancer, Montana and White Nobbler,

Activity for week 45 – ending 11 November

The lake was stocked with another 150 fish this week, which hopefully, weather permitting, should lead to some great fishing. 27 members and 2 guests fished, catching 48 fish. The predominant flies were damsels, all colours, Buzzer Montana, and yellow dancers.

Activity for week 44 – ending 4th November

This week 30 members fished the lake with mixed results catching 26 fish (one Brown Trout!) most likely associated with the drop in pressure caused by storm Ciaran. Successful patterns this week have been Damsel, Daddy, Cat’s Whiskers and various nymphs, with the largest fish caught weighing in at 5lbs.

Activity for week 43 – ending 28th October

The lake was stocked with another 150 fish this week and between the rain showers there was some good sport with for the most part strong fighting fish being caught. Although of the 40 members who fished this week, nearly 50% (me included) had blank visits. Those who did catch took a total of 60 fish from the lake on Damsels, Nymphs (Buzzers & Pheasant Tails), Montana and Cat’s Whiskers.

Activity for week 42 – ending 21st October

With another 150 fish added to the lake this week and water temperature down to 13 degrees members have been enjoying some great sport with strong fighting fish reported.

This week 20 members fished the lake catching 27 fish in total on a wide variety of flies ranging from Daddies to yellow and white Tadpole plus the usual range of Damsels (blue flash, Green Flash and Black)

This week there have been reports of offroad motor bikes being ridden around the lake – please report all anti-social behaviour to the Operations Room.

Activity for week 41 – ending 14th October

This week the lake was stocked for the first time in many months as the weather cooled and the water temperature dropped to sub 17 degrees. Seven members have fished the lake since stocking, catching seven fish between them on Damsel, Cat’s Whiskers and black buzzer.

Activity for week 34 – ending 26th August

The weather and water temperature remain against us, even the cormorant has given up! Five members fished this week with only one catching a fish on a May Fly. Lets hope we have a cool September and stocking can recommence. There was one report of poaching this week, please report any unusual behaviour to the Ops Room.

Activity for week 33 – ending 19th August.

Fishing remains challenging, this week eight members fished and managed to catch one fish of 1.5Lbs on a Montana. Please remember to report in & out with the Ops Room and inform them of any unusual or antisocial behaviour at the lake.

Activity for week 32 – ending 12th August

Thirteen members fished the lake catching a total of four fish, heaviest 2Lbs. Successful patterns were Daddy Longlegs and Dry Emerger. The issue with the MOD padlock at the gate has been reported! No Cormorant sightings this week.

Activity for week 31 – ending 5th August

Seventeen members fished the lake catching a total of eight fish between them. Most popular patterns were Damsel and Cat’s Whiskers. A couple of members reported seeing sick fish. It is very important that whenever lice infected or fish with other damage are caught this is reported on the catch returns, the committee relies on this information for the management of the lake – Thank you!

Activity for week 30 – ending 29th July

Sixteen members fished the lake this week with seven catching fish (eleven fish in total – heaviest 2.5lbs) and only one person reaching the three fish limit. With the water temperature at 19degrees its still too warm to stock and the fish are proving hard to catch. However, most success has been from pegs at the shallower areas of the lake. As usual the most effective fly was the Damsel, but fish were also taken on dry and nymphs (mostly dark coloured).

Activity for week 29 – ending 22nd July

Twelve members fished the lake this week with five catching fish , the biggest of which was 3lb. The most successful pattern was Damsel but fish were also taken on buzzers, boobies and blood worm. As you will have seen from Mike’s email a pair of cormorants are paying regular visits to the lake, please report all sightings. – tight lines!

Activity for week 15 – ending 15th April

This week 24 visits, including 1 guest were recorded with a total of 43 fish caught the largest weighing in at 4.5lbs. Once again the flies recorded as most successful were damsels of various colours (olives and blacks).

Activity for week 14 – ending 8th April

27 members visited in this first week of the new season and a total of 61 fish were caught the largest weighing in at 4lbs. Two patterns were reported as successful flies this week, damsels, and buzzers. A couple of members reported infested fish. It is very important that whenever lice infected or fish with other damage are caught this is reported on the catch returns, the committee relies on this information for the management of the lake. Thanks.

Activity for week 13 – ending on 1st April

24 members visited this week but only 31 fish were recorded as being caught with the largest weighing in at 4.5lbs. Damsels, buzzers and black/orange lures were listed as the most successful flies this week. A number of members blanked, I think that the varying weather conditions were the main contributing factors to this. I have noted that a number of the nearby commercial fisheries have also reported on the unpredictable conditions affecting the catches of their visitors.

We now move onto a new season and I wish all those that have renewed their membership “tight lines” for the coming year. I have now stood down as secretary and look forward to some R&R!

Activity for week 12 – ending 25th March

Just 13 members and 2 guests visited this week with 15 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 3.5 lbs. Buzzers, hares’ ears, damsels and cat’s whiskers all appeared on the list of successful flies.

Activity for week 11 – ending 18th March

Better weather has drawn a few more members out to the lake, there were 22 recorded visits with a total of 43 fish caught the largest weighing in at 4lbs. Damsels were the only flies recorded as being successful this week.

Activity for week 10

For another week the weather kept the members away from the lake, only 9 members recorded visits, and they managed to catch 14 fish the largest weighing in at 3.5 lbs. Buzzers, blobs and a green nymph were listed as the successful flies.

Activity for week 9

A drop off in the numbers visiting this week with 14 member visits plus 1 guest. A total of 33 fish were recorded as caught with the largest weighing in at 4lbs. Once again the usual suspects were recorded as the successful flies, Damsels (14), Montanas (3), and blobs (3). Membership renewals are coming in and by now the majority of members who have renewed have received their new membership cards. Please remember I am standing down at the end of this month so late applications could face a delay in processing whilst a new Secretary “beds in”. By the way, we are still waiting for a volunteer!!!!!

Activity for week 8

The reasonable weather continues to get members out to fish, with 27 plus 1 guest fishing this week, they managed to catch a total of 52 fish with the largest recorded at 4lbs. No surprises with the most successful flies Damsesl in a variety of colours and buzzers topping the list. I noted that one member was using a grey wulff, it’s good to see fish coming off the surface.

Activity for week 7

Yet another good week for our members that visited the lake, 26 member visits along with 2 guests caught a total of 52 fish with the largest weighing in at 4lbs. Once again Damsels and buzzers were the most successful flies, however, one of the guests caught 2 very nice fish using a Daddy long legs!

