Dan O’Neill is back again this week with a feature rich edition of The River Whispers…
“Don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know” and seek knowledge from others”
This edition I speak about the roll cast and some ways in which we can utilize it. Our expert this week is Chris Barry from Go fishing Ireland and he speaks to us about his set up for targeting pike. We take a quick look at Rudd on the fly and my set up. Our competition winner is Brogan Brennan Quilty for his fantastic catch, well done Brogan, your prize is on its way.
Rudd on the fly
The title here brings me to a clover-filled lakeside bank on a summer evening. Watching swarms of flies hover and dance over and around the water. Looking across the lake there are many rings made by the busy Rudd zooming around sipping flies from the surface.
As I walk around the lake lightly holding the chosen size 22 Adams I watch for Rudd. Rudd are a shoal fish and where there is one there are more. I use a light set up for Rudd. I use an 8ft 6in 3wt Cadence rod with the Cadence nymphing line. The nymphing line casts beautifully on the rod and gives such a delicate landing and presentation.
The way I found most successful was to watch the Rudd moving around as they visit the same spots usually each time, I then cast to these areas when I see them approaching and try to get them to take my offering.
Does it always work, no is the short answer. Rudd can be very picky and wary too; I have seen them turn away from many flies.
The leader I use is a progressive 9ft leader, I get away with using a 9ft as the nymphing line is very subtle and has a very thin diameter, if I move to a 3wt forward line then I will move to 10 / 10. 5ft.
The patterns I found best for Rudd were size 22 Addams or black gnat. Some of the takes are super. I also use small spider patterns at times and pull them slowly back, watching the Rudd follow them and then lunge at them is great fun and exciting for the young budding anglers.
So, this summer don’t overlook the Rudd and give them a try.
Go fishing…
Courses
Dan will be running many courses in 2025… I like to keep my courses from 1-4 anglers so they get the most out of the course and I get to spend the right amount of time with each person. This makes it more affordable too as the course cost can be split 4 ways. If you don’t have a full group don’t worry just mention to me that you would like to join a group and I will make up the numbers.
The course dates for the “Getting ready for the trout season” course are listed below.
If you are interested send me an email at [email protected] and I will send you on the course content.
Getting ready for trout season
- 11th January
- 18th January
- 25th January
Pike and Perch on the fly
- 12th January
- 19th January
- 26th January
Casting clinics
- 11th and 12th January
- 18th and 19th January
- 25th and 26th January
