TEMPERATURES GO TROPICAL, A MASSIVE THAW AND TWO MORE TAY SPRINGERS ARE LANDED!

(River Tay weekly report week ending 20th February 2021) 

The change in weather in the past seven days has been extreme, to say the least. Since Christmas, much of Scotland including Perthshire has endured bitterly cold temperatures, heavy snow and for the past week raw easterly winds. The recent snowfall led to widespread disruption across much of the country and there were record low temperatures recorded. 

The result of melting snow at Killin

 

However last Sunday the wind switched from a nagging easterly to a much milder south westerly and this led to a rapid thaw in the subsequent days. Indeed, during the middle part of the week, some parts of Perthshire recorded temperatures into double figures and when the sun came out it felt positively tropical, compared to recent weeks. Unfortunately, all this milder weather came at a cost as from midweek onwards huge amounts of snow started to melt and water levels started to rise rapidly. During the second half of the week, the river was unfishable and huge. Heavy rain on Thursday and Friday made the situation worse and the Tay system was in flood by the weekend. 

The main river was massive towards the end of last week

In spite of the extreme conditions, there were two fish caught from the Tay system last week. It was good to see the first fish come off Loch Tay. Mr Grant Tigwell decided to brave the elements on Wednesday. Mr Tigwell had been fishing for no longer than an hour when his inside rod bent double. After a terrific fight, Mr Tigwell landing a cracking springer weighing ten pounds. The fish was unhooked in the net and swam away strongly. Mr Tigwell only fished for another two hours before heading home as he feared that the river flowing into the loch would be too high for him to get the boat under the bridge and safely to its mooring. In hindsight, it was a very happy three hours spent on the loch for Mr Tigwell.

A lovely springer caught from Loch Tay on Wednesday

 

The other fish caught last week was from the main river. Mr Gerry Rattrey was fishing the fly on the Catholes Beat when he landed a beautiful seven pounder on Monday. What a great way to start the week! It is likely that once river levels drop the beats in the Stanley area should start to produce a few more fish. 

A fine springer caught from Catholes on Monday

As we are moving towards the end of February once river levels drop to a decent height there should be some good sport to be had. Some nice fish will likely be landed in the upcoming weeks. So, if you live locally, why not wet a line on the mighty River Tay next week? Once river levels drop a big springer could have your name on it!

We would like to thank all the ghillies and beat owners on the River Tay system who have contributed to this report by providing their time and information as the weekly report would not be possible without your help and support. If you would like to share any interesting stories or pictures from your time fishing on the River Tay for the purposes of this report, please free to contact us at info@salmonfishingholidaysscotland.com

Good luck to all those anglers fishing on the River Tay next week.

Tight lines,

Samantha & Sandy Datta

Beat catches reported (week ending 20th February)

 SALMON & GRILSE: 

Loch Tay Fish ‘n’ Trips 1, Catholes 1

Total: 2 Largest: 10lbs

 

 

HOPEFULLY, ANGLERS WILL ENJOY SOME GOOD SPORT ONCE CONDITIONS IMPROVE!

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 22ndt February 2021)

We are now moving towards the end of February and there is no doubt that with each day passing more fresh fish will be entering the Tay system. After all the recent heavy snowfall and then the sudden and rapid rise in temperature there was a massive thaw last week. The thaw led to the river going into flood by midweek. By the weekend heavy rain made the situation worse and the Tay was huge. 

There was hardly any fishing activity on the Tay system last week for obvious reasons but in spite of this there were two fish landed, one from Loch Tay and the other from the lower river. Hopefully, this is a sign of things to come once conditions improve and the river drops to a manageable height. Much will depend on how much snow is left on the mountains as the mild weather is set to continue next week. 

Looking ahead to next week Monday will be mainly dry apart from the odd shower. Tuesday will see low pressure dominate as southerly winds pick up accompanied by some heavy rain. However, from midweek onwards high pressure is set to establish itself over the UK leading to drier conditions. Temperatures are set to remain on the mild side for the time of year and this could be the perfect window to getting some fishing done. 

Once the river drops to a reasonable height there is a good chance of finding a springer almost anywhere on the Tay system. Much will depend on the water height but probably the best chance will be somewhere on the middle or lower river. 

