FINALLY, THE RIVER BECOMES FISHABLE AND SOME STUNNING SPRING SALMON ARE LANDED! W/E 29th February 2020

We said goodbye to February last week and many anglers would have said good riddance! For much of February, Scotland including Perthshire has been battered by relentless heavy rain, strong winds and even snow on some occasions. Numerous low pressure systems have raced in from the Atlantic powered by a supercharged Jetstream and deposited large amounts of rain across the country. This has led to frequent flooding and subsequently, very little meaningful fishing has taken place. Indeed, on the Tay, it is very rare for the river to have been so high for such a prolonged period of time.  

The dedication of the Tay ghillies cannot be called into question even in such harsh conditions last week!

Thankfully last week, after a very wintry start with many places seeing snowfall, river levels gradually dropped, and the Tay became fishable once again. Conditions improved significantly through the middle part of the week and in spite of it feeling very raw in the north-westerly wind some of the anglers that did brave the elements were rewarded handsomely for their efforts. Unfortunately, heavy rain on Friday night led to a rising river once again on Saturday. There were some stunning spring salmon caught from the Tay system and hopefully this is a sign of things to come as we head into March and the meteorological spring. The water temperature last week was 38.8 degrees Fahrenheit which is 2.6 degrees Celsius.
Seasoned Loch Tay campaigner Mr Robert McFarlane was revisiting one of his favourite haunts once again on Wednesday. Whilst trolling on the loch Mr McFarlane lost a fish and then shortly afterwards went one better when his rod buckled a second time. After a great fight, Mr McFarlane landed a fine springer weighing fifteen pounds. We are now entering what should be the prime time on Loch Tay and hopefully, if the weather plays ball in the upcoming weeks this will be the first of many nice fish caught.

A fine springer caught from Loch Tay on Wednesday

It was great to see on Thursday the first fish from the Pitlochry Angling Club Water being caught from the River Tummel. Mr Steve Watt was the successful angler who landed the lively fish which did a number of cartwheels before being safely netted. The fish weighed fifteen pounds and was in excellent condition. In the days and weeks ahead more and more fresh fish should start to be caught on the river as the Tummel run gains momentum.
On the main Tay, river levels were still very high during the early part of the week, after the heavy rain from the previous weekend, but by Wednesday anglers were able to do some meaningful fishing and the pools were becoming more defined on many beats; and as if by magic, salmon started to get caught. Indeed, Wednesday turned out to be a productive day on the system for late February with a total of five fish landed.
It was great to see the Meikleour & Upper Islamouth Beat get off the mark on Wednesday. At first, a fresh fish was hooked and played out and came alongside the boat before disaster struck when the springer made a successful bid for freedom. Thankfully, shortly afterwards a fine sixteen pounder was landed after a terrific fight. The fish was caught on a salmo lure.
It was good to see Islamouth get on to the scoresheet for the week on Friday. All the recent high water has certainly not suited the beat. Undeterred Mr Rory Campbell fishing with the Tong Party tasted success when he landed a beautiful fourteen pounder which was caught on a salmon lure from Greenbank

Mr Rory Campbell wit a fine springer caught from Islamouth on Friday

Mr Nick Webster had a memorable day on Thursday whilst fishing on the famous Stobhall Beat. Mr Webster was wetting a line on the Linn Pool when he hooked and landed a beautiful sea liced springer.

Mr Nick Webster lands a beautiful springer from the Stobhall Beat on Thursday

The Taymount Beat has been one of the most productive beats on the river so far this season and there was more success on Wednesday when a nice springer was landed. It was a great end to the week with three more fish caught from Taymount on Friday. Burnmouth can traditionally be a productive early spring beat located just above the weir at Stanley and this proved to be the case on Thursday when a fine springer was landed.
Mr Robert White, ghillie on the Stanley beats had a day to remember on Wednesday. Mr White was fly fishing the Back Dam Pool when his line tightened. After numerous powerful runs, Mr White landed a beautiful sixteen pounder. This was after getting some welcomed help from Upper Scone ghillie Mr Davie Seaton.

Mr Robert White with a fine springer from Catholes

Not being content in catching one February springer Mr White then went on to wet a line in the Woodside Pool and came up trumps again. This time after another epic battle he landed a fish weighing around fifteen pounds. What a day and well done Sir! It was also good to see the Upper Scone Beat produce a cracking springer on Friday.

A second of the day for Mr White

Away from the fishing, the hard work continues by the TDSFB.  Finally, with the weather improving staff have been getting back out planting eyed ova. The eggs used have been taken from reconditioned salmon kelts which have been safely waiting in the hatchery for the floods to pass. These are free eggs for the river system as their parents would have naturally long since expired. Some of the fish are almost ten years old and have spawned in six consecutive seasons. The location of every redd is recorded using mapping software to aid accurate juvenile surveys during the summer months. Hopefully, some of these ova will mature and grow into adult salmon and return to the mighty River Tay one day.

Planting out eyed ova

 As predicted finally once the river has dropped and water levels have settled somewhat the Tay system has started to produce some magnificent hard fighting spring salmon. Hopefully, this is a sign of things to come in the upcoming days and weeks. March is usually a month when catches improve and become more consistent on the Tay so let’s keep our fingers crossed.

With some lovely fish caught from the Tay system last week, there is every chance that more will be landed in the days ahead. So why not chase some spring silver on the Tay next week? You just might hook that spring salmon of a lifetime!
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 29^th February)

SALMON & GRILSE: Loch Tay Fish N’ Trips 1, Portnacraig Pitlochry 1, Meikleour & Upper Islamouth 1, Islamouth 1, Stobhall 1, Taymount 4, Burnmouth 1, Catholes 2, Upper Scone 1

Total:13 Largest: Meikleour & Upper Islamouth & Catholes 16lbs

SOME MARCH MAGIC IN THE DAYS AND WEEKS AHEAD?

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 2^nd March 2020)

We move into March this week, which sees us say goodbye to winter and hello to the meteorological spring. In March often catches as well as weather conditions improve as we progress through the month. Over the next few weeks, fish destined for the River Tummel should start entering the system in greater numbers in addition to the fish heading for Loch Tay and beyond. This should mean there is a better chance of hooking that elusive spring salmon.
Thankfully the weather improved somewhat last week and with it, river levels dropped. This was until Saturday when Storm Jorge brought some gale force winds and heavy rain to much of the country including Perthshire. Sunday has been quite windy with westerly gales. There have also been frequent showers. Looking ahead to next week, Monday will see further showers but also some sunny spells, with the showers most frequent across the western side of the catchment area. There will be a strong westerly to northwesterly wind with gales in exposed parts. The showers and winds will ease through Tuesday with many places are likely to be dry on Wednesday & Thursday with sunny spells and overnight frosts. Towards next weekend there is a chance of more unsettled weather returning to our shores once again but there is a lot of uncertainty around the longer range forecast at this stage.There were some lovely salmon caught from the Tay system last week and it was good to see that some of these fish were caught on the fly. Fish were caught from Loch Tay as well as the River Tummel. Next week there is a good chance of making contact with a fresh fish almost anywhere on the main river. Loch Tay and the River Tummel are 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 mighty Tay next week? You might just experience some March Magic!

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. 

Harling can be a very productive method at certain times of the year on the River Tay

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.

 

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.