THE GOOD SPORT ON THE RIVER TAY CONTINUES AS WE MOVE THROUGH JULY!

(River Tay weekly report week ending 18th July 2020) 

We are now into the height of the Scottish summer. Over the past few days, it has remained mainly dry and thankfully it has not been too hot. It was good to see the River Tay continuing to produce some top quality summer salmon and grilse last week. Unsurprisingly anglers that fished early in the morning and then again at dusk enjoyed the best of the sport. River levels were settled for much of last week and the water temperature was 14.5 degrees Celsius which is 58.1 degrees Fahrenheit. 

A beautiful summer scene at Edradynate

On the upper river, the Upper and Lower Bolfracks Beats produced fish through the course of the week and Upper Farleyer tasted success on Friday and Saturday. There were three fish landed from Upper Kinnaird on Thursday. On the River Tummel, Mr Martin Wilson continued his productive season when he landed a beautiful fifteen pounder from the Portnacraig Beat on Friday. The fish was caught on the fly. On Saturday Mr Gary Waugh enjoyed double success at Portnacraig when he caught a nice grilse weighing three pounds on the fly and then followed it with a six pounder caught on the spinner.
Back on the main river, the Lower Kinnaird Beat had a fine brace on Thursday when two nice fish were landed with a further fish caught on Friday. It was a good end to the week at Dalguise with two fish caught on Saturday. Dalmarnock had a fish on Thursday and another fish on Saturday.
At Dunkeld it was a memorable day for Mr Gary Laing when he netted a superb double on Wednesday. Mr Laing caught a lovely fish on the fly from the Rock Pool. The fish weighed twelve pounds. He then followed that up with a fine eight pounder. Well done sir! On Thursday a lovely seven pound grilse was caught from the Lady Pool and there was also a fish lost from the Grotto. There was another grilse caught from the beat on Saturday.

Mr Gary Laing's lovely 12 pounder caught from Dunkeld on Wednesday

There was a fine hat trick landed at Newtyle on Monday. Young Mr James Wynn who is only ten years old had a day to remember when he landed a lovely grilse on the fly from the Cotter.

10 year old James Wynn with a fine Newtyle salmon

Then it was a family affair at Newtyle. First Mr Lloyd Stevenson caught a nice grilse on the fly from St. Mary’s. His father then went one better landing a ten pounder from the Stepps Pool. There were two more fish caught from the beat on Saturday.

Mr Craig Stevenson with a nice fish caught on Monday

It was good to see the Glendelvine Beat produce a couple of fish on Saturday. There was success for Mr Steve Brown at Kercock on Thursday when he landed a sparkling fresh grilse. The beat has been fishing very well since lockdown measures have been eased.

A lovely fresh grilse for Mr Steve Brown caught from Kercock

The good fishing continued at Meikleour and Upper Islamouth last week. Mr Hair and his party had a couple of cracking fish on Monday and lost two others. Mr Robertson had a stunning grilse on Tuesday. Mr McCallum also had a fine grilse from the beat during the first half of the week as did Mrs Weaver. There was another fish caught from the beat on Thursday and a brace on Friday.

A sparkling grilse caught from Meikleour last week

It was a fantastic week at Islamouth. The Skeoch Party were fishing during the first half of the week and all party members were successful. The beat had nineteen fish on Monday and a further nine on Tuesday. All the fish were caught on the fly. Mr Angus Johnston had a great morning hooking eight fish and landing seven. On Wednesday Mr Robin Valentine had a fantastic sixteen pounder. There were three more fish landed on Thursday with a single fish caught on Friday and a couple on Saturday.
It was good to see the Ballathie Beat back amongst the fish post lockdown. The beat produced a fine hat trick on Friday and another fish on Saturday. Cargill produced a couple of nice fish during the first half of the week. Mr David Harington was one of the successful anglers landing a lovely fresh fish on Monday. There was a further fish caught at Cargill on Friday and Saturday. 

Mr David Harrington with a Cargill cracker!

At Stobhall there was success on Monday. On Wednesday, Tay regular Mr David Turpin had a nice fish from the upper beat. Mr Geoff Coates was also successful, landing a fine fresh salmon.

