SOME SPARKLING SALMON AND GRILSE ARE LANDED IN THE PERTHSHIRE SUNSHINE!

(River Tay weekly report week ending 12th June 2021) 

We are now moving towards the middle of June and hopefully, in the days and weeks ahead the summer run on the River Tay will start to build momentum. There have already been grilse and larger summer salmon caught from the Tay system in recent weeks as well as the odd late running springer. As we move through June and into July more summer fish should enter the river with every tide giving anglers the opportunity to catch hard fighting grilse and summer salmon.

Wetting a line on the beautiful Murthly 2 Beat

It was another warm week across much of Perthshire with temperatures widely reaching the high teens and early twenties. This made fishing at the right times important with many anglers opting to fish early in the morning and then again at dusk. Water levels on the Tay system remained settled and there were some sparkling salmon and grilse caught in the Perthshire sunshine. The water temperature last week was 57.6 degrees Fahrenheit which is 14.2 degrees Celsius. 

On the upper river, both Farleyer beats and Upper Bolfracks produced fish through the course of the week. On Wednesday there was a stunning sixteen pounder caught from Edradynate with another fish caught from the beat on Thursday. 

A lovely salmon caught at Edradynate on Wednesday

Mr Gordon Ferguson had a day to remember at Portnacraig on the River Tummel on Friday. Mr Ferguson was fishing the Portnacraig bank when his rod buckled. After a monumental battle, Mr Ferguson landed a cracking thirteen pounder. On Saturday Mr William Davidson enjoyed success at Portnacraig when he caught a nice eight pounder from the Pitlochry bank on the spinner. 

A nice fish caught from Portnacraig on Saturday

It was good to see the Lower Kinnaird Beat produce a fish on Tuesday. Mr James Broomhall was fishing the Bridge Pool at Dalguise on Tuesday evening when he hooked a good fish. After a terrific fight, Mr Broomhall went on to land a magnificent eighteen pounder. 

There was success at Dalmarnock on Friday and Saturday. Mr Colin McLean had a happy Monday at Newtyle. Mr McLean caught a lovely twelve pounder from the Steps on the fly. He also caught a magnificent Sea trout weighing four pounds in the afternoon. There was more success at Newtyle on Wednesday when another fresh fish was caught on the fly.

Mr Colin McLean with a Newtyle cracker!

There was success at Murthly 2 on Tuesday and it was good to see the Glendelvine Beat produce a fish on Wednesday. There was a fine brace landed from Meikleour during the first half of the week. 

A fine salmon caught from the Murthly 2 Beat

It was nice to see a couple of fish caught from the Kethick Streams Beat through the course of the week. At Islamouth it was more a story of what might have been. Anglers had numerous takes from summer salmon and grilse through the course of the week but they just did not want to stay on. Despite this, there were some fine fish landed. Islamouth finished with nine fish for the week.

Further downstream at Ballathie there was a couple of nice fish caught on Tuesday and one on Wednesday. There were two fish caught at Cargill during the first half of the week. 

Success at Cargill during the first half of the week

There were no Monday morning blues for Mr Graham Sutherland at Stobhall. Mr Sutherland caught a lovely fresh fish weighing thirteen pounds from the lower beat.

There were a couple of fish caught from Taymount on Wednesday and one on Friday. It was good to see the beats towards the bottom end of the river starting to pick up a few fish with salmon caught from Upper Redgorton, Waulkmill and Almondmouth. As we move through the summer catches in this area of the river should build significantly. 

Success for Mr Grahan Sutherland at Stobhall on Monday

It was nice to see some lovely fresh fish caught from the Tay system last week. The numbers of summer salmon and grilse should start to build in the river in the upcoming weeks so why not wet a line on the Tay next week? With good current water conditions for many beats, you might just have a day to remember!

Maybe a fly to try next week?

