Fishing The Fly Scotland

Index => Rivers & Lochs => Topic started by: Mike Barrio on 02/02/2018 at 09:31

Title: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 02/02/2018 at 09:31: It will soon be time for the Annual March To The River Don to celebrate the start of the new season.

The river opens for Salmon fishing on Monday the 12th of February this year, so with the March being held on the first Saturday of the season, folk will be gathering at the Kintore Arms Hotel in Inverurie from 9am for coffee/tea on the 17th of February and the March will set off at 9.30.

I enjoy this event, it's great to meet up with folk that you haven't seen for a while :z12

(http://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/2_16_02_14_5_23_15.jpeg)
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Graham Nicol on 03/02/2018 at 07:57: Initial catches on the Dee are fine and so let's hope the Don reciprocates
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Allan Liddle on 04/02/2018 at 22:39: Not sure if i'll make this one as might have a tying even near Inverness Mike
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 07/02/2018 at 11:18: Hi folks :z12

I have just added a new page to the website for Inverurie Angling Association.

Click on 'Clubs' in the main menu, or click here to view the page https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/inverurie-angling-association.html (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/inverurie-angling-association.html)

All the latest details about club membership, the Inverurie Burgh Fishings and the Ardmurdo & Keithhall Fishings ..... I hope you find it useful :z16

Best wishes
Mike

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19_30_01_18_8_57_35_1.jpeg)
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Dave Robb on 14/02/2018 at 12:34: The weather has been awful but has anyone braved the elements yet?

I was due out today but the 50mph winds and snow put me off.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 17/02/2018 at 08:27: Kettle is on ...... soon be time to head down for the March to the River :z12
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 28/02/2018 at 11:19: I fished Monday, and whilst the Salmon were absent, I hooked a 2.5lb Brownie. Bloody typical! Bet as soon as I go through the same pool with a nymph I will hook a Salmon.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Ali Mcewan on 14/03/2018 at 19:36: It's almost here guys 👍🏻 But looks like a wash outs on the cards for me 😢
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Dave Robb on 15/03/2018 at 08:36: Gale force winds today and tomorrow.

Freezing on Saturday. I’ve also been told there’s still a fair bit of snow lying up beyond Alford although I’ve not seen it.

Just wish this weather would turn. Clocks forward next weekend though, warm up by a few degrees and were good to go.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Ali Mcewan on 15/03/2018 at 09:07: Dave, a lot of snow with us above Alford, but it's taking a fair shift the last 24hrs, rivers on its way up & coloured up with melt water., 30-40mph wind & Liam's enroute & still optimistic as ever 🤣
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Dave Robb on 15/03/2018 at 10:06: It’s a rough day to be out, still wish it was me though instead of having to work,
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 15/03/2018 at 10:49: I am looking forward to getting out (Monday hopefully) as not only do I have a new line and rod to try out...I have a new "lucky hat"...thanks Mike :)
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Liam Stephen on 15/03/2018 at 17:08: All my gears now for sale!

:cry
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 15/03/2018 at 17:31: :z4 :z4 :z4
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 16/03/2018 at 14:24: Itching to get on the river ..... but one look out the window soon kills that idea :X1
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Eddie Sinclair on 16/03/2018 at 14:35: Mike,

The weather is fantastic out here In Brunei. Hopefully it will be fine at the beginning of April when I get back and I can buy (at a serious discount) all of Liam’s tackle and go out and have some fun. 😂

Tight lines to all for 2018 once the ice age is gone,

Eddie
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 30/03/2018 at 08:52: There are a couple of places available on the Ardmurdo/Keithhall Fishings below Inverurie this year, these don't come up often - so be quick to apply if you fancy joining :wink

You'll find details on the IAA page here: https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/inverurie-angling-association.html (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/inverurie-angling-association.html)

Cheers
Mike
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Ashley Thomas on 30/03/2018 at 10:16: Mike,

Is there a link to the online permit for the Inverurie Burgh Fishings yet?

Cheers
Ash :z16
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Brian Brand on 30/03/2018 at 22:22: Hi Ashley,

Sloan's are selling the Inverurie Burgh Permits this year and I don't think that there is an online option now.

Brian.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Steven Sinclair on 31/03/2018 at 03:58: Quote from: Mike Barrio on 30/03/2018 at 08:52
There are a couple of places available on the Ardmurdo/Keithhall Fishings below Inverurie this year, these don't come up often - so be quick to apply if you fancy joining :wink

You'll find details on the IAA page here: https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/inverurie-angling-association.html (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/inverurie-angling-association.html)

Cheers
Mike

Anybody applying for the ardmudo/keithall fishing will likely cross paths with either me or Sinclair senior this season. Not sure whether this is a good or a bad thing 😂

Cheers,

Steven.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 31/03/2018 at 11:54: Quote from: Ashley Thomas on 30/03/2018 at 10:16
Mike,

Is there a link to the online permit for the Inverurie Burgh Fishings yet?

Cheers
Ash :z16

Not yet Ash, might be a while yet, if it is done this season.

As Brian said ......... probably best to drop in to Sloans and get one there :wink

Cheers
Mike
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Eddie Sinclair on 31/03/2018 at 14:16: Sinclair senior will be there on Monday, my first outing of the season, looking forward to freezing my nads off having just arrived home today after three months in Asia.

Eddie
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Terry Coging on 31/03/2018 at 19:08: Wish I lived up there :z6
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Colin Sunley on 31/03/2018 at 20:23: Quote from: Mike Barrio on 30/03/2018 at 08:52
There are a couple of places available on the Ardmurdo/Keithhall Fishings below Inverurie this year, these don't come up often - so be quick to apply if you fancy joining :wink

You'll find details on the IAA page here: https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/inverurie-angling-association.html (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/inverurie-angling-association.html)

Cheers
Mike

Where Do you purchase the day tickets as this was not clear on the website am unsure unless I missed it
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 31/03/2018 at 21:54: Hi Colin

I think all the Ardmurdo/Keithhall permits are available from Watsons Ironmongers.