If you live locally and are permitted to travel under the current government restrictions, why not wet a line on the Tay next week once river levels settle? Nothing beats landing a big Tay February springer! 

Good luck to all those anglers fishing on the River Tay next week.

Tight lines,

Samantha & Sandy Datta

Tactics for the River Tay during the early spring period (January-March)

The ghillies on the River Tay are all highly experienced and have an intimate knowledge of their beats. Their advice and guidance are key to success. Please contact your ghillie for up to date advice on tactics and what tackle to bring prior to visiting the River Tay.

Fly Fishing

During the early spring months water temperatures are often low and river levels high. In such conditions, the depth at which your fly is moving through the water column can be the key to success. Often you may be required to use floating lines coupled with sinking polyleaders, intermediate or even full sinking lines. It is therefore important that you have a fly rod that can work in harmony with a heavy line. As the Tay is a big river usually a powerful fifteen-foot rod with a ten-line rating will cover almost any eventuality. 

Make sure your fly reel has a good drag system

In terms of lines whether that be a full Spey line or Shooting head system a floating line coupled with a selection of polyleaders of various sink rates can work well. In higher water, an intermediate or full sinking line may be required to produce the best results.
Make sure that your fly reel has got an adequate backing capacity and a good reliable drag system. On the River Tay when that line tightens the fish could turn out to be that one of a lifetime. It is also important during the early spring period to use leader material with an adequate breaking strain. Usually a breaking strain between fifteen and eighteen pounds ideal.

Tube flies can work well during the early part of the season

During the early part of the season, tube flies often work well. If the water temperatures are low weighted copper, brass or even tungsten tubes of a decent length will allow your fly to get well down and close to where the fish are likely to be lying. In cold weather, the fish are unlikely to be keen on moving fast so it is better that your fly moves through the water column at an adequate depth and not too quickly. 

Spinning

A powerful spinning rod between ten and eleven foot is usually more than adequate to cover the River Tay. The rod should be able to comfortably cast lures weighing anything from eighteen to forty grams. A good fixed spool or multiplier reel with a reliable drag system is perfect for the River Tay. The reel should be able to accommodate a large amount of either nylon or braided line with an adequate breaking strain. 

The Vision 110 can be a productive lure on the River Tay

In terms of lures, spoons like the Toby, Salmo Toby and Blair variety work well on the river. These can range in weight from eighteen to forty grams. Devon Minnows can also be effective on the River Tay during the early spring months. Vision 110s and Rapalas are also lures which are well worth considering.

Harling

Harling is a method unique to the River Tay which involves fishing from a motorised boat. This method is employed on many beats and can be highly effective during the early spring months. 

Setting out to do some harling on the Meikleour and Upper Islamouth Beat

Usually, two or three rods are placed in rod holders with various lures and then the ghillie skilfully combs the water by moving back and forth in the boat, whilst gradually dropping downstream, covering the likely lies on the beat. Harling is a method which is very much water height dependent and is practised at the beat ghillies discretion. 

TDSFB Conservation Policy

All anglers fishing on the River Tay system are reminded that the TDSFB’s policy from January 15^th to 1^st of April is that all spring salmon must be released. This means that the TDSFB has a 100% mandatory catch & release policy of all salmon caught. This is in line with the Scottish Government Statutory Conservation Regulation. Even if the fish dies it must still be returned to the river.
It is also worthwhile remembering when releasing fish to keep them in the water for as long a period as possible and to use minimal handling. Please also give the fish plenty of time to recover before releasing them. It is important that anglers treat their quarry with the utmost respect at all times.

PERTHSHIRE FREEZES AS THE FIRST TAY SPRINGER OF THE SEASON IS LANDED!

(River Tay weekly report week ending 13th February 2021) 

The Beast from the East version 2 hit much of the UK last week including Perthshire. There was heavy snowfall on Monday and Tuesday across much of the region coupled with bitterly cold nights. Indeed, on Wednesday night Braemar in Aberdeenshire recorded the lowest temperature in 25 years when the mercury plummeted to a shivering -23 degrees. This was the coldest temperature recorded in the UK for 25 years. In Perthshire, temperatures were well into minus double figures in many places and during the day barely above freezing. 