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 12th June)

SALMON & GRILSE: 

Edradynate 2, Upper Farleyer 1, Lower Farleter 1, Upper Bolfracks 1, Portnacraig Pitlochry 2, Lower Kinnaird 1, Dalguise 1, Dalmarnock 2, Newtyle 2, Murthly 2, 1, Glendelvine 1, Meikleour & U Islamouth 2, Kethick Streams 2, Islamouth 9, Ballathie 3, Cargill 2, Stobhall 1, Taymount 3, Upper Redgorton 1, Waulkmill 1, Almondmouth 3

Total: 42 Largest: Dalguise 18lbs

COOLER TEMPERATURES TOWARDS THE END OF THE WEEK?

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 14th June 2021)

We are now into mid-June and more summer salmon will be entering the Tay system on every tide. Over the next few weeks, the summer run on the Tay should begin to gain momentum. The warm weather continued last week with temperatures widely into the high teens and early twenties. With high pressure dominating it was mainly dry with light winds. Looking ahead to next week, Monday and Tuesday will be mainly dry with temperatures a notch down on recent days. On Wednesday an area of low pressure is set to sweep across the country bringing some showery rain and stronger winds to many parts. Towards the end of the week, some thundery showers may affect Perthshire and it looks like a north westerly airflow will be established introducing much cooler conditions than of late which could potentially be good news for anglers. 

Catches were well spread on the Tay system last week from Edradynate down to Almondmouth. It was good to see catches on the lower river pick up and hopefully this is a sign of things to come during the summer months on the Tay. There is a chance of a fresh fish anywhere on the Tay system next week but more especially on the beats located on the middle and lower river.

As always, there are some fantastic salmon fishing opportunities on the river in the upcoming days to suit all budgets and the great variety of fishing on offer on the Tay system is second to none. So why not wet a line on the mighty River Tay next week? Nothing beats landing some Tay mid-summer silver!

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

Tight lines,

Samantha & Sandy Datta

Malloch Trophy 

The Malloch Trophy is an award given for the largest salmon caught on the fly and safely returned to the river each year. If you would like to be considered for the Malloch Trophy, please telephone Inga MacGillivray on 01738 583733 alternatively, you can email Inga at admin@tdsfb.org

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. 

TEMPERATURES SOAR, A BIRTHDAY BRACE TO REMEMBER AND GRILSE START TO MAKE AN APPEARANCE ON THE MIGHTY RIVER TAY!

(River Tay weekly report week ending 5th June 2021)

 

We have now moved into June which heralds the beginning of the summer salmon fishing season across Scotland. In the next few weeks, grilse and summer salmon will hopefully start running our rivers in ever-increasing numbers. Summer is a fantastic time of year to be out in the great Scottish outdoors. The leaves on the trees are green and vibrant and there are signs of life everywhere you look. The longer nights at this time of year also offer more angling opportunities with evening fishing becoming possible and also productive. In addition to salmon fishing, June and July can also be good months for Sea trout fishing. Traditionally the runs of Sea trout peak within the next six weeks and a nice hard fighting Sea trout can brighten up any angler's day, especially if the salmon are playing hard to get!

It felt like summer across Perthshire last week

It certainly felt like summer across much of Scotland including Perthshire last week as temperatures soared on most days. High pressure dominated bringing mostly cloudless skies and temperatures were widely into the twenties. This made it feel very pleasant but not the best conditions for chasing silver. Some ghillies reported seeing grilse on their beat and there was also some stunning fresh grilse caught which is great news. The water temperature last week was 11.4 degrees Celsius which 52.5 degrees Fahrenheit. 

It was nice to see more success on Loch Tay on Wednesday with the Loch Tay Fish n’ Trips team when a nice springer was landed. On the upper river, it was good to see both Bolfracks beats produce fish through the course of the week as well as Upper Farleyer and Edradynate. 

