THE WEATHER FORECASTERS GOT IT RIGHT…UNFORTUNATELY! W/E 23rd February 2020

(River Tay weekly report week ending 23^rd February 2020) 

What a week of weather it has been across Scotland including Perthshire. Unfortunately, the weather forecasters got it right last week and we had it all! Heavy rain, snow, gale force winds and everything else in between were encountered by many. The Tay was in flood for most of the week and very little meaningful fishing took place on the river. 

The Tay has been massive for most of the week

River levels did not get much below nine feet on the Ballathie gauge through the course of the week. As soon as the river started to drop more rain fell on heavily saturated ground leading to the next big lift in water. The water was not only unsettled but massive. On many beats ghillies quite rightly advised guests to cancel their trip as the river was unfishable on most days. It is unusual for the River Tay to be so high for such a prolonged period of time. Indeed on Saturday the river almost reached fifteen feet on the Ballathie gauge.

A beautiful sunrise at Islamouth & Meikleour

 It was not only anglers fishing on the Tay that suffered; there was very little fishing possible across Scotland due to the widespread nature of the severe weather. There were only a handful of fish caught from Scotland’s rivers last week. This gives an idea of the scale of the stormy weather that has battered the UK in recent days.

Harling could be effective once the water drops

It goes without saying that what we now need is a prolonged spell of dry and calm weather so anglers can get out on to the water and wet a line. Only then will have an idea of what the early spring run on the Tay system has been like. Until then we just need to keep our fingers crossed and hope that Mother Nature is in a kind mood.

 Maybe a fly to try to tempt those big Tay springers in the upcoming weeks?

Undoubtedly once water levels drop and settle and there are rods on the water, fresh fish will be caught. Let us hope that this will happen sooner rather than later. So, in the upcoming days, if conditions improve why not chase some spring silver on the mighty River Tay? Landing a big Tay salmon would be a great way to end February!

 Hopefully, plenty of these Tay spring crackers will be caught once conditions improve

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 23rd February)SALMON & GRILSE: None reported

IS THERE ANY END IN SIGHT?

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 24^th February 2020)

The weather can only be described as being atrocious over the past couple of week with gale force winds, heavy rain and snow all in the mix. It has felt like a relentless barrage, which almost everyone across Scotland is now getting fed up with. The severe weather has led to swollen rivers across the country and Perthshire has been no different. The Tay barely got below nine feet on the Ballathie gauge last week with river levels rising on almost a daily basis. The conditions have left ghillies and their guests fed up and praying for better weather. The question on almost everyone’s lips has been “Is there any end in sight”?
Unfortunately, the short answer to that question is no. The weather next week is forecast to be stormy and unsettled with more gale force winds and heavy rain to come. There is also the chance of snow and some of the white stuff could fall even down to lower levels. Over the weekend the wet and windy theme has continued with frequent snow showers across some parts but Sunday was mainly dry. Monday will see some heavy snowfall across much of Perthshire coupled with strong winds as the next low pressure system races in from the Atlantic. The snow could cause some travel disruption. Tuesday and Wednesday will feel very cold in a strong northwesterly wind. There will be plenty of wintry showers and these could fall down to even lower levels. On Thursday another area of low pressure is likely to bring more wind, rain and hill snow to much of Scotland. So, unfortunately, the unsettled weather seems to be here to stay for the time being.
Once water levels drop, and the river gets to a fishable height there will be a good chance of making contact with a fresh fish almost anywhere on the main river. Loch Tay could also be well worth considering at this time of year. As always there are no shortage of options when it comes to fishing on the Tay system, with fishing to suit all tastes with many very reasonably priced options available. So why not wet a line on the Tay once conditions improve? That big Tay springer could give the fight of your life!
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.

