The Wye and Usk Foundation

P.V. from Bristol, Thursday 2 July, 2009

Holme Lacy 3 and Lechmere's Ley: Holme Lacy again! As expected the Barbel and chub were about in significant numbers even after our late start at 9:00, a result of a burst tyre on route. The weather would have been unpleasantly hot had we not had some very welcome shade for part of the day. Early and late were the most exciting and again a long dull period at mid day. Alas we are not learning from our mistakes and sat it out in the sunshine. Best fish 7 lb Barbel with
5 more on luncheon meat or pellet. All in all a bit too hot today.

K.M. from Kent, Wednesday 1 July, 2009

Glanusk Estate: Drove down from kent arrived at 11.oo fishing by 11.30. Bright sunshine 28C so not looking too good.

In the pool below the first weir in the top half of the beat fish were rising in the shadow of the tree. I fall for it every time, and every time I loose half a dozen flies in the high bank behind.

Klinked my way up the rest of the beat got a 10" fish out of the fast strech below the church. As per regulation switched to the bottom beat at 2pm, went to the very bottom, the river was in full sun, very shallow and looked very unpromising.

Wandered up to the stretch opposite the cider mill and found some fast water in shade, got 5 fish, 8-10" in an hour on a ptn. Dropped back down to the bottom to await the evening rise which started about 8 ish. I wasn't too sure if the bottom of the slow stetch was wadeable, couldn't see the bottom, so I started half way up. For the next two hours I was surrounded by rising fish, hooked five & missed twice that number. Adams got the first one, Tupps got the next two and back to Adams for the final two. I finally stopped when I could no lomger see my fly with fish still rising in great numbers as I left.

Thanks all at the Wye and Usk office.

A.P. from Avon, Wednesday 1 July, 2009

Skenfrith (River Monnow): Two small browns taken on dries - dun and sedge patterns. Both returned. My colleague will submit a separate return.
Very hot in the afternoon - should have stayed in that excellent pub! (The Bell at Skenfrith)

T.N. from Somerset, Wednesday 1 July, 2009

Backney (River Wye): Good morning with 14 barbel, although small up to 4lbs. Moved to top of beat in afternoon with no success, lots of weed & a few swims not accessible.

A.B. from Avon, Wednesday 1 July, 2009

Skenfrith (River Monnow): Three brown Trout. Two on a Cranefly,(Size 10) one on a winged Black Gnat(size 16). Sizes from 1lb to 11/2lb. Many false rises to large Sedge. Good hatch of white Mayfly (in July!) but fish appeared to ignore them. An excellent day's fishing. My thanks to the foundation.

J.S. from Essex, Monday 29 June, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): Blanked. About the most enjoyable blank ever. River was in superb nick. Raised 5 fish and managed to lose them all. Only had a couple of hours but will definitely make another visit if in the area. The Foundation service cannot be faulted. Please keep it up!

K.B. from Derbyshire, Monday 29 June, 2009

Dan-y-Parc (River Usk): Had little time for fishing on a hot still day, with low water conditions and no fish caught but saw some superb trout in the margins.

Very clear instructions and look forward to returning next season.

G.G. from Bristol, Sunday 28 June, 2009

Wyebank & Courtfield (lower Wye): 5 barbel to 8lb 2oz. 2 chub.

P.J. from Derbyshire, Sunday 28 June, 2009

Usk trout fishing....: Brecon - 14 brown trout - on nymphs and klinkhammers all fish returned
Penpont - 16 Brown trout most on nymphs all fish returned Cefn Rhosan Fawr - 13 brown trout on nymphs

Larger fish on the brecon beat about 10/12 inches. Other beats mostly very small 4 inches although lots of them.

M.N. from Powys, Sunday 28 June, 2009

R22 The Lugg, Litton Beat: 4 browns to 9" Adams/Klinkhamer. All released.

S.C. from Staffordshire, Saturday 27 June, 2009

Fenni Fach (River Usk): 7 trout caught and released by group, largest over 12inches.
Klinkhammer and gold head fished New Zealand style. Hot sunny day, low water, few fish rising when the sun was out. The few times times it went cloudy the fish started to rise, pity we couldn't stay into the evening.

M.A. from Gwent, Saturday 27 June, 2009

Llyn Bugeilyn: Caught approximately 20 brownies between the two of us, beautifully marked trout and very acrobatic. Majority of the larger fish (8 - 10 ounces) came to very small goldheads such as Hares Ear/Black Pennells/Zulus, dries caught the smaller fish, lightning fast reflexes needed!!

Forced off the water at 8pm due to the ferocious midges. Since last visit the track down to the water has got worse in places and you definately need a 4x4 vehicle. Beautiful water, very peaceful surroundings and very obliging fish!

S.J. from Powys, Saturday 27 June, 2009

Gromain (upper Wye): Great days fishing on a beatiful beat caught many fish during the day. We caught Trout, Grayling, Dace, Chub and of course salmon par which were abundant. The trout were on the small side but fought well - 1 taken. Grayling were impressive best around 18 ins. 5 chub caught by the coarse rod best around 4 pound. We caught fish on dries and nymphs chub were caught using luncheon meat.

P.B. from South Wales, Saturday 27 June, 2009

Abernant & Plas Gwyn (upper Wye): Only fished the Abernant section, didn't have enough time for the Plas Gwyn section. Had an excellent day - started off with a 3lb+ chub on an Adams first cast and then proceeded to catch 6 Brown Trout and 4 Grayling, all on the Dry. Very good beat, easy access and wading not too difficult.

J.B. from Buckinghamshire, Saturday 27 June, 2009

Caradoc (R. Wye): Weather great and river looks awesome. Couple of things to suggest -

I would reccomend decent, hard wearing footwear as banks are very slippy, a minimum of 10ft landing net handle due to awkward landing of fish, TO ENSURE SAFE RETURN OF FISH CAUGHT WALK FISH TO THE NEAREST LOW BANK FOR RETURN...

Fish caught - 9 barbel to 8lb and 1 chub.

H.K. from Dorset, Friday 26 June, 2009

Bridge Meadow (River Usk): 22nd June - brown trout, 3 kept ( 1lb, 3/4 lb, 3/4 lb) and 1 or 2 smaller 1/2 lb fish returned.

25th June - brown trout, 1 kept (3/4 lb) and 3 or 4 smaller (c. 1/2 lb each) returned.

Excellent and very enjoyable fishing. Very few rising fish and our efforts with dry fly ineffective. All fish taken on weighted nymphs ( especially gold head GRHE).

Many thanks to WUF for the very efficient booking system.

S.L. from Devon, Friday 26 June, 2009

Luggsbridge (B35): 5 barbel all between 4 and 5lbs, 16 chub between 8oz and 3lbs. 'Jack' pike trying to hit leger weights! Most fish legering pellets, some chub on breadflake with crumb in feeder, some chub float fishing corn.

Beautiful piece of water, just the right balance between easily accessible swims and overgrown places to discover.
The man from the White Cottage came by for a chat and said a few anglers were concerned that he wasn't keeping the banks open enough. We told him that we enjoyed having to blaze a trail through nettles etc and that the bankside cover is really needed to hide your movements.

A great day, we'll be back...

T.O. from London, Friday 26 June, 2009

Ty-Newydd (upper Wye): Had a superb 4 hour beginners lesson from Frank Williams. In variously sunny and heavy rain conditions we landed a Chub (1.5lbs), 3 grayling (one of them 1 lb), and 4 small brown trout.

A.P. from West Midlands, Thursday 25 June, 2009

Opening day at Backney: Total over the two days of 18 Barbel to 7 LBS 12 oz - Sweet corn & pellets - Trotting & Feeder tactics. Numerous Chub to 3 LBS. Numerous Dace.

Water redish brown on the 16th, clearing & dropping throughout the day, clearer & dropping still on 17th. Two good days fishing, no problems.

P.J. from West Midlands, Thursday 25 June, 2009

Titley Beat, River Arrow (R26): No fish caught but what a lovely first experience of the Foundation's waters will be back soon to try again.

A.M. from West Midlands, Thursday 25 June, 2009

Mowley Wood, River Arrow (R27): 5 Browns (all returned)

Was expecting great things today following a good day at Court of Noke on Tuesday but, Mowley Wood prooved to be a much more challenging piece of water. Bright sun - and high temperature - exacerbated matters. There were a few fish moving in the section above the weir during the morning but, anxious to explore the whole beat (it was our first time at Mowley Wood), we did not linger over-long on them. Not much happening in the section through the wood but a couple of fish from the deeper water by the top weir.

Back downstream after lunch. By now it was really hot but, there were fish rising to what I think were duns and olives. I cannot remember the last time I saw such inaccessable fish. Clearly, they has seen a few flies (most of which were still hanging from the various Ash trees) and were having none of it. We both became a bit preoccupied with these fish. After trying just about every imitation in the box, in desperation, I put on a big Grey Wulff (it wasn't quite the biggest in the box) and caught two fish - that had been studiously ignoring my best efforts with Adams, PWOs, Blue Duns etc - on my next two casts.

Another delightful piece of water - albeit a bit difficult in the middle section.

P.V. from Bristol, Thursday 25 June, 2009

Holme Lacy 3 and Lechmere's Ley: Neither the bright weather nor clear water in any way prevented numerous Barbel and Chub from getting excited about the pellet bait we offered them in Holme Lacy today. Morning and evening were both successful.
However we made a poor decision not to retire to the local tavern for lunch and sweated out a very quiet period from mid day until late afternoon. Best fish 8 lb Barbel and all fish in good condition.

R.M. from West Midlands, Wednesday 24 June, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): Hello WUF,
Had a great day yesterday at Lyepole. Nothing has changed geographically since I fished there 50 years ago it is still wonderfull, it's just harder on me when I filled my waders and drove home soaked! There are some deep holes to avoid next time.
I caught one fish only (11inches) in late evening and retained it, because it was my 77th birthday. Thank you

A.W. from Worcestershire, Wednesday 24 June, 2009

Skenfrith (River Monnow): In the morning caught and released one small brown trout, missed 3 others all on nymphs. In the evening fished dries, although not many rises, and having missed a couple of small fish caught a magnificent brownie that must have been close to 2lbs and went back well.

M.H. from Lancashire, Wednesday 24 June, 2009

Middle Hill Court (R Wye): Caught nine barbel from 7lb - 9lb. All were caught on soft paste bait apart from one that was caught on 16mm pellet. Once again the venue was kind to me apart from several workers from the local farm taking a swim in the river prior to me fishing. They did not speak english so I waited until they finished swimming before I commenced fishing. Other anglers may feel intimidated in these circumstances or even become confrontational, though this is not wise when fishing alone quite some distance from possible help. The workers did not threaten me but seemed oblivious to the problem they created. Poor swimmers could also drown. As on a previous occasion my foundation paperwork was 1st class. Many Thanks.

A.M. from West Midlands, Tuesday 23 June, 2009

Court of Noke (River Arrow) R28: 6 x Browns - to 1.5lb (all returned)
2 x Grayling (returned)

First time on the Arrow and another delightful piece of water. A hot, bright day but steady progress throughout with most of the fish coming on nymphs in the faster runs. Not much rising - as David, who perservered with drys, found out to his cost (but I will leave it for him to tell you about that).

M.P. from South Wales, Tuesday 23 June, 2009

Wyesham (not in Passport scheme): Just to let you know I caught and released a fresh salmon last Saturday from the R. Wye at Monmouth. This was my second fish of the season. My first was an 18lb fish from Bigswier earlier on in the season (safely returned).
The beat was the upper wyesham beat (old dukes water) and caught in the pipe pool. It was a fresh run cock fish of approx. 7lb in weight.

Please carry on the excellent work you are doing as I am sure it will pay dividends before too long. As a Wye salmon angler for over 25 years I have seen the river decline dramatically. Hopefully we are now turning the corner.
Best wishes to everyone involved.

J.C, from Chepstow, Tuesday 23 June, 2009

Pandy Beat, River Honddu (R35): 6 fish in total. Biggest about 12". Used wets on a short leader. Lost and absolute monster. Took me into a riffle and the hook pulled out. This fish would have been measured in pounds not inches. Ah well I know where he resides. Great day but plenty warm even down under the canopy.

P.W. from Gloucestershire, Tuesday 23 June, 2009

Whitney Court (River Wye): We fished Whitney Court beat 2 on the 1st day and we had about 100 pound of good chub, smallest about 3lb, all caught just below Whitney toll bridge on the pellet. We were after the barbel but never had or saw any anywhere. Day 2 we fished beat 5 on Whitney Court with only 3 good chub caught all day. Day 3 we fished Preston Court and struggled with only 2 chub being caught, we did see a carp swimming about on the surface but again no barbel ( we will be back and hopefully we will succeed in doing battle with the ellusive river Wye barbel!!

R.D. from South Wales, Tuesday 23 June, 2009

Dan-y-Warren (River Usk): I had a few hours in which to go fishing this afternoon, so I decided to take the WUF's beat description advice and fish at Dan Y Warren.

I arrived at the beat mid afternoon and was made to feel very welcome by the landowner. The conditions were not as had been forcast, bright sunshine and a blustery wind as opposed to overcast with the threat of heavy showers.
This wasn't going to spoil my afternoon fishing though. The water itself was fairly low and crystal clear.

I studied the water for approximately 30 mins before putting a line out but understandably there was no surface action taking place. Despite this I was filled with hope when I brought a fish to the surface with my first cast. I was fishing a duo and even though I brought a further 10-15 fish to the surface over the next few hours I was unable to bring any to the net.

I will visit this beat again when water levels and conditions are more favourable.

B.I. from Hampshire, Tuesday 23 June, 2009

Ty-Newydd (upper Wye): Seven brown trout caught on a Klinkhammer and Iron Blue, all were small fish, up to 8 inches, the big ones kept getting away! There was very little fly life.

P.B. from Gloucestershire, Monday 22 June, 2009

Ty-Newydd (upper Wye): Back to Ty Newydd and the sun was shining - no wash off - hurrah!!

Fishing with son James and S.G. 30 fish between us plus a lot of parr - in some areas of the river these are now a dry fly pest - but they are the future fish. In some areas the density is very high which is excellent news.

Best brownie 16", best grayling 14" which fought really powerfully. Lots of grayling in the 9" size group - also a good sign, they have been breeding well! Could wade in to areas that are difficult when water is higher - waded out so could cover run at top of first pool on RH bank, first time the fly went down up came fish - made noise like water running out of bath when fly disappeared! All went very solid - he pulled, I pulled - and the fly came away. Ah well, good ammunition for more "one that got away" stories.

Another big lamprey redd at top of bottom pool. And to cap an excellent day Mr Otter came to inspect both James and Sandy's fishing techniques - they both got a shock when his head suddenly appeared out of the water no more than a rod length away! Wonderful wildlife and fishing as always. Many thanks.

C.K. from West Midlands, Sunday 21 June, 2009

Mowley Wood, River Arrow (R27): Started off on in the middle of the beat, in the wood, on dry fly but very few fish rising. Worked my way upstream and fished the pool below the weir. Having switched to a caddis nymph I caught a trout of about half a pound. A change to a self-tied Teeny nymph led to another three; one again of around half a pound and two smaller. Funny how much more satisfying it is to catch on your own fly! All returned safely. Lost four others.

Still can't believe water like this, in such a beautiful setting, is available for such a reasonable cost!

S.G. from Staffordshire, Saturday 20 June, 2009

Abernant & Plas Gwyn (upper Wye): Total 5 brown trout caught, 3 of which best part of 1lb in weight. 1 Fish kept, also 1 grayling caught. All fish taken on nymph.

Beautiful stretch of water in beautiful country.

K.M. from Surrey, Saturday 20 June, 2009

Glan-yr-Afon (River Usk): Loitered in the flat section at the bottom of the beat hoping for some surface action, gave up and switched to Klink and nymph in the tail of the fast water. A 14” trout launched itself out of the water taking my klink with it, managed to land him after one hell of a fight. A 12” trout took the nymph five minutes later.

Worked my way up the best of the beat, a wild river indeed lost of deep swirly pools, ran some nymphs through on long leaders to no effect. More of a salmon beat I think.
Good dry fly section at the top, no activity though.

My real jammed and I couldn’t fix it so I returned to my car to get my spare, sat on the bench on the porch of the village shop and enjoyed a cold drink, if only it was a pub! Returned to the pool below the first stretch of fast water, above the flats. Evening rise started at 8.30 sharp, hooked five on a Tupps landed three.

Overall, bottom section good, top section possibly good if fish are rising. Middle section? Bring a salmon rod.

P.V. from Bristol, Friday 19 June, 2009

Holme Lacy 3 and Lechmere's Ley: We both enjoyed 2 good days fishing on the Thursday and Friday and look forward to a return trip. Stayed over at the Green Man and enjoyed a good breakfast. The weather was a touch too windy but generally warm and dry if a little too cloudy for my taste. The fast swims yielded a couple of barbel each (5 in total) all on pellet. We also took a good number of chub to 5 lbs on luncheon meat. The barbel were in very good condition, fought vigorously but were a touch on the small side with non over 6 lbs. We spotted a brilliant Kingfisher to add some variety to an enjoyable event.

K.M. from Surrey, Friday 19 June, 2009

Skenfrith (River Monnow): This beat never disappoints. Two grayling and two trout of about 10” on the lower section, one on an olive klink the other three on the ptn hanging from it. No massive hatches, trickle of those little yellow jobs throughout the day, yellow may duns ?

All went quite in the afternoon, bright sun didn’t help. Getting bit bored and hot, was it a mirage? Could see a deckchair on the river bank in the far distance? Yes I could! Settled down for a kip in the late afternoon sun to await the evening rise, woken up by a sheep at 7.30, probably complaining about my snoring.

Hooked eight rising fish on parachute adams only landed three, the last one, a cast at maximum distance to the area below the bridge, above my waist in an unexpectedly deep section adjacent to the stone wall by the road, the fish obviously thought such extreme casting warranted a response and obliged accordingly.

Retired to the bell at 10 o clock for a much deserved pint of Wye Valley Bitter.

T.C. from South Yorkshire, Friday 19 June, 2009

Middle Hill Court (R Wye): All first time Wye men and desperately looking forward to it. No disappointment driving over Kerne Bridge and thinking "this is heaven"! 40 frustrating minutes later after deciphering some seriously poor directions we arrived at MHC!

Very difficult to determine where the parking areas are, particularly the "bottom" parking area which appeared to be fenced off although on closer inspection it was possible to get through. A little signage would be of great help!
Alighted in the top parking area and proceeded to walk the stretch. Truly a beautiful stretch of river but access to it is difficult to say the least, bearing in mind we are all experienced Teme men and used to early season jungle warfare prior to fishing!

We found it very difficult to actually walk anywhere near the river on the downstream part of the beat so reluctantly gave up, it would have taken almost the full day to cut any worthwhile swims out and neither were we sure whether we were allowed to?

Walking upstream we found a few (very!)swims that had been cut out and, through Hobson's choice, dropped into them. The upshot was 2 barbel and 3 chub between us, none of any size.

General comments are a very friendly and helpful booking service, profoundly poor directions and signage to parking areas, wildly overgrown banks, more canoes than the South Sea islands but a fabulously beautiful place!

Overall opinion is that the jury's out on the Wye at the moment but we've booked with the Foundation again for 3 days in September so watch this space!

D.M. from Leicestershire, Friday 19 June, 2009

Monnow Valley: Some good fishing in upper stretches but hardly a thing rising. Water cloudy after rain. 3 WBT decent to a pound returned well and good.

R.D. from South Wales, Thursday 18 June, 2009

Ty-Newydd (upper Wye): True to my word I returned to the Ty-Newydd beat yesturday and wasn't dissappointed. I fished the beat between 11am and 5pm and applied the "If it ain't broke don't fix it" approach to my tactics. A grey/white parachute brought 2 x grayling(1.5lb and 1lb) and 1 x brown trout(1lb)to the net within the 1st 20 minutes. A quiet spell of about an hour followed so I moved upstream to the slower water and between 1 & 5pm a constant stream of fish and missed fish followed (1 even snapping my 3lb leader on a big run), the fish (approx 15;a mixture of trout & grayling) netted were smaller specimens all in the 10-14Oz bracket but good fun anyway. All fish were returned. This beat is proving to be one of my favourites and I hope to return again soon.

D.N. from Surrey, Thursday 18 June, 2009

Dinas & Abercynrig (River Usk): 10 trout caught on gold head nymph, 3 fish over a 1lb, one near 2lb, I have a good photo if you want to see it. Only saw 5 fish rise all day. No fish taken.

T.U. from Bristol, Thursday 18 June, 2009

Backney: 4 Chub all under 2lbs, 16 Barbel to 9lb 14ozs (New P.B.). All on Halibut Pellets. The top half of this stretch is well overgrown and difficult to spot the swims, but the river seems full of Barbel of a good average size. All Barbel caught in a busy 5 hour period from dawn to about 10.00 am and then bites dried up (perhaps I had caught them all!). What a great start to the season. Many thanks to W&UF for giving us the opportunity to fish stretches like this.

H.J. from South Wales, Thursday 18 June, 2009

Dan-y-Warren (River Usk): Thanks for recommending Dan-y-Warren - absolutely perfect for a man in a suit with waders in his boot!(which I was - following a meeting in Usk at lunchtime)

I spent 2 pleasurable hours there and took six trout - the biggest of which was about 1.25 lbs. The cool wind kept the fish down, and the successful flies were spiders (snipe and purple) and czech nymphs.