A nice nine pounder caught from Edradynate on Friday

Mr Dave Wilson had a good day on Tuesday on the Ruan Ruarie Beat of the River Gary. Mr Wilson caught a nice eight pounder on the spinner. Mr Malcolm Fleming was fishing on Loch Faskally on Wednesday. Within a few minutes of putting the rods out, he hooked and landed a fine sixteen pounder. There were more fish caught from the loch during the second half of the week. 

Mr Malcolm Fleming with a lovely fish caught from Loch Faskally

There were good numbers of fish showing on the River Tummel at Portnacraig. On Wednesday Mr Jamie Smith had a successful day when he landed a nice twelve pounder on the fly from the Portnacraig Bank. Mr Saul Mackay landed a cracking seventeen pounder on the fly from the Pitlochry bank later that evening.

Mr Saul Mackay with a Portnacraig cracker!

Dalguise has produced a few nice fish in the past few weeks and Wednesday was no exception when a lovely fish was landed from the beat. 

 Mr McCabe with a stunning salmon caught from Newtyle on Friday

Mr Tony McCabe had a good day at Newtyle on Friday. Mr McCabe was fly fishing the Boil when his line tightened. After a terrific battle that involved several powerful runs, Mr McCabe landed a beautiful sea liced salmon.

Mr Philip Black with the best possible birthday present caught at Murthly 2

At the beginning of the week, Mr Philip Black celebrated his birthday in style with his brother Tony on the Murthly 2 Beat. Despite the hot sunny weather Mr Black fished at the right times and persevered and caught fish on both Monday and Tuesday. Presents don’t come much better than a fine birthday brace! There was more success at Murthly 2 on Friday.

A well earned birthday darm for Mr Philip Black!

The Kercock Beat finished with three fish for the week. Mr Stuart Maughan had a nice eleven pounder from the Meikleour & U Islamouth Beat on Thursday. The fish was caught from the Pumphouse on the fly. Next on to the scoresheet was Mr Tom Czarnota who caught a fine six pounder from the Castle Pool on a Blair Spoon on Friday. There was success on the River Isla at Keithick Streams on Monday and Saturday.

Mr Stuart Maughan with a sparkling fish caught at Meikleour

It was a much better week at Islamouth with the water dropping. Mr David Clarke and his party had a great first half of the week landing a total of ten fish including fresh grilse which was good to see. Mr Jim Ferrie and his party were fishing at Islamouth during the second half of the week and enjoyed some superb sport with most of the fish taking a striped Sunray. There were also several fish lost which proved to be frustrating for some!

It was a great start to the week at Ballathie with a fish caught from the upper beat on Monday and then a fine brace landed from the lower beat on Tuesday. It was nice to see happy faces at Cargill on Wednesday when two fish were landed. There was also a fish caught from the beat on Friday.

Good sport at Cargill through the middle part of the week

It was a happy Monday for Mr Finlay Wilson at Stobhall. Mr Wilson landed a fine twelve pounder in the Perthshire sunshine. On Friday Mr Tony Forster caught a lovely fresh fish weighing fourteen pounds from Findford Stream at Stobhall. There was success at Taymount on Wednesday when a couple of nice fish were landed.

A lovely springer caught by Mr Finlay Wilson at Stobhall on Monday

The cloudless skies and splitting sunshine coupled with warm temperatures definitely made fishing challenging last week but there were still some nice fish caught from the Tay system. It was good to see grilse start to make an appearance on the river. Hopefully, the conditions next week will be more conducive to salmon fishing. 

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

Malloch Trophy 

The Malloch Trophy is an award given for the largest salmon caught on the fly and safely returned to the river each year. If you would like to be considered for the Malloch Trophy, please telephone Inga MacGillivray on 01738 583733 alternatively, you can email Inga at admin@tdsfb.org

Beat catches reported (week ending 5th June)

SALMON & GRILSE: 

Loch Tay Fish n’ Trips 1, Upper Farleyer 3, Edradynate 1, Upper Bolfracks 4, Lower Bolfracks 1, Ruan Ruarie 1, Loch Faskally 4, Portnacraig Pitlochry 2, Dalguise 1, Newtyle 1, Murthly 2, 3, Kercock 3, Keithick Streams 2, Meikleour & U Islamouth 2, Islamouth 17, Ballathie 3, Cargill 3, Stobhall 2, Taymount 2

Total: 56 Largest: Portnacraig Pitlochry 17lbs

IMPROVED FISHING CONDITIONS IN THE WEEK AHEAD?