Cheers
Mike
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Steven Sinclair on 01/04/2018 at 03:04: Quote from: Mike Barrio on 31/03/2018 at 21:54
Hi Colin

I think all the Ardmurdo/Keithhall permits are available from Watsons Ironmongers.

Cheers
Mike

That's certainly where I paid for mine and seniors anyway :z16

I can't wait to get back from Asia and take a wander along some new water to me :z16

:z18

Steven.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 02/04/2018 at 11:09: Fished the middle river yesterday...one big thump on a streamer (water was very high but clear(ish) and that was the only fish life I experienced.

There were some very sparse hatches in the afternoon sunshine, but the flies were tiny, no more than 3-5mm in length (not including the tail). No fish rising on the bit I was on, but a fair few anglers out. Did not see any fish being caught.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Ashley Thomas on 02/04/2018 at 11:52: Went up from 10am - 5pm yesterday, glorious sunshine but very nippy when the clouds covered. A very sparse hatch arrived about 1pm but it was almost batch-like. Every 10 mins some tiny olives would arrive, then some MBs then finally a trickle of LDO’s. This would rinse and repeat every 10, and I saw zero fish rising to the occasion. Had one 10”er for my days efforts..

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11610-020418115111.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4947)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11610-020418114902.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4946)

Good to be out however!

Cheers
Ash :z16
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Dave Robb on 02/04/2018 at 15:48: Fished upper river on a Friday. Freezing and snowed most of the day. Didn’t see or touch anything. Water was very clear and a lovely beat despite the weather.

Fintray yesterday and just as per comments above. High water, cold and the odd short lived hatch. Saw a few sporadic ripples but didn’t touch anything.

Not a good start at all. Was good to be out though, even in the snow.

More snow forecast this week. Fed up to say the least with this weather.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 03/04/2018 at 08:24: Quote from: Eddie Sinclair on 16/03/2018 at 14:35
Mike,

The weather is fantastic out here In Brunei. Hopefully it will be fine at the beginning of April when I get back and I can buy (at a serious discount) all of Liam’s tackle and go out and have some fun. 😂

Tight lines to all for 2018 once the ice age is gone,

Eddie

Why wait...there is some fantastic fly fishing to be had in Brunei!! :)
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Eddie Sinclair on 03/04/2018 at 08:51: Rob,

you are right and Steven and I have been doing some fishing in Brunei, but we cannae find any troots. :X2 :X2
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 03/04/2018 at 09:03: Quote from: Eddie Sinclair on 03/04/2018 at 08:51
Rob,

you are right and Steven and I have been doing some fishing in Brunei, but we cannae find any troots. :X2 :X2

You are looking in the wrong places lol.

Used to catch a "trout like" Barb way up the Labi road at a beautiful waterfall. Only grew to about 10" but looked like an anaemic Brown Trout and would take dry flies :)
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Steven Sinclair on 04/04/2018 at 03:50: Quote from: Rob Brownfield on 03/04/2018 at 09:03
You are looking in the wrong places lol.

Used to catch a "trout like" Barb way up the Labi road at a beautiful waterfall. Only grew to about 10" but looked like an anaemic Brown Trout and would take dry flies :)

Rob,

I know where you mean. I'll take a wander up there this weekend for a look see of I get off the rig on Friday 👍

The Ikan bulan (Indo pacific tarpon) are very easy to catch on the fly. I tend to outfish the locals 10 to 1 with their spinning gear :z4

Did you ever investigate any of the larger lakes/dams for giant snakehead?

I'm assuming you were based at the hanaffi?

:z18

Steven.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 04/04/2018 at 08:42: Quote from: Steven Sinclair on 04/04/2018 at 03:50
Rob,

I know where you mean. I'll take a wander up there this weekend for a look see of I get off the rig on Friday 👍

The Ikan bulan (Indo pacific tarpon) are very easy to catch on the fly. I tend to outfish the locals 10 to 1 with their spinning gear :z4

Did you ever investigate any of the larger lakes/dams for giant snakehead?

I'm assuming you were based at the hanaffi?

:z18

Steven.

We lived in Mumong and then Panaga. I was but a teenager so my fishing was limited to where I could cycle.

The sungi's on the golf course in Panaga were my main spots, fishing for things I could put in my tank...Clown Loach, Tiger Barbs, 3 spot Gourami's, Glassfish, climbing Perch, Bumblebee Gobies, various Barbs etc :) I used to catch them on tiny hooks, a little bit of bacon rind and a "tenkara" rod.

However, I started to notice big swirls and splashes under the overhanging trees and discovered that there were Datnoids (Sumatran Tiger Fish) in them. Superb fun on a fly rod. Grow to about 6lb and look a bit like an angry Perch crossed with a Barramundi! I only had an old 7 weight rod back then but a 5 or 6 weight would be ideal.

I also used to fish the estuary at Seria, both on the seaward side and the lagoon side. Mostly had catfish but I regularly bumped into a Chinese gentleman that fly fished it. He mostly had Barramundi, Mangrove Snapper or Mullet.

Talking of Mullet...when the sea is flat calm, its well worth walking with polaroids and spotting shoals of Mullet. Incredibly spooky, but they will take a fly. Its the closest I ever got to Bonefish fishing :) Up by the Anduki airfield was most productive.

There were a couple of ponds up the Labi road as well, stocked with Carp. I understand they were part of a Government experiment to see if carp could be a food source, letting them swim around the padi fields until ready for harvesting. I never got to fish them but I had heard there were carp around the 30lb mark.