Mr David Turpin with a fine salmon caught from Stobhall

Next in the catch book at Stobhall was Mr Steve Watt who caught a lovely fresh grilse on Thursday which was covered in sea lice. It was a great end to the week at Stobhall with three more fish caught on Saturday. The Wilson party enjoyed a great day on the lower beat. Mr Lloyd Garvie got the party started with a lovely grilse. Not long after Mr Rob Doig enjoyed Tay success with another sparkling grilse. After lunch, Mr Gavin Wiseman made it three for the party when he landed a fine salmon.

Mr Steve Watt with a lovely grilse caught on Thursday from Stobhall

The Taymount Beat fished consistently well during the first half of last week with a total of eleven fish landed. There were three more fish caught from the beat on Thursday and Friday. The Benchil Beat produced a fish on Saturday. It was good to see the Upper Scone Beat taste success on Friday. Further downstream the Upper Redgorton beat produced a couple of fish on Monday and another fish on Wednesday and Saturday. Anglers at Fishponds enjoyed some decent sport midweek with three fish landed. On Thursday the beat produced a cracking thirteen pounder. Luncarty produced a fish on Monday. There were four fish caught from Waulkmill during the first half of the week including a stunning seventeen pounder on Tuesday and a fine brace on Thursday. Friday saw another three fish landed from the beat. It was a good start to the week at Almondmouth with four fish caught on both Monday and Tuesday and a further three on Wednesday. The beat finished with seventeen for the week.
As we move through July and into August more fresh fish will enter the river on a daily basis. It could, therefore, be the perfect time to book a few days fishing on the River Tay, so why not have cast? There is no better way to finish July than by landing some hard fighting River Tay 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 18th July)

SALMON & GRILSE: 

Upper Farleyer 2, Upper Bolfracks 1, Lower Bolfracks 1, Upper Kinnaird 3, Portnacraig 3, Dalguise 2, Lower Kinnaird 4, Dalmarnock 2, Dunkeld 4, Newtyle 5, Glendelvine 2, Kercock 1, Meikleour and Upper Islamouth 10, West Grange 1, Islamouth 44, Ballathie 4, Cargill 4, Stobhall 8, Taymount 15, Upper Scone 1, Upper Redgorton 4, Luncarty 1, Fishponds 5,Waulkmill 10, Almondmouth 17.

Total: 155 Largest: Waulkmill 17lbs

DECENT WEATHER AND WATER CONDTIONS AS WE MOVE TOWARDS THE END OF JULY!

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 20th July 2020)

It was mainly dry across Perthshire last week with just the odd shower. The weekend has also been dry and this has meant that water levels on the Tay have been steady over the past few days. The fish caught last week were mostly a mixture of larger summer salmon and hard fighting grilse and many were sea liced which was great to see. In the upcoming weeks, more salmon should enter the Tay system on a daily basis giving anglers the chance of making contact with the king of fish.
Looking ahead to next week, the weather will start on a settled note with high pressure in charge at the beginning of the week. Monday and Tuesday should be mainly dry with light winds. There is a chance of some rain on Wednesday but it should be quite light and patchy in nature. Thursday and Friday should be mainly dry again with variable amounts of cloud. Temperatures will be mostly in the mid-teens.
Last week there were fish caught from Upper Farleyer down to Almondmouth with the majority of fish caught on the lower river. It looks like the weather is set to be decent next week and it is unlikely to be too hot. Currently, the river is at a great height for fly fishing on many beats. With the recent lift in water probably the best chance of success next week would be on beats situated on the middle and lower river. As always, there is a good variety of salmon fishing available on the Tay in the upcoming days with fishing to suit even the most discerning of anglers' tastes. So why not chase some summer silver on the Tay next week? You could have that day to remember!
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 summer period (June-August)

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.

As the Tay is a big river usually a powerful fourteen or fifteen-foot rod with a ten-line rating will cover almost any eventuality. 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 is perfect for the job at this time of year. In higher water, during the summer months, a sink tip or intermediate line may be required to produce the best results.

Fly Fishing

During the summer months, water temperatures usually begin to rise on the river. The fish also start to become a bit more active. Often river levels are low but on the River Tay, they are never too low that fresh fish cannot run the system. At this time of year, full floating lines coupled with polyleaders of various sink rates can often work well. 