Activity for week 6

Another good week on the lake. 26 members and 1 guest fished catching a total of 72 fish. The largest fish was recorded at 4.75 lbs. Once again those flies recorded as being the most successful were, Damsels.

Activity for week 5

This week’s weather after that cold snap has certainly stirred the fish up and 29 member visits resulted in a total of 66 fish caught with the largest weighing in at 4lbs.

Once again, Damsels, blobs and buzzers were the most successful flies.

Activity for week 4

This week has seen about 80% of the lake frozen, this has not deterred 9 members who between them caught 25 fish the largest weighing in at 4.7 lbs! Damsels and buzzers were reported as successful flies.

Activity for week 3

The better weather this week has encouraged more members to fish, there were 23 recorded visits with a total of 54 fish caught, the largest weighing in at a recorded 4lbs. Once again the usual suspects were the most successful flies, Gold head damsels (8), and unspecified damsels (12).

Activity for week 2

This week the weather has played a major part in the lack of activity, there were only 5 recorded visits with 10 fish caught. the largest was recorded at 3.5 lbs. The usual suspects were the successful flies as reported by the members.

Activity for week 1

21 recorded visits to the lake with a total of 45 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 4lbs. No change to the successfully recorded flies, damsels(14) and buzzers(4).

2022

Activity for week 52

I start this week’s reports with a message – Happy New Year and “tight lines” for 2023.

This past week there were a total of 20 recorded visits with a total of 57 fish caught the largest weighing in at 4.5 lbs. Damsels (27)and blobs (9)were the flies that appeared to be the most successful.

Activity for week 51

This week with the better weather there were a total of 19 visits to the lake including 1 guest. With a total of 55 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 4.5 lbs. The old favourites were listed as the successful flies, Damsels, and buzzers.

Activity for week 50

The weather has defeated the members this week, nobody reported any fishing!

Activity for week 49

The cold weather has taken its toll on the attendance figures this week, with only 7 recorded visits including 1 guest. 17 fish were caught by the intrepid few with the largest weighing in at 3lbs. The successful flies were listed as Zak, blobs, and black bugs.

Activity for week 48

Only 13 recorded visits this week with 9 fish caught. The largest weighing in at 2.5 lbs. The successful flies were Damsels, Montanas, and buzzers. I suspect that the poor weather this week and massive changes in air pressure have contributed to the poor attendance and catch. The fish holdings are still well above the recommended stock levels.

Activity for week 47

This week there were 22 recorded visits with 54 fish recorded as caught, the largest weighing in at 3.5lbs. The most successful flies were damsels and nymphs. At last, the water temperature is well down the latest recorded temperature was 8.5 degC.

Activity for week 46

There were 20 recorded visits this week with a total of 30 fish caught the largest weighing in at 3lbs. The successful flies were Gold Head damsels, Zak, nymphs(black), and black buzzers.

Activity for week 45

Only 13 recorded visits to the waters this week with a total of 24 fish caught the largest weighing in at 3.5lbs. The successfully recorded flies were Damesls, black buzzers, Daddy long legs, and boobies of a couple of colours.

Activity for week 44

This week there were only 14 recorded visits to the water with 23 fish caught the largest weighing in at 4lbs. The most successful flies were Gold head damsels, booby, daddy long legs, buzzers and blue flash damsels.

Activity for week 43

16 recorded visits this week with a total of 31 fish caught. Damsels. diawl bach and Montana’s were the flies recorded as most successful.

Activity for week 42

15 recorded visits this week with 29 fish caught. Damsels, and buzzers were the most successful flies(as recorded) this week.

Activity for week 41

There were 17 recorded visits this week with a total of 31 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 4.5lbs. Damsels, montanas, fritz, blobs, and zak were the most successful flies used.

Activity for week 40

15 recorded visits this week with a total of 24 reported as being caught. The largest weighing in at 4lbs. This week successful flies (as reported) were, damsels, zak (I now know this is a South African pattern, worth a look on youtube), fritz, daddy long legs and black damsels.

Also, this week a number of members have reported seeing damaged and sick-looking fish. If you can catch them, please do and dispose of them. They make good fox food!

Activity for week 39

Only 11 recorded visits to the lake with 25 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 5.5lbs. Flies that were successful were recorded as “Zak” (not a name I am familiar with), damsels and buzzers.

Activity for weeks 36, 37 & 38

For this period there have been a total of 32 visits to the lake with 41 fish caught the largest weighing in at 4lbs. The water temperature is continuing to fall which is once again making the fishing viable and members reporting good fishing. A mixture of flies were successful, Grey Wulff, GH Damsels, Daddylonglegs, Montanas, black nymphs, blobs, and cat’s whiskers.

Activity for weeks 27 to 35 inclusive

This report covers the majority of the hot weather period and the swimming season. There were a total of 60 members visits during the period with a total of 46 fish caught the largest weighing in at 3lbs. The usual flies were successful. Hopefully, with the weather and the water cooling activity will increase and return to normal. fingers crossed.

Activity for weeks 24, 25 & 26

A combined report this time. The warm weather is now taking its toll of the fishing and consequently the number of visits. For this period there were a total of 31 visits with 40 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 4lbs. It is worth stating that statistically there are still more fish in the lake than the recommended EA numbers for the size of the water!!

The usual favourites were the successful flies.

Activity for week 23

There were 19 visits this week with 18 fish recorded as caught, the largest weighing in at 3.4lbs. The flies recorded as successful were a fritz, cat’s whisker, and booby. My suspicion is that the mayfly season for this year is now all but over, however those that prefer using a dry fly should now consider sedges and daddy long legs, my preference is to continue using CDC emergers which also work. We are also approaching a water temperature that will preclude stocking for the safety of the fish. I think that with the very warm weather predicted this week we will probably reach the 17degC limit. Don’t forget that the latest water temperature is recorded on a notice to the left of the Rod HUt door.

Activity for week 22

Only 20 visits to the lake this week with 16 fish recorded as caught, the largest recorded at 3lbs. The successful flies were damsels, mayflies, and nymphs. As we approach the end of the mayfly hatch members have been seeing small black flies hatching, so we are now beginning to see the start of sedges hatching.

The water temperature on Saturday was 15degC, which is now approaching the temperature when the fishing will become difficult and the fish start retreating to deeper cooler water, they also become lethargic. As in previous years, the recommendation is to fish early when it is cooler!