As for Snakeheads, I had never seen or heard of them when I lived there (30+ years ago) but you could buy them in certain stores in Kuala Belait and Seria. It would not surprise me if they found their way into the waterways. The other "big" fish that the Chinese bought were Arawana. I remember seeing fish 3 feet long curled up in 2 foot tanks in the shops!! There MUST be some of them in the sungais.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Gavin Stevenson on 07/04/2018 at 17:57: fished lower stretch over lunchtime, constant dark oilve hatch but rises were sporadic. Still managed to land 4 around 1 to 2lbs all on hairs ear CDC. Good start to season
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Euan Innes on 08/04/2018 at 04:46: Quote from: Rob Brownfield on 04/04/2018 at 08:42
We lived in Mumong and then Panaga. I was but a teenager so my fishing was limited to where I could cycle.

The sungi's on the golf course in Panaga were my main spots, fishing for things I could put in my tank...Clown Loach, Tiger Barbs, 3 spot Gourami's, Glassfish, climbing Perch, Bumblebee Gobies, various Barbs etc :) I used to catch them on tiny hooks, a little bit of bacon rind and a "tenkara" rod.

However, I started to notice big swirls and splashes under the overhanging trees and discovered that there were Datnoids (Sumatran Tiger Fish) in them. Superb fun on a fly rod. Grow to about 6lb and look a bit like an angry Perch crossed with a Barramundi! I only had an old 7 weight rod back then but a 5 or 6 weight would be ideal.

I also used to fish the estuary at Seria, both on the seaward side and the lagoon side. Mostly had catfish but I regularly bumped into a Chinese gentleman that fly fished it. He mostly had Barramundi, Mangrove Snapper or Mullet.

Talking of Mullet...when the sea is flat calm, its well worth walking with polaroids and spotting shoals of Mullet. Incredibly spooky, but they will take a fly. Its the closest I ever got to Bonefish fishing :) Up by the Anduki airfield was most productive.

There were a couple of ponds up the Labi road as well, stocked with Carp. I understand they were part of a Government experiment to see if carp could be a food source, letting them swim around the padi fields until ready for harvesting. I never got to fish them but I had heard there were carp around the 30lb mark.

As for Snakeheads, I had never seen or heard of them when I lived there (30+ years ago) but you could buy them in certain stores in Kuala Belait and Seria. It would not surprise me if they found their way into the waterways. The other "big" fish that the Chinese bought were Arawana. I remember seeing fish 3 feet long curled up in 2 foot tanks in the shops!! There MUST be some of them in the sungais.
I have to say this Rob, very enviously (not jealously, that is a different thing), did you EVER work or did fishing just consume you?
I have childhood stories that involve burns in the Highlands and you come out with this. Dude , if this was poker, Royal Flush right there.
Well played Sir! :z14
:z1
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Eddie Sinclair on 08/04/2018 at 22:37: Rob,

Steven and I have fished the estuary at Seria quite a few times catching Bulan Bulan on the fly and Steven caught a marbled Goby over 2kg as well. Sounds like we need to investigate the water around the golf course as this is only ten minutes from the house.

Only one small issue with the estuary, we startled a very large saltwater croc on the bank one day, however I think I was more startled than the croc. I am home right now but heading back to KB on the first of May. Any other info on locations is greatly appreciated.

Eddie
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 09/04/2018 at 08:40: Quote from: Eddie Sinclair on 08/04/2018 at 22:37
Only one small issue with the estuary, we startled a very large saltwater croc on the bank one day,

Occupational hazard!!

I learned to waterski in the Belait river and dodging crocs was part of the fun! lol

Will have to start another thread away from the River Don report lol
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 12/04/2018 at 07:58: It's been a slow start, but there are signs that things are finally starting to improve...

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-120418075617.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4953)

:z16
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 12/04/2018 at 08:11: Nice one Scott :z12
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Nicolas Carles on 12/04/2018 at 09:46: That’s a really good one Scott. Congrat!
Yes I confirm Scott...
Back to Scotland for a few days with the kids. A bit too cold, a bit too high, a bit too much of easterly wind, but we managed to spot a few good fish on the dry (all on CdC LDO), all carefully returned.
Tight lines and many thanks all for your passion and for all you are doing to preserve this fantastic river and amazing trouts.
Nicolas
(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11410-120418092356.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4955)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11410-120418092812.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4956)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11410-120418093128.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4957)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11410-120418093359.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4958)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11410-120418093611.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4959)

Sorry, I did not find out how to properly rotate the pics.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 12/04/2018 at 10:57: I have still not spotted a fish, despite a few hatches...the joys of fishing public waters I guess.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Iain Cameron on 12/04/2018 at 13:44: Scott, Nicolas - great! thanks for sharing.
Great to see a few coming off. I've *still* not wet a line this season, so it helps to see a few good trouts.

cheers
iain
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Nicolas Carles on 13/04/2018 at 18:04: Our last day of this (too) short visit to the Don. Still this cold easterly wind, but some flies drifting from 1.30 pm and a few fish rising sporadically. Walking along the banks with a good dose of perseverance, that was the tip for today.

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11410-130418173629.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4961)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11410-130418173802.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4962)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11410-130418174004.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4963)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11410-130418174152.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4964)

Wishing you all great time and trophy Brownies like only the Don can offer.
Tight lines
Cheers
Nicolas
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 13/04/2018 at 19:07: Nice one Nicolas :z16 and yes, will definitely meet up for a cast the next time you visit, be good to catch up :z18
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 14/04/2018 at 00:11: Great stuff Nicolas :z12

Best wishes
Mike
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Allan Liddle on 14/04/2018 at 08:28: Excellent stuff guys, some stunning fish there well done
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 16/04/2018 at 08:27: Despite the height and very cold temperature of the water, I actually saw some fish feeding on Sunday. The odd sporadic hatch of LDO brought up a couple of fish that would take a fly or two and then stop as soon as the cold breeze ruffled the water.

Sat for about 4 hours for a total of 5 casts at rising fish. Rose one, and missed it..and that was it.

Next time.....
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: James Craig on 17/04/2018 at 09:51: Interesting day yesterday fishing a new beat (to me) near Alford. Conditions felt pretty good, but there were times during the day when the river felt a bit 'dead'. Spent the morning fishing a very simple nymph and picked up a couple of smaller fish. I dropped what felt like a good fish in a deep run and then spent a while exploring the beat.