A fine fly caught River Tay salmon

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 summer period to use leader material with an adequate breaking strain, as there are some big summer salmon that run the Tay. Usually, a breaking strain between twelve and fifteen pounds is ideal.

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 thirty 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. 

Spinning in the summer months 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 thirty grams. Devon Minnows can also be effective on the River Tay. During the summer months, the Floating Devon and Flying C can be particularly productive. The Flying C lure can be fished upstream especially when water temperatures start to rise and often salmon will chase the lure before taking it. The Vision110 lures have also got a good reputation for producing fish on the river. These lures can be excellent during the summer months. 

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. 

Harling is a unique, effective method of fishing 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. Often during the summer months, the water is too low to harl on many beats. However, if there is a decent spate this method can be highly productive. 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 of respect at all times.

A DOUBLE DAM TRIPLE AND MORE FIRST SALMON, AS CATCHES IMPROVE ON THE TAY SYSTEM MOVING THROUGH JULY

(River Tay weekly report week ending 11th July 2020) 

There were some lovely salmon caught from the Tay system last week with a number fish weighing well into double figures landed. Many of the fish were sea liced and mostly a mixture of sparkling fresh grilse and larger summer salmon. In recent years early July has not been that productive on a number of beats but this season seems to have bucked that trend somewhat which is great news for anglers. We can hopefully look forward with optimism to what the remainder of the summer season has in store on the River Tay.

Heavy rain last weekend led to a decent lift in water at the beginning of the week and this appeared to be the catalyst for improved catches on the river. For once the weather also played ball as it was unseasonably cool for the time of year with temperatures mostly in the mid-teens. Indeed, during some evenings, the temperature dropped to low single figures in the Scottish glens which is very unusual for this time of year. The water temperature last week was 56.3 degrees Fahrenheit which is around 13.5 degrees Celsius. On the upper river, it was good to see the Farleyer beats produce a few fish through the course of last week. Edradynate got off the mark on Tuesday when lucky angler Ciarin caught a lovely fresh nine pounder on the fly. There was also some good sport to be had at Upper Bolfracks with five fish caught on Wednesday.On the River Tummel, there were bent rods on the Portnacraig Beat at the beginning of the week with a total of six fish landed on Monday and Tuesday. On Monday it was a dam triple for Mr Martin Wilson who landed three lovely salmon weighing sixteen, fourteen and thirteen pounds. The fish were all caught on the fly. What a great way to start the week!

One of three fish caught by Mr Martin Wilson on Monday

Not to be outdone Mr Roberto Fraga achieved a similar feat on Tuesday landing three fine fish weighing ten, twelve and thirteen pounds again all caught on the fly. So it turned out to be a double dam triple at Portnacraig! 

Mr Roberto Fraga with one of his three fish caught at Portnacraig last week

Back on the main river, the Dalguise Beat tasted success on Wednesday. Further downstream Ms Teresa Lander had a few days to remember at Dalmarnock. Ms Lander caught a perfect fresh grilse from the tail of the Dalmarnock Bank Pool on Monday. On Tuesday she went one better landing an even bigger fish, this time from the Summer House Pool.

Ms Teresa Lander with a Dalmarnock cracker!

There was success on the Dunkeld Beat on Monday. It was a red letter day at Newtyle also on Monday when five fish were landed including three for Newtyle regular Mr John Amos. There was also a couple of fish caught on the harled fly. There were two more fish caught from the beat on Wednesday. On Saturday Mr Sandy Datta had a nice sea liced grilse caught on the fly from the Alders. In the afternoon his wife Samantha went one better when she caught a fine ten pounder from the Ferry Pool. 

A cracking fish caught from Newtyle on Monday

Anglers on the Glendelvine Beat landed a fine brace on Tuesday as well as two more on Saturday. Also, on Tuesday the Delvine & Burnbane Beat produced a nice ten pounder from the Burnbane Pool. The beat has been quite productive in recent weeks. On Friday Mr Jamie Green landed a cracking fifteen pounder again from the Burnbane Pool.