 

CIARA AND DENNIS BATTER PERTHSHIRE BUT THE RIVER TAY CONTINUES TO PRODUCE BEAUTIFUL SPRING SALMON! W/E 16th February 2020

(River Tay weekly report week ending 16^th February 2020) 

It was another week of turbulent weather across much of the country including Perthshire. Last weekend Storm Ciara brought gale-force winds and heavy rain, coupled with widespread disruption across much of the country. This led to flooding in many parts of the UK including Scotland. At the beginning of the week, heavy snow fell across Scotland and there were significant accumulations even down to lower levels. This led to river levels being very high on the Tay for much of the week.

The River Tay was high for much of last week

 As the week progressed river levels gradually dropped and towards the end of the week the river was down to a more fishable height. However, on Saturday and Sunday Scotland was battered by Storm Dennis which brought heavy rain and strong winds to much of the country leading to rising water levels once again. The recent unsettled weather has been courtesy of a super charged jet stream which has been powering its way across the Atlantic bringing deep areas of low pressure to the UK.

In spite of the tough conditions, there were some top-quality spring salmon landed from the river last week. It is highly likely that more fish would have been caught if the weather had been kinder to anglers and more rods had been out on the water. As we move through February more fresh salmon should enter the Tay system on a daily basis and this should give anglers the chance of making contact with that magnificent Tay springer.

It was great to see the famous Islamouth Beat produce spring silver last week. The fish was caught by a member of the Mr Richard Muir party and weighed 15.5 pounds and was in perfect condition. Islamouth continues to produce a few kelts and as the water drops the fishing should improve.

The Taymount Beat has produced fish on most weeks since the beginning of the season and there was more success on Wednesday. On Thursday the Stobhall beat produced a fine springer. Mr Simon Bullock caught the lovely sea liced fish from Tam’s Corner. 

A fine Stobhall springer is landed

 Also, on Thursday Mr Peter Duncan was fishing the fly on the Catholes Beat from an anchored boat. 

Mr Peter Duncan battles with a springer at Catholes

Mr Duncan braved the cold conditions and whilst his line was swinging around in the Back Dam Pool it tightened. What ensued next was a terrific fight after which Mr Duncan landed a 17-pound fin perfect Tay salmon. The fish took a fly tied by Ghillie Mr. Robert White. This was the first fish of the season from the Stanley beats and hopefully the first of many this season. 

A beautiful example of a fly caught springer from the Catholes Beat

 If water levels drop and settle in the upcoming days this should result in better fishing conditions. There should also be a few Tummel salmon entering the system in the upcoming weeks as well as the salmon destined for Loch Tay and beyond. With the quality of salmon currently being landed on the River Tay being second to none, why not chase some spring silver on the mighty River Tay next week? Nothing beats landing that February bar of silver.

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 16^th February)

SALMON & GRILSE: Islamouth 1, Stobhall 1, Taymount 1, Catholes 1,

Total: 4 Largest: Catholes 17lbs

SPORT SHOULD IMPROVE ONCE RIVER LEVELS DROP AND SETTLE! 

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 17^th February 2020)

The past week has seen two named storms hit the country causing widespread disruption and flooding. Over the weekend, Storm Dennis has brought heavy rain and gale-force winds to much of Perthshire. This has resulted in the river rising again. A period of settled weather would really benefit anglers and once the water drops sport should improve.
The weather for the week ahead looks to be unsettled with a mainly showery theme on Monday and Tuesday. Some of the showers could be wintry in nature especially over the higher ground. It will also be windy as the remanence of Storm Dennis moves east. There is set to be more rain on Wednesday and then again on Friday. Temperatures are set to be around average values for the time of year.
There were fish caught last week from the lower river. However, river levels were very high and fishing pressure was light on many days. It is likely that once river levels drop and settle sport should improve.
Next week there is a good chance of making contact with a fresh fish almost anywhere on the main river once river levels drop. Loch Tay could also be well worth considering at this time of year. As always there are no shortage of options when it comes to fishing on the Tay system, with fishing to suit all tastes. So 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.