A good hatch of uprights, including March Browns, kicked off at 12.30 but was short lived. I spotted one frantic riser on the far bank but could for the life of me get a decent fly drifted across his nose.

The day got quite bright after that and I went back to the nymph, eventually picking this guy up in what felt like a very deep pocket.

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11450-170418093737.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4974)

Chuffed to get out on the water at last.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 19/04/2018 at 18:28: Trout fishing with Sandy in the Inverurie area today :X1

He had me 'springing' up the bank with a net :z4

Cracking fish Sandy :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/2-190418182000.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4977)
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Ali Mcewan on 19/04/2018 at 18:59: Them "things" don't count sandy 😂
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Sandy Nelson on 19/04/2018 at 20:47: Aye well, it looked like a beautiful day to go on a trout hunt

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-190418204024.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4978)

Water still high, but temperature up to 12 degrees and clearing nicely. Any hatch that actually took place was all over by 12.
I managed to hit one rising fish which was a cracker, but i dropped it from a high bank as Mr B was getting organised with the net.

So lunch happened and much chinwagging until we dispersed to try and find a fish or two, not much luck with anything showing, so i went back up to the car and got the streamer line to have a mess about.

Well messing about is one thing...... but this turned into something else................... All ended well though, even though halfway through the struggle i had to Phone Mr B who was 800yds downstream and he had to run back upstream to help me with a much bigger net!!

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-190418204531.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4979)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-190418204618.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4980)

Not bad on a 7ft6" Bamboo rod!!!! My first Springer on the fly and my biggest tourist on the fly ever :z18 34" bar of silver.
Still got the jitters now thinking about it.

Sandy
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 19/04/2018 at 21:03: Note to self ...... fish nearer to Sandy next time, getting a bit old for the 800 yds :z4 :z4 :z4
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Allan Liddle on 19/04/2018 at 21:47: Stunner Sandy, well done
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Euan Innes on 20/04/2018 at 14:27: Nice going Sandy.
Good to see the Bamboo can handle that size of fish. That picture might be the closest I get a springer this year!

Euan
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Sandy Nelson on 20/04/2018 at 16:49: Tis the rod we were talking about in the carpark. Definatley proving to be a seriously versatile piece of stick. :z16
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Jim Eddie on 20/04/2018 at 18:55: Great stuff Sandy, cracking fish :cool:

:z18

Jim
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Sandy Nelson on 20/04/2018 at 21:19: Nipped down after dinner tonight for a few casts, just to see if there would be anything rising after the warm day.
Didn't see any significant rising fish, but went pocket picking with a PTN and picked up a couple

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-200418211810.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4982)

Using the rod for what its supposed to be for this time :X2

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-200418211856.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4983)

Lovely evening, you could easily forget it was mid April. :z12

Sandy
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Euan Innes on 21/04/2018 at 01:45: The rod is indeed a thing of beauty Sandy, aesthetically and physically. I am surprised that they knew anything about fish in the old days :wink Love the slightly swelled butt (ooh err)
What's the reel that you use on it? Thought you had a Perfect? Lovely wide spool.
Euan
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Allan Liddle on 21/04/2018 at 08:06: Very nice Sandy :z16
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Sandy Nelson on 21/04/2018 at 08:18: Quote from: Euan Innes on 21/04/2018 at 01:45
What's the reel that you use on it? Thought you had a Perfect? Lovely wide spool.
Euan it's a Hardy MLA 350, i picked one up with 2 spare spools for a steal over the winter, lovely piece of kit, just the right weight for the rod :z16

Sandy
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Sandy Nelson on 21/04/2018 at 13:58: Finally after 3 days of trying i got it right this morning.
Turns out the hatch was from 11 to 1145 and not much after, although i had to go home to do some stuff and not burn up too many brownie points in one go.
Lots of March browns and LDO's coming off in 2 bursts, fish lined up picking them off in a few areas, just had to walk a bit to find them.

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-210418135557.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4985)

Sunlight on gold

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-210418135629.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4986)

Dryfly rules again...... :z3

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-210418135708.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4987)

So all is right with the world again :z12 although a few of the fish this morning had Bird damage, you can see it in some of the pictures.

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-210418135843.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4988)

Sandy
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 21/04/2018 at 14:17: Great stuff ........... backs up our thoughts from the other day Sandy :z16
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Nicolas Carles on 21/04/2018 at 15:28: Well done! Great stuff. Action on the dry seems picking up !
We were a bit too early 😩
We noted also the same type of what we supposed to be bird injuries on many of our trouts. Does someone know something about this ?
Thanks
Cheers
Nicolas
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Ashley Thomas on 21/04/2018 at 19:21: Woke up thinking will I or won’t I, I’m glad I decided to venture out in the end.

Fished a beat I’ve only had one other crack at so far since starting on the rivers - I turned up a little late than I would have liked as the water was already alive with a prolific hatch of MB’s and LDO’s, with a surprising flurry of OU’s.

Fish were already showing, feeding in pod-like formations and I set myself the challenge of trying to wiggle out the better ones of the bunch.

After a single cast, and my first on the Don with the 476, this beauty eventually sailed into the net !!(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11610-210418191553.jpeg)

A move of position and a few more casts later saw another cracking fish get itself landed.. not the biggest but the markings on this fish were pristine.
(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11610-210418191805.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4994)

No points for guessing what this one took either... :z4
(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11610-210418191317.png) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4991)

Nice to be out after finally getting some free space from work.. and for the season to have finally begun :wink

Ash :z16
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 21/04/2018 at 20:20: Good fun on the dry for me too :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-210418201648.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4995)

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Allan Liddle on 22/04/2018 at 07:41: Excellent stuff guys :z16
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Sandy Nelson on 22/04/2018 at 15:35: Sneaked out this morning.
Same deal as yesterday, 2 breif flurries of flies between 11 and 12 and the fish fed hard for the 10mins that the flies were hatching.
Then very little afterwards.
Still it was a fun 20mins. :z12

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-220418153535.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=4997)

Accidental photo, but i thought it was cool. :z16

Sandy
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 23/04/2018 at 08:03: AT LAST....I finally broke in the glass rod and caught my first fish of the season.