Mr Jamie Green with a lovely fifteen pounder caught from Delvine & Burnbane

Tuesday was a day that will be firmly etched in the memory of nine year old Robbie who fishing on the Kercock Beat. He landed his first salmon at Kercock which was as fresh as paint and fin perfect. It’s just great to see the younger generation enjoying our wonderful sport. 

Young Robbie with a Kercock cracker!

There were a total of five fish caught from the beat during the first half of the week. Towards the end of the week the good sport continued with five salmon caught on Saturday. Mr John Dewar was one of the successful anglers.
The Meikleour & Upper Islamouth Beat only opened its banks to fishers following the lockdown period a few days ago and anglers have enjoyed some great sport on the beat. 

Mr Andrew Gunn with a nice fish from Meikleour on Tuesday

Last week was no different with nine fish caught from the beat during the first half of the week. Mr Andrew Gunn was one of the successful anglers. On Thursday the good fishing continued with a further five salmon landed. Mr Oliver Paterson was fishing with his father and caught a lovely thirteen pounder from the boat. Fellow guest Mr Anderson caught his first ever salmon on the fly from the Castle Bank, a moment he will not forget in a hurry. Mr Cannon landed a lovely sixteen pounder from the Meadows and his friend Mr McCallum had a nice fish from Boxwood Bush.

A lovely fish caught at Meikleour on Thursday

On Friday Dr Ruth Cordiner caught her first ever salmon from Boxwood, a moment she will never forget. Fellow angler Mr Chris Barbour had a nice grilse in the Castle Pool. There were another two fish caught on Saturday from the beat.

Dr Ruth Cordiner with her first ever salmon!

There was some good sport to be had at Cargill with three fish caught on Tuesday and a further six landed on Wednesday. Mr Steve Cunroe was one of the lucky anglers who managed to get his rod bent on numerous occasions. 

Mr Steve Cunroe with a fine Tay salmon

On Thursday Mr Charles Drummond heard his fly reel sing when he caught a magnificent fish from the beat. This was one of three fish landed that day.

Mr Charles Drummond with a beautiful fly caught salmon at Cargill

Mr Gordon Wilson had a fantastic day at Stobhall on Tuesday landing two fine salmon. He enjoyed more success on Wednesday when he caught a lovely big summer salmon from the upper beat. 

Mr Gordon Wilson with a lovely summer salmon caught from Stobhall

Not to be outdone Mr Marc Sabido also enjoyed some good sport on the beat landing a couple of fish on Tuesday. 

 Mr Marc Sabido with a Stobhall cracker!

Next on the score sheet was Mr Stuart Orr who landed a sparkling fresh fish on Friday. The beat finished the week with two more fish landed on Saturday including a cracking eighteen pounder.

Mr Stuart Orr with a sparkler caught from Stobhall

There was a hat trick landed at Taymount on Wednesday with three fish in the book. Another fish was caught from the beat on Friday and a brace on Saturday. The Pitlochrie Beat produced a couple of fish during the first half of the week, as did Benchil. On Friday Mr Jim Ferrie landed a sparkling grilse from Pitlochrie on the fly. Well done Sir!

Mr Jim Ferrie with a sparkling grilse caught from the Horsey Pool on Friday

The Upper Scone Beat produced a fish on Tuesday, as did Upper Redgorton. There was success at Fishponds on Monday as well as a brace on Thursday and one on Friday and Saturday. A fine twenty pounder was caught from Waulkmill on Wednesday and it was good to see the Almondmouth Beat taste Tay success on the same day. There were four more fish caught from Almondmouth on Thursday. Almondmouth finished with nine fish for the week.
The lift in water certainly appeared to be the catalyst for the improved fishing last week. It was great to see so many fresh fish landed and hopefully, this is a sign of things to come as we move through July and into August. Currently, the Tay is at a great height for fly fishing on many beats with a good number of the fish caught recently being sea liced. So why not book a day's salmon fishing on the famous River Tay next week? It could be the perfect opportunity to get a piece of the action!
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 11th July)

SALMON & GRILSE: Farleyer Upper 4, Farleyer Lower 1, Edradynate 1, Upper Bolfracks 6, Portnacraig Pitlochry 6, Dalguise 1, Dalmarnock 3, Dunkeld 1, Newtyle 10, Glendelvine 4, Delvine & Burnbane 2, Kercock 13, Meikleour & Upper Islamouth 18, Cargill 12, Stobhall 12, Taymount 6, Pitlochrie 3, Benchil 3, Upper Scone 2, Upper Redgorton 1, Fishponds 5, Waulkmill 5, Almondmouth 9

Total: 128 Largest: Waulkmill 20lbs

IS THE GOOD SUMMER FISHING SET TO CONTINUE IN THE UPCOMING DAYS?