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 7th June 2021)

It was very warm last week across Perthshire and when you couple this with cloudless skies and bright sunshine it’s easy to see why salmon fishing was challenging at times. Despite this, there were some nice fish caught from the Tay system and some ghillies reported seeing grilse starting to appear on their beats. Indeed, there were also a few nice grilse landed which was great news. River levels were settled last week. Over the weekend it has been mainly dry and warm with temperatures into the high teens. Looking ahead to next week high pressure is set to remain in charge bringing mostly dry and settled weather. Temperatures will gradually rise through the course of the week peaking in the mid-twenties. Cloud amounts will vary daily with possibly more cloud cover than last week and winds will remain light so the fishing conditions should improve somewhat in the days ahead.

Catches on the Tay system were again well spread last week from Loch Tay down to Taymount. There were also fish caught from the River Gary and Tummel as well as Loch Faskally. Many of the fish caught were sea liced indicating that the fish entering the system were running hard. Hopefully more grilse and summer salmon should start to be caught in the upcoming weeks and this will give anglers some optimism for the summer season. There is a good chance of picking up a fresh fish anywhere on the main river next week as the spread of recent catches would suggest. Probably the best chance could be anywhere on the middle or lower river. The River Tummel and Isla could also be worth a cast.

As always, the River Tay offers anglers fantastic value for money with a wide range of salmon fishing to suit all tastes. There is decent availability in the upcoming days on some fantastic beats, so why not wet a line one of Scotland’s most famous and iconic salmon rivers? There could be a big Tay salmon 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 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.

FINALLY, A TASTE OF SUMMER ACROSS PERTHSHIRE!

(River Tay weekly report week ending 29th May 2021) 

We move into June next week which will mark the end of the spring salmon fishing season on many rivers across Scotland. In the past, June had been a bit of an enigma in terms of salmon fishing on the Tay. Often there would be a lull in the action as the spring run had travelled up the river and reached the headwaters and the grilse and summer salmon run had not arrived in any great numbers. However more recently, June has proved to be a quite productive month on the Tay system. There appear to be more late running springers entering the river and this coupled with a few early summer fish has led to anglers enjoying some good sport. It has not been a dry warm spring by any means this year and so this should certainly help sport over the next few weeks as in some years the end of May leading into June can be very bright and hot.  

Heavy rain late last Sunday and into Monday led to a rising river at the beginning of last week. The rain was particularly heavy on the eastern side of the catchment area and the River Isla went into flood. Inevitably the lower river became coloured. However, from midweek onwards the weather became much more settled. Towards the end of the week, temperatures rose significantly and finally, we got a taste of summer across Perthshire after a few weeks of unseasonably cold weather. By the weekend the river was in good condition and there were some nice fish caught. The water temperature last week was 7.9 degrees Celsius which is 46.2  degrees Fahrenheit. 

Mr Carlin caught his first ever salmon on Loch Tay on Monday

It was a day to remember for Mr Chris Carlin on Loch Tay. Mr Carlin was fishing with Loch Tay Fish N Trips company when he caught his first ever salmon. The fish weighed twelve pounds and was in great condition. Well done Sir! There was also a nice fish caught by the Loch Tay Fish N Trips team on Wednesday and Thursday.

A lovely fourteen pounder caught from Edradynate

There were three fish caught from the Upper Farleyer Beat through the course of last week. On Tuesday Mr Gordon Pollock enjoyed early success at Edradynate when he landed a magnificent fourteen pounder from the Church Pool on his first cast of the day. There was more success at Edradynate on Wednesday when a lovely nine pounder was caught again from the Church Pool. On Thursday there were two more fish caught from Edradynate as well as a couple from Lower Bolfracks. 