Hatches were almost non existent with literally 3 or 4 splashy rises followed by hours of watching!

Managed to get a slash at a Klink, missed it, followed by a hit on the PT underneath it on the next cast. That fish was 2.5lbs :) Lost another similar sized fish that thought it was a dolphin and shed the fly on a jump.

Went dead so I went for a walk. Saw a very small dimple on a section I would normally walk straight past, so on with a small olive DHE, second cast, fish of about 1.5lb.

Dead again for another few hours. Back to where I got my first fish, saw a rise...same place as before, and the PT did it again, but this time fished on a yarn indicator. Another fish, this time about 2lb.

And then it really went dead. Tried fishing through a couple of runs but only picked up tiny fish.

So nice to break my duck with the glass rod. Happy days.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Iain Cameron on 23/04/2018 at 13:50: Sloooow going so far. Had four Don sessions; two blanks, with nary a rising trout to be seen nor targeted.

Two sessions with brief spurts of MBs and some LDO spinners that flitted about when the wind dropped. Had a few fish - best went 2 1/4lb. Did have 3lb+ trout, but as it was a silvery sea version, and clearly a kelt, it disnae count.

Still, been enjoyable getting out, chatting to folks, and topping up the sun tan too.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Allan Liddle on 24/04/2018 at 07:16: still a troot Ian so does count :z6

Great stuff guys, interesting the hatches are so early with very little after, Deveron very similiar
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 24/04/2018 at 08:50: Took the boss out for a fish last night, he still has not had a Don trout...and did not manage last night either :(

No flies, no rising fish, and a cold wind AGAIN!

Fished a bit where I would normally not spend much time on and hooked but lost a really good fish. It hit a klink just as I was lifting off, stayed on for 3 or 4 jumps before popping off.

Still, I learned that the fish lay in that section so I will try again as it was a fairly easy wade and drift to fish.

I just want to see a proper hatch!!
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 26/04/2018 at 15:56: Eleven troots last night and 5 or 6 dropped.

Nothing huge, most around the pound mark, but interesting sport from a stretch that does not look as if it would contain fish.

All fell to PTNs with a wee touch of a special colour beneath the tail...and its staying a secret as it really does seemed to have "lifted" the humble PTN to another level (for now).

Very few rises again, but one hooked and lost on a olive DHE when it ran towards me and the barbless hook fell out on a jump.

River dropping and extremely clear! Always amazes me that if you are stealthy you can catch trout a rod length from you.

Liking the glass, missing the extra reach of a 10 foot carbon.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 28/04/2018 at 08:21: [/quote
Quote from: Rob Brownfield on 26/04/2018 at 15:56
Eleven troots last night and 5 or 6 dropped.

What time have you been fishing Rob? Unusual for trout to take the nymph in evenings at this time of year?

Well done
:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 30/04/2018 at 07:52: Quote from: Scott Cumming on 28/04/2018 at 08:21
[/quote
What time have you been fishing Rob? Unusual for trout to take the nymph in evenings at this time of year?

Well done
:z18
Scott

Hitting the river about 5, fishing until about half seven, roughly.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 01/05/2018 at 19:23: Had a look down to the river for a couple of hours. Spotted this Stonker feeding on a brief hatch of LDO’s and it took a liking to my dry fly too :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-010518192207.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5012)

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 01/05/2018 at 19:39: Great stuff Scott :z16
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Euan Innes on 01/05/2018 at 21:01: Quote from: Scott Cumming on 01/05/2018 at 19:23
Had a look down to the river for a couple of hours. Spotted this Stonker feeding on a brief hatch of LDO’s and it took a liking to my dry fly too :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-010518192207.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5012)

:z18
Scott
Farking hell Scott, that is a TROUT!!!!
Well played Sir :z14
:z1
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 02/05/2018 at 08:10: Quote from: Mike Barrio on 01/05/2018 at 19:39
Great stuff Scott :z16

Pretty sure that's the fish I had last week...but it must have been feeding hard as its put in 4 or 5 lbs :wink :z4 :z4 :z4
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 02/05/2018 at 18:48: Brief update ..... day permits for the Inverurie Burgh Fishings are now also available online :z16

See: http://new.fishpal.com/Scotland/Don/Inverurie/?dom=don (http://new.fishpal.com/Scotland/Don/Inverurie/?dom=don)
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 03/05/2018 at 08:10: A cold and wet day yesterday. I hope the river doesn’t rise too much and heats up soon, the water is still cold for the beginning of May or maybe my bones are feeling it more these days! A worthwhile trip all the same and was lucky enough to tempt a couple of nice trout :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-030518080544.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5016)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-030518080635.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5017)

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Allan Liddle on 03/05/2018 at 12:32: Beauties Scott.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 08/05/2018 at 07:20: Tough going over the weekend... bright sunshine and gin clear water is never a good combo :z6 A mixed bag of weather yesterday. Cloudy with heavy showers in the morning, bright sunshine in afternoon. Covered miles of water and my perseverance finally paid off. :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-080518071310.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5035)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-080518071338.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5036)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-080518071416.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5037)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-080518071526.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5039)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-080518071500.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5038)

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 19/05/2018 at 00:14: First evening session of the season for me. Still a bit early but thought I’d be in with a shout after the recent warm spell :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-190518001202.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5048)

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 19/05/2018 at 00:33: Great stuff Scott :z16
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 29/05/2018 at 19:32: It was a weekend for sunbathing, BBQs and beer. However I did manage to winkle out some nice trout in the bright sun and in the cover of Darkness.