G.M. from Worcestershire, Thursday 18 June, 2009

R23 & R27 River Hindwell & Arrow: First stop R. Hindwell. Always had good catches here but today was different. River looked in good fettle at first glance, a bit low maybe anyway I thought I would give it a try.

Fished from about 8 am till about 10 and only managed 1 small brownie taked on a GH PTN. The river was lower and much clearer than I thought. Nothing showing apart from the bottom! I gave up and moved down to The Noke. Again I've had mixed days here. The Arrow was low but very fishable, but you need jungle warfare training to get to some of the pools! Total for the day 9 or 10 (I lost count!) grayling from 8 to 14 inches. 6 trout, best over the pound mark. Lost a large trout below bridge and a big grayling further down the river, probably because using barbless hooks.
Fish taken on either GH Ptn or Adams. Not many fish showing and no noticable fly hatch, probably because of the cooler weather. All fish returned. Tricky fishing due to the rather blustery conditions.

J.M. from Somerset, Thursday 18 June, 2009

Cefn Rhosan Fawr - available on line: Six brown trout to 10 inches all returned, 5 on GRHE, 1 on Bibio, beautiful beat.

M.B. from Bath, Thursday 18 June, 2009

Ty-Newydd (upper Wye): Thanks for a really good day we caught approx 25 brown trout up to 1lb 8oz and 10 grayling all around the 1lb mark.

A.N. from Somerset, Thursday 18 June, 2009

Penpont (River Usk): Weather conditions good with some cloud cover although high winds made fishing problematic at times. Water levels a little low although didn't adversely affect the fishing. Fishing was slow although many trout and salmon parr caught, and 5 or 6 browns at 3 to 5oz and one caught late afternoon of 1.8lbs at the top of the beat just above the bridge. All fish returned and caught on variously Sawyer's ptn and small parachutes.

Much wildlife in evidence such as: a pair of otters, mink, spotted flycatchers, red kites, pied wagtails, dippers and kingfishers.

Generally a delightful place to fish and the camping at the nearby farm was excellent. Foundation's service was excellent and look forward to booking with them again sometime this season.

C.W. from Bristol, Wednesday 17 June, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): 4 x trout small 2 x Grayling 12" & 8". Overcast day breezy with regular light showers, very little rising ( only when rain stopped), mixed flies, klinkers & blue uprights & grhe.

P.W. & C.B. from West Midlands, Wednesday 17 June, 2009

The Cammarch (R8): 6 Trout to Pete on dry flies none for Cliff but he had a few takes and lost some as well. Quiet for most of the day but a great session with fish rising everywhere from about 6.30 pm to 7.15.

O.B. from Gloucestershire, Tuesday 16 June, 2009

Titley Beat (R26) & Breconshire Fishery: 13th June: Arrow at Titley: 4 x trout 10-12" dry flies. Not that many rising but an interesting day on a pretty and peaceful stretch of water.

15th June: Brecon Town Water, 10 x trout to 13" on spiders. The Usk seems to have been refreshed by the recent showers. The previous day on the Usk Town Water was very similar. By the way, this year at Usk we are all carefully avoiding the places where the shad are to be found, which does restrict the trout fishing rather on this water.

T.U. from Bristol, Tuesday 16 June, 2009

Holme Lacy 3 and Lechmere's Ley: 10 Barbel to 6lb 3ozs, 11 Chub to 4lb 5ozs. All caught on Pellets. The fishery is well looked after and a pleasure to fish.

M.P. & B.G. from South Wales, Tuesday 16 June, 2009

Ty-Newydd (upper Wye): All grayling: many 6/8", 12 @ 8/12", 4 @ 1lb/1.5lb.
Most taken on dry iron blue, with two or three on wet goldhead. Fished from 10am to 5pm, sunny, warm southerly breeze. Water slightly coloured. Dearth of natural fly.

J.C. from Chepstow, Tuesday 16 June, 2009

Pandy Beat, River Honddu (R35): Caught about 10 fish to 12" or so. Klink and dink all day with 2 on the klink the rest from the the #16 PTN hanging below it. First time that I never hooked a fish on the first hole but found plenty in the top third. Loads of smaller fish today which is good to see. Can't wait for them to double in size. I love this little stream.

D.H. from Somerset, Tuesday 16 June, 2009

Holme Lacy 3 and Lechmere's Ley: 1 barbel 5lb, 1 chub 3lb 4oz. Saw lots of salmon jumping.

C.L. from Gloucestershire, Monday 15 June, 2009

Glan-yr-Afon (River Usk): None caught! Waited for the much spoken of evening rise but nothing all day - no movement at all. Maybe the weather had an impact as we had rain and a little thunder in the distance. However, we cetainly expected much more activity than there was. Eventually gave up at 9.30pm.

P.A. from Berkshire, Monday 15 June, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): 8 trout, 5 grayling. River very low but we picked up fish all day. 1 on dry (very little moving on the surface) the rest on nymphs.

J.P. from Somerset, Monday 15 June, 2009

Glanusk Estate: Another fantastic day on this wonderful beat. The river was in a lovely condition following our earlier wash-off. The trout were freely rising throughout the day and provided great sport. Eighteen brown trout were landed, mainly in the range of 9-12 inches and safely returned. One larger fish of 2lbs was kept. All were caught on dries with a grey wulf being the favourite fly on the day. To cap the day off I also saw my first ever red kite at close quarters! Can't wait for my next visit and many thanks as always.

A.J. from London, Sunday 14 June, 2009

Glanusk Estate: We got around 25 between us, the best being a stockie of around 2lbs. Fish taken on nymphs and wets in the morning, and then spinner patterns and small CDC emergers in the afternoon. The waters was at a nice height with a bit of colour. This is a lovely beat but there seems to be a lot of "traffic" these days - people walking their dogs throwing sticks into the river for the dogs to chase, and groups of people skimming stones and throwing large stones into good pools. Quite why the general public think that fish will feed when various missiles are being thrown at them is a bit of a mystery. Rant over, we had a lovely day!

M.H. from Wiltshire, Sunday 14 June, 2009

Buckland South (River Usk): Moved a salmon at neck of Upper Mill Pool but couldn't entice it again. Loads of trout about. Very nice water.

B.S. from London, Sunday 14 June, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): Five trout, ranging from about 6 oz to 10 oz. One 9 oz killed (foul hooked), beautiful wild brown, very good eating. Picturesque spot, quite tricky with nettle abundance below the bridge, but nothing to complain about. Very easy system, booked on line at last minute as opportunty arose, good directions and every thing to plan.

R.R. from Powys, Sunday 14 June, 2009

Cantref Reservoir: Excellent days fishing with 6 rainbow trout, which were kept for the table and 2 brownies, which were returned.

S.E. from Monmouthshire, Sunday 14 June, 2009

Trout fishing on the middle Usk....: Started at 19.30, it was looking promising as the evening sun picked out clouds of dancing spinners the hung over the river, but very little was rising. Picked up 1 on a klinkhammer and 1 on nymph from a far bank seam.

By 8pm the rise was getting going as a large fall of sherry spinners took place. The fish were rising in bursts, 1 would rise 10 times in 30 seconds and then take a break for a couple of mins. No ginger quills in box but a #16 F-fly brought 14 more to hand. No whoppers but most quality fish from 13" to 15". A couple of the 'small fish' rises were actually from small fish!

Got out at 21.30 when the slowly leaking waders finally filled up, and the fingers had turned to prunes. Fish were still rising but it was tailing off having peaked about 20.45.

J.P-J from Monmouthshire, Saturday 13 June, 2009

Middle Hill Court (R Wye): No salmon caught
1 Trout
1 Pike
Water very coloured from run off the farm land but we fished anyway despite potential to call wash out. Adam Fisher(guide) very helpful. Very few salmon seen. For those fishing the fly on this beat the banks require a spey cast mainly.

C.B. & A.W. from Worcestershire, Saturday 13 June, 2009

Arrow, Court of Noke (R28): A warm day with clouds of upwings and sedges on the wing suggested a good evening rise that did not materialise. Indeed, most frustratingly, we saw less than a score of fish rise over the entire day. Perhaps the bright sunshine and low water temperature resulting from the recent cool weather had something to do with it?

Nevertheless, resorting to nymphing the deeper pools, we extracted (and carefully returned) a dozen or more trout and grayling, including a handful of beautifully marked, hard-fighting, brownies in the 1-2 lb bracket.
Undisputed highlight of the day however was AW's magnificent 2 lb 8 oz grayling - well done mate!

D.W. from Gloucestershire, Saturday 13 June, 2009

Penpont (River Usk): 2 Brown Trout (4oz) caught on dry fly. Marvellous location, beat description very good.

A.M. from West Midlands, Saturday 13 June, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): The 3 mile drive to the river - we stopped at the Riverside Inn at Aymestrey - a big improvement on the normal slog along the M5/A44. That said, our plans for an early start were scuppered by getting stuck behind a party of 8 ramblers from Bristol over breakfast (who's day on Friday had not got off to the best of starts on account of half of them meeting up at Kington while the other half decided to rendezvous at Knighton).

Possibly a case of being a couple of days too late with a low and clear river on a very hot day. 2 small grayling on Olive Emergers from the top of the beat but, come mid-morning, too hot and too bright for serious fishing.
Not helped by a leaking wader - a split seam and not down to that oh so awkward fence. A better grayling on PTN from one of the deeper runs followed by a picnic on the bank. Fishing wise, so far not so good but, watching a Tree Creeper over lunch and my wife spotting a "woodpecker"
(which turned out to be a Blackbird) compensation enough.

A better hatch pm - including a few Mayfly - but not much surface activity. 2 more Grayling and a small Brown on Copper John's and back to the Riverside Inn for a few beers and the chance to put the world to rights.

This is the third time I have fished Lyepole in the last few weeks. Interestingly, with the exception of the top weir, I have yet to catch in any pool/run where I had caught on a previous trip.

Incidentally, I had the morning on the Riverside Inn water on Sunday as the landlord's guest. I only fished for a couple of hours but put 3 good trout (1 lb plus) a decent Grayling and a couple of smaller fish on the bank - all
on a size 14 beaded GRHE.

C.K. from West Midlands, Saturday 13 June, 2009

Mowley Wood, River Arrow (R27): Fished in the evening but none caught, just one lost!

M.R. from Hampshire, Saturday 13 June, 2009

Fenni Fach (River Usk): 8 trout all on small dries - grey wulffs, gulpers, klinkhammers, small mayfly dun. Another lovely day.

F.D. from Middlesex, Saturday 13 June, 2009

Ty-Newydd (upper Wye): 7 trout all returned, 1 grayling about 1lb. We stayed at the Severn Arms - very nice. Thanks for providing super beats.

(4 rods).

M.R. from Hampshire, Friday 12 June, 2009

Dinas & Abercynrig on the Usk....: 6 trout all small none larger than 3/4 lb I was only dry fly fishing so all caught on small dries 16/18 grey wulff - parachute adams - klinkhammers. Beautiful stretch of river lovely day. Hard going as fish were never rising freely. Any fish that did rise, however, were not difficult to catch.

Stayed at Trephilip Farm near Sennybridge. Excellent friendly B/B Great Breakfast. Fishing great value for money. Back next year. Thanks.

F.D. from Middlesex, Friday 12 June, 2009

Doldowlod (upper Wye): We caught 5 trout, best about 1.5lb and 2 grayling of about 1/2-3/4 lb. Water was muddy but cleared a bit during the day.

(4 rods).

J.C. from Surrey, Thursday 11 June, 2009

On a trout fishing trip.....: Boiling Sunshine for all three days with the river levels very low and falling throughout the trip. Fished Ty-Newedd during the morning and afternoon of Sunday 31st and Gromain in the evening. Caught a Grayling and a nice brown Trout at Ty-Newedd both took a dry Klinkhammer in very bright conditions.

Fished the Edw on the Monday, again very hot and bright. Took four nice trout in the evening on cul de cannard and a grissly adams. Very pretty piece of water.

Fished Ty-Newedd again on Tuesday, again boiling hot and far too bright for fishing. Caught two nice browns and a grayling, on cul de canard. Caught a monstrous fish at dusk which eventually snapped my 3lb tippet. Although I saw it roll several times on the surface and would put it at, at least 3lb possibly more as it was very thick, it was too dark to fully identify although it was only a 6 feet away when I lost it. I'm pretty sure it was either a Chub or a Barbel however as it was a tug of war rather than the normal frenetic trout fight. The flanks were also flashing a deep gold.

All fish troughout the trip were returned.

The Severn Arms was very pleasant and reasonably priced and the Seth and his team very welcoming and helpful. All in all a fantastic trip despite the bathing weather and we'll be back again.

R.D. from Herefordshire, Thursday 11 June, 2009

River Honddu (Monnow), Beat R32: Flash floods, the evening before rendered the main stem (and all the tribs bar the Honddu) of the Monnow unfishable so we headed to the upper most beat on the Honddu where the water was clearing and dropping and fishable from the off. Trout were coming to a sedge pattern from the start, mainly in the tails of pools and to the edges of faster water. light nymphs in the deeper water accounted for several but at about 12.30 the hatch switched on and fish were taking mayfly and sedge patterns from the top.

In less than perfect water 10 wbt to 12".

Lovely water, with plenty of interest that ideally needs a bit of colour (but not that much!) to give cover to the angler. It clears in only a few hours and saved me from another day in the office!

P.B. from Gloucestershire, Thursday 11 June, 2009

Penpont (River Usk): Washed off Ty Newydd again yesterday so diverted to Pen Pont - many thanks for sorting out for us. Had not fished here before - what a super beat.

19 trout - one 17", one 13", the rest 10" or less. Great sport! Only a trickle hatch - occasional olives, brook duns and Mayflies but the spinner dance yesterday evening had to be seen to be believed - there had obviously been some good hatches on previous days. Fish taken on usual parachute dries - ginger quill, blue dun - and the biggest on a mayfly.

Flies not the only ariel entertainment - the usual Harriers and Tornados - but then out of the eastern sky lumbered an incredible apparition - the replica World War 1 Vickers Vimy biplane. What an amazing sight - just added to a super day. Oh and did spot a mink on the river bank.

C.W. & P.B. from West Midlands, Thursday 11 June, 2009

The Lower Grywne Fawr (R47): Pete 11 trout to 13 inches all to dry fly. Cliff 4 trout to 11 inches again to dry fly. A great little river that saved the day as all the other rivers were up and murky.

S.M. from Herefordshire, Wednesday 10 June, 2009

Trout fishing on the upper Wye (Rectory beat)...: Fished for 3 hours yesterday evening and caught it just right - water level falling with about 3ft of visibility and fish rising continuously. Had approximately 30 trout and 1 small grayling, with loads of others missed. No big fish (largest was around the 1lb mark). All taken on dry cdc olive emerger and all released.

R.D. from South Wales, Wednesday 10 June, 2009

Ty-Newydd (upper Wye): I arrived at the beat shortly after 9am and was lucky enough to be greeted by near perfect conditions. The river was positively fizzing with surface action and it didn't take very long to select a fly that the fish responded to. A grey/white parachute brought dozens to the surface and 6 fish to the net (this being mainly due to my far from expert reaction times but great fun and excitement none the less!!). All fish were in the 10 - 14Oz bracket and all were returned safely.

2pm saw the start of a mid-Wales mini-monsoon and after 2 1/2hrs of cuddling a tree trunk I decided to shut up shop so to speak. It was a great day while it lasted and I will definately be returning for another visit in the near future. Thanks WUF!

M.M. from Bristol, Wednesday 10 June, 2009

Glanusk Estate: Lovely location, rained off in the afternoon evening.

2 fish taken 1lb 8oz, 1lb 5oz. 8 other fish caught and released. All brown trout taken on Dry Flies (Black Gnat) and Nymph fishing.

L.G. from South Wales, Wednesday 10 June, 2009

Llyn Em (upper Wye): A wonderful session in the rain, double figures of trout, both brown and rainbow to 2lbs but most around the 3/4 pound mark. Saw only one salmon during the day, certainly a double figured specimen. It dramatically leapt 10 feet away from me but alas didn't fancy the fly. Will definitely return here.

P.A. from Berkshire, Tuesday 9 June, 2009

Skenfrith (River Monnow): 3 trout, 3 grayling. River was high and coloured - dry fly heaven this was not!! Managed 6 fish on heavy nymphs and went away feeling quite pleased with myself!

Stayed at the Bell....excellent!

L.G. from South Wales, Monday 8 June, 2009

Buckland South (River Usk): After a few days of heavy rain I fancied my luck in the quest for my first Welsh Salmon. Upon arrival I found the river wild and dark brown. Realising I was premature (again...) I persevered as all good men should. Trying fly and spinning on both sections I spent 6 hours carefully watching for any fishy signs, but nothing.... not a sniff...scenery was beautiful. Be aware the bank walking on this beat is not for the those with a clumsy disposition. Tomorrow is another day - I remain doggedly optimistic. WUF booking system and directions were brilliant ! Bravo !

J.M. from Berkshire, Monday 8 June, 2009

Trout fishing the Wye & Usk....: Thank you so much for your help in choosing my beats last week. I really think that I had the best days fishing I have ever had on tuesday with the fish all free rising and the weather just right. Wednesday it was quality rather than quantity with 3 fish to a pound and a half, weather a bit ropey but another great day. Penpont today (Thursday) I could only fish for a few hours as I didnt want to sit on the M4 for hours. Still managed to land 4 to 1lb and lost a monster at the net. The fish lying under the bridge made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up but I had no time to try for them. Next time!!!!

WUF Note: Fished Abernant 26th May, Llyn Em 27th May, Penpont 28th May.

J.C. from Chepstow, Monday 8 June, 2009

Lower Stanton (R Honddu, R34): Caught and released 4 trout in total. Lost a few others. Fish were to 13". Hoping for more after the rain but was still nice to net a few.
PTN's again for the fish. Only saw 2 fish rise so didn't bother with anything else. Had a nice Monday!!! Thanks WUF for sorting out my vouchers.

P.H. from Northamptonshire, Monday 8 June, 2009

Cefnllysgwynne (River Irfon): Monday 8th June - fining down nicely, plenty of fish taking off the top, but proved difficult to catch !!!! Results - 3 browns between 3/4 lb and 1 lb and a couple of grayling about 1lb.

Beautiful stretch of river, easy wading. Thanks for all your help.

M.D. from West Sussex, Monday 8 June, 2009

Moccas & Ty-Newydd (River Wye): No sign of salmon. Three sea trout all around 1lb. caught at Moccas and returned. River low but dirty at Moccas. Will be back later in year for salmon and barbel. Ty Newydd very pretty beat. Challenging wading in coloured water.
Excellent booking service.

E.W. from London, Saturday 6 June, 2009

Middle Hill Court (R Wye): A lovely day on Middle Hill Court. Overcast with the odd shower.

No Salmon from either of our two rods, one possible bite, plenty of trout / small fish rising, particularly in the Maddox. Also, more than plenty of canoeists, who distinguished themselves by singing, skimming stones across the pools and capsizing and then walking through the lies.

Notwithstanding their appearance, it was a lovely day.....

P.B. from Gloucestershire, Saturday 6 June, 2009

On trout fishing the Wye & Usk....: 12 rods from the Cheltenham & Gloucester Branch of the Fly Dressers Guild fished the Wye and Usk Challenge on Saturday 6th June. Not an easy day to fish as the water temperature was higher than the air temperature and there were rain squalls on and off all day.

Despite this only 1 rod blanked - 42 trout in total plus several grayling and a 3lb chub. Best trout 20" from Ty Newydd, a couple of other 15" and 12" fish, the rest 10" or less.

And despite the weather a continual trickle of flies - olives, brook duns and yellow mays - culminating in a fantastic hatch of olives from 5pm onwards on Ty Newydd. It was impossible to select a rising fish to cast to - there were too many, although they were very selective. Also a huge lamprey redd on Ty Newydd - at the top of the bottom pool.

Unfortuately got rained off Sunday - it poured all Saturday night! And the winner of the Wye and Usk Challenge? Well James Bullock scored maximum points thanks to his 20" trout - but incurred 100% penalty due to his failure to attend the dinner at the Severn Arms on Saturday evening - some excuse about a party! So the honours this year went to our chairman David Wilson. Well done David...

P.J. from London, Saturday 6 June, 2009

Trout fishing on the upper Wye...: The rivers we fished were beautiful and the hotel Severn Arms very friendly and accommodating - Good food, late bars,wide and changing selection of well kept cask beers and comfortable rooms (each with different furnishings - quite nostalgic) Very hot in the day but had a marvelous swim in the Wye. Only caught one half pound brown trout in the evening at Ty Newydd, but as relative beginner was good enough to round off the perfect holiday.
Nice to be able to meet you at your HQ

K.M. from Kent, Saturday 6 June, 2009

Penpont (River Usk): It only rained once unfortunately that was from ten o clock till three thirty. At times the rain was literally bouncing of the river it was so intense. Incredibly when the rain was at its heaviest the fish started to rise !!!!!!!!.

Caught five in quick succession, 4 Penpont piglets about 8 inches and a full on porker of about 14 inches. Couldn’t see my fly at all just lifted when a fish was rising in the general area.

Went home soaked to the skin , must get a waterproof wading jacket !