 

MORE THAN A FISH A DAY CAUGHT FROM THE RIVER TAY w/e 26th January 2020

It was the first full week of the season on the River Tay last week and thankfully for once, the weather played ball. A large area of high pressure centred itself over much of the UK including Scotland and this led to a mainly dry week with sunny spells and variable amounts of cloud. This was a welcome change to the strong winds and heavy rain of recent weeks. On some afternoons it felt almost spring-like with temperatures into the low double figures. Water levels gradually dropped through the course of the week and by Wednesday river levels were perfect for many beats on the river with decent water clarity. The water temperature last week was 39.8 degrees Fahrenheit which is 4.3 degrees Celsius. As the weeks progress there should be more fresh fish entering the Tay system increasing the chances of making contact with some early season silver. 

Another day dawns on the beautiful River Tay

 Many anglers that did venture out to wet a line enjoyed some rod bending action with a fair number of kelts and older fish being caught up and down the river. It was also good to see a handful of fresh fish landed and well done to all those successful fishers who have already landed their first fish of the decade. In fact, there was an average of more than a fish a day caught from the Tay system which is reasonable considering that it was only the first full week of the season and fishing pressure, on the whole, was light.
It was good to see Loch Tay produce its first fish of the year on Saturday. Mr Don Wallace was fishing with seasoned Loch Tay angler Mr Robert Mcfarlane when he landed a magnificent fish weighing over nineteen pounds. This was Mr Wallace’s first ever salmon and what a fish to open your account on the loch with. The fish had some seal damage but swam away unharmed and strongly.

Mr Don Wallace with his 1st Loch Tay salmon caught on Saturday

On the upper river the Lower Bolfracks Beat produced a fish on Friday. With water levels gradually dropping through the course of the week many beats on the middle river enjoyed decent fishing conditions. This was certainly the case on Wednesday when the Lower Kinnaird Beat got off the mark. Mr Mike Cook was fishing the Ferry Pool when he hooked a strong fish on a twenty-eight-gram purple toby. After a good fight an eight pounder was landed and safely returned unharmed. Hopefully this will be the first of many salmon landed on the beat.

An eight-pound salmon caught from the Lower Kinnaird Beat

It was good to see the Dalmarnock Beat get its season up and running on Monday. Mr David Kyle was the successful angler who caught a lovely fresh springer from the famous Dalmarnock Bank Pool. The fish was caught on a zebra toby lure and is the heaviest salmon Mr Kyle has caught to date, weighing a magnificent eighteen pounds. Catching a January salmon is no mean feat, and this is a fish that Mr Kyle is unlikely to forget for some time. There was nearly a second fresh fish landed in forty-eight hours on the beat. Mr Mark Paul was spinning in the Bridge Pool when his line tightened. After a long fight, the fish was ready for the net and it soon became apparent that it was fresh. However, the fish decided to take one final run and the rest is history! The Dalmarnock Beat has a decent record of producing January fish with fresh salmon caught from the beat on opening day in recent years. 

Mr David Kyle with a fine Dalmrnock springer

The Couper Grange Beat on the River Isla also produced a fish on Monday. This was the first tributary on the Tay system to produce a fish this season. There was more success on the Isla on Friday with the Keithick Mains Beat producing spring silver and hopefully, plenty more will follow in the upcoming days and weeks. Monday also saw the famous Taymount Beat produce its second fish of the year and there was more success on the beat again on Wednesday. At this time of year beats below the Linn Pool can be productive especially in high water. 

Maybe the perfect weapon to tempt a big Tay springer next week?

