Feedback & Reports

Good hatches and fish all caught on dries

10 Trout

As part of The Wild Streams day based in Presteigne, there were 2 anglers (incl. myself) plus our instructor, Tony.
After 15 years of abstinence, I can confirm that dry fly fishing on small streams is not like riding a bike! Despite many 180 degree turns in the direction of flow, a gale seemed to follow coming from the same direction. I may have done better if I had pre-stocked my waders with trout since that was the area my fly constantly ended up! I also hadn't realised how much my eyesight had deteriorated over time.
I have always fished upstream dry and wondered why the others seemed to be "nymphing" and catching fish...
Oh well, I must get more practise in for my casting technique and try other methods too.
Still, it was such a lovely day out on the water and I have never been disappointed at not making a catch. That's not what it's all about..... -is it?!

A very pleasant day in the good company of other anglers as part of the LAFA small streams day. A steady trickle of flies coming off which was just enough to bring the fish up. There were plenty of Black Knat about as well as small Olives.
A lovely beat in stunning country side. Many Thanks for a great day.

4 Trout, 1 Grayling

No fish caught

River in good fettle. Used micro riffling hitch flies, sunray shadows and franc n snaelda in various colours. Did not see a fish (salmon). Did not catch a fish ... but a wonderful bit of river. Thought provoking !

River was in good nick. Able to access pools OK. Tried micro hitch, sunray shadow and franc n snaeldas. Did not see a salmon. Did not catch a salmon. No such thing as bad day on the river. Saw my 1st swift, swallow and house martins of the season. Lots of mayflies hatching off. Grand day

7 Trout

I fished a wild stream for a first time as a participant on the Wild Stream Day event. What a fantastic day! Coming from still-water fly fishing background, I was daunted before the start but soon getting a hang of it; thanks to our superb guide Tony, who is very knowledgeable. I learned so much from him in a couple of hours; how to read the water and various technique. I was over the moon to catch 4 beautiful wild-browns on size 14 Klinkhammer. I cannot thank Usk & Wye foundation enough for this wild stream course; excellent value for money.

4 Trout

No salmon caught or seen. Although this is a very short beat, there is plenty to keep you entertained for a couple of hours. 2 10" wbt and one bigger one that threw the hook to a PTN. Huge hatch of various different flies at midday including the first mays I've seen this year - fish rising everywhere but with so much to feed on not interested in anything I put their way, especially with a gusty downstream wind. Shame this one isn't available more often - would be perfect for a weekday evening session

2 Trout