J.E. from Surrey, Friday 5 June, 2009

Cefnllysgwynne (River Irfon): Everything about this beat is intimidating. From the name, it's access (recommend a 4x4 for the upper section) and the size and type of water. With a cool ESE wind and the imminent rain the hatch was relatively limited.
Really challenging with constant changes of tactics as the river morphs into a different beast every couple of hundred yards or so. Having said that it proved a worthwhile experience. Not so much for the amount of fish caught -
3 cracking grayling all around 15" and 2 small brownies (olives and klink and dink)- but for the steep learning curve on casting, fly selection and style of fishing. When the rain arrived in the afternoon the heads of these three intrepid rods from Surrey finally dropped and retreated to the warm and safe environment of a Brecon pub!

For the more adventurous native angler this beat is a must.

Having spent a day at Cefnllysgwynne I would return with more confidence and hopefully a little more success.

R.P. from Herefordshire, Friday 5 June, 2009

Gromain (upper Wye): I had a lovely day fishing, cathing 5 brown trout, all returned with care.

A.M. from West Midlands, Friday 5 June, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): 5 Browns to 1lb (all returned)
7 Grayling to 1.5lb

Much to my relief, the rain the BBC promised was not to arrive until around 5:00 pm - by which time I was just about ready for home.

As Arthur Ransome would have it, a Day of Small Things with the landing net only required for one of the Browns and one of the Grayling. Not that the size of the fish matters - its that benign moment (Ransome again)when the line straightens or the rising fish engulfs the fly. Not much coming off during the morning but action enough on PTN/Mayfly nympth. Better rise pm - including plenty of Mayflys - which were mostly ignored. Some very warey fish when, in spite of my best efforts (ie staying out of the water and crawling along on hands and knees), time and time again, what appeared to be a confidently feeding fish would melt back into oblivion as soon as I tried to put a fly over it. Red Spinner and Olive Emerger eventually putting a few fish on the bank.

If there is a more picturesque and tranquil piece of water in the county, I am yet to find it .....

J.C. from Chepstow, Friday 5 June, 2009

Longtown (River Monnow, R38): Conditions were low and clear. Not many bugs when I was there but started to rain when I left.( It needs it).

Caught 2 finglerings and 1 fish about 16". My personal best from this stretch of water. As usual all fish still swimming.

R.C. from West Midlands, Friday 5 June, 2009

Hergest Court (River Arrow): No fish caught but enjoyable 6 hours on a warm cloudy day, river conditions clear with many mayfly and emergiing dragon flies.

M.N. from Berkshire, Friday 5 June, 2009

Gromain (upper Wye): Total of 12 browns between us, 8" to 12", - GRHE or GH nymphs. Also 3 unintentional Shad off the boards below the bridge. All returned in good order.

O.B. from Glos, Friday 5 June, 2009

Lower Llynfi Dulas (R20): 9 trout, three best fish two of 14" and one of 13", on a Tan Klinkhammer. This was fun! A hot morning with a few mayflies and some of the smaller olives about on the water, but a generalist pattern seemed to work, as is so often the case. The first 14" fish was rising right in the camp-site, among the abandoned barbecue grids and tarzan swinging ropes (admittedly early in the morning). When I reached the top of the beat after a few smaller fish, the weather broke, light rain started and a more general rise began. I picked up the other 14" and 13" fish during the walk back, seeing trout rising now in water I had already covered. What a wonderful little stream! Pay some attention to the ranunculus bed half-way up.

J.E. from Surrey, Thursday 4 June, 2009

Penpont (River Usk): A very convenient beat about 5 miles north of Brecon, with easy access and parking (sadly we saw a pool of windscreen glass in the car park so as ever keep all valuables out of site).

Really sunny day,decent hatch particularly from about 10.30 to midday. Excellent beat with lots of variety. Pretty simple wading for the most part. All three rods fished dry fly patterns all day - small and natural. 8 trout ranging from 5" to 2 hard fighting 14"ers. Such a beautiful day, spent far too much time on the manicured lawn enjoying lunch and savouring the day.

Probably a really good beat if you are fishing the area for the first time. It's a relatively gentle introduction to this terrific river system, with a good head of trout.

S.F. from Hertfordshire, Thursday 4 June, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): 1 grayling (10"), 1 brown trout (12") both returned safely.
Nymph fishing in the morning and early afternoon produced 1 grayling plus several delicate takes by grayling but no brown trout. Minimal fly life until mid afternoon when the occasional mayfly, spinner or olive appeared.
Rising trout no where to be seen except in one flat 150 yd long section when I estimate a max of 10 fish could be seen rising. Finally caught one brown trout on a BWO and missed another. The pools provided no sport on nymph (GRHE, PTN) or dry fly. The river was in good physical condition and the weather was warm and bright. The scenery is spectacular. The access between bank and river is very poor - I lost count of the number of times that I had to crawl under barbed wire because there was no stile (following the path of previous anglers). I was wading whenever possible. Overall an interesting experience if slightly disappointing. The lack of visible fish and poor response to nymphing in the deeper pools was disappointing compared to earlier season reports.

M.A. from Somerset, Thursday 4 June, 2009

Pantyscallog (River Usk): 2 small trout and 4 salmon parr. Trout to coch-y-bonddu.

S.L. from Dorset, Thursday 4 June, 2009

Fenni Fach (River Usk): 3 Trout to 1lb caught and returned. Only fished lower part of the beat where good numbers of fish were evident but mainly feeding on small dead fly (spinners) which neither of us had a decent imitation of! Those we did catch took Ginger Quill or Tups. River condition was low and weather was hot and sunny.

C.W. from Bristol, Wednesday 3 June, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): 5 x lovely trout to 14", 3 x Grayling to 16" caught on mixture of small tungstone hares ear nymph (with touch of sparkle)& small cdc,s & klinkers. Scorching day, fabulous beat. Fishing at its very best. Directions a bit vague for us dumb Devon boys!! Thanks to all at W&U for a memorable day.

J.E. from Surrey, Wednesday 3 June, 2009

Aberedw (R16): An accessible beat offering a very pretty piece of water. Very hot day with a steady hatch for most of it - mainly olives and a reasonable amount of mayfly. 5 trout caught on small dry patterns - Adams / Klinkhammer (olive) - 5" to 10". 1 caught on the lower beat, 4 on the upper. All returned. Really enjoyable day, peaceful and remote.

O.B. from Glos, Wednesday 3 June, 2009

Mowley Wood, River Arrow (R27): 4 x trout to 12". Still very hot and not much insect life about, but the odd one came up to a Klinkhammer.

Curiosities seen during the day were the biggest eel I have ever seen swimming past me (not a lamprey) and the trout I caught on the surface in the top weir pool which had something sticking out of its mouth. The object turned out to be the tail of a loach fully 4 inches long jammed in its gullet, the skin worn away by gastric juices, but the tail and barbuled head quite recognizable. (I tend to forget this now as we fuss about one fly or the other, but my experience as a lad fishing in brooks with a worm for the pot was that trout of any size in small rivers are usually making at least half their living from smaller fish). And, by the way, what a very beautiful place Mowley Wood is at this time of the year - huge fields golden with buttercups along the river.

P.W. from West Midlands, Wednesday 3 June, 2009

River Hindwell (R23): Pete had 6 trout to 11" Cliff blanked.

P.B. from Middlesex, Wednesday 3 June, 2009

Abernant & Plas Gwyn (upper Wye): We had a very pleasant day on the river last Wednesday. My cousin caught his first and second ever fish on the fly which pleased him ( one trout and one out of season grayling).

I had one trout of about a pound and five smaller trout plus a 3lb chub and one small grayling. All fish were returned to the water to fight another day.

Also fished the River Ithon Severn Arms water on Friday afternoon for a very short period of time before the heavens opened. Had three small trout and missed quite a few others on the dry fly. There appears to be quite a few small fish in the bottom beat of this fishery.

Hope to be up in your direction again in the near future.

D.B. from Yorkshire, Tuesday 2 June, 2009

Skenfrith (River Monnow): 25th of May
3 Trout all to just over the pound in weight taken on Klinkhamer extreme emerger patterns. Very few trout were rising until later in the day when mayfly and olives were emerging.

27th May
2 Grayling to about 1lb each and 12 Trout ranging from 9 to 14 inch. Initially they were taking the same emerger as the 25th but switched to drys, primarily mayfly and yellow may dun imitations. Plenty of heavy takes throughout the day. Overall an extremely enjoyable session.

Looking forward to booking this beat again in the future as it's a good challenging stretch.

O.B. from Gloucestershire, Tuesday 2 June, 2009

Monnow Valley: Report on Monnow Valley, 2nd June: 2 x 15 inch trout.

As you know, I've been finding Monnow Valley a bit of a challenge this year,what with lost fish and the jungle etc. However, I'm now a happier man. On this very hot morning, I wasted a bit of time at the lower part of the beat on what always turned out to be small chub - they can rise with a surprising commotion. Then I came to the bottom of a reasonably decent run below the mill, a place I haven't managed to reach before, and saw a miniscule rise just below hanging branches - which really looked like small fry. But I flicked a Klinkhammer up there anyway and on the second cast a big trout came up and whacked it hard. On Simon's advice I was using a heavier tippet.

Played it, netted and measured it, admired it and released it, giggling to myself all the while like John Wilson. All this had made a fair old commotion in the run, but something made me tie on a Tungsten Hare's Ear and trundle it through just in case. You guessed it: there was a solid draw and another fish was on, which turned out to be as like the first as two peas in a pod - both beautiful, pristine wild fish with a tinge of blue in the colouring, one male and one female. Finally, to my amazement, having released the second, I saw got a glimpse of yet another large fish in the same hole. Could a brace become a leash? I was starting to feel like Mr Castwell in GEM Skues' short story about the man condemned to stand for all eternity in the same place catching the same fish, in a special version of hell reserved for anglers. Did you read that one? Anyway, I lobbed the nymph up yet again, there was a nervous twitch, but this fish was pricked and didn't come again. Back to the real world. I spent the rest of the morning trying to stalk another couple of fish at the top end, but no joy this time. Apart from that bit of action, not very much rising on the whole beat in the hot weather although a few flies about - mayfly duns and spinners, some of the smaller olives, yellow mays, a sedge I didn't recognise, damsel flies now and of course the midges. I couldn't stay for the evening.

A.F. from Herefordshire, Monday 1 June, 2009

The Edw and Escley...: Fished the Escley and the Eddw (again) last Friday. Misty start, cleared to bright sunshine, then a little cloud around in the afternoon. Very warm, Mayflies coming off steadily all day. Water low and clear.

2 of us fished R37 on the Escley from about 8am. Lost a good fish to a nymph early on. Had 2 belting fish (1-2lb) rise to the dry but didn't connect. Saw several fish around the 2lb mark, very spooky though. Great fishing, but eager for the evening rise as spotting the fish not rising in the day was tricky.

Went to the Eddw (R16) just for some sport after lunch. Quite a bit of flow and colour. Fish rising right through. I had a dozen or so to 10". None taken.

Returned to the Escley (R37) for the evening rise, after stopping in Hay for a look at the tail attending the festival. Spooked many rising fish from quite a distance away. Hooked and lost a good fish to the Mayfly last cast. All in all I hooked, lost and saw fish that have been in my dreams since and will have me returning sooner rather than later.

Fantastic river and some fantastic fish in there. I will return...probably tomorrow!

J.W. from Somerset, Monday 1 June, 2009

On a trout fishing trip.....: Bit of feedback on a weekends fishing in some cracking surroundings. Been wanting to fish these waters for some years now and finally made it though probably the wrong weekend. In spite of great weather I saw only one fish rise all weekend. Under advise from the booking office I took a booked beat on Saturday as I wasn't going to be there before 10am.
B45 - Cilwych - hard work and seemed pretty dead. Catching a 1.5lb fish on 3rd cast was a mistake as it set the expectations. Three hours later got a 6oz fish to go with it. Adjourned to the pub at 1:30, The Star in Talybont-On-Usk (excellent beer) to consider my options. Decided to drive around and try and find another beat. Opted for
R38 - Longtown - fancied the idea of mayfly. Only saw two lonely mayfly spinners looking for friends. Again nothing moving on the surface but did catch 33cm grayling from one run and had a follow from a good sized trout. On copper bead nymph #16.
Used White House campsite (Builth Wells) overnight, good clean facilities and cheap. Stones throw from pubs which was good but couldn't find anywhere decent to eat.
R19 - Llynfi Dulas (Middle) - couldn't fish as someone else already there at 8am !
R20 - Llynfi Dulas (Upper) - fished this from 9am to 1pm. Bit overgrown in places and took a while to work it out. Copper bead nymph on short leader produced 13 fish and lost/missed a few. Also got one to come up to a smallish CdC mayfly. Only saw one fish rise, got that with the nymph. Fish were good size 7 of them between 23 & 29cm the other 7 below 20cm. Loads of fish at very top where it is open and the bottom a most unappealing red silt. Must have been 50 fish in the space of 20yds but all hugging the bottom and moving out of the way of my nymph. Some surprisingly deep holes, two were close to the top of my chest waders and I'm 6'3". Really feel that I should have caught a lot more than 14 as there were fish all the way up through the beat. Surprisingly only once caught 2 fish from the same pool/run.
The Griffin (on the walk back to the car) was a good pub with good beer & food.
R45 - The Honddu (Usk) - being close I had a look at this. One fish visible from bridge so took a walk downstream but again nothing moving or visible in the water and little fly life so opted not to fish it and have a look round Brecon before driving home.
Some nice waters and I have tickets left so will be back but disappointed at lack of fly life and rising fish. Fished two beats that are noted for mayfly but only saw a handful. In Somerset and Wiltshire they've been coming off for a couple of weeks now. On the Dove in Derbyshire the first week in June was always excellent so I thought they should have been showing last weekend, are they later in Wales?

A.C. from Wiltshire, Monday 1 June, 2009

Dan-y-Parc (River Usk): 4 Brown trout (3 over 1 lb) and some small salmon par. Black Klinkhammer and a small PTN fished kiwi style until dusk then just the klinkhammer. Conditions were very bright with the hot sun forcing the fish in to the deeper pools. The breeze was predominantly upstream and the river was a little murky from debris and silt. Hatches were very patchy right up until 2100 hrs when some olives and black sedge took to the wing. The evening rise was good with some very confident takes on the klinkhammer. Great sport!

P.K. from Cambridgeshire, Monday 1 June, 2009

Skenfrith (River Monnow): Several missed fish, but 3 successfully caught on Mayfly imitations. approx weights = 1x1 lb, 1x1.5 lb, 1x 0.75 lb.

M.N. from , Monday 1 June, 2009

Pilleth, River Lugg (R21): 2 x 8" browns (released) 1 on an Adams other on olive goldhead.

R.D. from Powys, Monday 1 June, 2009

Dan-y-Parc (River Usk): A great beat with great access. A very hot and sunny day with varying wind direction saw the bigger fish parked up in the deeper, more shady locations until well into the session. The evening did however produce 2 x brown trout, 1 being approx 6oz (taken on nymph) and the other just over a 1lb (taken on orange klinkhammer). Both fish returned to fight another day.
I would also like to mention and thank the booking office staff who were very helpful in sorting out my fishing 1st thing on a Monday morning.

S.F. from Hertfordshire, Monday 1 June, 2009

Penpont (River Usk): No fish caught. No fish hooked! One fish missed!
The river conditions were good - clear and not too low, the weather was sunny/bright with slight breeze. No fish were rising until mid afternoon.
Nymph fishing produced no takes (GRHE, PTN). The fly life was minimal with very occasional mayfly, olives, spinners. Rises were few and far between.
Had one rise to a Grey Wulff after trying numerous imitations. 3 trout were chasing minnows in the shallows. The fish density in the river is extremely low. A black American mink took a brown trout (~ 9") close to the bank. A local worker decided to go for a swim in the pool below the bridge! The access through (over!) gates along the right bank (when facing upstream)is poor and potentially hazardous at the last gate before the downstream beat limit. Unfortunately a very disappointing fishing experience.

M.W. from London, Monday 1 June, 2009

Glan-yr-Afon (River Usk): Catch return: 3xBT 1-1.5 lbs, a couple around 0.5 lb.

M.W. from London, Monday 1 June, 2009

Glan-yr-Afon (River Usk): Vey hot sunny day, river clear and low. Dead from lunchtime
until I ledt around 1930.

Morning 3xBT 1-1.5 lbs, 2 on woolly buggers fished on a deep sink tip in fast water, and one on a mayfly emerger fished fairly deep. Couple more around 0.5 lb one dry one nymph.

A.M. from West Midlands, Sunday 31 May, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): 9 Grayling - to 2lbs
1 Trout

A hot, bright day. Grayling taken in the morning on beaded PTN/GRHE. They were realy having it - lovely slow unmissable pulls (so how come I missed so many?). Sporadic Mayfly hatch in the afternoon with the odd trout rising.
No doubt the evening rise was something to behold but, sadly, by then I was back on the A44 heading east (one of the perils of being a wage slave)

A delightful section of river

G.L. from Dorset, Sunday 31 May, 2009

Monnow Valley: 1 Brown Trout 12" Mayfly. Good fishing, though be careful of the nesting swans!

C.K. from West Midlands, Sunday 31 May, 2009

Titley Beat, River Arrow (R26): My third visit to the Arrow and, at last, my first fish on this river! A stunningly coloured brownie of around 1lb, caught on the last cast of the day using a Greenwell's Glory. Lost a smaller one earlier on and failed to connect with a fair few takes. Fished a dry fly throughout the day.
A beautiful sunny day with just clouds of sedges and the occassional mayfly for company. A memorable day, will definitely return.

P.D. from Worcestershire, Saturday 30 May, 2009

R37 Lower Escley: Very hot and bright with only a very few flies coming off including the occassional Mayfly.

Only managed two WBT, a 9 inch and a 10inch, both were in beautiful condition and taken on a #16 para Greenwell's Glory. Enjoyed the kingfishers and Dipper.

S.R. from Surrey, Saturday 30 May, 2009

Red Lion/Moccas and Winforton: No salmon caught but plenty of brownies, best to 14.5 " no sign of fish moving on either day, even when fished late to dusk.

S.S. from West Sussex, Saturday 30 May, 2009

Ty-Newydd (upper Wye), 4 rods: We caught between us 1 Chub, 2 Grayling and 35 Trout. Most of the Trout were small, biggest trout was a 12". All fish were returned. We all had a great weekend, thanks.

J.D. from Gloucestershire, Friday 29 May, 2009

Fenni Fach (River Usk): One small brown trout in the heat of the day. No movement until 7 pm when had to leave...the moral is be more planful about timing!

M.N. from Berkshire, Friday 29 May, 2009

Cilwych (Usk): Only one nice brown 12". Lost 4 others. GH PTN.
Very easy last minute booking - 9pm the night before !

Mr & Mrs M from Worcestershire, Friday 29 May, 2009

R26 Mowley Wood: Not fished this beat before so didn't know what to expect. So different from the Titley and Court of Noke beats, reminded me of a Welsh mountain stream in places. Started off slow I only managed a couple of smallish trout (8 and 10in) from the wooded section. Had a bit of better luck futher upstream where I managed a good fish of approx 16ins taken on a gold head PTN fish NZ style. The wife was finding things a bit difficult so went off with her camera. Went down to the bottom weir to have a look, interesting water, but you need a long handled net to land anything there!
Not as many Mayfly about compared with Titley yesterday. Managed another 2 fish of about 11 ins in the wooded section one on GB PTN and one on a black Klink. Finished day below top weir. Had another 5 fish ranging from about 10ins to 14ins. All on GB PTN. Wife managed to get photos of some of these.

All in all a good day. Total 10 trout (all to me!) 8 to 16ins all returned.

M.B. from South Wales, Friday 29 May, 2009

Ty-Newydd (upper Wye): 4 Trout, largest 1lb; 3 grayling, largest 1lb. All bar 1 trout taken on GRHE/PT nymphs (1 exception on golden olive klinkhammer). River still coloured from recent rain, with plenty of fly life up to 1pm.

T.N. from Herefordshire, Thursday 28 May, 2009

From a Lugg & Arrow fund raising event....: For the record books, caught at the L&A social over Sat & Sun 24/25th May...
Titley (R26) - 7 trout best 1lb.
Hergest (B30) - 3 trout best just under 1 lb.
Mowley Wood (R27) - 51 trout, 13 x 1lb or more, best 2lb!!!---- Brilliant!!
Lyepole (B31) - 48 trout, 5 grayling, 11 x 1lb or more, best 1.5 lb-- Excellent.!!

All except 3 returned, every one with wild fish markings and in beautiful condition. Adams, Grey Wulff, Mayflies, emergers and others. Stunning fishing!

K.M. from Kent, Thursday 28 May, 2009

The Glanusk Estate beat: Bright, chilly and breezy.

Fished the fast water by the church, got two very nice fish about 15” on gold beaded hairs ear.

Dropped down to the fast water below the bridge, couldn’t fish up stream due to the wind which was now very strong. Tried fishing down stream but glare on the water made it very difficult to see the numerous boulders of which there are many in this run. Had to get to back to Kent so called it a day at 1pm, very happy with the two fish I caught.

P.B. from Glos., Thursday 28 May, 2009

The Honddu (Usk, R45): First time on this - could not get on Llynfi Dulas today.

This is a lovely bit of river though! Masses of fishy water and a half decent hatch - olives, brook duns and even the occasional May Fly, which the local robin population seems to savour!

7 trout in total best 11" all on usual dry para patterns - ginger quill, blue dun. Thanks for sorting out voucher shortage - you folks only need to keep one, look forwards to receiving the rest.