A fine springer caught from Edradynate on Wednesday

It was nice to see Loch Faskally get off the mark for the week on Wednesday and there was another fish caught from the loch on Saturday. There has been some good sport had on the River Tummel at Portnacraig in recent weeks. Monday got off to a flyer when a total of three fish were landed. Mr Jim Lapsley struck early when he caught two nice fish on the spinner weighing eight and sixteen pounds. The fish were caught from the Pitlochry Bank. Mr Adam Thomson had a nice ten pounder on the fly from the Portnacraig Bank. On Tuesday there were five fish landed from the beat. Successful anglers included Mr Tony Brown, Mr Alun Williams and Mr David Leishman amongst others. There were also a few fish lost so the final tally for the day could have been considerably more.

Mr David Leishman with a lovely springer caught at Portnacraig on Tuesday

On Wednesday Mr Jim Fisher landed a lovely fifteen pounder on the fly from the Portnacraig Beat on the Portnacraig Bank. There were two more fish caught from the beat on the same day. Mr Innes Smith caught another fifteen pounder on the fly further downstream on the Tummel, at the Sawmill also on Wednesday. The Portnacraig Beat finished with a very respectable sixteen fish for the week.

A cracking fifteen pounder for Mr Jim Fisher caught from Portnacraig

There were four fish caught from the Dalguise Beat through the course of last week. The Dalmarnock Beat produced a fish on Tuesday. Mr Peter Sproston had a great day at Dunkeld on Thursday. Mr Sproston landed a beautiful springer in the Cathedral Stream. The fish took a Vision110 lure. There were also several fish lost at Dunkeld on Thursday. On Friday Mr Sproston enjoyed more success at Dunkeld when he landed a lovely thirteen pounder on the fly caught from the Lady Pool

Mr Peter Sproston with a cracking springer caught at Dunkeld

There was success at Murthly 1 for Mr Colin Mclean and Mr Stuart Graham both landing a nice fish each on the fly. Mr Stuart Lang caught a nice fish from the beat on Friday. On Murthly 2 Mr Richard Bagnall had a nice fish from the Burn on a toby lure on Tuesday. Ms Elizabeth Passey lost fish on beat two on Thursday and Friday. Her week however ended on high when she caught her first ever salmon and on the fly. A massive congratulations to Ms Passey on a day she will never forget! 

There were some stunning fish caught from both Murthly beats through the course of the week

At Meikleour there was a cracking Sea trout weighing six pounds caught on Tuesday from the House Pool. In addition to this, a fifteen pounder was also caught from the tail of Boxwood Bush on the same day. 

A lovely fish caught by Mr Tommy Mcguire at Meikleour

Mr Tommy Mcguire had a lovely eight pounder on the fly at Meikleour on Wednesday. The fine springer was caught between the Pumphouse and Boxwood. Mr Terry Davies went one better when he landed a ten pounder on a salmo lure from the March. The amazing thing was that both fish were caught at the same time just before the final whistle was about to be blown! The Meikleour and Upper Islamouth Beat finished with five fish for the week.

Mr Terry Davies with a fine springer caught at Meikleour on Wednesday

At Islamouth there were a couple of fish caught at the start of the week. Towards the end of the week, Mr David Mayhew’s party landed a couple of nice fish.

It was an eventful day for Mr Dan Gillespie at Cargill on Friday. Mr `Gillespie was playing a powerful springer when his rod snapped but despite this minor inconvenience, Mr Gillespie still managed to land a sparkling springer!

Mr Dan Gilespie with some lovely Cargill silver!

On Thursday there was a magnificent twenty eight pounder caught at Taymount. There were two more fish caught from Taymount on Friday. It was also good to see success further downstream at Benchil on Thursday when Mr Jon McNeish landed a fine ten pounder.