Activity for week 21

Another week of the mayfly hatch. This week there were 22 visits and 28 fish recorded as caught. The largest was 4lbs. No mayflies were on the top of the list of flies used to catch fish!!, instead the damsels in various forms were at the top of the list. To me, it seems a shame that members are not fully taking advantage of the mayfly season and using dry flies.

Activity for week 20

The mayfly hatch continues unfortunately the black-headed gulls are also making their presence felt, which appears to affect the fish rising to mayflies. I am afraid there is nothing we can do about this.

This week there were 31 visits to the lake and 35 fish recorded as caught, the largest weighing 3.7lbs. Boobies and damsels were the most successful flies.

Activity for week 19

With mayflies now coming off the lake this week, there were 35 visits to the lake and a total of 49 fish caught. I am amazed that nobody has recorded catching fish using mayflies or other dry fly patterns. Members are recording catching on Boobies(11) damsels (10) Montana(3) The balance of fish caught flies are not recorded. Just a note for those members that can’t recall where they are fishing, every bench has a little silver disc on the side of the seat showing the peg number!

Activity for week 18

Probably earlier than usual the mayfly has started hatching in the lake over the last 10 days or so. Whether this means the season will be shorter this year remains to be seen, but now is the time for those dry fly members to get out and enjoy the lake. The catch numbers certainly reflect the arrival of the mayfly, with many fish being caught using mayflies and/or other dry fly patterns.

There were 39 visits with a total of 62 fish caught. The largest recorded at 5lbs. As previously stated mayflies have been successful along with Montana’s, damsels, and boobies.

Activity for week 17

There were 24 visits to the lake with a total of 34 fish caught, the largest recorded at 3.75lbs. Boobies, Montanas, and Orange hoppers were the most successful flies recorded. The good news is that one member reported seeing mayflies. So it is time for all the dry flies to come out.

Activity for week 16

A total of 21 visits to the lake this week with 27 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 4lbs. The successful flies were recorded as Boobies and Damsels. The water temperature started to rise and was just under 14 degC. The water flow through the lake is now negligible because of the lack of rain during the past few weeks.

Activity for week 15

A total of 37 recorded visits to the waters with 40 fish recorded as caught, the largest weighing in at 4lbs. The successful flies were Boobies, damsels nymphs, and buzzers.

Activity for week 14

There were 25 visits to the lake with a total of 44 fish caught. The largest weighing in at 3.5lbs. The recorded successful flies were listed as Buzzers, black buzzers, boobies, nymphs, and GH Damsels. The water temperature has dropped a few degrees and last Thursday it was 8degC. One other notable event last week was that a blue trout was caught by one lucky member.

Activity for week 13

The last week of the 2021 season had only 11 members visit the lake and they caught 12 fish the largest weighing in at 3.5lbs. Damsels, buzzers, and wet flies were recorded as successful flies.

Activity for week 12

28 visits this week with a total of 51 fish caught. Once again the usual suspects, damsels, and buzzers were listed as the successful flies. The largest fish recorded at 3.75lbs. The water temperature has now started to creep up as a result of the recent spell of warm sunny weather, currently, it is 10degC.

Activity for week 11

23 visits with 48 fish caught during the week. The usual suspects were the successful flies.

Activity for week 10

There were 11 visits to the lake with 24 fish recorded as being caught. The largest weighing in at 3.5lbs. Damsels, Cat’s whiskers, and buzzers were listed as the successful flies.

Activity for week 9

10 visits and 23 fish caught this week. Interesting to note that 3 fish were caught using a Grey Wulff. Other than those the other recorded flies were damsels and a baby doll?

Activity for week 8

Only 11 visits to the lake during this week with 14 fish caught. The largest weighing in at 3lbs. Cat’s whiskers, Damsels, and buzzers were the successful flies.

Activity for week 7

13 visits to the lake with a total of 31 fish caught, the largest recorded at 3lbs. Those hardy members braving this week’s poor weather appear to have done quite well. No changes to the most successful flies with damsels the only recorded flies used.

Activity for week 6

There were just 15 recorded visits to the lake this week and 25 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 3.7lbs. Black& Green fritz, damsels and wet flies, and “baby doll” were this week’s successful flies. Last Thursday when I took the water temperature I was very pleased to note that it was 6 degC, I was expecting it to be higher following the recent relatively mild weather.

Activity for week 5

This week there were 16 recorded visits to the lake with a total of 30 fish caught, the largest fish recorded at 3.1lbs. Damsels and a fly called “baby doll”? were the successful flies.

Activity for week 4

A total of 18 visits to the lake this week with 37 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 3.0lbs. The most successful flies this week were damsels, in a variety of styles. Quite a few reported that the fish were in good condition. There was a small number that was caught still infected with Argulus, which I suspect were long-term residents in the lake.

Activity for week 3

Only 12 visits were recorded this week with 27 fish caught, so the catch rate was pretty good. The largest fish was recorded at 3.6lbs. Damsels, Cat’s whiskers, nymphs, and buzzers were reported as the most successful flies.

On Thursday the northern edge of the lake had a thin sheet of ice covering it. I was particularly pleased to see this as it means the water temperature is still dropping and was just under 3degC.

Activity for week 2

This week there were 24 recorded visits with a total of 37 fish caught. The successful flies were: GH damsels, Boobies, Green Goldhead (GHD)? and green sedge. By far the majority this week caught fish with a limited number advising that their fish were infected with lice. Our stocking policy of holding the total stock to the recommended EA numbers and stocking against the catch returns appears to be working to some extent. Our aim is that by regular stocking the fish being caught have not been in the lake for a long period therefore limiting the chances that they become infected. At this time of the year this is helped by the cold water. Fingers crossed we can keep on top of the problem.

Activity for Week 1

There were 11 recorded visits with a total of 15 fish caught. The largest recorded at 3.5lbs. The successful flies were: White damsel, Yellow Woolly bugger and GH damsels.

2021

Activity for week 52

This week there were 17 recorded visits to the lake with 31 fish caught. The largest fish weighed in at 3.75lbs. The better news is that the number of fish that do NOT have Argulus is marginally increasing which is good news. However, what we really need is a decent period of very cold weather. I know I am always moaning about the weather or lack of it! The most successful flies this week were: Green sedge, fritz, and GH damsels.

Activity for Week 51

I am a little late posting the activity summary this week, blame the holidays! During the week there were 14 visits to the lake with a total of 16 fish caught. One or two blanked but the majority of visits caught fish. The largest recorded weight this week was 3.2lbs. GHD damsels, Tinsel balls? and Bugs were the named successful flies.