An icy scene at Meikleour early this week

With all this extreme weather it was therefore hardly surprising that fishing pressure was very light on the Tay system last week. However, despite this, the first fresh fish was caught from the Tay system on Friday. Mr Andrew Whyte caught this fine ten pounder from the Fernie Haugh pool on the Dalmarnock Beat. The fish was caught on a black and yellow flying c. 

It is so good to see the Tay finally getting off the mark. It’s easy to see why it has taken so long when you couple the recent freezing weather with the travel restrictions due to the pandemic. 

The first fish of the 2021 season caught from the Dalmarnock Beat

 

Looking ahead to next week, there is a ray of light in terms of the weather. It is set to get milder from late Sunday as we introduce a more Atlantic influence to our weather. The milder weather is set to continue well into next week and by Tuesday we could see temperatures of around 9 degrees. Hopefully, by then the bitterly cold easterly winds of the previous week will be nothing but a distant memory. If temperatures do rise steeply there is a chance of a massive thaw and this may lead to a big lift in river levels. Much depends on what happens high up in the mountains with regards to the temperature.

Just what anglers fishing the Tay next week will be dreaming about!

 

It should not be forgotten that we are now in mid-February and anglers fishing the Tay stand more than a reasonable chance of catching a fresh fish. Once the water is at a good height and the weather becomes a bit more hospitable there is every chance that a few anglers fishing the Tay will have big smiles on their faces.

What spring fishing on the River Tay is all about!

With the weather set to improve in the upcoming days and if you live locally, why not wet a line on the mighty River Tay next week, a big Tay springer is the perfect tonic to all this cold weather!

We would like to thank all the ghillies and beat owners on the River Tay system who have contributed to this report by providing their time and information as the weekly report would not be possible without your help and support. If you would like to share any interesting stories or pictures from your time fishing on the River Tay for the purposes of this report, please free to contact us at info@salmonfishingholidaysscotland.com. 

Good luck to all those anglers fishing on the River Tay next week.

Tight lines,

Samantha & Sandy Datta

 

Beat Catches Reported (week ending 13th February)

SALMON & GRILSE: Dalmarnock, 1

Total: 1 Largest: 10lbs

WILL MILDER WEATHER BE THE CATALYST REQUIRED TO PRODUCE MORE SPRING SALMON IN THE DAYS AHEAD?

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 1st February 2021)

We have now moved into the middle of February and there is no doubt that there will be fresh fish in the Tay system. Due to extreme weather of the past few weeks coupled with the government restrictions because of the pandemic, there have been very few anglers fishing the river. Despite this, the Dalmarnock Beat produced the first fish of the season on Friday. 

The weather is set to get much milder next week and so salmon fishing will be a much more pleasurable experience. Hopefully, this will entice more locals out on to the river and with this fish will be caught. 

Over the weekend the bitterly cold weather has remained in situ across Scotland. However early next week it will turn much milder with temperatures getting towards double figures. If the forecast turns out to be correct there may be a rapid thaw. With all the lying snow this may lead to rising river levels. Much depends on what happens to the temperature high up in the Perthshire mountains.

Looking ahead to next week Monday will be mainly dry and it will feel much milder than of late. Tuesday and Wednesday will see some showers and temperatures will continue to rise with some places possibly reaching double figures. Towards the end of the week, there is a chance that slightly cooler conditions may prevail but it is set to remain dry. 

There is a good chance of finding that elusive springer almost anywhere on the Tay system in the upcoming days. Much will depend on the water height. With the current low water temperatures probably the best chance will be on the middle or lower river.

If you live locally and are permitted to travel under the current government restrictions, why not wet a line on the Tay next week? There might just be a springer with your name on it!

Good luck to all those anglers fishing on the River Tay next week.

Tight lines,

Samantha & Sandy Datta

Tactics for the River Tay during the early spring period (January-March)

The ghillies on the River Tay are all highly experienced and have an intimate knowledge of their beats. Their advice and guidance are key to success. Please contact your ghillie for up to date advice on tactics and what tackle to bring prior to visiting the River Tay.