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-290518191504.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5053)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-290518191844.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5054)

There were some stoneflies skittering on the surface mid afternoon and nice trout coming up for them but I didn’t have any imitations big enough. After a few observations I nipped home to create some big beasties at the tying bench

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-290518192151.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5055)

Using the materials that came to hand I wanted a fly with plenty of movement to mimic the fast legs of the stones. The rubber legs I had were too fine and supple, the flexi floss was too thick and rigid. In the end I used knotted, split strands of flexi floss. I exaggerated the leg length for mobilty and added a couple extra for good measure - hoping these trigger points would provoke a reaction from the trout.

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-290518192511.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5056)

Armed with my new creation I headed back for the evening session to find the odd trout feeding on stoneflies. My rudimentary pattern seemed to go down well and this was the end result.....

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-290518192750.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5057)

I will refine the dressing but happy with the results so far

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Ali Mcewan on 30/05/2018 at 08:14: Lost him the day before, so went back tonight & had it from the same spot on the same fly. Hooked in the neck of one pool & landed in the tail of the pool below.
You've got to love a bit o tungsten on the don
(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11364-300518081353.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5061)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/11364-300518081429.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5062)
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Hamish Young on 30/05/2018 at 17:32: Solid trout that :z16
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: James Laraway on 31/05/2018 at 10:22: That’s a proper fatty
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 01/06/2018 at 14:45: This is the best the Don had to offer me last night. Everything went dead after the haar rolled in! :cry

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-010618144448.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5065)

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 02/06/2018 at 07:33: Nice night to be on the river bank, although the water is getting extremely low. Managed to tempt some nice trout on a sparsely dressed sedge pattern :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-020618073000.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5067)

Always that bit sweeter on the dry :wink

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Liam Stephen on 02/06/2018 at 08:41: Oh for sure, hence you catching ‘99%’ of yours on the dry...... :X2 :z14

:z18
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Dave Robb on 02/06/2018 at 11:57: I was out late last night also (might have been you Scott that was parked next to me). Yet another cracking looking fish, well done.

Strange evening all in I thought.

Was really nice earlier, seemingly perfect conditions yet barely a fish moving apart from a couple of leaping tourists.

Once dusk came in I stirred up a couple of decent looking fish but didn't connect. I will get one of these lumps yet

Hopefully.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 04/06/2018 at 00:11: Quote from: Dave Robb on 02/06/2018 at 11:57
I was out late last night also (might have been you Scott that was parked next to me)
That wasn’t me Dave. I’ve been out six out of the last seven evenings, apart from one evening it’s been tough going. Most nights I’d be lucky to break the 1/2 lb mark. There has been a small window when fish have been hitting emerging sedge, they’ll come up two or three times before disappearing for the night. I have some nice fish pegged though. I see the water is carrying some colour tonight, did I miss something when I was away Saturday night?

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Dave Robb on 04/06/2018 at 08:57: Ah, definitely wasn’t you then if you weren’t out Saturday as same car from Friday was parked next to me on the Saturday night.

So yeah, was out Saturday from early evening. Hooked a belter of a sea trout mid evening which took off like a train, down to my backing and to the point I had to put the brakes on. It then came off. Plenty of sea trout to be seen though, jumping clean out of the water.

Very little activity from the browns, just like you’re saying there was a very small window, maybe 2200 -2230 where they became a bit more active but then it went dead again despite plenty of flies on the water.

And boy are they being choosy. Even with a greatly reduced size in fly (took me ages to get the bloody thing tied on) they were still just having the odd look at it and not committing.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Gavin Stevenson on 04/06/2018 at 10:14: If it was a black pick up then it was myself, I have been out couple of nights and agree with the comments, brown trout been small and activity period short lived however have seen a number of sea trout including day time feeders.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Sandy Nelson on 05/06/2018 at 08:53: Quote from: Dave Robb on 04/06/2018 at 08:57
And boy are they being choosy. Even with a greatly reduced size in fly (took me ages to get the bloody thing tied on) they were still just having the odd look at it and not committing.

Try going bigger, up to a size 10 or even an 8 :wink

Sandy
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Sandy Nelson on 05/06/2018 at 09:53: Not been out much of late with the house an all, but i did get out the other night and the decent ones were only out to play for about 30mins right at the death.
Sedge emergers as Scott said, but i had to go up a size or two to get some solid interest :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-050618095226.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5068)

Going for another bash tonight :z16

Sandy
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Dave Robb on 05/06/2018 at 10:00: Won’t manage an evening session until the weekend but will go bigger if they’re moving in the dusk. Just got some sizeable sedgehogs which might be worth a bash late on.

Think I’m going to invest in some new leader material this week, currently using Maxima green but will look at other options see if that helps.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 05/06/2018 at 11:53: Scott
Quote from: Dave Robb on 05/06/2018 at 10:00
Think I’m going to invest in some new leader material this week, currently using Maxima green but will look at other options see if that helps.

The fish can become leader shy, what breaking strain/diameter you using?

My setup is 9.5ft Froghair supple butt leader with loop to loop connection (thats perfection loop) to a length of froghair copolymer tippet with double davy knot to fly. This has been a solid setup i’ve used for years. I’ll seldom use anything less than 5x-4.9lbs on the Don, sometimes go down to 6x - 3.7lbs but at this time of year we have thick patches of weed to negotiate.

Recently I have been using a sparsely dressed size 14 CDC sedge on a curved hook. I agree with Sandy, sometimes you have to go bigger than the natural, it can trigger a reaction from the trout. Send me a PM if you want some flies to try :wink

:z18
scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Dave Robb on 05/06/2018 at 13:12: So was using a #4 line, Roman moser loop then 5lb down to 4lb, however I realise this isn’t great for turnover and I probably need a better taper.

The above is fine when using beaded nymphs etc and I catch with that during the day but I need to address this for dries in the evening.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Sandy Nelson on 06/06/2018 at 08:59: I was on a 6wt with a 14ft 4x tapered Rene Harrop leader with a 4.5x 3ft tippet last night.
Size 12 Emerging sedge pattern and fishing in 8" of water at the very tail of a pool.
A few small ones rising and this one was doing curcuits in amongst them.