M.B. from Herefordshire, Thursday 28 May, 2009

Cefnllysgwynne (River Irfon): Two 6 inchers and one good two and a quarter pounder trout on gold headed nymph. Lovely water, high but clearing. No fish rising so hard work.

J.M. from Berkshire, Thursday 28 May, 2009

On a trout fishing trip.....: 26th May, Abernant (upper Wye)
First day of my trip and i had around 20 fish up to 12oz, all on the dry fly really small elk hair caddis pattern. A fantastic days sport. All safely returned.

27th May, Llyn Em (upper Wye)
River really pushed through! 3 fish caught biggest about the pound and a half mark smallest a pound. Another fantastic day, only cut short by debris coming down river at about 1600hrs. All fish returned safely.

28th May, Penpont (Usk)
What a beautiful setting, 4 fish to 1lb and it should have been a lot more but for my incorrect chioce of rod, (to short). I couldnt pick enough line off the water to set the hook. Lost a big fish at the net around the 2lb mark, hook pulled free. It was a stunning fish. It was a reminder that no matter how good a time i had, the memory of the break will be that fish that i lost. All fish returned safely, including the one that freed itself. Some BIG fish spotted under the bridge near the house but i had no time to fish for them. I'm coming back sooner than planned though, see you all soon.

O.B. from Glos, Thursday 28 May, 2009

On Usk trout fishing.....: 26 May, Dan y Warren: 10 small trout to 12 inches, spiders. The occasional yellow may and true mayfly hatching off. I rather liked this one - it's only really one pool, but a good pool and a fish nursery at that. There are some better ones in the deep water where the Grwyne Fawr comes in, but my attempt at deception failed. Nice place for a bottle of wine and picnic one evening.

28th May, Cilwych: blank. Spoiled by high water - at least that's my excuse. Nothing much hatching. There must be large trout in the gutter, but I would like to see them rising.

G.M. from Worcestershire, Thursday 28 May, 2009

R25 Titley: Another magical day on a magical beat. Had 3 fish between 8 and 15 inches by 11am all but one on beaded PTN. Mayfly started to appear around 11 ish but fish didn't seem too interested until about 1.30ish when I had a mad half hour and landed another 4 fish on a home tied Mayfly, which is basically a Comparadun tied on 12 l/s with a yellow body! The trout seemed to like it. Best fish I estimate at approx 2lb. Had another 2 fish later on, one on PTN, the other took a Mayfly, grey body this time. Lost 3 during day, one broke me! All fish returned. Total for day 9.

R.D. from Herefordshire, Wednesday 27 May, 2009

The Escley, Beats R36 & R37: 22nd May 2009; Lower Escley. A good mayfly hatch and fish rising freely to them in slightly coloured water. In a few hours and on the bottom third of this beat I caught 10 fish to average 12” the best was 14”. All happily chomping mayflies and very fit. There is some very deep holding water in this stretch and there are some big fish in them that the mayfly will bring up. I know of a 15” wbt caught already.

26th May 2009; Fished the Upper Escley WUF beat this afternoon. There was a sporadic hatch of mays, which is not too surprising given that the substrate up there is not going to suit them that much, along with some turkey browns and the very occasional sedge. A few unidentified olives added to the mix. The fish were not rising enthusiastically to begin with but they were definitely looking up for a #14 para Adams!

In four hours, on one of the prettiest beats on the Monnow, I lost count of the fish I caught but around 25, I guess, and also of those missed or lost. The fish were in the places you would expect them and on a couple of occasions I caught fish on successive casts. I only managed to fish about 2 of the 3 miles of this beat. The average size of the fish was between 11 and 12 inches, one to 13# and three at about 6". The rest were stunningly marked fat peas in a pod.

The Escley is well worth a look, especially whilst the good water conditions last but, because of its gradient, it fishes well when down to its bones.

M.C. from Surrey, Wednesday 27 May, 2009

Usk trout fishing....: 22nd Dan-y-warren good hatch mayfly and olive. 1 fish ret 23rd Cefn Rhosan Beautiful river and sunny day. Sparse hatch. only managed 1 fish ret 24th Penpont Again perfect day and river. 1 fish ret 25th Dan y parc. Cloudy and windy. Mild hatch olives and mayfly. Good upper beat 2 fish ret. Dead lower beat 26th Gliffaes. Windy and showers. Fished all day with ghillie and 1 fish ret
27 Dinas & Abercynrig- didn't fish.
Many thanks for your help. I'm a novice to rivers - better luck next time - I think I've learnt a lot.

M.G. from Cheshire, Monday 25 May, 2009

Trout fishing the Usk....: 20th May Fenni Fach
high and coloured water and extremely difficult wading but absolutley beutiful. Two browns, 6" on beadhead and 14" 0n dry GRHA, the only rising fish I saw that day.
21st and 22nd May Penpont
Seven browns, two 6" and five arround 12" all on beadhead. There were few fish rising and a difficult downstream wind. This was very easy access water in loveley surroundings.

Can I say a very sincere thank you for your help and attention in all the dealings that we had including the owners of the beats.

K.M. from Kent, Monday 25 May, 2009

Glanusk Estate: Perfect conditions , warm, still, overcast . Unfortunately nobody had told the trout. Caught 2 in the big pool up from the bridge, one in the fast water up buy the church. Caught one in the fastwater at the bottom of the beat. All fish aboyut 10 - 12 inches.

Caught my first salmon must have been 4 inches at least.
Hung around till 8 o clock waiting for a rise, nothing doing. Back tomorrow.

J.M. from Somerset, Monday 25 May, 2009

Cilwych (Usk): Had hoped to try for Salmon but none showing. Reasonable trout fishing with 5 fish (4 returned) on GHRE, PTN and Bibio

C.F. from Wiltshire, Sunday 24 May, 2009

Llangoed (River Wye): Did not see any salmon, but any caught loads of brownies. Lovely looking water and easier wading (on the whole) than previous beats - although very nearly had to ditch the rod, as thought I'd gone too far and got caught by the current.

M.Y. from Worcester, Sunday 24 May, 2009

Cefnllysgwynne (River Irfon): On a really warm day I would have expected to see more fly activity on the river but there didn't seem to be much hatching all day. Only saw a few fish rising and targeted these, between us we managed four trout including one real beauty in excess of two pound caught by my fourteen year old son and two grayling up to a pound. The trout were taken on either a klinkhamer or an adams and the grayling on a nymph which was fished when nothing was rising.
An easy river to fish in beautiful surroundings but on the whole a bit dissapoimted as I would have expected to have seen more fish.

J.P. from London, Sunday 24 May, 2009

Glan-yr-Afon (River Usk): Caught - Nil. Beautiful day. Big hatch of flies. More difficult to wade than anticipated.

T.M. from Bristol, Saturday 23 May, 2009

Dinas & Abercynrig on the Usk....: 5 gorgeous brown trout, all returned:

2.5 lb
2.25 lb
1.5 lb
12oz
8oz

Cool and breezy. Not a massive amount of activity, but a few fish were rising well to small duns, yet ignoring large mayflies which were reasonably abundant. All caught on v. small parachute adams and small nymphs.

Beautiful big fish, very hard fighting. Shame this beat isn't catch and release only.

S.B. from Surrey, Saturday 23 May, 2009

Penpont (River Usk): We caught 3 salmon par and 1 brown trout all about 4-8oz on a small weighted pheasant tail nymph/ gold headed hares ear nymph. The water was clear but still running high.

P.M. from Wiltshire, Saturday 23 May, 2009

Abercamlais (River Usk): Lovely stretch of water with good pools. One rod blanked but had an enjoyable day. I caught two brown trout, both returned unharmed (barbless hooks), about 8 ozs and 12ozs. As usual with Usk trout they hit the fly hard. It took several casts through the pools with little knocks before they took, so I knew they were there. Successful fly was a wet traditional Greenwells glory fished on a dropper about two feet above an olive nymph goldhead. No fish were seen rising all day, which was surprising.

Good helpful and friendly tel. booking service. Thanks for a lovely day out.

C.F. from Wiltshire, Saturday 23 May, 2009

Dan-y-Warren (River Usk): Did not see any salmon - but caught 15 trout in 2hrs (to about 1.5lb). I think the trout boys are doing it wrong and shouldn't bother with size 16 Adam's and stick to size 8 purple ally's or sunrays.

Lovely water to spend an hour or two on.

T.M. from Bristol, Saturday 23 May, 2009

Pantyscallog (River Usk): 2 x 8oz brown trout - one on parachute adams dry fly, one on nymph

S.R. from Gloucestershire, Saturday 23 May, 2009

Bodenham, River Lugg (B33): Lost a nice trout which was estimated at +1lb, but otherwise no takes by either rod.

P.B. from Glos, Friday 22 May, 2009

Pantyscallog (River Usk): A lovely beat - and fond memories of the falls here on the river walk 2 years ago. By memory there was as much - or even more - water coming over the falls yesterday as in that November but no salmon seen yesterday.

River in superb condition and a cracking hatch - brook duns, small and medium olives - but the fish didnt seem to respond although due to professional business we were not on the water until 4 pm.

J.S. had 2 trout - 5" and 12" on a heptagenid nymph fished new zealand style below a klinkhamer. J.B. had 1 5" on a parachute ginger quill. And yours truly - blanked for the second time this season having badly scared one tiddler in the Crai.

After much debate and with regret we had to forego the swedish massage mentioned in the booking info!

M.K. from Wilts, Friday 22 May, 2009

Trout fishing the Usk....: 11th May - Dan Y Parc - very windy conditions making for difficult casting. Caught four trout - largest approx 1 lb.

13th May - Glanusk Estate - drizzly/overcast conditions - caught six. Largest 1.1/2 lb

15th May - Bridge Meadow - Heavy rain showers - no catch

Many thanks.

J.C. from Monmouthshire, Friday 22 May, 2009

Longtown (River Monnow, R38): 14 trout in total. Fingerling to 13" in size.
Also had 2 grayling, 1 fingerling and 1 12".

Small hatches here and there and tried with the dry but came up empty. Put the hare's ears beads back on and right back into them.

S.R. from Somerset, Friday 22 May, 2009

Cefnllysgwynne (River Irfon): Fished this very nice beat but to no avail. Both Ken and I didn’t catch anything but conditions over the last few days have been poor, wet and cold, not ideal. What made the trip worth while though for me was being waist deep in the middle of the river and witnessing a salmon of @ 8-10lb surface a rods length in front of me - fantastic. We met Charles as arranged who proved to be a very knowledgeable chap, but I think even he would have been surprised if we had caught fish yesterday. Maybe initially, the cold dry spring seems to have suspended the start of the season? With regards to the beat though, it’s a lovely place and we shall definitely be back when conditions are better. It was also nice to visit the Wye and Usk Foundation office and meet Wendy and Alyson and put names to faces. You do a fantastic job ladies along with the rest of the Foundation staff and thank you again for a memorable visit.

C.W. from Bristol, Friday 22 May, 2009

Pantyscallog (River Usk): Lovely beat with very interesting mixture of runs, gulleys & flats. Sadly it remained overcast with a S.Easterly cold breeze all day until about 5.00pm when things started to move but I had to go home as a fox had got in my chicken run and had more sport than we did!!! result 1 apiece, Fox 3 out of 3. Must spend more time out with the gun.

J.D. from Glos, Friday 22 May, 2009

Pwll-y-Faedda (upper River Wye): Water a little high. Shortlived contact with a fish in top of Bridge pool. Invaluable tuition from Jeremy. Predicted to be good from mon 25th. Thanks.

K.M. from Kent, Friday 22 May, 2009

Skenfrith (River Monnow): Didnt get there till 1.30 is, started at the bottom of the beat in front on the big house, between the two streams.
Some colour to the water. 2 hours of frantic fishing caught 8, 10-12", missed at least twice that number. Half caught on beaded hairs ear nymph below a klink and half caught on the Klink.

Lost another 4 fish in 5 minutes in the run above the stream, caught a couple about 10 inch working my way up to the slow section above the wood. River a bit higher than im used to, so some areas were not wadeable.

Flies of every description hatching in great profusion including may flies, the odd fish surface feeding, the klink brought a few up. About 6 pm it went it went quiet and never picked up. Packed it in about 9pm. Had a pint in the Bell £2.80 a pint !

Lovely beat this.

H.J. from South Wales, Thursday 21 May, 2009

Penpont (River Usk): Just a quick note to thank you for pointing me in the right direction for yesterday's trip. Penpont was on good form - as you said. I took six good fish (many in the 'Penpont porker' class) in an afternoon. All fish fell to dry mayflies or mayfly nymphs during sporadic but exciting mayfly activity.

Please accept this as my catch return.

Many thanks!

G.P. from Hampshire, Thursday 21 May, 2009

On a trout fishing trip.....:
21 May 2009
B30 Hergest Court
comments: Moved date after wash out. River high and a bit coloured. 4 brown trout largest 10in all on mayfly. Good beat. Couldn't find how to get to bottom of beat.
Excellent service.

20 May 2009
B40 Cefn-Rhosan Fawr
comments: 2 trout largest 10in on dry fly River very high.
Not much rising. Good beat.

16 May 2009
B31 Lyepole
comments: 13 Trout largest 12in. All on dry fly. Good beat.

13 May 2009
B37 Skenfrith
comments: 12 brown trout largest 14in. All on dry fly.
Plenty of fly life even though weather was bad. Great beat.

T.J. from Herefordshire, Thursday 21 May, 2009

Llyn Bugeilyn: 4 rods on 21st May.Sorry forgot to post our returns. 15 trout caught and returned---many more missed!! Most enjoyable day. Many thanks.

G.P. from Gloucestershire, Thursday 21 May, 2009

Bridge Meadow (River Usk): 5 brown trout up to 1.5lbs. River rather high after the rain, made fishing hard. Very few fish rising. Still a very nice days fishing.

T.W. from Oxfordshire, Wednesday 20 May, 2009

On fishing Upper Bigsweir....: No fish caught. Lovely beat but very unpleasant weather and very coloured water.

J.C. from Monmouthshire, Wednesday 20 May, 2009

Lower Stanton (R Honddu)...: Hooked 10, landed 5. Fish between 10" - 14". There was double the amount of water in the stream, what a difference compared to the last few weeks. Pheasant tail gold beads raised most of the fish.

A.B. from London, Tuesday 19 May, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): A very enjoyable day on a beautiful beat. 18 fish caught, 12 brown trout to 12", six grayling to 16", grayling recovering well from spawning, all carefully returned. Difficult conditions with heavy rain showers and fierce gusts of downstream wind. Fish rising only between showers. A few mayflies hatching but being ignored, rises to olives and black gnats, many fish preferring a pheasant tail just sub-surface.

O.B. from Glos, Tuesday 19 May, 2009

Usk trout fishing....: 14 May, Brecon Town: 20 trout to 15". As you can tell, the silly season is here and they have stocked the water (Abergavenny too, I think). However, a nice brace of wild trout (15" each) included from the Bridge Pool. Again, I am seeing otters in daylight on this water, a pair of young ones this time, frolicking in the willow branches.
16 May, Upper Crai: blank, except for salmon parr.

M.B. from West Midlands, Tuesday 19 May, 2009

The Edw (Hergest Beat, R15): Just to let you know what a wonderful time I had fishing your roving voucher beat 15 - River Edw on Saturday morning, this is the first time I've fished this river and I was extremely impressed by the amount of life this river holds.

There were lots of trout around every corner obviously sustained by the prolific invertebrate life the river holds, (the amount of Dippers I saw bear testament to this) every stone I lifted was covered in nymphs.

About 12.45pm they decided it was time to hatch and there were masses of upwings coming off, lots of various Olives & Large Brook Duns but no true Mayflies yet.

27 trout in all (biggest 11") mostly between 5"-8" all returned as always.

You can read more with the addition of some pics on my Blog: http://www.micksflyfishingdiary.blogspot.com/

Can't wait to try the other beats out along this river... hence the purchase of another booklet of vouchers!!

M.H. from South Wales, Friday 15 May, 2009

Abernant & Plas Gwyn: River low and clear. Weather warm a.m, cold p.m.

18 trout and 4 grayling caught on pheasant tail nymphs, mayflies hatching but none taken on surface.

All trout (bar two) returned. All grayling returned. Largest trout caught 13.5 inches, smallest 9 inches. One salmon seen.

C.T. from Shropshire, Friday 15 May, 2009

Middle Hill Court: Nothing to declare, but had an enjoyable day, in wonderful surroundings. I shall definately return again.

P.T. from Surrey, Friday 15 May, 2009

Trout fishing the Usk....: Several v. small trout caught on small wets.

Two larger healthy fish 1/2 lb caught and returned to Fenni Fach from the pool by the lower gate.

1st time on Usk, Fenni Fach is an especially beautiful beat, good fishing but no sign of larger fish.

L.H. from Devon, Friday 15 May, 2009

Glan-yr-Afon (River Usk) with instructor Frank Wil: 21 Brown trout Biggest around 17-18 inches smallest 11 inches.

A days guiding with Frank Williams. Arrived at the river Monnow around 9.00 am to meet Frank. The river was in flood and like hot chocolate. After a wirlwind tour of the rivers I was shown the river Usk at Glan Yr Afon. WOW! After a call to the WUF the beat was secured. What a fantastic days fishing, if a little treacherous to wade at times. We only fished about one third of the available water but with Frank's patient guidance I feel it was really covered well. I did hook one fish that was an absolute whopper and took took what felt like an eternity to get to the net only to be broken of at the last minute.

A.L. from London, Monday 11 May, 2009

Glanusk Estate: After a fairly tough few hours, the river came to life at around 11.30 with hatches of sedge and olives. There were swarms of black gnats and a trickle of Yellow Mays. I had a dozen or so decent trout, the best going 2.25 lbs. Fish were caught on spiders and dries. I had to stop at around
4.45 to drive back to London. Fish were rising as I left! I'm sure the evening would've been productive but this is one of the many prices you pay for living in London! The river could do with another 6 inches of water.

O.B. from Glos, Sunday 10 May, 2009

Monnow Valley: I can report just 1 x 14" out of season grayling.
I've come to the conclusion that Wednesday's big slow-moving fish which came off in deep water was a chub - I've seen a monstrous one lying in the same pool.

Well, I'm certainly finding Monnow Valley quite a challenge although I'm learning places to scramble in and out and I may start taking a coil of rope with me . The conclusions I'm drawing is that it contains quite a number of large trout, they aren't fished for that much because they are so hard to get at, therefore if you see one rising and you do manage to present a fly to it, there is a very good chance of a solid take. But, and here's the problem, they all live next to a snag. Not much rising in the cold winds of the 8th, but one which was rising accepted a Tan Klinkhammer, waved a big black tail at me and dived straight under the fallen tree he was lying next to with the rod bent double. Ah me, better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all....

Abergavenny Town Water is fishing OK, by the way, when not too cold and windy...I seem to be able to get them to the net there.

R.O. from Herefordshire, Sunday 10 May, 2009

Abernant & Plas Gwyn: No salmon even seen, let alone caught! Five small trout caught and kept one at 1 1/2 lbs. River looking beautiful.
All good things.

P.B. from South Wales, Sunday 10 May, 2009

Cilwych (Usk): A quite cold, windy day on the Usk.

Caught 2 WBT about 8" and 11". Lost 1 very good fish, snapped leader on first run. Caught both fish on dry, a CDC Olive Spinner.

Lovely beat, although wading a little tricky at top end.

T.D. from Herefordshire, Sunday 10 May, 2009

On fishing Skenfrith with guide Frank Williams..: A very successful guiding/tuition day with Frank Williams, most informative and enjoyable.

Despite very difficult windy conditions 2 fish were landed plus a number of lost takes on a combination of dry fly and nymphs.

P.W. from West Midlands, Sunday 10 May, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): A Fantastic day. Cliff caught 8 trout and 3 grayling and I caught exactly the same. Cliff's fish were bigger though as he had three 13" trout to my one. They were all of a remarkable aveage size though. All came to dry fly. We have caught 53 trout and 6 grayling between us in our last two visits to WUF waters.

P.T. from Wilts, Sunday 10 May, 2009

Ty-Newydd (upper Wye): Ty Newydd:
1x Grayling (10 inches), 9 x Trout (largest 9 inches)
caught on dry flies (GRHE and another light coloured dry) All fish returned.
Sporadic hatch of light coloured epehemeroptera (not sure what species!)

Penpont:
10 Trout, x3 12 inches, x1 16-18 inches (I have photographic evidence!). Took a bit of time getting to the net with my 4wt rod! 2 of the trout caught on a dry, remainder on weighted pheasant tail type bug. Good hatch of small dark olive type flies in the morning.

All in, a fantastic weekend fishing. Stayed at the Kilsby B&B in Llanyrtdd Wells - excellent and highly recommended.

S.W. from West Midlands, Sunday 10 May, 2009

Ty-Newydd (upper Wye): First time at Ty-Newydd really nice stretch with great view from the lodge. A few fish rising through the day, but little signs of a sustained hatch. Took 12 Trout all on nymph and spider patterns, all small with best around 13in. Brother in law Paul took 3 small Trout, this being his 1st go at river fishing. River low and in need of some water, no Salmon seen.

Very enjoyable day which included finding a Slow Worm on a rock near the lodge,first time i have ever seen one,strange!thought it was a large lobworm untill saw a forked tongue!

J.S. from Wiltshire, Saturday 9 May, 2009

On fishing Middle Hill Court (lower Wye): J.H. caught her first Wye salmon. 10lb from Vanstone Pool on an Ally Shrimp and floating line. Fish safely returned.