Fly Fishing

During the early spring months water temperatures are often low and river levels high. In such conditions, the depth at which your fly is moving through the water column can be the key to success. Often you may be required to use floating lines coupled with sinking polyleaders, intermediate or even full sinking lines. It is therefore important that you have a fly rod that can work in harmony with a heavy line. As the Tay is a big river usually a powerful fifteen-foot rod with a ten-line rating will cover almost any eventuality. 

Make sure your fly reel has a good drag system

In terms of lines whether that be a full Spey line or Shooting head system a floating line coupled with a selection of polyleaders of various sink rates can work well. In higher water, an intermediate or full sinking line may be required to produce the best results.
Make sure that your fly reel has got an adequate backing capacity and a good reliable drag system. On the River Tay when that line tightens the fish could turn out to be that one of a lifetime. It is also important during the early spring period to use leader material with an adequate breaking strain. Usually a breaking strain between fifteen and eighteen pounds ideal.

Tube flies can work well during the early part of the season

During the early part of the season, tube flies often work well. If the water temperatures are low weighted copper, brass or even tungsten tubes of a decent length will allow your fly to get well down and close to where the fish are likely to be lying. In cold weather, the fish are unlikely to be keen on moving fast so it is better that your fly moves through the water column at an adequate depth and not too quickly. 

Spinning

A powerful spinning rod between ten and eleven foot is usually more than adequate to cover the River Tay. The rod should be able to comfortably cast lures weighing anything from eighteen to forty grams. A good fixed spool or multiplier reel with a reliable drag system is perfect for the River Tay. The reel should be able to accommodate a large amount of either nylon or braided line with an adequate breaking strain. 

The Vision 110 can be a productive lure on the River Tay

In terms of lures, spoons like the Toby, Salmo Toby and Blair variety work well on the river. These can range in weight from eighteen to forty grams. Devon Minnows can also be effective on the River Tay during the early spring months. Vision 110s and Rapalas are also lures which are well worth considering.

Harling

Harling is a method unique to the River Tay which involves fishing from a motorised boat. This method is employed on many beats and can be highly effective during the early spring months. 

Setting out to do some harling on the Meikleour and Upper Islamouth Beat

Usually, two or three rods are placed in rod holders with various lures and then the ghillie skilfully combs the water by moving back and forth in the boat, whilst gradually dropping downstream, covering the likely lies on the beat. Harling is a method which is very much water height dependent and is practised at the beat ghillies discretion. 

TDSFB Conservation Policy

All anglers fishing on the River Tay system are reminded that the TDSFB’s policy from January 15^th to 1^st of April is that all spring salmon must be released. This means that the TDSFB has a 100% mandatory catch & release policy of all salmon caught. This is in line with the Scottish Government Statutory Conservation Regulation. Even if the fish dies it must still be returned to the river.
It is also worthwhile remembering when releasing fish to keep them in the water for as long a period as possible and to use minimal handling. Please also give the fish plenty of time to recover before releasing them. It is important that anglers treat their quarry with the utmost respect at all times.

WINTER TIGHTENS ITS GRIP ACROSS PERTHSHIRE, THE SEARCH GOES ON AND A MUCH LOVED TAY GHILLIE LOOKS FORWARD TO A NEW CHALLENGE!

(River Tay weekly report week ending 6th February 2021) 

Winter tightened its grip across Perthshire last week as it did across much of Scotland. Indeed January 2021 was the coldest January for the past ten years. It was bitterly cold last week on most days with strong winds and there was heavy snowfall on higher ground across the region. Even some of the white stuff fell to lower levels. Looking ahead to next week the weather is set to get even colder as a perishing cold easterly airflow develops coming from Siberia. This will bring frequent snow showers with significant accumulations especially to eastern parts of Scotland accompanied by hard night time frosts. There are some signs that towards the end of next week that something milder may be on the way. The water temperature last week was 1.8 degrees Celsius, which is around 35.1 degrees Fahrenheit.

Hopefully one of these Tay crackers will be landed soon!

 

The search goes on for the first Tay springer of the season. The river is hardly being fished due to pandemic restrictions allowing only local anglers to wet a line and when you couple this with the inclement weather it’s easy to see why rivers like the Dee and Tweed have produced fresh fish before the Tay this season. Some of the anglers that did wet a line last week got their rods bent with kelts and baggots but the first fish of the season still remains elusive. Hopefully, we will not have long to wait now.