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-060618085711.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5069)

Camera not so good in the dark and the flash only works every now and then :z7

Sandy
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 13/06/2018 at 19:47: There were some nice trout on the feed last night... Maybe they've heard about the storm brewing too. :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-130618194538.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5074)

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Alan Urquhart on 14/06/2018 at 16:52: Another cracker Scott :z16
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: James Laraway on 14/06/2018 at 19:04: I’m back on the don on Monday evening...monymusk for the first time 😊
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Hamish Young on 14/06/2018 at 19:10: #COUGH# streamers.... :wink
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: James Laraway on 14/06/2018 at 20:33: Articulated streamers I’ll think you’ll find 🤣
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 15/06/2018 at 08:16: Went out in hope of an evening rise last night. Still blowing a hoolie at 10pm, flat calm and fish rising by 11pm. :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-150618081533.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5080)

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: James Laraway on 19/06/2018 at 09:42: well, i went out last night and caught LOTS of wee fish, didnt see anything decent. Gave up by 9pm as my hayfever was killing me...

was nice to be back on the river but boy are there a lot of small fish at monymusk !

the other thing i noticed, or didnt notice rather was the supposed beat markers - never saw a single one so had a nice time fishing up and down !
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: James Craig on 19/06/2018 at 12:26: Quote from: James Laraway on 19/06/2018 at 09:42
well, i went out last night and caught LOTS of wee fish, didnt see anything decent. Gave up by 9pm as my hayfever was killing me...

was nice to be back on the river but boy are there a lot of small fish at monymusk !

the other thing i noticed, or didnt notice rather was the supposed beat markers - never saw a single one so had a nice time fishing up and down !

I noticed the same about the beat markers - I think Storm Frank took care of the majority of them. I've fished beat 6/7 a good few times and am only just getting to know the water. I think they have updated their beat maps on FishPal - I had thought that the beat ended not far below the road bridge, but it now seems to continue right down towards the left hand bend, where there is another good trouty pool.

I really enjoy Monymusk, but find it quite pricey to fish often. My impression is that it is not fished regularly and the FishPal availability tends to suggest that too. I think the nature of the Monymusk beats would suit a 'season ticket' arrangement or similar, but doubt that would be of great interest to the Estate.

James
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Graeme Stewart on 19/06/2018 at 13:31: Quote from: James Laraway on 19/06/2018 at 09:42

was nice to be back on the river but boy are there a lot of small fish at monymusk !

You know, they say size isn't important............ :X2

G
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: James Laraway on 19/06/2018 at 14:01: Quote from: Graeme Stewart on 19/06/2018 at 13:31
You know, they say size isn't important............ :X2

G

you keep telling yourself that :z4
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Dave Robb on 19/06/2018 at 16:35: My hayfever has really ramped up in the last 10 days, it’s almost unbearable at times.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Steven Sinclair on 19/06/2018 at 17:01: Quote from: James Craig on 19/06/2018 at 12:26
I noticed the same about the beat markers - I think Storm Frank took care of the majority of them. I've fished beat 6/7 a good few times and am only just getting to know the water. I think they have updated their beat maps on FishPal - I had thought that the beat ended not far below the road bridge, but it now seems to continue right down towards the left hand bend, where there is another good trouty pool.

I really enjoy Monymusk, but find it quite pricey to fish often. My impression is that it is not fished regularly and the FishPal availability tends to suggest that too. I think the nature of the Monymusk beats would suit a 'season ticket' arrangement or similar, but doubt that would be of great interest to the Estate.

James

James, my old man used to have two syndicate rods on one of the monymusk beats. I could describe almost every square inch of the beat but I can't for the life of me remember which number it was. This would have been circa 20 years ago now but it could well still be going.

Steven
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Ashley Thomas on 19/06/2018 at 19:22: Quote from: Dave Robb on 19/06/2018 at 16:35
My hayfever has really ramped up in the last 10 days, it’s almost unbearable at times.

Funny that, I’m having real bother with it this year too. Benadryl tablets seem to be suppressing it a bit better though.

Ash :z16
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Eddie Sinclair on 19/06/2018 at 21:11: Quote from: Steven Sinclair on 19/06/2018 at 17:01
James, my old man used to have two syndicate rods on one of the monymusk beats. I could describe almost every square inch of the beat but I can't for the life of me remember which number it was. This would have been circa 20 years ago now but it could well still be going.

Steven
Stevie,

It was the bottom best of Castle Forbes opposite the top beat of Monymusk. And very good trout water it was too. However my abiding memory was of letting you go down to the corner pool on your own whilst I faffed about tackling up. You were about ten at the time. I thought I might have heard you shout but dismissed it as the wind through the trees. When I finally wondered down to the river there you were hanging on for grim death attached to a large angry silver tourist. Under no supervision from me you landed the beast and promptly told me that you wanted to put it back. A fisher ( loose term) on the other bank berated me for forcing you to put it back, and after informing him that it was your own decision an extremely proud old man realised that you were a proper sportsman and that all was well with the world.

Eddie
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: James Laraway on 19/06/2018 at 21:48: Quote from: Steven Sinclair on 19/06/2018 at 17:01
James, my old man used to have two syndicate rods on one of the monymusk beats. I could describe almost every square inch of the beat but I can't for the life of me remember which number it was. This would have been circa 20 years ago now but it could well still be going.

Steven

There was a farm and fishing hut on the far side of the river with a nice pool in front?
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Eddie Sinclair on 19/06/2018 at 21:51: James,

That is correct, I built the hut so that the the syndicate rods had a place to shelter and have a cup of coffee on rainy days. I have not been up there for a long time. Not sure if it is still standing.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: James Laraway on 19/06/2018 at 22:08: Quote from: Eddie Sinclair on 19/06/2018 at 21:51
James,

That is correct, I built the hut so that the the syndicate rods had a place to shelter and have a cup of coffee on rainy days. I have not been up there for a long time. Not sure if it is still standing.