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 13^th July 2020)

It was great to see catches on the river improve last week. Some of the fish caught were in superb condition with a number being sea liced. There were also a number of larger summer salmon caught, with fish landed in the teens of pounds not being uncommon. It appears the catalyst for the improved catches has been a lift in water at the beginning of last week as well as it being quite cool for the time of year. It is not often that during the summer months you are blessed with good water and weather conditions.
It has been mainly dry over the weekend across Perthshire with variable amounts of cloud. Looking ahead to next week, Monday and Tuesday should be mainly dry apart from the odd shower. From midweek onwards the weather should settle down as high pressure builds and it is likely to be mainly dry. It could get warmer as we move towards next weekend as southerly winds predominate.
The fish caught last week were mostly a mixture of larger summer salmon and hard fighting fresh grilse and many were sea liced, which was great to see. Salmon were caught from Upper Farleyer down to Almondmouth, which shows that the fish are well spread throughout the system. It was interesting to see that more fish are being caught from the lower river now. As we move through July and into August the beats located in this area should come into their own. Traditionally this is when these beats start to produce larger numbers of fish on a more consistent basis. Hopefully, the good fishing will continue on the Tay system in the upcoming days. Probably the best chance of success next week would be on some of the beats situated on the middle and lower river.
There is good availability next week so why not wet a line and chase some Tay summer silver? There is no better way to end July then landing that big Atlantic Salmon!

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 summer period (June-August)

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.

As the Tay is a big river usually a powerful fourteen or fifteen-foot rod with a ten-line rating will cover almost any eventuality. 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 is perfect for the job at this time of year. In higher water, during the summer months, a sink tip or intermediate line may be required to produce the best results.

Fly Fishing

During the summer months, water temperatures usually begin to rise on the river. The fish also start to become a bit more active. Often river levels are low but on the River Tay, they are never too low that fresh fish cannot run the system. At this time of year, full floating lines coupled with polyleaders of various sink rates can often work well. 

A fine fly caught River Tay salmon

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 summer period to use leader material with an adequate breaking strain, as there are some big summer salmon that run the Tay. Usually, a breaking strain between twelve and fifteen pounds is ideal.

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 thirty 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. 

Spinning in the summer months 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 thirty grams. Devon Minnows can also be effective on the River Tay. During the summer months, the Floating Devon and Flying C can be particularly productive. The Flying C lure can be fished upstream especially when water temperatures start to rise and often salmon will chase the lure before taking it. The Vision110 lures have also got a good reputation for producing fish on the river. These lures can be excellent during the summer months. 

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. 

Harling is a unique, effective method of fishing 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. Often during the summer months, the water is too low to harl on many beats. However, if there is a decent spate this method can be highly productive. 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 of respect at all times.

UNSETTLED RIVER LEVELS, A BIRTHDAY PRESENT TO REMEMBER AND FIRST SALMON!

(River Tay weekly report week ending 4th July 2020) 

We moved into July last week and the height of the Scottish summer. July is a special time of year to be out on the river. If there is reasonable water and weather conditions are favourable often fishing can be very good with decent numbers of hard fighting grilse and summer salmon being caught. If, however, river levels are low, and it is hot and sunny then fishing unsociable hours can be the key to success. Often fishing first thing in the morning and then again at dusk can produce the best results. This is usually because it is much cooler at these times and in low light conditions, the fish often feel more confident to run upstream and take a fly or lure. Many an angler has enjoyed a magical balmy July evening on the banks of River Tay when their line has tightened, and reel has sung with a hard fighting salmon on the other end leading them a merry dance!

A beautiful summer evening on the River Tay draws to a close!