Activity for week 50

There were 16 recorded visits to the lake this week with a total of 30 fish caught. The largest weighing in at 4lbs. Damsels were the successful recorded flies this week. The water temperature was up very slightly reading between 5 and 6 degC. I was not surprised at that taking into consideration the very mild (for the time of the year) weather and the lack of rain.

Activity for Week 49

There were 10 recorded visits to the lake with a total of 21 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 3.5lbs. Damsels, green sedge, and orange flies were the recorded flies as being the most successful.

The water temperature continues to drop and on Thursday when I recorded it it was between 4 and 5 degC.

Activity for week 48

This week there have been 8 recorded visits to the lake with a total of 20 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 5lbs. The successful flies were Orange lure, Buzzers, and Green damsels. The water temperature continues to drop with the latest reading midway between 5 and 6 degC.

Activity for week 47

There were a total of 6 recorded visits to the lake this week with 9 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 3.7lbs. Again the old favourites were the successful flies, green and blue flash damsels and orange woolly buggers.

The water temperature continues to drop with the current temperature reading at 8deg C.

Activity for week 46

This week there were 16 recorded visits by members with a total of 18 fish caught. The largest fish weighed in at a recorded 4lbs. The usual suspects were the successful flies, Gold head damsels, green Montana’s, and blobs?

The good news is that the water temperature is still dropping and the last recorded reading was 9degC.

Activity for week 45

An increase in the numbers of members reporting as fishing with 21 recorded visits, catching a total of 15 fish caught, the largest fish weighing 4lbs. Damsels, boobies, cat’s whiskers, and Montanas were reported as successful flies. I am still getting reports of fish that are infected with lice, but on the positive side, I am also getting reports of fish in good condition being caught.

The water temperature is now down to 10deg C, so the lice situation should now improve. fingers crossed!

Activity for Weeks 43 & 44

During the past two weeks, there has been a total of 16 members visiting who caught 15 fish, the largest weighing in at 4lbs. The successful flies were listed as blobs, white fry and Montana.

Activity for week 42

A limited number of members have continued fishing during this very difficult period. There were 8 visits with 12 fish caught including a very nice fish weighing in at 4.2lbs, a PB for the member concerned. This fish was only lightly infected with lice and fought like a demon taking 20 minutes to land. Other fish being caught have had lice to varying degrees. The water temperature is dropping which will decrease the lice activity. Members will notice and catch fish with damaged skin which is a result of advanced lice infestation. If you catch fish in this condition please destroy them and dispose of them. Nymphs (0ne purple in colour) woolly buggers and GH damsels were the successful flies this week.

Activity for weeks 36 to 41 inclusive

A number of weeks have passed since I last posted an update. As a result of the unusually warm water and as members are aware there is an Argulus infection in the large lake which has adversely affected the fishing and we stopped stocking to protect the fish.

The water temperature has now started to drop and as at yesterday it was down to 12degC, which is getting the temperature close to that, when the lice activity reduces considerably.

During the past weeks some members have continued fishing and have been catching fish some with lice on their bodies and some without! I can’t explain that. The usual suspects, damsels, buzzers and nymphs have been the successful flies.

I need to repeat the advisory about fishing off the dam. This is NOT allowed and yesterday we found evidence that members and possibly poachers are ignoring the club rules not permitting fishing off the dam. Please will all members adhere to the club rules. The committee has the power to cancel the membership of anyone discovered not adhering to the rules. Next time any member walks along the dam wall have a look at the barbed wire on the fence and you will see the evidence of illegal fishing I am talking about.

Activity for week 35

Only 13 visits to the lake were recorded, however there were 18 fish caught, with the largest weighing in at 4lbs, caught on a black gnat, damsels and buzzers were also successful flies.

The club Facebook page also shows a photo of one of our members flagrantly ignoring the club rules and fishing off the dam wall!!! All members are required to conform to the club rules. They have been warned!

Activity for week 34

This week there were 15 recorded visits to the lake with only 1 fish weighing 2.5lbs caught on a damsel fly.

A number of members have reported that they have seen fish swimming on the surface, probably in a distressed state. This I am afraid is caused by the high”ish” water temperature, combined with the lack of rain and virtually no water flow through the lake which causes low oxygen levels. We really need some rain!!

Activity for week 33

We are still in the quiet period, this week there were 12 recorded visits to the lake with 2 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 2lbs, caught on a gold head damsel. One consolation is that the commercial fisheries in the area are also commenting on the poor fishing at the moment.

I would recommend you look at our Facebook page for a photo taken by one of our members of a dragonfly laying eggs. I think it is a fantastic photo and all credit to Graham S. Perhaps worthy of an entry into the Countryfile calendar competition?

Activity for week 32

Not much to report this week, only 7 visits were recorded and no fish caught!?!

I will circulate the stock levels to members as there are according to the statistics there are plenty of fish in the lake, that is if all members who go fishing are recording their catches! If you fish and can’t be bothered to record your visit and catch including a NIL return the committee are unable to maintain fish levels to provide a good experience for ALL members.

Activity for weeks 29, 30 & 31

Over this 3 week period there have only been 29 visits recorded. However during week 30 one member caught a 6 pounder, which I think is the largest fish taken out of the lake for a number of years. Overall there were only 24 fish recorded as caught. It is worth mentioning that the 6 pounder was caught off the surface using a parachute fly!!! Those members wedded to sub surface flies and damsels please note!

Activity for week 28 – 11th July to 17th July 2021

16 members and 1 guest visited the lakes this week sadly only catching 5 fish, however the largest was recorded at 4.5lbs. Boobies, pheasant tail nymphs and damsels were the successful flies.

The weather is now playing a significant part in members ability to catch. The water is getting warmer, the temperature is now at the top of the comfortable range for trout, this forces the fish into the cooler deeper water and becoming much less active.

Activity for week 27 – 4th July to 10th July 2021

26 members visited the lakes and caught 27 fish, the largest recorded at 4lbs. Boobies(6), Montana(3), Damsels(3) were the most successful flies.

Activity for week 26 – 27th June to 3rd July 2021

This week saw 26 members visiting and they recorded they had caught 30 fish. The largest weighing in at 4.1lbs. Again the usual flies were successful, wet flies (5), nymphs (4), damsels (4) and booby (4).