P.F. from Surrey, Saturday 9 May, 2009

Monnow Valley: One of the most prolific and varied mayfly hatches I have seen for years. However although we could have expected the river to be "boiling" the fish simply weren't interested as rises were rare and usually just one-offs. Maybe it was the cold air temperature, marginal drop in barometric pressure or maybe they had already gorged themselves on similar hatches in previous days. We fished, nymphs, dries, emergers - large and small but only had 4 missed fish to show for it.

Having read other reports, I think the access issues are exaggerated but it is essential to follow the WUF recommendation and wear chest waders to get the most out of the beat. The friendly (non-fishing) owner gave the impression that many people are turning up with thigh waders which simply won't do if you want to enjoy your day.

Excellent service all round and we'd be happy to give this beat another crack !

J.B. from Bristol, Friday 8 May, 2009

Abernant & Plas Gwyn: 3 trout, 1 grayling. Missed a biggie! Not sure what on earth it was.

S.R. from Sueey, Friday 8 May, 2009

Salmon fishing at Middle Hill Court: 1 grilse, probably about 8 lbs, returned of course! Looked like a hen, taken on a size 12 allys and on corner tree beat going into The Vanstone (in front of the croy). Angler was A.J. Mixed conditions, sunny / cloudy / occasional rain on account of the very windy conditions. Rising air pressure.

Steve R from Somerset, Thursday 7 May, 2009

On trout fishing at Glanusk Estate....: Ken and I had fantastic days fishing yesterday even though it was quite hard going because of a cold wind, but that’s fishing I guess and we still really enjoyed it.
Please find below our catch returns for the day. Thank you again for a fantastic time and the excellent service that the Wye and Usk foundation provide.

Steve - 12 trout to 14”, 2 taken, caught on Czech Nymphs, Dark PTN, Black Gnat/Klink.
Ken – 5 trout to 14”, 1 taken, caught on Black Gnat/Klink.

S.B. from East Sussex, Wednesday 6 May, 2009

On a trout fishing trip.....: Lyepole 27th, 2rods. In spite of horrible weather we had about a dozen fish each. Many on dries inbetween hailstorms!

Doldowlod 29th, 2 rods. Started well with a fine grayling on nymph followed by a 1.5lb trout on a BWO within the first half hour and then nothing, although the spectcular view of a peregrine stooping on a pigeon was fab.

Hergest 30th, 1 rod. heavy rain in the morning really helped matters. By lunchtime the feeder streams were putting a bit of colour in the water resulting in over 20 trout on PTNs. Most about 7", best about 11".

Lyepole May 1st, 1 rod. Lots of fish rising on bends but strong downstream wind made it tough. Managed around 10 trout on a size 20 hares ear sparkle gnat. Finished with a magnificent, although out of season, grayling well over 2lb. It fought fantastically in very fast water and then sat on the gravel at my feet for a minute recovering. Its flanks were lit up blue like a freshly landed sailfish. A wonderful end to a difficult but most enjoyable week. Thank you all for providing such a great service to the visiting angler.

P.B. from South Wales, Monday 4 May, 2009

On fishing Skenfrith (Monnow): Another very cold, windy day although the fish were rising well all afternoon. A few yellow mayfly and grannom keeping the trout interested.

Caught 6 brownies up to about 11". All wild fish - no blue spots. All on the dry fly from 1 deep pool 3/4 way down beat

C.H. from Bristol, Monday 4 May, 2009

On salmon fishing at Ty-Newydd: One brown trout on a willie gun tube 1.5 inch.about a pound and a half. Two others lost. Not ideal levels for salmon fishing , but my casting came on leaps and bounds!

P.D. from Worcestershire, Sunday 3 May, 2009

On fishing the Honddu (R34, Lower Stanton): I had my best days fishing todate not in terms of quantity but quality and method of capture.

Catch =
1 of fingerling brownie approx. 4 inches caught on a home tied #16 gold head PTN.
2 of 9 inch brownies on PTN
1 of 12 inch brownie #16 parachute Adams
1 of 14 inch brownie #16 parachute Adams
1 of 16+ inch brownie #14 grey Klinkhammer - this is my personal best wild trout.

A superb stretch of water which I found very challenging and equally rewarding as a relative novice to fly fishing - thoroughly recommended!

P.W. from Gloucestershire, Sunday 3 May, 2009

Fishing Bridge Meadow on the Usk....: River was looking good though was a cold day and windy, I am bit of a novice to this fly fishing but I did manage two takes and lost them. Once again lovely surroundings and a cracking beat!!! I will be back! Love it. :-)

S.C. from Northants, Saturday 2 May, 2009

On fishing the Irfon (R9): 1 brown trout 2lb returned caught on a gold head nymph. (2 rods).

S.W. from West Midlands, Saturday 2 May, 2009

Fishing the upper Usk...: Returned to this beat on the Usk after doing battle and eventualy losing a good fish last year. This is a wonderful stretch, but with a very limited hatch things were tough with us both failing to catch. Sometimes being there is enough and we both enjoyed the day, just wish it wasn't a 2 hour drive home!

S.C. & R.C. from Northants, Friday 1 May, 2009

On fishing Dinas & Abercynrig (Usk).....: Richard
1 brown trout 1lb.

Steve
1 brown trout 3lb, 1 brown trout 2.5lb, 1 brown trout 1lb, 3 brown trout 9", 1 brown trout 6".

All fish returned and caught on dry flies, fantastic stretch of water.

S.M. from Hereford, Thursday 30 April, 2009

On fishing the Edw (R16): Fished for a couple of hours yesterday evening. River definitely showing signs of spring - bluebells on the banks and plenty of fish rising. 4 trout to 10" with, as ever, loads of others missed. All took an f-fly.

E.H. from London, Thursday 30 April, 2009

On fishing Fenni Fach (Usk): After overnight rain and showers during day, river rose. River becoming fuller and coloured by early afternoon. Negligible hatch, and little surface activity from the trout. Rose 2 fish and caught a small one on dry fly, before changing to nymph. This was unsuccessful. What a difference a day makes (in the words of the song !!) from the excellent conditions of 29th April.

G.W. from Lancashire, Thursday 30 April, 2009

On trout fishing the Usk: 29 april fished glan yr afon,caught 7 trout between us on klinkhammer (golden olive),and greenwell spiders.30 april fished dinas abercynrig caught 12 trout plenty of olives off ,did well with klinkhammers and spiders,all fish returned.

S.C. & R.C. from Northants, Thursday 30 April, 2009

On fishing Ty-Newydd (upper Wye)..: Richard
1 brown trout 10" returned.

Steve
1 brown trout 3", 3 brown trout 9",
1 brown trout 7", all returned.

P.A. from Berkshire, Wednesday 29 April, 2009

On fishing R34, Lower Stanton (R Honddu): 7 trout, 2 @ 10", one at 15" which went like a rocket!! One taken on a black shuttlecock buzzer, the rest on heavy nymphs.

Water levels very low.

E.H. from London, Wednesday 29 April, 2009

On trout fishing at Dinas & Abercynrig (Usk): One of those rare days when conditions were good in all areas - nice river height, water not too cold (10 C), air temperature rising to 18 C, cloudy with sunny periods. Olives started to appear around 12.30pm, but not in big numbers, with a few Late March Brown around 2pm. Rise lasted until 3pm with some activity until 5pm. Caught 20 trout on dry Parachute Adams, with 7 over 1lb 8oz, 4 of which were 2lb or over, heaviest 2lb 4oz.
Took two 2lb fish. A lovely day, and one of my most productive in over 20 years fishing the Usk.

P.W. from West Mids, Tuesday 28 April, 2009

On fishing R33, The Lower Henllan beat: Cliff and I fished the upper Honddu on beat 33 after I spoke to you on our way back from our abortive Devon trip. It was simply the most beatiful setting of any of the stretches I have ever fished. The fishing was pretty good too. I had four fish to 14 inches and all over ten inches. Cliff hooked a couple and got broken by one. The fly hatches were remarkable. There were flies in large numbers and of number of species some of which I hadn't seen before. We must be the only anglers to make a 700 mile round trip to fish a stream 60 miles from home.

O.B. from Glos, Monday 27 April, 2009

On a few days fishing the Usk & Monnow streams....: Here are some results - there has been a bit of a hiatus in producing these,because we have been moving house (same town, higher on the hill) and have been off-line. I can report that the new rod/tackle/fly-tying room is now organised although the rest of the house is in chaos. Despite, or maybe because of this, the Domestic Authority has authorised fishing again, so my son and I took off for the river and we got a few days in.

13 April, Buckland South: blank, although I lost a good trout on a nymph in the head of the Preserve. Nothing rising in the Mill Pool. You may say "sour grapes," but it does strike me this is not a lot of trout fishing for the money, although it looks very good salmon fishing value and a beautiful spot of course.

15 April, Dulas beat R42: 2 x 6 inch trout. The Foundation's team were coppicing and fencing in the middle of the beat, which may account for all the nervous-looking fish lurking in the lower section.

22 April, Brecon Town Water: 7 x trout to 14".

24 April, Upper Escley Brook Beat R36: 4 x trout including 13" and 14". This is an awful lot of fishing for the money, with pools all the way up! I like this one but could barely get through it in the day and it would be quite suitable for two anglers leap-frogging. The higher up you go, the more fish there seem to be - I got the impression it hasn't been fished much. Plus, the low flow and the sandstone slabs it runs over makes for very clear pools and everything is very visible. Usually I blew it and was probably spooking 9 out of 10 fish, but saw some large ones. I even managed to surprise an outsize eel (I trod on it while wading). I wonder what the reson is for the high average size - possibly the series of high waterfalls (one of them is over 6 feet) limit upstream spawning travel and reduce small fish recruitment?

26 April, Honddu Maes y Beran Beat R32: 1 x 7" trout. This stream near Llanthony does not seem to be as lively as it is lower down.

Otherwise I had a few trips to regular Usk beats at Usk Town, Kemys, Abergavenny and Mardy and all were reasonably good sessions. Fly-life is now quite mixed, like the weather. A few grannoms continued, but not in massive hatches. A few large dark olives still. I've seen just a few march browns coming off at Usk and in larger numbers at Brecon, where an imitation accounted for a few. It's funny to think this is the fly which the river used to be famous for. Hawthorns began to fall early, or at least before St Mark's day, and I had a couple of hawthorn-feeding fish from Kemys on a small black Klinkhammer. The Yellow Mays had already started on the Usk Town Water today, which seems early. And finally, I'm pretty sure I identified the large brook dun in the Escley Brook.

R.D. from South Wales, Monday 27 April, 2009

On fishing Skenfrith (Monnow): Having driven up from Cardiff straight after a night shift I arrived at the beat fearing the worst. However, the driving rain and blustery winds experienced on the way up started to ease by about 9am and things were looking up. Decided to stay close to the top end of the beat(and the shelter of my car) for a couple of hours while the weather decided what it was doing and it was here that all the action happened.
Caught 1 grayling of about 12Oz on a brown PTN but missed 4 or 5 other fish, 1 being of a notable size. A cold wind developed around midday and no further action occurred. At 3pm torrential rain stopped play and by 4pm my lack of sleep meant it was time to head home. Compared to my recent fishing experiences a very enjoyable day none the less.

N.W. from Worcestershire, Monday 27 April, 2009

On fishing Dan-y-Parc (River Usk): Visited the River Usk for the first ever time yesterday. Not sure why I have never fished it before? Despite the best efforts of the English or should I say Welsh weather to spoil the day I did actually manage to catch a few.
It was hard going with a strong downstream wind for most of the day.(It did relent a bit in the afternoon possibly to make way for the hail storm and torrential rain).
I managed 6 fish for the day all nice trout all fish were returned.

ps I really enjoyed the day and the view of surrounding countryside is stunning!

W.D. from Gloucestershire, Sunday 26 April, 2009

On fishing Cilwych (Usk)....: Fished Cilwych for the first time on Sunday 26th April. Started about 10.30. Caught a few nice trout in the first hour on a gold head Pheasant Tail. It then went a bit flat until a good hatch of LDOs from about 2pm. This kept the trout rising until after 4pm. Finished up with 8 trout between between 11” and 14”, and a few smaller fish.

Gloriously rugged terrain and difficult wading. The beat was quite a challenge, but it was a dramatic setting and worth the effort.

G.W. from Worcestershire, Sunday 26 April, 2009

On fishing the Red Lion (Moccas) beat: 3 nice brown trout caught on the fly and released.
The landlord of the Red Lion very helpfully came out and showed us the extent of the fishing. Very nice area. Salmon seen rolling in the pools but no luck.

P.B. from South Wales, Saturday 25 April, 2009

On fishing Ty-Newydd (upper Wye)..: A very good day, although a very strong cold wind made for difficult fishing at times.

1 rod had 4 Brown Trout and 2 grayling and the other rod had 4 Brown Trout and 3 grayling.

Most fish caught on small gold headed PTN. Some fish rising during early afternoon, but although a few were pricked on Klinkhammers, none were landed. All fish returned.

P.C. from North Yorks, Saturday 25 April, 2009

On fishing the Irfon....: River very low and clear. Colder after warm weather during the week and not many fish rising. Caught and returned two c. 14oz grayling both on dry fly. Beautiful stretch of river with lots of variety. Lots of wildlife. Will definately try it again.

A.W. from Worcs, Saturday 25 April, 2009

On fishing Gromain....: Shocking weather - upstream, very cold, strong, blustery wind of the blow-your-hat-off type (do W&U have a 'blow-off' policy?) Also some heavy rain showers Virtually no hatch (a few large and small olives, a couple of grannom), very few rises.

4 trout < 12oz, 2 grayling. Hooked and bumped-out of 8 others. The fish were reluctant to say the least, and presentation of dry fly virtually impossible. Caught on nymphs, hooked 1 on a klink.

Disappointed, but look forward to fishing it when they are 'on' !

T.H. from Hertfordshire, Saturday 25 April, 2009

On fishing Ty-Newydd (upper Wye)..: 3 small brown trout, all returned, caught on brown weighted pheasant tails. Excellent service and signposting from the Foundation.

R.G, from Dorset, Saturday 25 April, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): My catch return for Sat 25th April at Lyepole was 1 brown trout weighing 1/2 pound

A brilliant days fishing for my son and myself. Thanks

M.N. from Wiltshire, Friday 24 April, 2009

On fishing Dinas & Abercynrig (Usk).....: Wonderful day on the river, three fish caught on a dry fly at 1 3/4 lb,1 1/2 lb and 3/4 lb, one taken for my tea and the other two returned, many thanks.

S.C. from Staffs, Friday 24 April, 2009

Fishing Ty-Newydd.....: 7 trout one over a pound. 3 grayling. All taken on klinkhammer. Fantastic days fishing.

J.E. from Surrey, Thursday 23 April, 2009

On fishing Glanusk Estate...: Hot clear day with constant olive hatch throughout the day.

Reasonable amount of fish rising.

4 trout caught and released, 3 taken on dry, one on a gold headed nymph. All caught from the upper beat, best fish a fin-perfect brownie of just over a pound.

Great day, would thoroughly recommend the beat.

J.E. from Surrey, Thursday 23 April, 2009

On fishing Penpont (Usk)....: No fish caught. Small amount of fishing rising to a reasonable olive hatch mid morning.

G.M. from Worcestershire, Thursday 23 April, 2009

On fishing Titley (R26): What a fantastic place would kill to live in that cottage!
Great day, weather and conditions great. Total 6 fish all around 12 inches and all returned. All but one caught on gold heads fished NZ stlye the other one took a grey duster parachute. Had loads of fish rise to my indicater, which was either an Adams or grey duster but failed to connect. Not much hatching, a few olives made an appearance around lunchtime, fish ignored them. Loads of hawthorns about. Nice dead sheep in river.....

J.B. from Hereford, Thursday 23 April, 2009

On fishing Monnow Valley...: 5 Trout caught on dry fly from 11" up to 16". Beat is hard to fish and was only able to fish a few sections.

S.C. from Berks, Wednesday 22 April, 2009

On fishing Skenfrith (Monnow): 4 trout all 1lb, Greenwells and F fly. Few fish rising as yet on this beat

S.C. from Berks, Tuesday 21 April, 2009

On fishing Monnow Valley...: 2 trout of 1 lb (dry Greenwells) and chub (F fly) of 2 lb. Access difficult as in your information. Little fly activity.

M.B. from Manchester, Monday 20 April, 2009

On fishing Skenfrith (Monnow): 3 brown trout between 8 and 10 ins. 6 or so plucks and pulls. All fish in fast water on wet hatching sedge patterns A very cold morning followed by hot sunny day made dry fly difficult. A wonderful river-countryside, most enjoyable.

S.C. from Berks, Monday 20 April, 2009

Fishing Glan-yr-Afon (Usk): 4 trout - 2 @ 2lb and 2 @ 1lb, from the Lower Flats on Greenwells and march brown (both dry).

M.Y. from Worcestershire, Sunday 19 April, 2009

Fishing Gromain (upper Wye): First time here and started to fish at about 11.30, plenty of grannom hatching and fish were rising steadily. It didn't take long to catch 4 or 5 of these hungry little trout on a grey or brown klinkhammer. The hatch slowed up at lunch time so we stoped for a bite to eat and spent a pleasant hour sat on the bank in the warm sunshine just watching the river.

The afternoon was quiet until about 6.30 when there was another hatch and the fish woke up again and another 2 or 3 fish were caught before we headed for home. All of the fish were about 7 to 10 inches and were a lot of fun as they darted in and out of the weeds although it would have been nice to have found 1 or 2 larger ones, perhaps we were fishing the wrong spots, they were all safely returned and so hopefully we will find them in a couple of years time.
My 14 year old son ended up with 7 and I didn't put the rod away until I had matched that! A lovely afternoons sport.

C.J. from Hampshire, Saturday 18 April, 2009

On fishing the upper Usk...: Fished Pantysgallog on Saturday 18th April. Depsite a small hatch of olives around midday and being on a very fishy looking stretch of water, we saw or caught nothing in the way of fish!

Sunday 19th April we fished Fenni Fach. We also found this a very nice beat to fish and again there was an olive hatch around midday but this time much larger than the previous day. The end result was James managed 3 brown trout to 1.75lbs, I managed one of 1.5lbs and a really enjoyable weekends fishing. All fish were in great condition, taken on Olive imitation nymphs/drys and returned.

A.S. from Bucks, Saturday 18 April, 2009

On fishing Dan-y-Warren (Usk): 2 hours fishing in lovely weather and surroundings. 1 trout, about 10inches - caught and returned. Tups Indispensible fly.

On-line booking facility is excellent.

J.B. from Bristol, Saturday 18 April, 2009

On fishing Buckland South (Usk): Hello there! Just one trout to report but loads of Grannom hatching and a mink watching us, really nice days fishing, good to say hello to the river again.

T.R. from Derbyshire, Friday 17 April, 2009

On fishing the upper Wye: 8 trout,( all between 1/2 and 1 1/2 lbs) 1 grayling and a salmon parr atually released, but many more lost and loads of takes on dry and nymphs. Another great day with Kim Tribe as guide, we lost what he believed to have been a barbel, a huge weight which didnt seem to have noticed that it had a hook in its mouth - at first!

I had a couple of good grayling in the evening in the grounds of the Caer Beris hotel, great end to the day! Thanks to all at the Foundation and to Kim, he makes it look so easy until I try and fish on my own!

B.A. from Bristol, Friday 17 April, 2009

On fishing Dinas & Abercynrig (Usk).....: 1 x Brown trout 1/2lbs. Excellent beat, wish i'd had more time!

A.F. from Kent, Friday 17 April, 2009

Fishing Bugeilyn...: 6 small bt, all under 1/2 lb. Caught on black pennel and grouse and claret. Rises quietened from mid-afternoon onwards. All returned

T.R. from Derbyshire, Friday 17 April, 2009

On fishing the upper Wye....: One! Splendid brown, on klinkhammer just above the starting point bridge, 3/4lb ish. Nothing else, farmer driving loader shovel across river several times upstream coloured water so had to finish. Great day though!

WUF Note: Please see what the Foundation is doing about gravel abstraction in the RASP project at..... http://www.wyeuskfoundation.org/projects/index.php

D.C. from Herefordshire, Thursday 16 April, 2009

On fishing Ty-Newydd (upper Wye)..: Just thought that I would let you know how I did today. Lots of grannom and a few LDOs and gnats. Water 11 dec C so getting warmer! Had about 20 fish - 2/3 trout and the rest grayling of which the best was about 33 cm. None of the trout very sizable but let's hope they are left to grow!

One on a PTN, one on a hare's ear emerger and the rest on grannom pupa patterns with the vast majority taking the para emerger.

T.O. from Suffolk, Thursday 16 April, 2009

Fishing Gromain (upper Wye): A fantastic day. 10 brown trout caught, many more lost. Grannom hatch. Fish taken in fast runs with size 14 klinkhammer.

K.M. from Kent, Wednesday 15 April, 2009

On fishing Bridge Meadow (Usk): Caught four very Feisty browns about 8oz on dries in the bridge pool in the morning. Caught two on a green beaded shrimp in the fast run below, one about 12 oz the other about a 1lb.

Thanks Wendy and Allyson for your help.

J.D. from Warwicks, Wednesday 15 April, 2009

On fishing Sheephouse (Wye)...: One lb Brown trout caught on green and black snatcher type fly on floating line just before first bend up from the bridge. No surface activity at present. Caught alot of Parr also. Care should be taken if wading just past first bend up from the bridge, very deep mud -easy to get stuck in...suggest walking on left hand bank for a while to avoid the mud!