It is likely that more fish would have been caught from the river if there had been more anglers fishing but it is still very early in the season. However, the fish that were caught were in excellent condition and it just shows what the Tay system is capable of producing at this time of year.
With some nice fish already landed over the past few days why not wet a line on the Tay next week? With fish already in the system and more running the river on a daily basis, there might just be a January springer with 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 and Sandy Datta

Beat catches reported (week ending 26^th January)

SALMON & GRILSE: Loch Tay 1, Lower Bolfracks 1, Lower Kinnaird 1, Dalmarnock 1, Keithick Mains 1, Couper Grange 1, Taymount 2,

Total: 8 Largest: Loch Tay 19lbs

MORE RODS ARE LIKELY TO LEAD TO MORE FRESH SPRINGERS BEING LANDED 

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 27^th January 2020)

The past week has seen mainly settled dry conditions predominate across much of Scotland including Perthshire. This was courtesy of a large area of high pressure centred over the UK. However, on Sunday a cold front moved South and East across the country, and this has signified a change in the weather pattern. Next week is set to be much more unsettled as a number of low-pressure systems bombard the UK from the Atlantic on a reinvigorated Jetstream. This will lead to frequent spells of heavy rain and wind and it is likely to even be some snow which could fall to lower levels. Temperatures will fluctuate quite markedly before it finally turns milder by the end of the week. Monday will be mainly dry with the chance of the odd wintry shower. Tuesday will see more showers in a brisk westerly wind. Wednesday should be mainly dry before more showers or longer spells of rain affect many parts on Thursday with temperatures rising.
There were fish caught from the upper, middle and lower river last week as well as on Loch Tay and the River Isla. It is likely that more fresh fish would have been landed if more rods had been fishing. 
Next week there is a good chance of making contact with a fresh fish almost anywhere on the main river. Loch Tay produced a fish last week and is also well worth considering at this time of year. As always there are no shortage of options when it comes to fishing on the Tay system, with fishing to suit all tastes. The river offers tremendous value for money at this time of year with anglers being able to fish on some of the most famous and prestigious beats in Scotland at a very reasonable price. So why not wet a line on the Tay next week? You might just make contact with some early season silver!

Good luck to all those anglers fishing on the River Tay next week.
Tight lines,
Samantha and 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.

 

Tay Salmon Fishing Scotland Prospects for Tay, Perthshire w/c 18th February 2019.

Tay Salmon Fishing Scotland Prospects for Tay, Perthshire w/c 18th February 2019.

The Salmon fishing season is entering mid-February on the mighty Tay in Perthshire, Scotland with improving catches after a spate and milder weather. We have been encountering some varied conditions with very cold wintery weather over the first few weeks, but Storm Eric caused a large spate a week ago and after that it has been unseasonably mild. The river has settled back to normal spring levels and excellent conditions with a milder picture for the coming week yet again. There is a full moon coming as well to give large spring tides which may spur on a bigger run. Currently a more settled weather will continue to give us more steady water and a chance of good fishing. On the opening weeks several anglers braved the elements in pursuit of that magical spring salmon. The cold weather hopefully will give a greater chance of producing some sport and some early "Bars of Silver" if you are prepared to brave the elements as any fish progress slowly through the system.

Currently the river is reasonably settled at a good spring height (around 4’ on the Ballathie gauge and just over 2’ on the Murthly gauge).

The Weatheris to remain reasonably settled over the next few days but unseasonably mild with some rain on Tuesday going into Wednesday. Colder conditions certainly benefit the river at this time of year slowing the spring salmon run down and giving everyone a chance to catch as they run up the river slowly. The milder weather forecast at times has given us more water and would have encouraged salmon to run the river. Colder settled weather will settle the river back to a good level and make ideal spring fishing conditions. The water temperature has risen following the warmer weather to around 42 degrees Fahrenheit or 5.5 degrees Celsius on the lower river. These are slightly high temperatures for this time of year but that will encourage salmon to run. Hopefully there might be a chance of a fresh fish anywhere in the river. There will no doubt be quite a few kelts about on many beats and possibly some later run fish, which have yet to spawn. Should you require guidance on salmon identification in early season please see this salmon identification for some help.  

As to methods, in settled conditions fishing by any method should be slow and deep with large lures to catch the elusive Tay Springer. Harling is also a favoured method in early season but be warned wrap up well or it will not be a pleasant experience. 

Tackle recommendations for fishing the Tay throughout the season.