Activity for week 25 – 20th June to 26th June 2021

The number of visits this week is nearly back to the normal, with 30 recorded visits and 31 fish recorded as caught, the largest weighing in at 4.75lbs. Once again this week the usual suspects, boobies, buzzers and damsels were recorded as the most successful flies.

The water temperature this week has come down and was at the surface 15 degC and 3ft down 18 degC. Hopefully, as the weather this week has been changeable and we have not had any really hot days the water temperature will have reduced a bit more, fingers crossed!

Activity for week 24 – 13th June to 19th June 2021

A mix of weather has taken a dramatic toll on the numbers fishing this week, with only 12 visits recorded and 9 fish caught, the largest recorded at 3lbs. The usual flies were listed as being the most successful.

On Monday and Thursday I took the lake water temperature and was dismayed to discover that the temperature was already up to the early 20 degrees C, a considerable change from the previous week. This will of course affect the behaviour of the trout which are cold water fish, meaning that when the sun is out and the water so warm the fish become lethargic and seek the deeper cooler water, which will inevitably affect the ability of members to catch. For your information the temperatures are taken on the water surface and at a depth of approximately 3 feet.

From now onwards I will be taking the temperature weekly and publishing the results here and on the club Facebook page.

Activity for week 23 – 6th June to 12th June 2021

Another week of very warm weather which has again brought out the youngsters who use the area for partying and swimming. There were 28 members visits with 32 fish recorded as caught, the largest recorded at 3lbs. Montanas, boobies and damsel flies were the most successful flies recorded this week.

On Wednesday I visited the lake to talk to the divers who were finishing the valve work at the northern end of the lake. They told me that the water temperature of the lake was now in 2 distinct bands. The top 3 to 4 feet was quite warm and below that it was described as very cold. (This description from divers who have worked in the Antarctic)!

What this means is that the fish will now have moved into the deeper water to keep cool, they also become a lot less active during the sunny and warm weather, the consequence of this is that members fishing will be considerably more difficult. The fishing tip is “fish deep” in the areas of the lake where the water is at it’s deepest!

The Fire Service has been called twice to the lake this week to extinguish fires lit by the groups of youths. Please ensure you advise Longmoor Ops about any incidents and they will take the required action. Please don’t hesitate to call the emergency services if you see or experience any aggressive or unruly behaviour.

Activity for week 22 – 30th May to 5th June 2021

Unfortunately the members appear to be the casualty of the sunny weather and half term holidays as once again the lakes have been inundated with numbers of teenagers who have been using the lake and banks for swimming, partying and lighting fires and other activities!!, consequently, the number of members visiting the lake this week was only 19 with 25 fish caught, the largest recorded at 3.5lbs. Mayflies, boobies, and damsel flies have been the successful flies this week. The intermittent mayfly hatch has continued, I would think that it will probably start decreasing this week and end in the very near future.

During this warm sunny weather the recommendation for fishing is for members to avoid the lakes during the afternoons and fish in the mornings up to lunchtime thus “hopefully” avoiding the groups of teenagers.

Activity for week 21 – 23rd May to 29th May 2021

This week has brought us better weather which is reflected in the number of visits, 44 member visits and 1 guest, there were 48 fish recorded as caught with the largest recorded at 4.25lbs. Early in the week the intermittent mayfly hatch continued but as the weather warmed up the hatch numbers gradually increased. On Saturday, the hatch was what I would describe as reasonable, but not prolific. Let’s hope that the forecast warmer weather will show an increase in the hatch numbers. The successful flies recorded this week were Grey Wulff, GH damsels, and mayfly nymphs.

Some members have asked me about the mayfly life cycle and I have received from a firm called barbless flies an email detailing this cycle. The link to the email is set out below:

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox/FMfcgzGkXctWrcQKcMChzFNsGxJwjbrQ

This is in no way a promotion for this firm, but if you are subscribed to their email list they do send out some interesting articles about flies and entomology.

On Saturday the team of volunteers completed the installation of the new style benches. All members owe a very large vote of thanks to the team, who worked extremely hard fabricating and installing them.

The bad news! the duck family sighted last week have disappeared, so they obviously decided they didn’t like us. The coot is still sitting on her eggs and I have a suspicion that they are not fertile as they should have hatched by now. Let’s hope I am wrong. Fingers crossed, we should see some little grebes hatching next.

Activity for week 20 – 16th May to 22nd May 2021

Another week with unsettled weather, there were 30 recorded visits with a total of 55 fish caught, the largest recorded at 4lbs. This week you can take your pick of successful flies with wet flies (type not advised), buzzers taking 6 each followed by mayfly nymphs, damsels, dry flies (type not recorded), boobies, and blood worms all recorded as taking 3 each.

The mayfly hatch is still intermittent and on my visits I have watched the black headed gulls flying around without a lot of success (long may that continue). I also watched a duck sheppard her newly hatched brood on Tuesday afternoon and I was very pleased to see her family of 8 swimming around on Thursday, fingers crossed they survive. Next in line for new arrivals should be the coot family, which should hatch any day now.

Hopefully, with some better weather forecast, this week will bring an improvement in the mayfly hatch.

Activity for week 19 – 9th May to 15th May 2021

Despite the very changeable weather during this week there were38 recorded visits to the lake with a total of 64 fish caught, the largest weighing in at 4.25lbs. However the record for this week must go to the member who caught a black headed gull, netted it and safely released it “catch and release” redefined!!!

Damsels, boobies, buzzers and dry flies (mayfly variants) were working this week.

The mayfly hatch is still intermittent, which is in all probability due to the variable weather and temperatures. The hatch is obviously expected with the arrival of the black headed gulls. I watched them on Tuesday being outmanoeuvred by a Wagtail, which took up station on the adjacent bench to me and was scoring a 100% catch rate compared to the gulls who were flying around searching with limited success.

Activity for week 18 – 2nd May to 8th May 2021

There were 45 visits including 2 guests to the lake this week with a total of 84 fish caught, the largest recorded at 4lbs. No change to the successful flies used, Damsels and wet flies recorded as the most successful. I am also aware of a number of members catching off the surface using dry flies this week.

Despite the changeable and unseasonal weather, the mayfly have decided it’s time to hatch and on the calmer and slightly warmer days a number of mayflies have been sighted, although it has to be said the hatch is currently sporadic. Another very welcome sight is that there a number of tadpoles visible in the verges, I think that is the first time for a couple of years that reasonable numbers have been seen.

All the new benches now have the peg number discs fitted. They are located on the side/ends of the seats.

