Dan O’Neill, angling guide in the South East, reports from the River Nore:
The dreaded end of season looms around the corner. Walking across the field towards the king’s river in sleet in March seems many many moons ago when it was only back in March. In March I tend to find myself awaiting the warmer months and in September I’m wishing to be back in March again, never happy. This season, like most, I got to meet plenty of clients that are now angling acquaintances. Learning their methods of trout fishing and trying them on the river while they try my methods. Swapping of angling knowledge is something that I truly enjoy. I have been handed everything from a bright orange grasshopper to a size 24 work of art, both caught trout.
Over the last couple of weeks we have had plenty of trout with quite a few nice sized fish. I like to keep things simple when fishing, I keep a log of what is working in relation to patterns and try to base my boxes on that. Sedge patterns are working well at the moment along the river with some great fun just before the heavy darkness sets in. Dark wets and spider patterns are working well from 2.45pm – 3pm until 5.30pm – 6pm in recent days I find. The water temperature is peaking at 15 – 15.5 degrees. The water level is at .33 which is a nice height, and all the runs and glides are fishable at that height. The days can be bright, so I use a longer leader when fishing my chosen discipline.
Some grilse were caught over the past couple of weeks also, a couple of nice salmon between 12-14 pounds were also caught on the Manor house pool which left the anglers with some fond memories to reminisce on over the close season.
My latest trip was with a good friend of mine, we were learning the circle c cast just under the main house listening to a sika stag calling, wood pigeons cooing and the river as it deflected off our waders. The noise of the reel disturbing us from time to time was welcome with the sight of a brown trout leaping from the fast current even more welcome. A lovely trip and very memorable one.
Dan O’Neill
Go fishing…
Over the close season I will be holding free tuition days on different dates, for a full list of dates and more information check out my Facebook page. We will cover some casting,knots,leaders and general fishing chat.