What rods and l    FlyRods. 

The Tay is a large river especially when running at a normal level and even in lower levels you are fishing another river within the mighty one so therefore a 15 foot fly rod for a 10 weight line is certainly minimum requirement for much of the season. Do not come under gunned.  In some parts of the river where it is especially wide even longer rods are used. It should be noted however that it is better to cast a shorter controlled line than try to cast out with your capabilities and have the lines end up in a mess and decrease your chances. 

Fly Lines.

In early season when the water is cold you need to cast larger flies and get them deeper in the water to fish them slowly. There is a tremendous choice on the market nowadays which can be quite confusing to many anglers. Any type of Skagit line that can easily cast a 15 foot sinking leader of various depths is a good choice especially to the less experienced. Iflights and a tip of choice attached are another good bet as these lines enable you to cast a longer line than normal with ease. For more experienced anglers, there are a vast array of shooting heads of different sinking abilities available as well. These tactics can be used in late season as well when the water starts to cool down. 

Once the water temperature starts to climb by April then tactics change to mainly floating lines and sink tips with much smaller conventional flies. Again, the choice of lines is incredible from longer belly Spey lines to shooting heads. If you go to shooting heads, then it is important to choose a good shooting backing as line management can be a big issue casting longer lines on a river such as the Tay. 

Spinning Rods.

Rods.

You should have a minimum of a 10 foot rod for casting baits of 20gm to 60gms. 

Line. 

A main line of 20 pounds in nylon or 30 pounds in braid. You should use a lesser poundage far a cast such as 15 pounds so if you get caught up on the bottom you do not lose a large part of your main line. 

Baits.

Tobies from 18gm upwards. Toby Salmos are very popular in 30gms. Conventional weighted Devon’s are good especially in the Spring. Rapalas and Vision 110’s are very effective and of course Kynochs are popular for harling. 

What flies should I take? 

In early season bigger flies such as Tube Flies, Temple Dogs and Monkey type flies up to 2 inches in body length and larger conventional patterns in 4’s and 6’s in lower water are required. A point of note is that a lighter Tube such as an aluminium or plastic body is far easier to cast than brass. Current line technology enables you to get these lighter flies to the correct depths. Ask your ghillie for tip advice on the day. 

As river temperatures rise to a more conventional approach then a size range in your box should be from 6 in higher water to 12 in lower water and even smaller on exceptionally low conditions. Cascade type patterns seem to be the most popular and recently feeler flies have come to the fore. It is always worth a go with a Sun Ray type fly with a long wing whether casting normally in colder conditions to stripping it fast in warmer water. 

Finally, you are reminded that the <b>Tay's policy for January – 1st April 2019 is that all spring salmon must be released, i.e. the Tay has a policy of 100% mandatory release of all salmon caught under the new Scottish Government Statutory Conservation Regulation. Spring salmon are a scarce and precious resource. Please preserve both them and the long term future of your sport by following the release of salmon as it is a now legal requirement during this period even if a fish has died. The Board's bailiff team will be enforcing this legislation.

When releasing salmon please try to keep the fish in the water as much as possible to give them every chance to recover prior to release. Releasing fish from boats in the river is not recommended. 

good catch and release practice

Thank you all who have shared information with me to make the report week in week out, without that it would not be possible to compile such a detailed report for the river. If you have any news or pictures of catches or experiences on the Tay and you would like to share them please email me on robert.salmonfishing@googlemail.com to be included in the reports.

Tay Salmon Fishing Scotland Tay, Perthshire Salmon fishing report w/e 16th February 2019.

Tay Salmon Fishing Scotland Tay, Perthshire Salmon fishing report w/e 16th February 2019.

The river Tay has gone into February with a bit more optimism following a large spate from storm Eric. It has been a reasonably quiet start to the season with settled good low water heights but cold. In the past week we have seen a lot more water and much milder temperatures producing an upturn in catches encouraging everyone throughout the system. Hopefully settled weather over the coming weeks will give everyone a chance of landing a spring “Bar of Silver” and even possibly a fish of a lifetime with some three winter salmon arriving.