 

Andrew Gunn will be leaving the Newtyle Beat in March after 8 full seasons!

 

Andy Gunn who has been the ghillie on the Newtyle Beat of the River Tay for eight full seasons will be leaving the beat in March and heading north to the River Spey where he has secured the head ghillie’s job on a prestigious beat. Andy has become part of the fabric on the middle river and is much loved by his guests who return to the beat year after year. Andy will be sadly missed on the river by his guests and fellow ghillies and we wish him every success in the future.

 

An old classic with a modern twist, perfect for tempting that Tay springer!

 

There is no question that there are now fresh fish in the Tay system. So if you are allowed to travel under the government restrictions and happy to brave the elements, why not wet a line on the mighty Tay next week? Catching the first Tay springer of 2021 is no mean feat!

We would like to thank all the ghillies and beat owners on the River Tay system who have contributed to this report by providing their time and information as the weekly report would not be possible without your help and support. If you would like to share any interesting stories or pictures from your time fishing on the River Tay for the purposes of this report, please free to contact us at info@salmonfishingholidaysscotland.com

 

Good luck to all those anglers fishing on the River Tay next week.

Tight lines,

Samantha & Sandy Datta

Beat Catches Reported (week ending 6th February)

SALMON & GRILSE: None

Total: None

 

 

HOPEFULLY, NOT TOO LONG TO WAIT BEFORE THE FIRST FISH IS LANDED!

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 8th February 2021)

As we move through February more fresh fish will be entering the river, which increases the chances of making contact with that elusive silver tourist. So surely it won't be too long before the first fish is landed. The past week has seen the cold weather remain in situ with frequent snow showers and bitterly cold nights. Over the weekend snow showers have continued especially over eastern areas. Looking ahead to next week, Monday and Tuesday will see more snow showers affecting many parts of Perthshire. It will feel raw in the stiff easterly wind. The cold weather is set to continue as we move through the week with the snow risk also continuing. There are some signs that towards the end of the week some milder conditions may prevail. 

There is a chance of fresh springer just about anywhere next week, but in the current cold conditions, the lower or middle river might be the best bet. So, if you live locally and are permitted to travel under the current government restrictions, why not wet a line on the Tay next week? Nothing beats that feeling of landing some fresh February Tay silver! 

Good luck to all those anglers fishing on the River Tay next week.

Tight lines,

Samantha & Sandy Datta

 

 Tactics for the River Tay during the early spring period (January-March)

The ghillies on the River Tay are all highly experienced and have an intimate knowledge of their beats. Their advice and guidance are key to success. Please contact your ghillie for up to date advice on tactics and what tackle to bring prior to visiting the River Tay.

Fly Fishing

During the early spring months water temperatures are often low and river levels high. In such conditions, the depth at which your fly is moving through the water column can be the key to success. Often you may be required to use floating lines coupled with sinking polyleaders, intermediate or even full sinking lines. It is therefore important that you have a fly rod that can work in harmony with a heavy line. As the Tay is a big river usually a powerful fifteen-foot rod with a ten-line rating will cover almost any eventuality. 

Make sure your fly reel has a good drag system

In terms of lines whether that be a full Spey line or Shooting head system a floating line coupled with a selection of polyleaders of various sink rates can work well. In higher water, an intermediate or full sinking line may be required to produce the best results.
Make sure that your fly reel has got an adequate backing capacity and a good reliable drag system. On the River Tay when that line tightens the fish could turn out to be that one of a lifetime. It is also important during the early spring period to use leader material with an adequate breaking strain. Usually a breaking strain between fifteen and eighteen pounds ideal.

Tube flies can work well during the early part of the season

During the early part of the season, tube flies often work well. If the water temperatures are low weighted copper, brass or even tungsten tubes of a decent length will allow your fly to get well down and close to where the fish are likely to be lying. In cold weather, the fish are unlikely to be keen on moving fast so it is better that your fly moves through the water column at an adequate depth and not too quickly. 