Activity for week 17 – 25th April – 1st May 2021

This week there were 41 visits to the lake with a total of 56 fish recorded as caught. The largest fish was recorded at 4.5lbs which I understand was caught off the surface with a dry fly (Red spinner). Other than that the usual suspects were reported as the successful flies! The season is progressing with more mayflies being sighted also during the late afternoon there have been hatches of olives.

From yesterday (Saturday) the first tranche of the new heavy duty benches were installed by a small team of volunteers, thanks the very hard work of Paul Q our Grounds members. We owe Paul and the volunteers a very large vote of thanks. In a few days the new benches will also be fitted with a small disk indicating the peg number, making life easier for members to recall where they were fishing and catching, or not!!

Activity for week 16 – 18th April to 24th April 2021

39 visits to the lake caught 35 fish this week. The largest fish recorded at 3.5lbs. Gold head damsels, boobies, nymphs and buzzers once again were the successful flies. Bright sun and gusting wind has made fishing challenging this week. There is one glimmer of things to come when a sighting of a couple of mayflies has also been reported.

Activity for week 15 – 11th April to 17th April 2021

The better weather this week has attracted 58 visits including 3 guest to the lake, with 88 fish recorded as caught with the largest fish weighing in at 4.8lbs. This week the gold head damsel (GHD) was recorded as the most successful fly followed by buzzers. Once again this week members were able to see a number of fish showing in the centre, I believe they are feeding on midge nymphs. Perhaps an opportunity to fish small zebra midge buzzer patterns?

One of the by products of my non native invasive species monitoring exercise is that in addition to signal crayfish I am now discovering damsel fly, mayfly nymphs and quantities of small fresh water shrimps in the monitoring traps.

Activity for week 14 – 4th April to 10th April 2021

This week there have been 37 recorded visits including 1 guest. There were 44 fish recorded as being caught with the largest weighing in at 5lbs. Wet flies (type not known), damsels and booby’s were this week’s successful flies.

Activity for week 13 – 28th March to 3rd April 2021

The past week has seen 42 recorded visits including 2 guests with a total of 44 fish recorded as caught, the largest fish this week was recorded at 4.5lbs. This week, buzzers, damsels and Montana’s were the flies recorded as the most successful.

I am hoping that the colder weather predicted over this Easter weekend will not set back the early hatches and the midge hatch continues.

Activity for week 12 – 21st March to 27th March 2021

During the past week there were 32 recorded visits to the lake with a total of 30 fish caught, the largest weighing in at a recorded 4lbs. As in previous weeks, buzzers, nymphs (type not stated) and hothead damsels were the successful recorded flies.

Studying the peg statistics I am pleased to see that the catch distribution is now distributed almost evenly around the “in use” pegs, which is a good indication that our distributed stocking policy is working and making the lake more fishable.

I have my fingers crossed that the warmer weather will see early hatches starting and the possibility of catching using dry flies increases. I noted last week that there were a lot of fish just under the surface nymphing on midges. I think a good sign, also time to sort out my cdc emergers!

Activity for week 11 – 14th March to 20th March 2021

The better weather and the approaching end of the 2020 season attracted 47 visits to the lake this week with a total of 80 fish caught. The largest fish was recorded as weighing in at 8lbs! Buzzers, damsels and wetflies (type not recorded) were all successful this week.

I am pleased to report that the small lake has now filled up and is spilling water into the large lake so water flow has now returned. I also noticed that water is already flowing over the large lake spillway, so our water levels have returned to normal.

I was saddened to notice that some people have been carrying out “mindless” vandalism (criminal damage) and that at least 3 fishing benches have been completely destroyed or removed. I noticed that at one bench it looked as if they had been using a spade to try and dig out the bench struts!

Activity for week 10 – 7th March – 13th March 2021

There were 34 visits to the lake this week and a total of 49 fish caught (which included 1 brown trout). The largest recorded fish was 3lbs. Buzzers, wet flies (type not known) and black damsels were the flies of choice this week.

Those of you that have visited Bourley this week will have noticed that the small lake is now filling up again. Yesterday (Saturday) I think it was about 2.3rds full and hopefully with some more rain it will not be too long before the water level reaches the interconnecting spillway and water flow from the lake into the large lake resumes. Fingers crossed!

Activity for week 9 – 28th February – 6th March 2021

There were 25 visits to the lake with a total of 51 fish caught, the largest recorded at 3.75lbs. The dominant flies recorded this week were wet flies (pattern not known), buzzers and black damsels.

The engineering work is going well and I am advised by the site manager that they are hoping to finish on Wednesday of this week. As soon as they have completed the sealing work on the fractured pipe the small lake outlet will be closed and the lake will start filling again.

Activity for week 8 – 21st February – 27th February 2021

This week there were 24 visits to the lake with 23 fish caught the largest weighing in at 3lbs. Again the favourite flies were Gold head damsel, buzzers and orange flies.

On Thursday the drain down of the small lake (reservoir 3) started and a number of members assembled to help catch any fish. So far none have been sighted! I have just returned (Sunday morning) from the lakes and the water level in reservoir 3 is now probably as low as it is going to get, all the outlet pipes are visible and there are still no fish visible with probably between 2 -3 feet of water around the outlets. The sad thing is that the lack of fish in the reservoir indicates that all the rumours of it being the prime target for poachers is now probably correct.

Activity for week 7 – 14th February – 20th February 2021

The slightly better weather linked to the cold water provided excellent sport for the 36 members and 1 guest who visited this week. They recorded catching a total of 95 fish with the largest weighing in at 3.1lbs. Wet flies, damsels and buzzers were again at the top of the successful fly list.

Activity for week 6 – 7th February – 13th February 2021

Only 1 hardy member decided to brace the cold weather this week. He was rewarded with 3 fish, the largest weighing in at 3.25lbs. Well done! The successful files were buzzer (2) and a goldhead daddy long legs.

During my visit to the lakes on Thursday to attend a site meeting with the DIO and Contractors I was surprised to see that the lake was completely frozen over. What a change from a year ago, on the 11th February 2020, we had divers in the lake examining the outlet valves to determine the extent of repairs that were going to be needed.

The Facebook page has a picture of the frozen lake, if you are interested.

Activity for week 5 – 31st January – 6th February 2021

The numbers of visits this week are down with only 17 recorded visits and only 7 fish caught. The largest fish was recorded at 2.5lbs. I suspect that the inclement weather has played a large part in this reduction in the members visiting.