Beat catches reported
(week ending 16th February)

SALMON & GRILSE: Catholes 1, Upper Scone 2, Burnmouth 1, Stobhall 1, Taymount 3, Ballathie 1, Islamouth 2, Meikleour and Upper Islamouth 1, Delvine Burnbane 1, Dunkeld House 2, Upper Kinnaird 1, Loch Tay Fish n' Trips 2, Portnacraig Pitlochry 3.
Total: 21 Largest: Burnmouth 18lbs
SEA TROUT: Delvine Burnbane 2.
Total: 2 Largest: Delvine Burnbane 4lbs

Last week saw an improvement in catches recorded with a few small runs working up the system. It is early in the season but after a good spate expectation was far higher and the results came. 

It was a steady week with fish recorded every day and there was a spread throughout the river as temperatures came up and encouraged salmon to run. 

On the lower river Upper Scone and Catholes caught their first fish of the season. 

Upper Scone had the Thomas party fishing for the week achieving 2 in the period with Phil Gibson landing a 15 pounds fish from the Wash House on the Pitlochrie beat, the other fish was landed in the famous Pitlochrie pool earlier in the week. 

On Catholes, a delighted James Holder caught a 7 pounds fish fly fishing from the boat in the Black Stones. Burnmouth also recorded their first of the season and the largest off the river last week at 18 pounds. Taymount caught 3 in the week for Stuart Voce’s party. 

Stuart managed a couple in the week up to 14 pounds and guest 

Johnny Gordon landed a 7 pounder for good measure. Two of the fish came from the legendry Linn pool on Tuesday following increased water levels from the previous weekend. 

Stobhall also had a fish from the Linn pool on Wednesday with John Nevin being the successful angler. 

Further upstream Ballathie had success on Saturday with an 11 pounds salmon falling to Alan Rankin in the Garden pool from the boat. Islamouth had a couple in the week and reported seeing odd fish as well as they travelled through the beat which was encouraging. 

Douglas Miller caught a 7 pounds fish on Saturday and the Richard Muir party caught a 14 pounds fish earlier in the week. 

Upper Islamouth and Meikleour caught a 14 pounds fish with Alex MacPhee landing his first ever salmon from the boat. 

The middle riverhas seen some action last week as fish travel slowly up the system. The milder weather has seen water temperatures climb a bit encouraging salmon to run further afield. Delvine Burnbane saw their first salmon coming in at 8 pounds from the boat at the tail of the beat. Much further up river, Dunkeld House caught a couple in the week up to 10 pounds from the Gauge and Chestnut pools from the boat. 

The upper river saw a single fish come from Upper Kinnaird weighing 16 pounds. 

On Loch Tay Fish n’ Trips have got off the mark with a couple of early run fish up to 16 pounds. 

Robert McFarland was the successful angler landing 2 fish on Tuesday weighing 12 and 16 pounds caught on Rapalas. 

The Tummel is also seeing some early action proving fish are certainly running up the system. The Pitlochry angling club stretch below the Dam accounted to 3 fish last week up to 15 pounds all on the fly. 

Neill Sproull caught a fish at 15 pounds from the town bank and 

Steve Watt landed 2 fish during the week up to 15 pounds from the Port-na-Craig bank. That is an excellent early start for the club. 

The Spring Salmon fishing was well and truly underway after all the excitement of opening day’s celebrations. It has been a quiet start but there has been far more optimism following last week results so let us hope the season lives up to every one’s expectations over the coming weeks and months and when you visit the Tay you catch a fish of a lifetime. Tight lines!

Thank you all who have shared information with me to make this report week in week out, without that it would not be possible to compile such a detailed report for the river. If you have any news or pictures of catches or experiences on the Tay and you would like to share them please email me on robert.salmonfishing@googlemail.com to be included in the reports.