It was thankfully much cooler last week across Perthshire and it definitely felt fresher. Heavy rain last weekend led to a decent lift in the water at the beginning of the week. Overall river levels were a  bit unsettled with further lifts in water on Tuesday and Thursday. Heavy rain over the weekend led to a bigger lift in water and the water was a bit coloured once again. Catches on the river were well spread with a mixture of grilse and larger summer salmon caught. Many of the fish landed were sea liced which was great to see and hopefully, this is a sign of things to come as we move through July. The water temperature last week was 13.6 degrees Celsius, which is around 56.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
It was quieter on the upper river last week; nonetheless, the Lower Bolfracks Beat produced a fish on Friday. On the River Tummel, Mr Martin Wilson caught a lovely thirteen pounder on the fly from the Portnacraig Beat on the fly. The cracking fresh fish gave a terrific account of itself.
On the middle river, both the Lower Kinnaird and Dalmarnock beats struck silver on Friday. It was good to see the Dunkeld Beat get off to a flyer on Monday. The Gauge Pool which was the place to be as it yielded a fine ten pounder. There was also a nice Sea trout caught from the beat on the same day. On Thursday it was Mr Stan Nicols birthday and he was wetting a line at Dunkeld. It was certainly a birthday to remember when Mr Nicols landed a lovely fresh eighteen pounder. 

A lovely birthday salmon for Mr Stan Nicols

The Newtyle Beat has fished well since lockdown measures were eased and last week was no different. The beat produced fish on Monday and Tuesday. 

A lovely Newtyle salmon caught last week

Further downstream the Delvine & Burnbane Beat continued to produce the goods. On Monday the tail of the Burnbane Pool produced a nice fourteen pounder which was caught on a small Kynoch lure. Another fish was lost at the tail of the Sparrowmuir Pool in the afternoon. On Tuesday morning a lovely grilse weighing four pounds was landed and then Mr Willie Cummings went one better landing a cracking eleven pounder from the beat. Well done Sir! There was another fish caught from the beat on Friday.

Anglers have enjoyed some great sport at Kercock recently and Monday was no different with four fish landed on the beat. The beat produced a magnificent eighteen pounder on Wednesday with another fish caught on Thursday.
The Meikleour & Upper Islamouth Beat opened for the first time post lockdown on Friday and immediately got in on the action. Local wildlife artist Ms Paula Anderson had a Spey casting lesson with Tom Brown and then went on to catch her first ever salmon, a beautiful fifteen pounder from Boxwood Bush. A massive well done to Ms Anderson, a moment that will live with her forever. There were three other fish caught from the beat on Friday.

Ms Paula Anderson with her first ever salmon from Meikleour

The West Grange Beat on the River Ericht has produced some nice fish in recent weeks and there was more success last week with a fine brace landed on Tuesday and another fish on Wednesday and Thursday.  It was a good first half of the week at Cargill with a total of six fish landed including a fine seventeen pounder on Tuesday. A Cargill regular also caught his first ever Tay salmon on the fly. Well done Gerry!

Gerry with his first fly caught Tay salmon at Cargill

On Thursday Mr David Sands landed a lovely fish from the beat first thing. This was one of seven fish caught from Cargill that day. 

Mr David Sands with a Cargill cracker caught on Thursday!

Mr Barry Ward was another angler to strike Tay silver on Thursday at Cargill. It was good to see Taymount having some success on Thursday as well. 

Mr Barry Ward with a fine salmon caught at Cargill on Thursday

Mr Adrian Mailer was fishing at Stobhall on Friday and managed a fantastic double landing two beautiful salmon. There was also another fish caught on the same day from the beat.

Mr Adrain Mailer with a Stobhall beauty caught on Friday!

Further downstream there was success at Pitlochrie on Wednesday. The cracking summer salmon was caught on the fly from the Horsey Pool. There were more fish caught from Horsey on Friday when another two fish were landed on the fly.