During my visit to the lakes in the middle of the week I was surprised to see how badly cut up and boggy and slippery some of the areas around the banks were. I repeat my message from last week please be very careful when walking around the lake.

Activity for week 4 – 24th January – 30th January 2021

This week there were 20 recorded visits with 19 fish caught, the largest recorded at 3lbs. Buzzers were the top fly followed by gold head damsels and black damsels.

As we are now at our financial year end and I am busy preparing the annual statistics for the AGM which will be distributed along with all the other reports for the virtual AGM which is being held this year. All reports will distributed next Sunday.

Following the very wet weather, please be careful when walking around the lake the ground is very soft and in some places muddy and slippery. Take care and be safe!

Activity for week 3 – 17th January – 23rd January 2021

As I write this week’s report over the past hour or so 4 inches of snow has fallen! This week members visited 27 times along with 1 guest. There were a total of 33 fish recorded as being caught, the largest weighing in at 3.5lbs. Damsels and buzzers once again topped the leader board of successful flies.

Activity for week 2 – 10th January – 16th January 2021

Despite the restrictions of Lockdown 3 the activity this week has bounced back, with 29 visits by members and a total of 52 fish recorded as caught. The largest weighed in at 3.5lbs. This week unspecified wet flies were the most successful followed by damsels of various types and colours.

With the heavy rain we have been having during the past days, the ground around the lake is very wet and SLIPPERY! Please take care when moving around the pegs. “Tight Lines”

Activity for week 1 – 3rd January – 09 January 2021

This week we are off to a slow start for 2021. Only 7 members visited the lakes and they caught 13 fish. The largest recorded fish weighed in at 3.25lbs. Buzzers accounted for 10 fish with a gold head black damsel catching the other 3. One successful member reported that the “takes” were very shy and delicate.

All please remember that there are conditions attached to fishing under Lockdown 3 the most significant is that only local travel is allowed. Strict social distancing should also be practised.

2020

Activity for week 53 – 27th December – 2nd January 2021

Happy New Year to all members/readers. I suspect that a combination of poor weather, Tier 4 COVID-19 restrictions and family demands during the holiday period has resulted in only 19 visits to the lake this week with only 8 fish caught. The largest recorded fish was 3lbs. Buzzers, damsels and Montana’s were the most successful flies recorded this week.

This is the last weekly report for 2020, the calendar year end of the first year of the club website. I hope that the information posted has been of use to you all. “Tight Lines” for 2021.

Activity for week 52 – 20th December – 26th December 2020

26 members and 1 guest were recorded as visiting the lake this week, catching 59 fish. The largest weighed in at 3.25lbs. Again buzzers were the most successful reported flies with damsels coming a close second. Once again this week has not been particularly favourable for our members, keeping my fingers crossed for an improvement!

Activity for week 51 – 13th December – 19th December 2020

This week there were 25 recorded visits to the lake with 39 fish caught. The largest weighing in at 4.0lbs. For another week buzzers followed by damsels were the most successful reported flies. The weather this week has not been favourable, looking forward to the holiday period, let’s keep our fingers crossed for some better weather to encourage members out for a few hours fresh air and hopefully “tight lines”. Enjoy the holidays!!

Activity for week 50 – 6th December – 12th December 2020

Reported activity for this week, 24 visits with 49 fish reported as being caught. The largest fish this week weighed in at 3.5lbs. The buzzers have made a come back this week with more fish caught using buzzers than damsels.

Activity for week 49 – 28th November – 5th December 2020

A quiet week to report with just 22 members and 2 guests recorded as fishing. They caught 23 fish with the largest weighing in at 3.7lbs. This week, Damsels have made a bit of a comeback with 9 fish recorded as caught using this fly. Buzzers are still coming a close second!

I suspect that the poor weather from mid week onwards and military commitments were the primary reasons for the reduced numbers fishing.

Activity for week 48 – 22nd November – 28th November 2020

This week there were 44 recorded visits with a total of 58 fish caught, the largest recorded at 4lbs. Buzzers were by far the most successful fly this week followed again by the usual suspects!

Recently, I read on another fishery social media page an interesting tip for those using lures. It was don’t strike on the “first touch” but wait until you get the second touch and then strike. I have seen this tip before, but it is worth repeating for the benefit of those members who report getting touches and not “hooking the fish”.

Activity for week 47 – 15th November – 21st November 2020

28 members and 1 guest were recorded as visiting the reservoir this week, with 37 fish caught. The largest fish weighed in at 3.5lbs. Buzzers appear to have been the most successful flies this week, with the usual suspects also on the list!

Activity for week 46 – 8th November – 14th November 2020

This week 42 members recorded visits to the lake with 59 fish caught. The largest recorded fish weighed in at 4lbs. No change to the successful flies!

During one of my visits to the lake this week, I was pleased to see 10 members fishing around the lake and the majority had caught!

Activity for Week 45 – 1st November – 7th November 2020

This past week has been a successful week for the majority of members visiting. There were 43 recorded visits with 73 fish caught, the largest weighed in at 4.5lbs. Again the successful recorded flies were damsels(20), wet flies, type not stated(18) and buzzers(of varying colours and patterns).

From the lake management perspective, we are now about 12 weeks into our revised stocking policy and the statistics are indicating that the revised policy is working, with catches now being recorded from pegs all around the lake and not concentrated on the NE corner of the lake.

Activity for week 44 – 25th October – 31st October 2020

The number of recorded visits this week is down with only 28 recorded, resulting in 30 fish being caught, the largest weighing in at 3.75lbs.. The most successful flies recorded were, Damsels and buzzers. I think the poor weather during the week was responsible for this reduction in visits.

There was a further poaching incident reported, with a number of individuals approaching the lake from Beacon Hill at dusk on Sunday 25th (no doubt taking advantage of the clocks going back)! they were observed active along the north end of the lake near the dam overflow. Details of this incident were reported to the relevant authorities.

Activity for week 43 – 18th October – 24th October 2020

The recorded visites for this week were 47 including 1 guest. There were 44 fish recorded as being caught with the largest recorded at 3.75lbs. Damsels, buzzers, bloodworms are listed as the most successful flies. The weather this week has not been particularly kind to members with a number of very wet days, which has undoubtedly had some influence on the fishing.

The comments made by members when completing their catch returns are appreciated and are very helpful to maintain a picture of what is happening at the lakes. It appears that 2 poachers may have been sighted this week fishing off the dam wall. When challenged by a member they left the area. If they were members they were breaking the club rules and should know better!