Mr Jon McNeish with a Benchil cracker caught on Thursday

So, it was a tough week on the river and the unsettled water conditions at the beginning of the week did not help matters but it was still good to see some nice springers being landed on the Tay system. 

With the recent lift in the water there is a good chance of landing a late running springer or even a summer salmon or grilse in the upcoming days, so why not wet a line on the mighty River Tay next week? You might just experience some early June magic!

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

Malloch Trophy 

The Malloch Trophy is an award given for the largest salmon caught on the fly and safely returned to the river each year. If you would like to be considered for the Malloch Trophy, please telephone Inga MacGillivray on 01738 583733 alternatively, you can email Inga at admin@tdsfb.org

Beat catches reported

(week ending 29th May)

SALMON & GRILSE: Loch Tay Fish n Trips 3, Upper Farleyer 3, Lower Bolfracks 2, Edradynate 4, Loch Faskally 2, Portnacraig Pitlochry 16, Dalguise 4, Dalmarnock 1, Dunkeld 2, Newtyle 1, Murthly 1, 4, Murthly 2, 3 West Grange 1, Meikleour and Upper Islamouth 5, Islamouth 4, Cargill, 1 Taymount 3, Benchil, 1

Total: 60 Largest: Taymount 28lbs

WHAT WILL THE BEGINNING OF JUNE HAVE IN STORE?

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 31st May 2021)

Last week saw unsettled conditions predominate across Perthshire with low pressure influencing our weather especially at the beginning of the week. There were spells of heavy rain and from time to time there was a distinct chill in the air. River levels rose on Monday and there was also some colour in the water on Monday and Tuesday. Water levels dropped from midweek onwards and conditions were decent for many beats towards the end of the week. Over the weekend it was mainly dry as finally high pressure built. On Sunday it felt very pleasant and warm which has been a rarity so far this year. 

Looking ahead, the first half of next week is set to be very warm and sunny with temperatures widely in the mid-twenties. There is a chance low pressure may bring a few showers towards the end of the week but temperatures will remain warm.  

As we move into early June there is a good chance of encountering a late running springer as well as a summer salmon and hopefully, this will be the case in the days ahead. It will be interesting to see what June will have in store for anglers fishing on the Tay system.

Catches were again well spread last week from Loch Tay down to Benchil. There were also fish caught from the River Tummel and Ericht. Many of the fish caught were sea liced indicating that the fish entering the system were running hard. There is a good chance of picking up fresh fish almost anywhere on the main river next week as the spread of recent catches would suggest. 

With the River Tay having a recent lift in water, why not wet a line on one of Scotland’s most famous salmon rivers next week? You might just have that June 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.

FIVE SPRINGERS IN A DAY, NUMEROUS FIRST SALMON AND A FAMILY AFFAIR!

(River Tay weekly report week ending 22nd May 2021) 

We are now moving towards the end of May which for many heralds the end of the spring salmon fishing season across Scotland. This of course does not mean that fresh springers cannot still be caught. Early June can often be a good time of year to catch late running springers. Indeed, in the past, some of the beats located on the middle River Tay have continued to produce nice spring salmon well into June. Let us hope this is the case in the days and weeks ahead.

Last week was quite strange in meteorological terms across Perthshire. When the sun was out it felt warm and like summer but when the skies turned black and the heavens opened it felt distinctly chilly. One moment you felt like you needed more than just a jacket to keep you warm and then a few minutes later it was more shorts and t-shirt weather!

It was a familiar story of sunshine and showers for much of last week but on Thursday and Friday a vigorous area of low pressure brought heavy rain and strong winds to much of Perthshire and this led to a lift in the water. The water temperature last week was 9.6 degrees Celsius which is 49.3 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Mr Colin Jonson was fishing with Loch Tay Fish n Trips on Wednesday on the loch and what a day he had. Mr Jonson landed a fantastic springer weighing twenty pounds after a great fight. Definitely, a day to remember! There was also a fish caught from Loch Tay on Saturday.

