South West Lakes Trout Fisheries Report (February 2018)

The 2018 season opened three weeks earlier this year at Kennick Rainbow Trout fishery, on 16 February, and produced some excellent sport, before the snows came at the end of the month, for both boat and bank anglers. Water temperatures were around 6°c and the fish were eager to feed. Rods averaged 2.7 fish per angler over the opening weekend, improving to 3.1 fish by the end of the week.

Sub-surface patterns on sinking or intermediate lines proved to be successful, with either weighted or gold-head nymphs (particularly Damsels and Montanas) or lures (Tadpoles. Orange Blobs,and Boobies) catching fish. Both boat and bank anglers found fish in Clampitts Bay, the Narrows, near the Causeway, and from the Lawns.

The opening weekend saw a number of fish over 3lbs caught, with Mike Boston (from Torquay) catching a full bag, which included a Rainbow of 3lbs 12oz, while fishing from the bank. Mr. Peppitt (from Newton Abbot) caught a 3lb 10oz Rainbow, as part of a full bag, the following week, while fishing from the bank. Chris Bee (from Dawlish) caught a 3lb 8oz over-wintered Brown, also as part of a full bag.

While no insects have yet been seen on the surface, and nothing yet caught on dry patterns, there has been quite a lot of fish activity near the surface in the mornings as water temperatures start to rise and prospects are good for hatches and floating line methods as conditions warm up.

Burrator, Siblyback and Stithians Rainbow fisheries opened at the beginning of March, while the Brown Trout waters at Roadford, Fernworthy and Colliford open on 15 March.

The South West Fly Fair was held at Roadford on 24 February, for the sixth consecutive year, and proved to be even bigger and better, with dry, bright (if cold) conditions encouraging audiences and participants to enjoy the casting demonstrations and clinics, as well as the chance to try out the latest tackle. Indoors there were fly tying demonstrations along with numerous stands offering tackle and information, along with a masterclass Trout cookery demonstration from a local, top-class chef. Show patron Charles Jardine was on hand all day and, when not giving demonstrations, was available for advice or just a chat.

Chris Hall (March 2018)

ENDS

Issue date: 8 March 2018