Spinning

A powerful spinning rod between ten and eleven foot is usually more than adequate to cover the River Tay. The rod should be able to comfortably cast lures weighing anything from eighteen to forty grams. A good fixed spool or multiplier reel with a reliable drag system is perfect for the River Tay. The reel should be able to accommodate a large amount of either nylon or braided line with an adequate breaking strain. 

The Vision 110 can be a productive lure on the River Tay

In terms of lures, spoons like the Toby, Salmo Toby and Blair variety work well on the river. These can range in weight from eighteen to forty grams. Devon Minnows can also be effective on the River Tay during the early spring months. Vision 110s and Rapalas are also lures which are well worth considering.

Harling

Harling is a method unique to the River Tay which involves fishing from a motorised boat. This method is employed on many beats and can be highly effective during the early spring months. 

Setting out to do some harling on the Meikleour and Upper Islamouth Beat

Usually, two or three rods are placed in rod holders with various lures and then the ghillie skilfully combs the water by moving back and forth in the boat, whilst gradually dropping downstream, covering the likely lies on the beat. Harling is a method which is very much water height dependent and is practised at the beat ghillies discretion. 

TDSFB Conservation Policy

All anglers fishing on the River Tay system are reminded that the TDSFB’s policy from January 15^th to 1^st of April is that all spring salmon must be released. This means that the TDSFB has a 100% mandatory catch & release policy of all salmon caught. This is in line with the Scottish Government Statutory Conservation Regulation. Even if the fish dies it must still be returned to the river.
It is also worthwhile remembering when releasing fish to keep them in the water for as long a period as possible and to use minimal handling. Please also give the fish plenty of time to recover before releasing them. It is important that anglers treat their quarry with the utmost respect at all times.

HISTORY TELLS US THERE ARE SPRINGERS IN THE TAY!

(River Tay weekly report week ending 30th January 2021) 

We move into February next week and there seems to be no signs of the wintry weather abating any time soon. It was another cold week across much of Scotland including Perthshire with frequent snow showers in many areas. On Thursday there was a more sustained spell of snow to the north of the catchment area with a few inches falling to even lower levels. Water levels were steady for much of the week with the river running at a decent height for many beats. Towards the end of the week, there was a small lift in water and this was because of a mixture of rain and sleet falling over the eastern side of the catchment area. This led to the water on the lower river being quite coloured. 

The Tay is currently at a nice height for fly fishing on many beats

The water temperature last week was 36.5 degrees Fahrenheit which is around 2.5 degrees Celsius. 

The wait still goes on for the first springer of the season to be landed from the River Tay. This is hardly surprising as fishing pressure has been very light on the river due to the pandemic restrictions. Many beats are closed and some of the open beats have reduced the numbers of rods fishing and are not using boats. With only local people permitted to cast a line, many beats have not been fished for days. 

History tells us that it is highly likely that there will be a few fresh fish in the Tay system by now but the problem understandably is the lack of anglers currently fishing. Some of the anglers that did wet a line last week managed to get their rods bent with a mixture of kelts and baggots but until now none of this year’s models have made an appearance!

A magnificent Tay springer...the ultimate prize!

Hopefully, soon more anglers will be able to wet a line, and in the upcoming months when restrictions finally ease anglers from far and wide can once again experience the delights the mighty Tay has to offer!

Something to tempt those Tay springers maybe?

We would like to thank all the ghillies and beat owners on the River Tay system who have contributed to this report by providing their time and information as the weekly report would not be possible without your help and support. If you would like to share any interesting stories or pictures from your time fishing on the River Tay for the purposes of this report, please free to contact us at info@salmonfishingholidaysscotland.com 

Good luck to all those anglers fishing on the River Tay next week.

Tight lines,

Samantha & Sandy Datta

 

Beat Catches Reported (week ending 31st January)

SALMON & GRILSE: None

Total: None

  

IS THE FIRST TAY SPRINGER, JUST AROUND THE CORNER?

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 1st February 2021)

We move into February next week and history tells us that there will be a few fresh in the Tay system. Due to the government restrictions, there are very few anglers fishing the river at this time and hence the lack of fresh fish being caught. 