A cracking fourteen pounder caught at Edradyante on Monday

On the upper river, there were fish caught on most days, with anglers at Upper Farleyer enjoying some decent sport as well as on the Bolfracks beats. At Edradynate there was a fine fourteen pounder caught on the fly on Monday. On Tuesday Edradynate enjoyed more success when  Mr Gordon Pollock caught a lovely springer on the fly weighing an impressive nineteen pounds. On Friday Mr Harry Nobbs got his rod bent at Edradynate when he landed a fine nine pounder. This was one of two fish caught from the beat on Friday. On Saturday Edradynate produced a stunning eighteen pounder which capped off a good week nicely.

A stunning fly caught salmon from Edradynate on Tuesday

It was good to see the Ruan Ruarie Beat on the Gary produce a fish on Saturday. Loch Faskally started to produce fish more consistently last week with three springers caught during the first half of the week and two on Saturday. On the River Tummel, at Portnacraig Mr Steve Watt had a day to remember on Monday when he landed five salmon for the day. Mr Watt landed four fish on the fly from the Pitlochry Bank and a fourteen pounder on the spinner from Portnacraig Bank. Five salmon in a day is as good as spring salmon fishing gets!

One of five fish caught by Mr Steve Watt on Monday from Portnacraig

Mr Gordon Hanslip also enjoyed success on Monday at Portnacraig when he landed a nice eight pounder on the fly. Further downstream at the Sawmill Mr Dave Stewart also got in on the action when he landed an eight pounder again on the fly.

Mr Ian Liang with a nice fish caught from Portnacraig on Tuesday

On Tuesday there were two more fish caught from Portnacraig. Mr Iain Laing landed a fine eight pounder from the Pitlochry Bank. Not to be outdone Mr Stuart Humphreys also landed a fish weighing eleven pounds on the fly. Portnacraig finished with eleven fish for the week.

Mr Stuart Humphreys with a Portnacraig cracker caught on Tuesday

The Lower Kinnaird. Beat has fished well in recent weeks and Monday was no different when a nice fish was caught from the Ash Trees Pool. It was good to see a couple of fish caught from the Dunkeld Beat during the first half of the week. Mr Iain Melville had a day to remember when he caught his first ever salmon weighing twelve pounds. The fish caught from the Cathedral Stream on a Vision110 lure. Well done Sir!

Mr Iain Melville with his first ever salmon caught from Dunkeld

The Cathedral Stream was the site of more action on Wednesday when Mr Rupert Abel caught a lovely fresh nine pounder on the fly. On Thursday Mrs Sandra Robbins lost a fish in the Cathedral  Stream. Minutes later her fly line tightened again and after a long fight, she landed a beautiful springer weighing fifteen pounds. Mr Richard Dodds also enjoyed success at Dunkeld on Thursday when he landed a nice fifteen pounder on a Vision110 lure from the Lady Pool.

Mrs Sandra Robbins with a lovely fifteen pounder from Dunkeld

There was a fish caught from the Murthly 1 Beat on Monday and three caught from the Murthly 2 Beat during the first half of the week. Mr Robert McFarlane enjoyed a good day at Glendelvine on Tuesday when he caught a stunning sea liced fish on the fly. This was one of two fish caught from the beat that day.

Mr Robert Mcfarlane with a cracking springer caught from Glendelvine

It was also good to see a fish caught from the Delvine & Burnbane Beat on Saturday. Persistence was the key for Mr Scott Sykes at Kercock on Saturday. Mr Sykes fished hard all day and was rewarded for his efforts with a sparkling springer towards the end of the day.

Mr Scott Sykes with a Kercock cracker!

There was a couple of nice fish caught from the Meikleour and Upper Islamouth Beat at the beginning of the week. On Thursday Mr Andy Hill had a day to remember at Meikleour when he caught his first ever salmon. Well done Sir! 