Activity for week 42 – 11th October – 17th October

This week there were 34 visits with 63 fish recorded as caught. The largest fish weighed in at 5lbs. Popular recorded flies this week are the GHD – gold head damsel (15), wetflies (8).

Activity for week 41 – 4th October – 10th October 2020

This weeks recorded visits amount to 36 with 73 fish caught. The largest recorded fish was 3.5lbs. It is disappointing to see that a minority of members are recording “blanks”. I hope that as the distributed stocking system takes more effect that these will decrease. I confess that on my fishing visit this week I “blanked”! The catch statistics so far are encouraging with the number of fish being caught at Peg 1 “Duffers corner” on the decrease!! and the other pegs becoming more productive. This week’s popular recorded flies are Boobie(12), GH Damsel (10), wetflies (5) pattern not recorded. Hare’s ears and Pheasant Tail nymphs are also recorded as working. As the weather gets cooler and the fly life starts to decrease, lure style flies should probably become more productive.

Activity for week 40 – 27th September – 3rd October 2020

The recorded visits for this were 28 with 40 fish caught. The largest recorded fish was again 3.5lbs. The popular flies (as recorded) are wetfly (pattern not stated), 12 fish, Gold head damsel , 4 fish, Montana, 3 fish and Boobie, 3 fish. The flies were not recorded for the remaining fish caught. It is encouraging to note that the trend of fish being caught at pegs distributed around the lake is continuing.

Activity for week 39 – 20th September – 26th September 2020

The number of visits recorded this week was 17 with 29 fish caught. The largest recorded fish was 3.5lb. The most popular flies listed were, Montana, Blue flash olive damsel, 3 fish on wet flies (unlisted) and 3 on dry flies (unlisted). The encouraging aspect of this week’s stats are that the peg returns are indicating that fish are distributed throughout the lake, which I think, is indicating that the distributed stocking policy is taking effect. I have my fingers crossed that when I take the temperature readings tomorrow morning (Monday) the water temperature is beginning to come down. “Here’s hoping”!

Activity for week 38 – 13th September – 19th September 2020

This week the number of visits recorded was 12 with a total of 20 fish caught with the largest at 3.25lbs. Members recorded they used wet flies (no pattern given), dry flies (no pattern given) and of course a Blue flash damsel!! It is worth mentioning that under the new stocking system we are currently stocking more fish than are being recorded as caught. There already a reasonable number of freshly stocked fish in the lake, so in theory, members “catchability” should be increasing. Now the weather is looking as if it is on the turn and forecast as being cooler one would hope to see the visits and the catch rates increasing. “Tight lines”.

Activity for week 37 – 6th September – 12th September 2020

There were 14 visits to the lakes with 14 fish caught. From the submitted returns some members caught their 3 bag limit and other blanked. “That’s fly fishing for you”. The dominant flies this week were the blue flash damsel and daddy long legs. It’s good to see fish being caught off the surface! The largest recorded fish caught was 3lbs.

Activity for week 36 – 30th August to 5th September 2020.

This week there were 20 visits to the lakes with 21 fish caught, the largest was 3.5lbs. The successful flies were, Gold head blue flash damsel, hare’s ear and buzzers. There has been a slight increase in the water temperature this week which is disappointing. This has not stopped members catching increased numbers of fish. It is good to see that fish are now being caught from the pegs located at the southern end of the lake.

Activity for week 35 – 23rd August to 29th August 2020

There have been 8 declared visits to the lake this week with 3 fish caught, the largest a 2lb brown trout. I suspect this fish had been a longish term resident of the lake as to my knowledge no brown trout have been stocked for over 9 months. It is pleasing to see that 1 of the fish caught was taken on a dry fly. The other declared flies were a hare’s ear and blue flash damsel. The water is now cooling down which will have the effect of increasing the activity of the fish.

Activity for week 34 – 16th August to 22nd August 2020

This week has seen the temperature of the water in the lake reach 24 deg C, the dissolved oxygen level is low but just within acceptable levels. There have been 5 members recorded as fishing with 1 rainbow caught at 2.75lbs. Hopefully the changeable weather will bring the lake water temperature down and the fish will be more active increasing the “fishability”.

Activity for week 33 – 9th August to 15th August 2020

Hot weather this week has dramatically impacted the fishability of the lake with the current water temperature 23 deg C. 4 intrepid members are recorded as visiting the lake, however no fish are recorded as being caught.

Activity for week 32 – 2nd August to 8th August 2020

Reduced number of members fishing again this week only 8 visits and 11 fish caught. This reduced activity trend is expected to continue for the remainder of the month. The hot weather has raised the water temperature to over 22degC.

Activity for Week 31 – 26th July to 1st August 2020

This week a reduced number of visits recorded, down to 14 with 17 fish caught. We are now into the hottest part of the year and there are a large number of members of the public using the lakes for unauthorised recreation.

Activity for week 30 – 19th to 25th July 2020

This week there were 24 visits and 29 fish recorded as caught. The largest was 3.75lbs. The most popular flies are still Damsels.

Activity for the week 6th to 13th June 2020

There were 46 visits to the lakes and 89 fish caught. The largest was 3.1lbs. The most popular flies were Damsel, Montana, and wet flies. Now the mayfly season is coming to an end for those that are “surface” fly orientated, now is time to start thinking about sedges, small black flies and small grey flies.

Fishing Activity for the week 24th to 31st May 2020

23 members visited the lakes, they caught in total 36 fish and the largest was 3.25lbs. The most popular fly was the Gold head damsel(GHD)

27 April 2019 – This week last year, there were 34 visits mainly on the the large lake, with 56 fish caught. The most common fly was Gold Head Damsel and the largest fish weighed 2.75lbs.

17 April 2019– Stats from this time last year as we are still on Covid 19 lockdown. Most of the fishing was on the main lake, there were however 4 visits to the small lake. There were a total of 10 visits with 23 fish recorded as caught. The largest fish was 2lb. The flies used were, Damsel nymph, Cat’s whisker, and Gold Head Damsel (GHD).

10 April 2020 This blog is designed to report the fish caught in the previous week however at the moment no-one is fishing because of Covid-19 so I’m going to report last year’s catch instead.

Most of the fishing was done on the large lake. The largest fish caught was 2lbs and there was a wide variety of flies used. Blood worm was the most popular but other included GDS, Montana and Hare’s Ear.