T.D. from Bristol, Wednesday 15 April, 2009

On fishing Glanusk: Two lovely wildies 16" and 17" returned. Olive klink and GRHE nymph. Lots of grannom through middle of the day plus LDOs and Turkey Browns, despite dull weather.

R.M-D. from Oxon, Tuesday 14 April, 2009

On fishing Abercamlais (Usk)...: We fished from around 10am through until 4pm. Small rise to LDOs around 12pm - 12.20pm. River low and cool which did not help the fishing. Nonetheless, we still caught a magnificent 2lb brown on a size 16 PTN fished behind a CDC Olive.

Lots of wildlife seen.

G.M. from Worcs, Tuesday 14 April, 2009

On fishing R27 (Court of Noke, river Arrow): 6 out of season grayling including one I estimate to be 2.5lb plus and an 8 inch trout. The wife managed 3 grayling. I thought I was in for a good day when I got the big graying after about 5 minutes of fishing but all in all it was slow day. Not a lot happening on the surface with just the odd fish showing. Had a small hatch of B-W-O's but no fish interested. Had all fish on gold heads although I did several attempts at my grey Klinkhammer.

River in fine condition and managed to fish pools I couldn't get too when I was down last July! I'll be back...

K.M. from Kent, Tuesday 14 April, 2009

On fishing Glanusk: ............, Lord Lieutenant of Powys and a lady-in-waiting to Princess Anne, and owner of Glanusk, personally directed me to the beat when she spotted me wandering aimlessly. Two fantastic pools feed by some fast water, fishing constantly rising. The bedrock ledges allow you to get quite far out into the pools. Wouldn’t want to wade those pools in coloured water !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Caught 3 in each pool on grannums, hand tied by Jean from Sweets of Usk. Stuart the ghillie stopped for chat as well, very nice man with some useful tips.

Switched to the fast water below the bridge after lunch caught one on a beaded hairs ear, the next three hours were spent untangling birdnests every 15 minutes. Didn’t get down the bottom beat.

Only downside was I had to build a ramp out of stones to get my car up on to the bridge over the brook on the way out. The drop from the end of the bridge ramp is about 10 inches, ok if you have big 4X4, not easy in and Audi A3.

Fantastic stretch of water, will return definitely.

O.H. from Glos, Sunday 12 April, 2009

On fishing the Dore (R41): Fished between 13:30 and 17:30 and took one 10" grayling with a (home tied!) pheasant-tail nymph right at the top of the beat. Water low but enough flow to keep algae at bay. Fairly constant trickle hatch of what looked like pale watery dun. Lots of unidentified black flies as well; would like advice as to what these are if possible! Some small trout were rising to these. Weather was beautiful and the setting absolutely sublime. One gripe; access to some of best looking pools and runs was impossible due to growth of vegetation on the bank; bushes and nettles etc. Fishing is therefore only possible by wading up the stream for long stretches and branches overhead make casting very hard indeed. If the beat is to be fished regularly, some of these need to be removed. A small complaint considering the great afternoon I had. This stream looks healthy with good insect fauna and birdlife (couple of dippers seen).

S.E. from Abergavenny, Sunday 12 April, 2009

Middle Usk on form: Only got on water at 11am due to work, just as grannom hatch finished. Only occasional fish moving with the air filled with egg laying adults. Worked hard for a pounder on the klinkhammer. At noon the start of the olives was indicated by a few small rises appearing along the far bank where main current swept along it. Thought at first they were dace as they were little splashes rather than dimples. Could not interest them and then realised leader was down to 11ft. Stretched it back up to 18ft and restarted. Over next 45mins picked off all 6 rising fish to an emerging olive pattern, all took with tiny apologetic rises before rod buckled over! Smallest was 1lb 4oz, rest were over 1lb 12oz with the best pulling the weighnet down well past 2lb. Kept one for supper and it must have 1,000+ grannom pupae in it's stomach. It was at the point of bursting!

A.D. from London, Sunday 12 April, 2009

On salmon fishing at Middle Hill Court..: I haven't fished the Wye before but understand the water was low for the time of year, I spent most of the day on the upper pools of the beat fishing the fly for salmon but there was no sign of any fish. There was however an incredible hatch of fly off the river and plenty of canoeist!

I thought the information sent through by the Wye & Usk foundation was very useful, informative and well put together and I would like to thank Seth Johnson-Marshall for his help and advice in booking the fishing - if you can just organise a fish for me next time I would be most grateful!

C.L. from London, Saturday 11 April, 2009

On trout fishing Pwll-y-Faedda: Just to say that I had a nice day on the river on Saturday 11 April. I caught 2 trout one a baby and one of about 12 inches. Big hatch of Grannom or some other popular Wye fly but I did not see many fish moving at all - caught both on nymphs. Red letter event, caught a fish on a fly that I tied myself - a world first. PTN if you must know, the other fell to a commercial hares ear.

K.M. from Kent, Saturday 11 April, 2009

On fishing Penpont (Usk): Spent most of the day giving a novice friend the dubious benefit of my vast experience. Despite this he managed to catch two Penpont Porkers at around the 2LB mark. The first was caught at the bottom of the beat adjacent to the campsite, despite kids throwing stones in the water, the second caught at the end of the day in the fast water below the bridge. No surface activity.

In my experience at Penpont it’s a case of quality not quantity.

J.H. from London, Saturday 11 April, 2009

On fishing Cefnllysgwynne (Irfon)...: We arrived at 11am to a few rising fish and a lamb in need of some assistance. The lamb managed to get itself entangle under tree roots at the edge of the river. I untangled and set free the lamb proceeded to run around me thinking I was its mother... then ran off to find its real mother butting her for milk. My good deed for the day was rewarded with a trout that got away and 2 10inch greyling that were returned. All were caught, or nearly caught, on a dry march brown.

Great day, great beat and thanks again to WUF.

M.T. from Warwickshire, Friday 10 April, 2009

On fishing the Irfon....: A rather cold start to the day with very little showing - only one small trout by lunchtime. The sun and the grannom appeared in the afternoon and, even with my limited skill, I was able to take a fish feeding on the surface - a real beauty of almost two pounds in lovely condition. Things quietened down as the day wore on, but persistence into the evening was rewarded by a trout of around 17 inches (going from how much room it took up in the net!). This fish was slim and in rather poor condition, so I hope someone is lucky enough to catch it again when it has had the chance to feed up a bit.

We stayed at a cottage called Hafod-y-blodau which is on the same estate as Cefnllysgwynne. It is a really delightful place to stay with spectacular views over the Irfon valley. If you're feeling fit you can even walk to the beat, but the climb back up might be a bit much after a day's fishing!

R.C. from Worc, Friday 10 April, 2009

R24 - Middlemoor: One Trout at 8ins and one Grayling at 12ins, both caught on a dry from same pool. Great day out, Thanks.

S.B. & K.T. from Warwickshire, Friday 10 April, 2009

On trout fishing the upper Wye: Kev targeted trout and caught 12 grayling and one trout and lost as many again on barbless hooks.

Optimistically, I took the big rod out and caught 4 trout and lost 3 others. Next week we'll try harder to get the intended species.

Grannom and olives abundant all day but few fish rising.

P.R. from Somerset, Friday 10 April, 2009

Trout fishing at Glan-yr-Afon (Usk): 2 fish caught & returned, PTN & Klinkhammer. 1 fish 12", the other 9". Great hatch all day with rising fish. Thanks for a great day.

S.J. from Staffs, Friday 10 April, 2009

Trout fishing at Doldowlod (upper Wye): Overcast and drizzle all day, cool southerly breeze. A few sedges and olives to be seen buzzing about. Caught a solitary trout from mid-way up the 'gutter' stretch of about 1.5 pounds - fell to a weighted flashback pheasant tail. Very few fish seen feeding. Lovely water though, warrants a repeat trip once things have warmed up.

O.B. from Glos, Friday 10 April, 2009

On fishing Cantref Reservoir....: Usk looking dodgy again, so spent the morning on the lure-casting line at Cantref. 3 rainbows including great big pig-like one which came to the net in about 30 seconds. Method of the day seemed be Cats Whisker Booby tethered with 24 inch leader to fast-sink line. At least that's what I did; I figured if you are going to turn to the Dark Side, you might as well do it properly.

K.M. from Kent, Friday 10 April, 2009

On fishing Skenfrith (Monnow): Lovely stretch of river in perfect condition on the day. 8 very nice grayling all around 1.5 lb, 4 trout between 8 oz and a 1LB. Swarms of Granum although no surface feeding. All fish caught on green beeded shrimp of caddis larvae.

S.M. from Hereford, Thursday 9 April, 2009

Trout fishing the Usk....: Fished the Usk below Abergavenny on Thursday - 9 trout to 1.25 lbs all on klinkhammers and lost many more. Clouds of grannom from 11am to 4pm.

W.D. from Glos, Thursday 9 April, 2009

Spring trout at Glanusk: Thanks for all the updates on the river conditions first thing this morning. Things were not looking good on the drive over. It was raining heavily and the Usk below Usk was bank high and brown.

However, the river above Crickhowell was coloured but fishable. There was a huge hatch of Grannom from about 11.30am and some LDOs in the afternoon. In between the frequent heavy rain showers, there was a decent rise of fish. It was one of those days I was glad to have a good waterproof. I found it hard work with dry fries when the Grannom were about.

Two of us managed about a dozen trout between 10" and 16". There was one overwintered stock fish, but the rest looked wild. The beat has not been stocked yet this year. Half and half between dries and nymphs. Saw one March Brown floating past.

Things went quiet about 3pm, and we packed up just before 4pm.

Overall a fantastic springs days fishing. One minute belting rain and high winds, the next the air was filled with flies and fish are rising.

WUF Notes: try a semi sunk emerger such as a klinkhammer when grannom are hatching

C.W. from Avon, Thursday 9 April, 2009

Fishing at Dinas & Abercynrig (Usk): First time here, Very special place feels very fishy. Weather cloudy ,windy, light rain on & off all day 10 degrees c. River clearing. Very little moving, caught & kept one trout 1lb ish. Mrs W very happy, fish full of caddis cases. Cant wait to come again on a fine day.

M.T. from Warwicks, Wednesday 8 April, 2009

On trout fishing at Gromain (upper Wye): River was just over 1ft when I arrived and was able to take 4 fish very quickly. Then it rose sharply and was around 18 inches by midday and the water quickly became quite mucky. Plenty of grannom hatching, but I guess it was hard for the fish to take them in amongst all the debris. The river fell back to around 15 inches by 4.00pm allowing me to take 4 more fish in the evening.

P.B. from London, Tuesday 7 April, 2009

On salmon fishing at Brobury (Wye): Water too low and clear for any realistic hope of a salmon. It was however a wonderful day in a beautiful setting.

M.T. from Warwicks, Monday 6 April, 2009

On trout fishing at Gromain (upper Wye): A real testament to the value of seeking advice from the Foundation. Seth advised me to avoid the tributaries and fish the main river instead and he was absolutely right. Good hatch of grannom in the middle of the day that brought fish to the surface.

About 15 fish before the rain came at about 4.00, mostly around the 1lb mark. 2 taken. A really lovely day

D.S. from Avon, Monday 6 April, 2009

On fishing Dan-y-Parc (River Usk): 2 Brown trout, one of 1lb 8oz, the other of around 14oz. Both caught on a bead head PTN (size 14), fished New Zealand style under a klinkhammer. Failed to land another hooked on the klinkhammer when the hook snapped at the bend!! Cold wind tended to keep flies and fish down for the most part and they only rose in sheltered pockets. A steady trickle of grannom and LDO either side of mid day, but nothing spectacular by Usk standards. I really liked the fishery and shall return, hopefully in more clement conditions. The fish were in excellent condition and fought well. All the fish I saw rise appeared to be of a good average size.

My only criticism would be to say that the maps and more particularly signage could be improved, particularly for left bank access.

O.B. from Glos, Monday 6 April, 2009

On fishing the Escley brook....: Escley brook lower beat. This was a surprise. I expected a lot of small trout, but it seems to hold a few large ones in the pools. One magnificent 16 inch cock fish, which seemed in perfect condition - wonderful colouring. (And why did I leave the net in the car, I had some anxious moments there?). I saw and spooked a much larger one in the pool where the tree has fallen in. Also one of the lower pools contained grayling (10 inches), much higher up the Monnow system than I expected.

A.W. from Wilts, Sunday 5 April, 2009

On trout fishing at Gromain (upper Wye): 10 grayling all released. 6 wild brown trout 1 kept. A fantastic morning fish rising to dry flies, mainly grey klinkhammer - needed to be very quick as missed quite a few. PTN successful in quicker water. Beautiful stretch of water.

A.W. from Wilts, Sunday 5 April, 2009

On trout fishing at Ty-Newydd (upper Wye): 5 Grayling all released. 4 Wild Brown Trout 2 kept. Just an idyllic beat on a bright sunny day. Fish rising throughout the day, occaisional interest in dry fly, klinkhammer. Most fish caught on PTN variations, or large pale nymph pattern. Missed 4 good fish. Wonderful place to spend the day, having lunch infront of the lodge, looking down onto the river was truly memorable.

P.F. from Warwickshire, Saturday 4 April, 2009

Trout fishing at Penpont, River Usk....: No fish caught. Lovely beat but despite good sky conditions the strong chill wind kept fish down with just a few single risers all day. Wind also made accurate casting with long light leaders very difficult even with weighted nymphs. Look forward to returning on a better weather day.
Excellent service thank you.

S.B. from Coventry, Saturday 4 April, 2009

Trout fishing on the upper Wye...: Very quiet until lunchtime when a good hatch of dark olives and grannom coincided and the fish went wild for 20 minutes in The Millstream. After the hatch, normal service resumed and you would think there was nothing in the pool.

I caught 4 trout, best about 14" and pricked a couple of others. Despite rising fish all around him, Kev struggled to compete with the quantity of naturals and only managed one trout of about 12".

A.F. from Hampshire, Saturday 4 April, 2009

On trout fishing at Sheephouse (Wye): 3 grayling all released, 2 wild brown trout both kept. A difficult day, strong winds, sunny spells, prolific Grannom hatch, the water blanketed at times with sheer numbers of winged insectlife. All fish caught on pheasant tail nymph and varients of that pattern.

WUF note: 4 rods.

F.W. from Glos, Thursday 2 April, 2009

On Dinas & Abercynrig, River Usk: Arrived early to the water with still a touch of mist in the air. The day promised much which it delivered in due course but it was slow. I walked the whole beat to get a feel for it, and wait for the mist to burn off.

I was fortunate enough to meet Banu from this forum about half way through my recce. To whom I owe great thanks for the photography. I am so often the one with the camera. Which means many of the pictures I have of good fish that I have caught are either in hand or on the bank side. It is nice to have a pic of me grinning like an April fool and holding a fish.

Of the day's fish what can I say, there were only three but they were all crackers as you can see.

WUF Note: 3 x Trout, 15-17"

O.B. from Glos, Thursday 2 April, 2009

Usk trout fishing....: As requested: Grannom hatch began on Usk town water today from around 10 to mid-afternoon. About 11 it was really quite intense: like a snow storm of little brown scraps. For all that, the trout didn't seem to be that engaged by the activity yet. I got 3 with some difficulty.

P.B. from Glos, Thursday 2 April, 2009

Gromain, upper river Wye.: Lovely day on Gromain on 2nd April - probably the best early season day we have had yet. 1 rod had 7 trout, 2 grayling - the other 5 trout 2 grayling, all fish on dries.

Steady trickle of grannom and olives throughout day and occasional large stone fly. Best trout 14" - spotted like a leopard, best (out of season)grayling a lovely 18" female. The minnows were spawning in the shallows, the heron was fishing too - but so was a cormorant when we arrived!

Thanks for usual efficiency in organising a great day's fishing at short notice.

S.M. from Hereford, Monday 23 March, 2009

On fishing the Dore at Chanstone...: Beat R40, 22nd March. 8 trout to 12" & 6 out-of-season grayling to 13". All taken on gold headed nymph fished below a klinkhammer. Lots more missed. The lower half of the beat is much easier to fish, so the walk down to the start is well worth it.

J.P. from South Wales, Monday 23 March, 2009

On fishing Dan-y-Parc (River Usk): Lovely water. Very strong and cold downstream wind limited fly choice to heavy nymphs. Managed to fluke a couple (2) in extremely difficult conditions. Both went around a pound. Will definitely try to return later in the year when conditions are more favourable.

S.W. from West Midlands, Sunday 22 March, 2009

Gromain (upper Wye): First trip to Gromain,very nice and varied stretch. It was a very windy day which made things difficult. A few olives around mid day. I sruggled and caught 1 10in trout, missing a few others. My friend James fared much better with 9 trout and a couple of nice Grayling taken mostly on spider patterns.

S.T. from Wiltshire, Saturday 21 March, 2009

On Usk trout fishing.....: No fish - lost one on PTN and rose one other. Some fish rising to olives but difficult to present dries properly with string downstream wind - felt maybe we should have done better but tried many patterns and not stirring fish. Very sunny and water very clear so maybe fish a bit spooky.
Better anglers may have had a few fish....

The service was excellent and will be back later in the year - perhaps a little early for the dries.

C.T. from Warwicks, Friday 20 March, 2009

The Lugg at Lyepole: Great looking beat, river looked perfect, only one small brownie - 10 inch - but perfect. Lots of follows and knocks, but we were just to slow!! Perhaps when the cover grows it'll fish more confidently.

M.O. from Wilts, Friday 20 March, 2009

Salmon fishing at Holme Lacy: Very pleasant day even tho' I didn't catch anything. Usual friendly & helpful WUF & another good day with Colin (HL's gillie).

R.D. from Hereford, Thursday 19 March, 2009

On fishing the Escley brook....: Fished this new beat from 12.30 to 2.30 in bright sun all the time. The water was crystal and one of the best Large Dark Olive Hatch I have seen anywhere was getting under way.

I fished a #14 oilve emerger pattern throughout. Lost a good rising fish just above the road bridge and missed another. The first fish to hand was another rising fish of 13.5".

By now the hatch was in full swing and olives were tripping down the riffles and into the pools where fish were queing up to take them from the water column and the surface. Plenty of fish disregarded my dry but the next fish landed was 14.5" and had my 3# rod bent double as he head for home in the roots.

The final two fish measured 12.5" and 14" and I missed one a lot larger. A wet fly would have cleaned up. I fished he bottom 2kms of the beat in two hours and I know from inspections that the next 2km are as good, if not better.

A beat for the thinking angler and well worth getting to know.

E.H. from London, Thursday 19 March, 2009

On Usk trout fishing.....: Very enjoyable fishing despite return journey from London - good to be on the river again. Weather sunny and 10 to 14 degrees C. River low and clear, water cold - 7.5 degrees C. Little or no hatch.
A sprinkling of olives observed between 1pm and 2pm. Caught 2 fish on dry parachute Adams, both around 1 pound, and missed two others. Spider waterhen bloa and gold head hare's ear nymph did not produce any takes.

M.L. from Oxon, Wednesday 18 March, 2009

Lower Wye salmon fishing...: A few fish showing. Lost one which threw the hook during acrobatics, whilst in the air it could be seen to be very silver and bigger than 5lbs. This fish took a toby.

A jack pike around 5lbs also liked the toby.

Most fishing effort was with the fly (various) but to no avail - a few touches but no hook ups.

C.S. from Warwicks, Wednesday 18 March, 2009

On trout fishing Dinas & Abercynrig: A misty day til lunchtime then the sun broke through and the temperature went up to about 15 degrees. The first olives were seen at 11.30, very few, and the main hatch about 12.30, although quite small in number. A few fish rose for about half an hour.

One BT, about a pound or so, caught on a dry olive pattern and returned. Very quiet after about 2pm. Lovely day though and this is a wonderful Usk beat. I shall definitely book it again.

S.W. from West Midlands, Sunday 15 March, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): Nice warm and sunny day for a change. Caught 8 trout and 6 grayling on upstream nymphs. All fish were on the small size,best 12in. Friend Martin caught 6 Grayling with a couple around 16in.

A.T. from Surrey, Friday 13 March, 2009

Dinas & Abercynrig on the Usk....: What a fantastic addition to the WUF beats!

Easy wading, without the need of wading staff. Two 15" brownies fell to a peeping caddis pattern early in the day, followed by another four wildies on LDO imitations. A small LDO hatch brought a few fish on the surface and we seemed to be in the right place at the right time. Biggest fish measured 16.5".

A superb day! Who said anything about bad luck on Friday the 13th?

R.P. from Hereford, Friday 13 March, 2009

Lyepole (River Lugg): I caught 5 brown trout weighing up to 1lb, all returned saftley.

S.B. from Worcs, Thursday 12 March, 2009

On fishing Dinas & Abercynrig (Usk).....: 6 trout ¾lb to 1lb lost a few too. Looks very interesting salmon water.

D.H. from Abergavenny, Monday 9 March, 2009

Fishing Bridge Meadow on the Usk....: Weather: sunny with broken cloud. Water: fast flowing and slighly coloured. Two trout taken on a March Brown nymph, fished on a sinking leader,about 12ozs each. Taken in the slower water down stream of the Bridge pool. A very pleasant few hours fishing.

C.B. from Cardiff, Sunday 8 March, 2009

A late season coarse fishing trip to the upper Wye: Maesllwch - only one Jack Pike, but a very pleasant day, and I saw 22 species of bird as I sat there passing the time.