Well it’s certainly there and looks in pretty good nick!
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: James Craig on 20/06/2018 at 10:34: Quote from: James Laraway on 19/06/2018 at 22:08
Well it’s certainly there and looks in pretty good nick!

I wonder if that was the stretch of the river belonging to the owner of Place of Tilliefoure. I met the chap once, who told me that both banks were very rarely fished there now.

I had a wander through Paradise Woods last night - very pretty water through there!
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 03/07/2018 at 17:34: Best tactics at the moment ....... early morning, or late evening?
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Andy Finlay on 03/07/2018 at 18:09: Play golf is my tactic at the moment
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 03/07/2018 at 20:04: Its been a tough couple of weeks. With low water and high temperatures the bigger fish have been difficult to locate. I’ve persevered, connecting with the some nice trout along the way including some silver ones which are always good fun on the dry :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-030718195834.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5094)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-030718195921.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5095)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-030718200046.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5098)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-030718200138.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5099)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-030718200238.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5100)

:z18
Scott C
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 03/07/2018 at 20:46: Great stuff Scott :z12
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 08/07/2018 at 10:19: Size 18 BWO’s have been just the ticket for those sipping trout :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-080718101814.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5102)

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 20/07/2018 at 08:24: Another tough week at the river. Recent observations and a few head scratching sessions at the fly tying bench have been paying off :z16

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-200718082110.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5118)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-200718082259.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5119)

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Filip Adamcio on 20/07/2018 at 10:36: Hi Scott
Very nice fish. Can I ask what rod you use? Is it Zenith?
Regards Filip
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 20/07/2018 at 16:19: Thanks Filip,

Yes, a Zenith 9ft #5. My other go to rod is the original Greys Streamflex - does just fine! :z16

Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Filip Adamcio on 21/07/2018 at 17:09: Thanks :z18
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Ben Crichton on 22/07/2018 at 07:41: Those are cracking trout Scott. Beautiful........
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 22/07/2018 at 19:03: Cheers Ben, the river has certainly been kind to me lately...

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-220718190244.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5126)

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Scott Cumming on 24/07/2018 at 19:05: Another cracker on the dry :z16

Going...
(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-240718190211.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5129)

Going...
(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-240718190303.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5130)

Gone!
(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/10940-240718190345.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5131)

:z18
Scott
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Dave Robb on 25/07/2018 at 00:16: Fair play Scott that’s another belter.

I’ve been out over the last few nights and only just in from tonight’s session.

Bugger all to show for it despite fish moving everywhere. Fish have been very active but I just can’t get them to take my offerings. Like you the other day, tried tying up a few flies before heading out based on what I’d seen the night before. Stirred a couple of fish but that was about it.

To my eyes my spent imitations looked good and fairly similar to those in the water but clearly the trout didn’t agree.

Was stood in the river with the bloody things coming up right next to me. Would probably have been easier to scoop them out.

I’m deeply frustrated but will most likely be out again tomorrow night.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 28/07/2018 at 10:07: :X4 Hopefully the rain dance worked and will bring water temperatures down a bit on the Don.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Dave Robb on 28/07/2018 at 12:19: According to Fishpal, it’s gone up by 2 inches but steady.

Delighted to see some proper rain. Wouldn’t mind a good few days of it going into the last 2 months of the season,
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Graham Nicol on 25/09/2018 at 07:50: They are getting some decent catches on the Dee now. Is anyone hearing or catching anything on the Don?
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 25/09/2018 at 22:02: Enjoyed a great day on the river today ...... probably the last for this season for me :cry

Lots of feisty Don Brownies :z12 and as usual, Sandy caught twice as many and the bigger ones :z4 :z4

A few fell to nymphs in the morning, but as the day warmed up a bit, so did the hatches and most of the fish were on dries.

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/2-250918220643.jpeg)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/2-250918215328.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5192)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/2-250918215406.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5193)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/2-250918215442.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5194)
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Sandy Nelson on 26/09/2018 at 14:17: It was great to be out again after such a hiatus :z10, probably my last for the season, but the first for 14 weeks! ah well cest la vie.

Lovely day for it too, nice to see the river from a different perspective, funny how things can be different from another bank :z7
some good light for pictures too.

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-260918141539.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5199)

(https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/gallery/19-260918141608.jpeg) (https://www.fishingthefly.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=5200)

So looks like its back to rods, flies and memories, lets hope the winter passes just as fast........

Sandy
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 27/09/2018 at 00:21: .......... and thanks for the brews Sandy, great coffee :z16
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Mike Barrio on 24/10/2018 at 15:35: Not many days left for the Salmon season now ...... anybody out having a cast?
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Andy Finlay on 24/10/2018 at 20:22: Quote from: Mike Barrio on 24/10/2018 at 15:35
Not many days left for the Salmon season now ...... anybody out having a cast?

I genuinely thought the season was finished. Might dig out the salmon rod but probably better just sticking it on eBay with the rest of my salmon gear as don’t think I used it at all this season.
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: Neil Buchan on 24/10/2018 at 22:51: :z16 yeah I'm heading out tomorrow morning hopefully get the net wet 🤔😬
Title: Re: River Don 2018
Post by: James Laraway on 25/10/2018 at 09:19: I think i started fishing the Don in 2008 for salmon.

I never bothered trying for springers so would only really start in the summer / autumn.

I fished the kintore council stretch for a few years and in sept and oct the river would literally be jumping with salmon - they would be leaping every few minutes.

In oct especially i woudl be pretty confindent that if i had half a day on the river i would most likely catch one.

The later on i fished Grandhome. Once again if i was in sept or oct i would be dissapointed if i had a day that i didnt catch one, and probably more fish..In fact i rember one morning on the weir pool hooking about 8 fish ( but only landing one) so the pool must have been stacked with them.

Sadly how things have changed....