A cracking Summer salmon caught from the Pitlochrie Beat on Wednesday

Anglers at Waulkmill enjoyed some good sport towards the end of the week with a fish caught on Thursday and a brace on Friday. It was great to see the Almondmouth Beat produce fish on a more consistent basis with seven fish landed during the first half of the week and further three on Friday.
Currently, the Tay is at a great height for fly fishing on many beats and the cooler weather is set to continue in the days ahead. With travel restrictions following the pandemic easing and self-catering accommodation now opening why not book a day's salmon fishing on the famous River Tay next week? It could be the place to provide you with some midsummer magic!
Please note that this report is up to date until Friday as we were unable to access catch data for Saturday due to a website error.
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 – PLEASE NOTE – Saturday’s catches are not included due to a website error

(Week ending 4th July)

SALMON & GRILSE: Lower Bolfracks 1, Portnacraig Pitlochry 1, Lower Kinnaird 1, Dalmarnock 1, Dunkeld House 3, Newtyle 2, Delvine & Burnbane 4, Kercock 7, Meikleour & U Islamouth 4, West Grange 4, Cargill 15, Stobhall 3, Taymount 1, Pitlochrie 3, Waulkmill 3, Almondmouth 10

Total: 41 Largest: Dunkeld, Kercock & Meikleour & U Islamouth 18lbs

LOOKING LIKE PERFECT CONDITIONS ON THE RIVER TAY AS WE MOVE THROUGH JULY!

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 6th July 2020)

Last week saw much cooler and fresher conditions than of late which was a blessing for anglers. It was also very wet for July. A large area of low pressure brought frequent showers and longer spells of rain across much of Perthshire. This led to multiple lifts in water through the course of last week. On Friday a more organised band of heavy rain fell across the catchment area and this led to more significant rise in water over the weekend. Saturday and Sunday has seen more showers and longer spells of rain.
Looking ahead to next week it is set to be mainly dry on Monday and Tuesday with the chance of just the odd isolated shower. This should allow river levels to drop nicely. It will feel cool in the north westerly winds. From midweek onwards, there is a chance of some more organised rain as low pressure centres itself over the UK. It looks more settled as we move towards next weekend as pressure starts to build once again.
The quality of some of the fish caught from the Tay system last week was second to none. These included some very hard fighting strong grilse as well sea liced larger summer salmon. There were numerous fish weighing well into the teens landed and a number which were much bigger lost. Hopefully, this is a sign of things to come as we move through July. The runs of summer fish entering the river should start to gain momentum over the next few weeks ensuring good sport for anglers and hopefully, it will be a productive second half of the season on the river.
Last week salmon were caught from Lower Bolfracks down to Almondmouth. Heavy rain recently coupled with the multiple lifts in water will ensure that any fresh fish are well spread throughout the system in the upcoming days. Probably the best chance of success next week will be on some of the beats situated on the middle and lower river.
If river levels start to drop and settle next week then conditions should be perfect for many beats as we move through July. There is good availability in the upcoming days so why not wet a line and chase some Tay summer silver? You might just find that twenty pounder coming your way! 

Good luck to all those anglers fishing on the River Tay next week.
Tight lines & stay safe,
Samantha & Sandy Datta

Tactics for the River Tay during the summer period (June-August)

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.

As the Tay is a big river usually a powerful fourteen or fifteen-foot rod with a ten-line rating will cover almost any eventuality. 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 is perfect for the job at this time of year. In higher water, during the summer months, a sink tip or intermediate line may be required to produce the best results.

Fly Fishing

During the summer months, water temperatures usually begin to rise on the river. The fish also start to become a bit more active. Often river levels are low but on the River Tay, they are never too low that fresh fish cannot run the system. At this time of year, full floating lines coupled with polyleaders of various sink rates can often work well. 

A fine fly caught River Tay salmon

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 summer period to use leader material with an adequate breaking strain, as there are some big summer salmon that run the Tay. Usually, a breaking strain between twelve and fifteen pounds is ideal.

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 thirty 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. 

Spinning in the summer months 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 thirty grams. Devon Minnows can also be effective on the River Tay. During the summer months, the Floating Devon and Flying C can be particularly productive. The Flying C lure can be fished upstream especially when water temperatures start to rise and often salmon will chase the lure before taking it. The Vision110 lures have also got a good reputation for producing fish on the river. These lures can be excellent during the summer months. 

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. 

Harling is a unique, effective method of fishing 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. Often during the summer months, the water is too low to harl on many beats. However, if there is a decent spate this method can be highly productive. 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 of respect at all times.