Pwll Y Faedda - difficult fishing with the river rising, but I had a mixed bag of trout, grayling and several chunky Chub.

P.A. from West Sussex, Saturday 7 March, 2009

On the 2009 Passport: I just received the new "Passport" and on behalf of myself and two other fishing buddies, I want to congratulate you all on an excellent job! We have been fishing the Passport waters for a few years now and find this guide very handy as we come from great distances and rely heavily on it's contents and advice.

This time round, I think you have excelled yourselves and have got us planning more trout trips and thinking about coarse fishing the Wye for barbel!! Well done to all involved.

N.P. from Bournemouth, Saturday 7 March, 2009

Pike fishing at Maesllwch: Searched out all the pikey looking areas with deadbaits, but no runs. River was low, but coloured. Can't wait to get back when it is fining down after a flood as there are some cracking looking swims and there must be some big pike in there.

P.W & C.B from Stourbridge, Saturday 7 March, 2009

On fishing the Severn Arms Voucher beat: No trout but 4 grayling to over 2lbs. Steady flurries of dark olives from 11a.m. through to about 3.00 p.m.and fish rose for them in places.

Adrian N from Bristol, Saturday 7 March, 2009

On coarse fishing at Middle Hill Court (Wye): Just a quick note to up date you on our catches at Middle Hill Court last Sat the 7th March 2009

2 Barbel of 7½lbs, 1 Pike of 4lbs & 1 Chub of 6lbs 3oz. Very enjoyable day!

M.D. from Abergavenny, Friday 6 March, 2009

Fishing R46 - Upper Grywne Fawr: Thought i'd just drop a little note of my couple hours fishing the Upper Grywne (R46)... Stream was runing very clear as can be expected... Caught 6 fish of up to 12" as stated on catch return card, all great buttery condition & returned.

Ive always fancied fishing more water on this stream (upstream) so it was great to be on this particular stretch which will be a fantastic dryfly pocket water once the weather warms up a little...

Very nice chap at Ty-Isaf, asked me just to mention the fact the voucher box hasn't yet been placed on fence post and was a little concerned that folk may come & fish whilst he wasnt present at the property & nowhere for vouchers to be posted....

Anyhows, I put one of yesterdays catch at the end of a tying video I made for my good friend & fly dresser.I also placed a couple adds at the end for the Foundation & other Associates & sponsors. .. I can do this on any videos I make of my adventures in the Marches, so if you think it is a good idea or if you wish for them to be removed please let me know.... You can click on my Youtube username to view all videos I have made.. Heres the link (copy paste into search bar):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ak6sZzhEzis

R.B. & L.B. from Cornwall, Friday 6 March, 2009

On Trout fishing at Abercamlais: Thanks for the local knowledge . .. the beat on the river Usk was plenty long enough to challenge us in the cold weather . . there was, as you said there would be, a good hatch of dark olives? which lasted for about an hour. The trout rising well and a great sight to greet the new season. It was unfortunate that my sluggish reactions were unable to compete with the speed of the trout!

It was still a good day on river bank and look forward to some warmer ones later in the year.

G.H. from Worcester, Thursday 5 March, 2009

On fishing R35 Lower Stanton Roving Voucher beat: Caught five trout to approx 10", all on Olive Bead Head PTN

P.D. from Malvern, Thursday 5 March, 2009

On fishing R34 Lower Stanton: Total catch 5 Brown trout ranging form 9" to the best at 12" all fish taken on gold head pheasant tail nymph fished up stream.

A superb beat with an excellent mix of water. I'm pretty sure I saw some mink tracks on the section between the railway bridge and the fish farm.

B.W. from Northampton, Tuesday 3 March, 2009

Early trout fishing on the Usk: Blanked, but never mind. VERY wet day. River started to colour up in the early afternoon. Looks like a well managed beat.

J.I. from Birmingham, Tuesday 3 March, 2009

On fishing Penpont 1st day of the season: Catch return for 3rd March 2009 Penpont, River Usk.

River low and gin clear am. Heavy rain all day. River 9-12" higher by 4pm and very coloured. No fish caught. Good to be back on the Usk, despite the weather.

A.T. & A.L. from Surrey, Tuesday 3 March, 2009

On fishing Glan yr Afon - First day of the season: Nothing much happened until a few large dark olives hatched at lunchtime. Some fish started feeding on the surface and I was lucky enough to pick-up two risers on a cdc emerger and an Adams. I kept both fish for the table. They weighed 1.0lb and 1.2lb. Alwyn missed a few takes and did not manage to hook anything.

A very enjoyable day, inspite of the poor weather conditions. Always a joy to fish the WUF rivers.

O.B. from Gloucestershire, Monday 2 March, 2009

Luvin the Lugg...: This Lugg beat's (Lyepole) a gem, isn't it? What a beautiful valley and it was still in sunshine yesterday. The odd Large Dark Olive during the day, but no reaction to them, so I was heavy nymphing on the bottom all through. Results were 8 grayling: including three of 15" and one of 16". Plus three out of season trout: two wild browns and a surprise rainbow of a bit over a pound. I wonder what he was doing there?

I was out on the Abergavenny Town Water this morning to celebrate the new trout season and the LDOs actually stirred up the trout to start feeding on a pool tail; I got 5 on spiders before rising wind and rain drove me off. I note there's a major bank collapse half way down the beat which is contaminating the Usk with mud for a long way downstream - quite a big chunk of Monmouthshire heading for the estuary.

J.B. from Hereford, Sunday 1 March, 2009

On 4 Grayling rods fishing Gromain: Amazing scenery and some bright periods made for fantastic weekend. Approx 15 grayling first day on bugs, about 20 on Sunday trotting. Occasional fish rising in early pm both days. 100% recommend the Trericket Mill B&B/Bunkhouse accross the road - we went for the bunkhouse which is fantastic for a comfy budget break £12 per night!http://www.trericket.co.uk/index.html Also Erwood Inn just up the road - warm welcome, good value food and tasty ale!

C.H. & B.P from South Wales, Saturday 28 February, 2009

On a great day at Sheephouse: Made the booking by phoning the office, (I have always booked on-line previously). A friend (Brian) and I were looking for a day’s coarse fishing on the Wye. Simon took the call and was first class. Having stated Barbel as our target species, (more in hope than expectation), various preferred beats were found to be unavailable. However, Simon’s detailed knowledge of each beat and his helpful comments made for excellent advice, (and this from someone who “doesn’t normally answer the phone” !).
And so, on Sunday 28th, Brian and I fished at Sheephouse. Barbel were by no means guaranteed, but we were happy to catch anything, contented with a day in wonderful, unspoilt surroundings.

Brian caught the first fish of the day, a perfectly conditioned Grayling. Little did we know that this was merely the appetiser for a very special ‘main course’.
By the end of the day, Brian (who had never caught a Barbel) had caught three magnificent specimens. They weighed 8lb 6oz, 8lb 10oz and a superb fish of 11lb 10oz, caught with the last cast of the day !!!!

I did manage a 4lb 4oz Chub, also with the last cast of the day, but was happy to see this fish totally eclipsed by Brian’s achievements. All fish were fin-perfect (and all were caught on legered maggot). Special, unforgettable fish making a special, unforgettable day.

Sincere thanks to everyone involved at WUF (particularly on Brain's behalf!). From the phone call making the booking, to the last cast of the day, the WUF once again provided a truly FIRST-CLASS service.

(Thanks also for my new 'Passport' booklet received recently - hours of enjoyable reading ahead).

Best Regards
Carl Hier

M.A. from Cwmbran, Thursday 26 February, 2009

On fishing Lyepole (Lugg): 2 x Grayling caught dead drifting goldhead nymphs, one of 6" and one beauty of 20". River slightly coloured, no rising fish seen.

Excellent beat, easy to find but well away from everywhere!! Good parking and easy access to River, lots of work has been done on the banks/trees,etc making it a pleasure to fish.

M.A. from Cwmbran, Thursday 26 February, 2009

On Grayling fishing at Lyepole: 2 x Grayling caught dead drifting goldhead nymphs, one of 6" and one beauty of 20". River slightly coloured, no rising fish seen. Excellent beat, easy to find but well away from everywhere!! Good parking and easy access to River, lots of work has been done on the banks/trees,etc making it a pleasure to fish.

David C from Crewe, Monday 23 February, 2009

On fishing the Irfon and Upper Wye: Glanwye. 2 grayling (1 was 2lb), 1 brown trout about 1lb.
Cefnllysgwynne. 4 chub up 3lb, 3 grayling up to 2lb.
Plas Gwyn. 2 chub biggest was 4lb, 1 grayling 2lb.
Abernant. 1 chub about 2lb,1 grayling 2lb 4ozs.

Both rivers were a bit low and clear,with some bright sunny weather fishing was hard. We did not catch as many as this time last year but the quality was better.

The Everlook Guesthouse in North Road, Builth Wells was excellent, the best we have stayed at. Cannot recommend them highly enough.

G.W. & D.B. from Pershore, Sunday 22 February, 2009

On fishing Lyepole (Lugg): What a beautiful spring day although the NW wind had a bit of an edge on it. Bird life in abundance - Woodpecker, Raven, Buzzard, Long tailed tits everywhere, Fieldfare, the list goes on and they were singing their little hearts out! This was our first visit and boy is it a gorgeous spot - so peaceful. Carpets of snowdrops on the banks.
The river looked great and around midday there was a smattering of Olives putting in an appearance but.... not a rise seen and boy was it tough. Every pool looked so perfect and despite some serious fishing I managed 5 Grayling and D. got 4. All were around the 10" mark and fell to shrimp patterns with plenty of weight in them.
There are some seriously deep holes on that stretch and I do not think we could get down quick enough in the flow in those, but generally, I believe that they were not hungry apparantly!

One or two more covers over the barbed wire in the lower area would really help - check out my torn chesties!

All in all a really enjoyable day in a great location - will return when the season progresses - that is a promise.

Best wishes

O.B. from Gloucestershire, Sunday 22 February, 2009

On Winter Grayling fishing: I had a trip Sunday to Abbeydore with vouchers. A very pleasant time in the golden valley with a walk round the abbey and a pint of cider to finish it off. One grayling of about 7 inches, which proves they live there I suppose.
I'll come back when they are rising a bit.

Lugg at Mortimer's Cross, Monday: What an interesting beat and what a lot of water to learn! I spent most of the morning walking down to the bottom end, from the chalk stream-like manicured section at the top to the wild and woolly bits at the bottom. Then, beguiled by the warm weather, sunshine, snow drops, rooks nesting and LDO's hatching, I made the mistake of trying fishing near the surface when I should still have been heavy nymphing. When I finally figured the fish were staying down I changed to lobbing tungsen as usual and got just three grayling - 8", 9" and, very memorably at twilight, a 17" male fish from the bridge pool below the mill which took me splashing over 100 yards down the main run before I could get below it to use the net. I can't think when a grayling caused me so much trouble.

I would like to come back when they are rising a bit there, but I suppose we only have this one for the winter?

Best wishes.

Graham W from Bromsgrove, Saturday 21 February, 2009

On fishing at Lyepole (Lugg): A good day on a very clear River Lugg at Lyepole, the fishing was tougher than usual but a good stamp of fish to 2lb. All fish caught on tungsten bugs/nymphs with short line.

WUF comments: GW 9 Grayling, CW 9 Grayling & 1 Trout

Mark N from Chesterfield, Saturday 21 February, 2009

On fishing at Mortimers Cross: A perfect day for fishing and a cracking looking water.We fished hard and covered all of the 1.7 miles of river but could not find the fish (well only a few) better luck next time?

Rod 1. 1 Brown trout.

Rod 2. 1 Brown Trout, 1 Grayling.

Rod 3. 1 Grayling

Graham M from Kidderminster, Thursday 19 February, 2009

On fishing Lyepole: Great day weatherwise! Warm and sunny. Difficult fishing though! Only managed to land 5 willing grayling all around a pound or so and all but one from the same run. Had a mad 15 minutes when they came on the take. Missed more than I hooked. Biggest one I guess was nearer 2 pounds.
Mainly caught them short lining on twin beaded nymphs and heavy shrimp type bugs.

O.B. from Gloucestershire, Tuesday 17 February, 2009

On fishing Abernant & Plasgwyn: Results for 17 February on Abernant. I'm finding the rivers pretty difficult at the moment although there's nothing wrong with the levels now and temparature is coming up. If I catch anything, I'm getting plagued these days by post-spawning trout - quite aggressive they are - where the grayling should be. I think salmon anglers fishing with sinking lines are going to have the same experience when they start next month. Trotting in Lady Alexander's Catch and Upper Stone Catch, 5 out of season trout, including a
2 pounder, followed by a single 15 inch grayling just before dusk.

On the Cammarch Hotel middle and lower Irfon beats 14th February, a friend and I both blanked entirely.

The coarse anglers are blaming rock salt from the roads washed in with the snow melt. I wouldn't know about that, but it's always good to have an another excuse!

Cheers

Graham W from Bromsgrove, Sunday 8 February, 2009

Sibling Rivalry at Lyepole: Another good day at Lyepole despite cold & snowy weather all fish caught short line bugging with tungsten-headed nymphs/bugs.

WUF comments: 24 Grayling & 1 Trout

Mick W from Bromsgrove, Saturday 7 February, 2009

Sibling Rivalry at Lyepole: Got there at 11.00am and both decided to head upstream fishing heavy nymphs. We found the fishing extremely hard going and caught a total of 5 Grayling between us, mostly from the top half of the beat.

I have been grilling our brother G. all morning who was fishing there yesterday and 'bagged up' using the same flies that we struggled to catch on!. His report, I'm sure, will follow later!

O.B. from Gloucestershire, Saturday 7 February, 2009

On fishing Pwll Y Faedda (Upper Wye): Modest results only on Pwll y Faedda Saturday. 25 odd grayling between 3 rods, all of them small. Come to think of it, some of them were very small.

All taken with bugs hard on the bottom...because that's where they were and because I forgot the maggots!

O.B. from Gloucestershire, Monday 2 February, 2009

Against all odds: Very hard work on Llyn Em Tuesday, what with the water still high and the snow-storms and all. I thought I was surely going to blank, but made some contact after lunch and took just 4 grayling on heavy nymphs before the cold got to me. But one of these was what I call a proper specimen at 18" - a wonderful heavy-shouldered male fish - which made a cold day worthwhile.

Best wishes.

Derek A from Bristol, Saturday 31 January, 2009

On coarse fishing at Middle Hill Court (Wye): 2 chub 2lb 12oz and 4lb 6oz both on white maggot. The river was up and coloured but level steady. Saw one salmon moving up river. Very enjoyable day. Hope to return before the end of the season.

Graham T from Stratford upon Avon, Tuesday 20 January, 2009

On Grayling fishing at Mortimers Cross: Fishing at Mortimer Cross, Friday, 20th Jan 2009. The river was in very good order but I was very rusty and only managed one trout on heavy nymph but no sign of grayling.

Excellent instructions.

Many thanks,

Mick W from Bromsgrove, Saturday 17 January, 2009

On fishing Lyepole (Lugg): Unfortunately the heavy rain the night before put a damper on an eagerly anticipated first trip to this venue, on arrival I was greeted with a rising river, which was colouring up quickly.

Setting off upstream I was glad I decided to bring along my wading staff, although the river bed makes for easy wading the extra water and lack of clarity made it tough going.

This is a lovely secluded beat, I will certainly be returning here, hopefully when the river is less of a challenge.

Managed to find 4 Grayling in total with the largest at 12" all falling to heavy nymphs.

David S from Abergavenny, Sunday 11 January, 2009

The Big Freeze: Tried my best but very windy. I struggle to get a straight line out in the best conditions. Persevered for a couple of hours, but nothing to report.

Did see some very large aalmon on the banks. Also a good number of salmon parr trapped below the ice when the water dropped, but they appeared to be none the worse as they made their escape as the ice thawed.

WUF Note : On Grayling fishing at Gromain (Upper Wye)

Steve W from Birmingham, Saturday 10 January, 2009

Two grayling rods at Lyepole: Freezing cold day with the river very clear. Suprisingly we had a really good days fishing, I caught 10 grayling and 1 small Trout, M had 15 grayling. Most of the fish were small but we managed around 5 fish of around 1lbs mark. All the fish caught on the dead drift on small tungsten nymphs.

Chris L from Hereford, Friday 9 January, 2009

On Winter Grayling fishing at Monnow Valley: Apologies for late returns. We went on a hope over expectation trip, partly just to see a new beat. Very cold day and rod rings froze up. Walked past most of lower beat as water high and slow but had some sport from top half where quicker water began. Two Grayling on single Czech nymph rig with extra soft lead on leader fished deep and two on Sparkle Nymphs as point fly on team of two also very deep.

Lovely beat and access not as bad as I'd been warned. It was a very tricky day weather wise and couldn't help but think how good it would be on a summer evening, especially the lower end where I am sure ther must be some big trout judging by the perfect lies.

While here I'll give you a very late (sorry) catch return. In December, can't remember exact date, I fished the Dore with vouchers. Truly brilliant way to spend a couple of hours and full of fish. Caught four Grayling on slim red tag nymphs, the biggest was 14 inches and three out of season trout (all returned) including two from one small run, one being 12 inches and the other at least 15 inches. This beat is a real treat with surprisingly big fish but I would advise a short rod, stealth and patience as it took me several changes of fly and the bottom third of the beat to get my first fish which then came thick and fast, many takes being missed.
Best Wishes.

WUF Notes : 2 rods fishing

O.B. from Gloucestershire, Friday 2 January, 2009

Holiday Grayling Fishing: Happy New Year to everybody!

Holiday grayling results as follows:

27th December Abernant and Plas Gwyn
Between 3 rods, 10 small/medium grayling, most from the upper part of Stone Catch, trotting and nymphs.

28th December Pwll y Faedda
33 grayling, mostly small/medium but included 3 or 4 fish of 15 to 16", from the Boat Pool, trotting and traditional grayling wets when they came up from the bottom around midday.

29th December Gofynne: 1 grayling. I wish some-one would advise me how to fish this Irfon beat in mid-winter! I try it most years and always seem to be able to see every stone on the bottom, but no fish. When I had just about given up, just like last time, a single grayling took pity on me and accepted a tiny Grayling Steel Blue weighted down with a sacrificial bug. In the same place as last time, top of the beat. Maybe it was even the same fish as before? A proper Irfon grayling though: 16", so I count the day as a good one.

30th December Llyn Em:
21 grayling and 2 out of season trout, on high-sticked Tungsten Hare's Ear fished along the gravel near the bottom of the beat. This was a lovely shoal of grayling, nearly all between 14 and 16 inches and several larger. One of the trout was a good one too. Depressing, though, to see the number of saw-bill scars, both old and new, carried by these older fish.

31st December The Rocks:
Blank. I just couldn't find fish and seemed to spend most of the day de-icing rod rings and trying to avoid falling into those deep pools.

2nd January Glanwye:
Blank. Again desperately cold with tackle freezing up all morning and couldn't find grayling in any of the usual places. The Wye was actually starting to ice up with rafts of what the Scots call grue coming down the main flow and all the slack water iced over.

Evidence of salmon spawning activity including dead kelts on almost all of these beats.

Friends from Total Flyfisher, tell me they are out again today on the Cammarch Hotel water, so we will hear how they do - brave fellows.

I'm now tucked up in the warm tying flies with a bottle of single malt at my elbow.

Mr H from Redditch, Tuesday 30 December, 2008

On fishing Luggs Mouth & Lower Carrots: Catch : 8 Chub to 3lb 14oz

Tom L from Surrey, Monday 29 December, 2008

Pike fishing at Maesllwch: Looking for pike but too cold and clear. Fished for 3 hours till dusk without a touch. The beat looked magnificent and the sunset was fabulous

Nigel W from Oxfordshire, Sunday 28 December, 2008

Two rods fishing Mortimers Cross: This is the second time we have visited this lovely beat without seeing a cloud.Very cold bright and clear. Looking forward to trying this beat in good conditions. Very nice piece of river.

Graham W from Bromsgrove, Friday 26 December, 2008

Boxing Day at Skenfrith: A good days fishing on a very beautiful beat,although it was bitterly cold. The Monnow was running clear & at a good level, had 3 grayling & lost a couple all caught short-line nymphing.

WUF Note : 1 rod

Andrew B from London, Tuesday 23 December, 2008

On fishing Mortimers Cross: Three grayling and one brown trout, grayling to 13" brown trout to 14". Despite the warmer weather less activity than on my last visit in fog and frost.
Best regards

G.M. from Usk, Tuesday 23 December, 2008

On fishing Glanwye: Comments : 63 grayling (biggest approaching 2lbs) and 4 chub (biggest about 4lbs) trotting. Very pleasant day.

WUF Notes : 3 rods fishing

Nick P from Dorset, Sunday 21 December, 2008

Pike fishing on the Wye: Preston Court 20th Dec 2008 - 20/12/2008. Pike of 17.6, 16.4, 14.0 and 2 jacks. All caught on whole herring. Short burst of activity at dawn and it was all over by 8.30am. Searched out all of the pikey looking slacks but no more runs.

Lower Carrots & Luggs Mouth 2st Dec 2008. 6 small pike up to 12 lb. All caught on whole herring in slacks below croys on right hand bank. All runs came early on and action was over by 9am. Saw about a dozen salmon leap out.