On Friday Mrs Claire Graydon enjoyed her first ever day’s fishing, and what a day it was. Mrs Graydon was fishing the Pumphouse Croy when she got a vicious take. After a considerable battle, Mrs Graydon landed her first ever salmon, a stunning sixteen pounder. What a fish for your first!

At Islamouth the Collett party were fishing during the first half of the week and they landed one fish and lost a couple. Towards the end of the week, Mr Angus Johnston’s party enjoyed some action.

Mr Gavin Mason with a fine salmon caught at Cargill on Monday

Further downstream at Cargill it was a family affair on Monday. Mr Gavin Mason landed a lovely fresh salmon. Not to be outdone by his father, Mr Craig Mason persisted all day and was rewarded for his efforts when in the evening he landed a sparkling springer from the Bridge Stream. Well done to the Mason family on a great day!

Mr Craig Mason with a Cargill sparkler!

At Stobhall the Berrie party had a very enjoyable three days. On Monday the party landed a nice eight pounder from Tams Corner. After a few close shaves on Tuesday, it all came together on Wednesday when a cracking nine pounder was caught from the Major’s Cast. There was also a fish caught on Saturday at Stobhall.

A lovely springer caught from Stobhall for the Berrie party

With only one week of May remaining, hopefully, more hard fighting late running spring salmon will enter the Tay system, so anglers can enjoy some good sport. With a decent weather forecast for salmon fishing next week there is no reason why fishers will not connect with more top-quality spring salmon. So why not chase some spring silver on the mighty River Tay next week? You might just experience some Tay magic!

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 22nd May)

SALMON & GRILSE: 

Loch Tay Fish n’ Trips 2, Upper Farleyer 4, Lower Farleyer 1, Edradynate 5, Upper Bolfracks 1, Upper Kinnaird, 1, Ruan Ruarie 1, Loch Faskally 5, Portnacraig Pitlochry 11, Lower Kinnaird 2, Dunkeld 4, Murthly 1, 1, Murthly 2, 3 Glendelvine 2, Delvine & Burnbane 1, Kercock 1, Meikleour and Upper Islamouth 6, West Grange 1, Islamouth 3, Cargill 2, Stobhall 3

Total: 60 Largest: Loch Tay Fish n’ Trips 20lbs

FINALLY, A MORE SETTLED WEATHER FORECAST AS HIGH PRESSURE IS SET TO BUILD!

(River Tay salmon fishing prospects week commencing 24th May 2021)

Being in the right place at the right time is a very difficult skill to master as an angler but that certainly seemed to be the key to success on the Tay system last week. Some ghillies reported seeing fish running hard from time to time which was encouraging. 

There was a lift in water towards the end of last week after heavy rain fell over the catchment area on Thursday and Friday courtesy of an unusually vigorous area of low pressure for the time of year. By the weekend the river was dropping nicely. Saturday was mainly dry apart from a few widespread showers but on Sunday more rain affected central Scotland as a weather system drifted in from the Atlantic. Looking ahead to next week, it looks like finally, high pressure will start to build and with it the weather is likely to become more settled. On Monday there will be a few showers affecting Perthshire. However, from Tuesday onwards it looks like high pressure will bring some dry and settled weather for much of the week. Winds should be light and it will also feel a bit milder than of late. This will be music to the ears of many anglers fishing the river next week!   

Salmon were caught last week from Loch Tay down to Stobhall. There were also fish landed on the River Gary, Loch Faskally and the River Tummel which was great to see. As recent catches would seem to suggest there could be a good chance of catching a fresh fish anywhere on the Tay system next week. 

As always, there is a good variety of salmon fishing available on the Tay system next week with fishing to suit even the most discerning of anglers’ tastes. With less than one full week of the Scottish spring salmon fishing season remaining, time is running out to land that elusive springer. The River Tay might just be the place to do 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 spring period (April-May)

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.