Winter Grayling

Ive wondered for some time how nymphing for Grayling was actually done in real life, having read lots of articles on the subject, nothing is as good as a practical demonstration. So Pickled Carp and I ventured out on our DCAC membership, and a very good practical demo followed.

Everything from setting up the rig through to getting in the river and finding the fish, I have to say, very different to Dry fly fishing. Having had the 'demo' within 45 minutes I caught my first Grayling on a gold head nymph - fantastic, and so impressed with the way the fish fought prior to coming to the net, and then being released.

Having made my day, and to be honest, my fingers had long stopped functioning due to being so cold, it was good to catch PC in the middle of a very lucrative session just downstream from me.

This was a late afternoon first session, Im looking forward to a longer time on the river on the next outing, when we visit Caersws waters on the Upper Severn.

(note to self, get some gloves)

Last cast of 2009

First cast on my blog, is a reflection on the last cast of 2009; a bright clear day at Sutton Brook, Pickled Carp had fished the section below me and had just strolled up as I flicked a delicate (even though i say it myself) roll cast under a overhanging bough on the right bank, and the resulting fish being one of my nicest from 'The Brook' all season.

In fact 2009, was my first visit back to a fly rod for more than 25 years, what a delight it has been.

Just cant wait for this season to start, particuarly as one of the first 'big' days is already booked for the March Browns on the USK at Gliffaes (have a glimpse at the link on my favourites, it may not be there after the trip!)