The past week has seen the cold weather continue with frequent snow showers and bitterly cold nights. Over the weekend it has been mainly dry across Perthshire but it has remained cold with hard night time frosts. Looking ahead to next week, Monday will be mainly fine and dry but it will be cold. On Tuesday a weather system bringing rain in from the Atlantic is set to drift eastwards and where the rain bumps into the cold air it will turn readily to snow. The snow risk will continue on Wednesday. Towards the end of the week, there is a likelihood that bitterly cold easterly winds will develop across the country which could lead to the lowest temperatures of the winter so far.

The river was settled for much of last week and quite low for the time of year making it almost perfect fly fishing conditions. As a new week and month dawns the Tay is looking in good order and there is a chance of fresh springer just about anywhere, so surely that first Tay springer is just around the corner. 

If you live locally and are permitted to travel under the current government restrictions, why not wet a line on the Tay next week? There might just be a springer with your name on it!

Good luck to all those anglers fishing on the River Tay next week.

Tight lines,

Samantha & Sandy Datta 

Tactics for the River Tay during the early spring period (January-March)

The ghillies on the River Tay are all highly experienced and have an intimate knowledge of their beats. Their advice and guidance are key to success. Please contact your ghillie for up to date advice on tactics and what tackle to bring prior to visiting the River Tay.

Fly Fishing

During the early spring months water temperatures are often low and river levels high. In such conditions, the depth at which your fly is moving through the water column can be the key to success. Often you may be required to use floating lines coupled with sinking polyleaders, intermediate or even full sinking lines. It is therefore important that you have a fly rod that can work in harmony with a heavy line. As the Tay is a big river usually a powerful fifteen-foot rod with a ten-line rating will cover almost any eventuality. 

Make sure your fly reel has a good drag system

In terms of lines whether that be a full Spey line or Shooting head system a floating line coupled with a selection of polyleaders of various sink rates can work well. In higher water, an intermediate or full sinking line may be required to produce the best results.
Make sure that your fly reel has got an adequate backing capacity and a good reliable drag system. On the River Tay when that line tightens the fish could turn out to be that one of a lifetime. It is also important during the early spring period to use leader material with an adequate breaking strain. Usually a breaking strain between fifteen and eighteen pounds ideal.

Tube flies can work well during the early part of the season

During the early part of the season, tube flies often work well. If the water temperatures are low weighted copper, brass or even tungsten tubes of a decent length will allow your fly to get well down and close to where the fish are likely to be lying. In cold weather, the fish are unlikely to be keen on moving fast so it is better that your fly moves through the water column at an adequate depth and not too quickly. 

Spinning

A powerful spinning rod between ten and eleven foot is usually more than adequate to cover the River Tay. The rod should be able to comfortably cast lures weighing anything from eighteen to forty grams. A good fixed spool or multiplier reel with a reliable drag system is perfect for the River Tay. The reel should be able to accommodate a large amount of either nylon or braided line with an adequate breaking strain. 

The Vision 110 can be a productive lure on the River Tay

In terms of lures, spoons like the Toby, Salmo Toby and Blair variety work well on the river. These can range in weight from eighteen to forty grams. Devon Minnows can also be effective on the River Tay during the early spring months. Vision 110s and Rapalas are also lures which are well worth considering.

Harling

Harling is a method unique to the River Tay which involves fishing from a motorised boat. This method is employed on many beats and can be highly effective during the early spring months. 

Setting out to do some harling on the Meikleour and Upper Islamouth Beat

Usually, two or three rods are placed in rod holders with various lures and then the ghillie skilfully combs the water by moving back and forth in the boat, whilst gradually dropping downstream, covering the likely lies on the beat. Harling is a method which is very much water height dependent and is practised at the beat ghillies discretion. 

TDSFB Conservation Policy

All anglers fishing on the River Tay system are reminded that the TDSFB’s policy from January 15^th to 1^st of April is that all spring salmon must be released. This means that the TDSFB has a 100% mandatory catch & release policy of all salmon caught. This is in line with the Scottish Government Statutory Conservation Regulation. Even if the fish dies it must still be returned to the river.
It is also worthwhile remembering when releasing fish to keep them in the water for as long a period as possible and to use minimal handling. Please also give the fish plenty of time to recover before releasing them. It is important that anglers treat their quarry with the utmost respect at all times.