Graham W from Bromsgrove, Sunday 21 December, 2008

Two rods fishing Mortimers Cross: A decent days Grayling fishing with river level 1'7" on gauge and running clear. Fish mainly caught between hut and first bend and in a pool half way up the open stretch, a few big fish also lost. All fish were taken on tungsten head shrimp & red-tag type patterns fished short line style.However some very good looking runs seemed empty of fish.

WUF Comments : 14 grayling caught

Ian N from Neath, Saturday 20 December, 2008

On coarse fishing at Maesllwch: 7 chub with 4 over 4lbs and a couple up near 5lbs but my new electronic scales decided to go wrong so I can't be more precise than that.

T.T. from -------, Tuesday 16 December, 2008

On Grayling Fishing at Glanwye (Upper Wye): Just a quick message to say a big thank you for the fishing today. I am nearly there now and one more trip will hopefully be enough to get a few more scenic photos and possibly a bigger grayling.

We had a lot of fish today, mainly on the large sweeping bend above the chalet. We did have some wonderful sport in the mouth of the stream for about 20 minutes but the bites dried up fairly quick once we started hooking
them.

In all I probably had 30 or more grayling with 10 over 1lb with the best at 1lb 10oz and 1lb 13oz. Magnificent fishing in the most wonderful of surroundings.

I would like to get a trip in over christmas if that is ok with you.

Thanks once again

Will S from Ludlow, Tuesday 16 December, 2008

And a bad day at Cefnllysgwynne... funny though: Finally getting round to writing my catch report for todays visit to your stretch at Cefnllysgwynne after a very long day!

Hope you see the see the funny side too (as I am having to...!)

A friend showed up early this morning with the offer of his car and half a tank of fuel in return for feeding his cats while he is on holiday for a couple of days and made it clear that he doesn't expect it back with petrol in it. So I decided to treat myself, rang W&UF at 9.00am and booked the Irfon at Cefnllysgwynne, Hendre for today, £15 (ouch!) but a bit of a one off Christmas Treat. By 10.00 I was in the car. By 11.00 I was in Wales driving round tiny single track B roads having been led up the garden path by the sat nav and with no standard map to get me unstuck.

Arrived at Cefnllysgwynne at 12.00 with only four hours to fish before dusk and 2 miles of water to suss out. Fishing by 12.30 but despite the guess by the very friendly chap I spoke to, Seth, at W&UF that the river would be fishable and also the comments on their web page about most of it being easily wadeable, the extra 2ft (according to the
"keeper" there Charles Picton - google him - rodmaker) of water coming through made most of the near bank gravels too deep to get onto and therefore Charles' recommended deep runs on the far bank too far to reach properly with float tackle and the wind coming direct across the river.

By 4.30 it was dark, I had blanked and decided enough was enough so headed back to the car. I put my gear and rod on top of the car and started getting out of my chesties into shoes on the driver's side. At this point it was blowing a gale, peeing down and I badly wanted to go. Big gust of wind blows my rod off the roof so that it is propped
up across the open passenger entrance. I quickly hop round the front of the car with chesties around my knees and just as I am about to reach my float rod, stumble, fall to my knees and gently tap the passenger door so that it swings in slow motion shut on the rod butt. End of rod. Yes, the brand new 13ft Hardy Greys G-Tec Float rod that my daughter won for her big Teme chub in the Angling Times
photo competition a couple of months ago...

Now, thoroughly p'ed off I throw the stuff in the boot and leave. After 45 mins I realise that the sat nav has stitched me up again and I am on the same B road back to Dolfor. Remembering I had seen a road atlas in the boot I pull over and open the back of the car. In my haste to leave Hendre I had left the top off the bait box and now
there are the best part of 2 pints of maggots swilling around in the boot. It's too dark to see what's what so I brush out as many as I can, turn the car in the right direction and head for home arriving a 7.30pm. When I open the boot the maggots I have missed have by now made good their escape and are nowhere to be seen.

I'm going to get my friend a Venus Fly Trap for Christmas...

That's the 2nd grayling blank on the W&UF waters I've had now and the 3rd blank in total, a barbel-less barbel fiasco at Backney. 5 rod days +£75 fees + lots of petrol and bait = "nil poisson"!

R.L. and D.W from Lydbrook, Monday 15 December, 2008

A good day at Cefnllysgwynne: Cold frosty morning and line frozen in rod rings, the Irfon settling after high flash flood but water clear. Fantastic scenery.

D., tried nymphs in morning, few touches but non hooked, trotting in afternoon half way down beat by pond in deeper water. 5 Grayling one nearly 3lb and dark cloured, one two pound plus shaped like a torpedo and very silver, rest about 6oz to 8oz all on single maggot on 16 hook.

A well spent and damaged cock salmon that must have been close on 20lbs kept coming in under the bank of this swim.

R., one 4inch grayling in shallow glide on double maggot on 14 hook, 4 small others hooked and lost, about time D. caught more than I!

In two visits we have taken 3 grayling over 2lb 4oz on trotted maggot in the deeper swims and I wonder if upstream touch slow rolling ledger in the deeper swims would produce more of these large grayling.

Thanks to all at The Foundation and Charles Picton for a beat in excellent condition and The Bridge Inn at Llyswen for that leg of Lamb that no trip to Wales is complete without!!

Frank W from Gloucestershire, Friday 12 December, 2008

At Skenfrith: One rod... 11 Grayling 8" to 12"

Roger S from Malvern, Thursday 11 December, 2008

Great day at Lyepole (Lugg): Four grayling 3 x 8" to 9" and 1 x 12" from myself and Nil from my companion! Lots more missed!

River about 6" above natural marginal plant level but clear.
A most enjoyable cold sunny day!

Mark S from Bristol, Monday 8 December, 2008

On fishing Skenfrith (Monnow): 4 fish from the lower part of the beat on the flat glides. Missed another four/five all to the duo. All bar one took the nymph. Either red collar GHPTN or hot spot olive shrimp. One took the Klink I was hanging the nymph off but did not stay on. Cheers

Graham W from Bromsgrove, Monday 8 December, 2008

On Winter Grayling at Lyepole: With the Lugg running clear & cold at 1'6" on gauge it looked perfect and indeed I had a great 6 hours fishing catching some beautiful Grayling all taken on tungsten head

WUF comments: 14 Grayling to 15" & 3 B/Trout to 13"

Steve W from Birmingham, Wednesday 3 December, 2008

2 Grayling rods at Skenfrith: First time on the Monnow. Temperature never got much above freezing all day but still had a good day. I caught 8 grayling with M catching 3 Grayling plus a Chub around the pound mark. Not suprisingly nothing rising,caught all fish on leaded shrimp patterns. Pleased to find Grayling still well spread all down the river. Most of the Grayling 12" with a couple around 15".

Glyn W from Pershore, Sunday 30 November, 2008

3 rods fishing Mortimers Cross: Directions were excellent. Very cold day with hard overnight frost and a bitterly cold and brisk downstream wind. River was still carrying plenty of water although it was clear and pacey. Fished only from the hut downstream to where the woods began. The hut was very useful to put on/ take off waders in those cold conditions!

One rod - 13 grayling. One rod 8 grayling. One rod blank.

Fish were, as expected, hard on the bottom. Fish concentrated towards the top of the beat in the glides and successful methods were deep sunk weighted shrimp patterns fished Czech nymph style. Very nice stretch although access to the lower parts was not so easy due to undergrowth.

All in all a lovely although very cold day. Would recommend it strongly.

Andrew B from London, Friday 28 November, 2008

On fishing Mortimers Cross: We caught 14 fish in all, 3 out of season brown trout to 13 inches and 11 grayling to 16 inches. A heavy frost and fog all day made for very few rising fish, all the better grayling being caught hard on the bottom on tungsten headed bugs or shrimp patterns as part of a czech nymph trio. A beautiful stretch of the river, the charms of which were not blunted by harsh conditions.

Simon E from Malvern, Thursday 27 November, 2008

On fishing the Severn Arms Voucher beat: My first use of WUF waters..v.impressed..the guy at Severn Arms Hotel was helpful gave me a map of the beats and suggested a good spot for the grayling..had a nice trout first trot (with red maggots) and then a couple of grayling over a pound..one more trout before frostbite set in! Kites overhead all day and a salmon showed in mid afternoon.

This is a truly excellent scheme and I hope you grow your membership figures (more publicity?) and quantity of fishing available (mailshots to farmers and landowners?) at an equal rate to maintain this win-win situation.

N.W. & P.F. from Bromsgrove, Wednesday 26 November, 2008

On fishing Skenfrith: Today fished the Skenfrith beat of the Monnow.The river has changed quite a bit since my last visit, floods have shifted gravels about changing the depths.

We both fished bugs for Grayling and managed 23 fish between us the largest I guess about 1.25 lb. A very. enjoyable day rounded off by a pint and thaw in front of the log fire in the Bell.

Life doesn't get any better!

Andrew W from Redditch, Wednesday 26 November, 2008

On Grayling fishing at Mortimers Cross: 5 grayling caught, largest 1lb exactly, 2 of ~ ½lb. Most on nymphs, but a 6" fish took a dry, and rose at least half a dozen others, including a fish of at least 1½lb.

They were reluctant to feed on the surface, even though there were a few hatching olives, willow/needle flies(?)and sedge(?). Water clear, too bright and sunny (mustn't complain!) fairly hard going.

M.S. & M.D from Bristol, Monday 24 November, 2008

A great day at Skenfrith: My mate and I fished Skenfrith on the Monnow yesterday. Great day.

M.D. had 12 grayling best at about 1.5 pounds. Mainly to a red tag and hot spot shrimp.

I had 8 grayling and one out of season brown. Grayling mainly on red tags and the hot spot shrimp again, one to a PTN. Brown took a black Klink.

We caught all the way down the river. Fish appeared not to be in shoals at the moment.

As I say a great day on a very nice piece of river. Many thanks

G.W. from Bromsgrove, Saturday 22 November, 2008

Winter Grayling fishing at Lyepole 2 rods: Rod 1: 22 Grayling to 15.5" & 2 B/Trout to 11"
Rod 2: 10 Grayling to 14" & 3 B/Trout to 12"

River level 1'7" on gauge and running clear.
A few fish rising to olives but all fish caught short-line
nymphing with tungsten heads.There appears to be more fish above the bridge than below, another great day out & all fish returned as always.

Many Thanks

Steve W from Birmingham, Saturday 22 November, 2008

On 2 rods fishing Llanfechan (Irfon): Another lovely day in the Irfon valley.Fishing was tough with no fish rising or any sign of any hatch.Lost a nice out of season Brown Trout early on, then landed another trout of 15in both on gold head nymphs.

No other fish caught by either of us,although an angler on the other bank,long trotting with maggots was catching grayling.

Lanfechan is a nice stretch with some good pools but wading is quite tricky in places.

WUF Note : Trotting is allowed on the opposite bank

Luke C from Hereford, Wednesday 19 November, 2008

Winter Grayling fishing at Lyepole: 1 small grayling only (czech nymph) & returned. River high and only just fishable - but a beautiful day and a beautiful beat.

Dave E & Dave M from Worcester, Wednesday 19 November, 2008

On Grayling fishing at Monnow Valley: Sorry I'm a little late with our catch return, I'm afraid my organisation isn't improving! Dave M and I had a most enjoyable if, for me at least,challenging day at Monnow Valley on Weds 19th. Water was high-ish and coloured but dropped and cleared a little during the day. We both started out trotting, deeming the conditions tricky for fly, only managing a trout each by lunch-time. I then switched to fly as my trotting skills are something of a handicap.(To be honest I'm not much better with a fly but better the devil you know!) I waded upstream with a team of deep nymphs in search of the elusive grayling, the deep cold water allowing me to develop a profound sympathy for the plight of brass monkeys in winter conditions. Dave stayed on the lower half of the beat and largely on the bank, which was wise. By sundown I'd managed just two grayling of about 8 and 10oz, both on czech nymphs. Dave M however had 7 chub between 2 and 4.5 lbs and he lost count of the trout that probably numbered 15 and ranged between 12oz and 3lbs!

If this is a true indication of the quality of the trout in the Monnow (not fish from the Wye moving in to spawn) then I'd like to block-book the spring please! In all a most enjoyable day on a lovely looking beat and we'll definitely return in the trout season.

T.D. from Bristol, Tuesday 18 November, 2008

On coarse fishing at Lower Carrots & Luggs Mouth: Thank you for a wonderful days fishing at Luggs Mouth - no barbel, but I was rewarded with a 4b 4oz chub. Do I need to enter this in the fish returns?

This was indeed the stretch that Martin Bowler fished - I recognised it from the video on his web site. Truly spectacular surroundings, with glorious autumn tints lit by a clear sunny sky. As the sun set I saw the amazing site of Venus and Jupiter rising together above the horizon, When I described it to my wife she remarked.... "that's why you go fishing!"

I shall definitely be returning.....

Best regards

J.S. from Oxfordshire, Sunday 9 November, 2008

On Grayling fishing on the Lugg: Lypepole is a lovely spot and a great beat. Unfortunately conditions were against - the water level seemed OK on arrival, but was rising rapidly and becoming very coloured by lunchtime and the rain was getting heavier. Both rods failed to trouble the scorers and retreated, cold and wet, at 2.30ish.

We will be back, without doubt.

G.W. from Bromsgrove, Saturday 8 November, 2008

On fishing Lyepole (Lugg): Started fishing at 8.15am but the river was rising and beginning to colour and unfortunately by 11.15am it became too difficult to fish(leaf soup).I also lost a big Grayling and another Trout. Never mind i'll wait until floods subside and return to this lovely spot again.

Thanks
G.W.

WUF Notes : 2 Grayling to 12" and 3 out of season Brown Trout to 14"

Carl H from Merthyr Tydfil, Saturday 8 November, 2008

On fishing at Wyebank: Fished with a friend this time - his first experience of a Foundation beat. (Hence two rods).

Water cold and coloured, (despite the relatively mild conditions on the day). I started with heightened anticipation as we were returning to the swim where I caught my first barbel (Aug 2008), but it wasn't to be this time. No sign of chub or barbel. Nothing to show for our endeavours until a 4lb Pike late in the afternoon.

The usual spectacular scenery and wildlife still made for a very enjoyable day (kingfishers, buzzards etc). Will definitely use the Foundation Booking System again - very convenient (especially when work always gets in the way and limits one's time for fishing).

C.B. from Worcestershire, Wednesday 5 November, 2008

Winter Grayling fishing at Cefnllysgwynne: As usual we had a terrific days fishing on this beautiful river in all its autumn glory. We shared a catch of 35 hard fighting Grayling many of which were over 1lb 8oz with several close to 2lb. Also, and I know it sounds corny, but you should have seen the ones that got away! We'll be back!!

Stuart S from Powys, Monday 3 November, 2008

On WUF's Annual Meeting: Thanks for excellent presentations on Severn Barrage Engineering, Environmental & Political issues. All three speakers seemed to be approaching the issue from an angle that we game anglers could empathise with, although I suspect that if politics are allowed to overule logic we will all be taking our holidays in Scotland/Iceland/Norway! I was particularly interested in the first speakers presentation(John Lawson).

I assume that as the subject ran on the subject of water resources and the real meat of an AGM, the foundations annual report, will be the subject of a follow up meeting?

R.L. from Gloucestershire, Saturday 1 November, 2008

On Winter Grayling at Cefnllysgwynne: Rod One. 5 Grayling 10oz to 20oz plus one Grayling of 2lb2oz all on trotted maggot size 14 hook with 2 maggot combination of one red plus one yellow.

Rod Two. 12 medium sized Grayling all from one 4ft deep swim trotting with 14 hook and double maggot. Tried nymphing in morning with no result.

Very enjoyable part cloudy day, maybe 4 to 6 inches of excess water but very clear.

Thanks to all at Foundation.

O.B. from Gloucestershire, Saturday 1 November, 2008

On Cammarch Hotel Roving Voucher beat: I had two guests with me on the Cammarch Hotel water last Saturday – R.E. and L.D. of Total Fly-Fishing - who are both sewin fanatics but not really used to grayling and who have never fished the Irfon before. It turned out to be a harder day than I expected with falling temperatures and little sun as a front came over, so that almost nothing was rising. Apart from some nice out of season trout, we had just 10 grayling between us, nearly all taken on the bottom with various bugging methods. That’s a modest bag for this river. But what I would like to report was the remarkable average size and condition of the fish. The smallest was 15 inches, most of the rest around 17 inches and one really superb looking deep fish of 18 inches. I should have some of Lyn’s photos later. There is nowhere quite like the Irfon.

M.B and R.C from Surrey & East Anglia, Thursday 30 October, 2008

On coarse fishing at Lower Carrots & Upper Winfort: 24th Oct 2008 Conditions challenging. Plenty of flow. River rose steadily throughout the day. Only fish caught were one barbel and one chub, in the late afternoon.

25th Oct 2008 Worse than the (one fish each) day before - neither of us even troubled the scorer!

Although fishing the Wye can be challenging because of the fluctuating water levels, it is never anything less than a pleasure to be able to fish such beautiful and secluded stretches of river, in lovely countryside. We had very reasonable weather for the time of year, and although the 2 days we fished were a struggle (and bites hard to come by) we might have landed a couple more fish if we hadn’t missed the few bites that we did get! So, we’ll definitely be back next year in another vain attempt to convince ourselves that fishing the Wye successfully is not beyond us. Thanks again to the Foundation, you do a great job.

I. F. from London, Monday 27 October, 2008

On coarse fishing at Backney: River in flood & over the bank in places,dropped 2ft between 10am & 3pm,weather bright and sunny nearly all day ......bunches of red maggots fished with feeder in eddy under near bank ......Barbel 6lb,7lb 6oz,8lb 4oz ....back to Saracen's Head at Symonds Yat, excellent beer & food ...brilliant day all round...unfortunate that I don't live closer but plan to try some of the other W&UF stretches -this was a very good intro.

J. R. from Lancs, Monday 27 October, 2008

At Sheephouse: River in flood 26th, dropped 3/4 feet by 10am on 28th. Decided to try middle section, water very dirty, lots of debris and leaves and still very fast. Tried to find slacker water without sucess, abandoned fishing after 2 hrs.
Pity, but heavy rain at this time of the year is bound to be a risk. Will try again on another beat next year.
Service from the Foundation great, will pass on your web site and scheme to others.

J. R. from Tewkesbury, Monday 27 October, 2008

On coarse fishing at Backney (Wye): River very high but weather was kind. A great afternoon, 4 barbel to 9lb and as always, a bigger one that got away!! All barbel caught with hair rigged pellet. Will be back (again) very soon...

M.N. from Derbyshire, Saturday 25 October, 2008

Fishing at Lyepole (River Lugg): Rod 1. 11 Grayling, 3 Brown Trout, all on dry, Klinckhammer:
Greased lightening and black cul de cunard.

Rod 2. 9 Grayling, Goldhead Nymph.

Rod 3. 4 Grayling, 2 Brown Trout. Klinkhammer, and nymph

Rod 4. 11 Grayling. all on dry fly.

All fish returned.

S.R. from Glos, Saturday 25 October, 2008

On fishing Preston Court (Wye): 1 rod took an 8lb barbel and two small chub approx 2lb each. All fish taken on pellet.

The other rod spent most of the day day Pike fishing without any success, but fished a prebaited swim for the last hour and landed a 18lb Common Carp on pellet.

A.B. from Bristol, Friday 24 October, 2008

On fishing Backney (Wye): Another great day on the wye. 4 Barbel caught to 7.5lb, 3 chub to 4lb. All caught on pellet.

P. B. from Essex, Tuesday 21 October, 2008

October Fishing: 12th Oct 2008, beat B28, Gofynne (Irfon) – only 3 grayling (but of good size between 30 and 42 cm) and one very large salmon parr (18 cm). This fishery is in a magnificent setting and I had a very enjoyable day. My first visit to the Irvon; I will catch more next time!

13th Oct 2008, Beat B31, Skenfrith (Monnow) – 13 grayling(between 28 and 35 cm)

14th Oct 2008, Beat R38, Abbey Dore – 14 grayling (30 – 35 cm) in 3 hours.

15th Oct 2008, Beat B31, Skenfrith (Monnow) – 11 grayling over 30 cm, largest 36 cm, in 3 hours. (My brother also fished and caught 15 grayling over 30 cm, largest 44 cm)

16th Oct 2008, beat B20, Holme Lacy – 7 barbel (largest 6.5 lb)

17th Oct 2008, beat B20, Holme Lacy – 15 barbel (largest 7 lb) and one chub.

Wonderful fishing, I’ll be back.

P H from Glaslyn Estate, Tuesday 21 October, 2008

Upper Wye Salmon near Rhayarder: Just a note to say that the Glaslyn guests have been very successful over the last week with 11 Salmon caught and released.

Two 2lb Grayling were caught on Salmon flies. One guest reported catching a 2lb Sea Trout. All fish released.

O. B. from Gloucestershire, Tuesday 21 October, 2008

On the Irfon: Not a bad day at Cefnllysgwynne last Saturday. The morning was rather dour, but they started to rise after lunch. One out of season trout and eight grayling, including some very nice fish in the 40 centimetre class - on traditional grayling dries for a bit of fun and to give the Klinkhammers a rest. Grayling Witch, Sturdy's Fancy, John Storey, Treacle Parkin and Grayling Steel Blue all in size 16. Which probably goes to show that when they are definitely rising, they will take most anything if it's not too big.

No better place to be in the autumn than on the Irfon.

A.F. from West Midlands, Monday 20 October, 2008

On WUF's Annual Meeting (17th Oct): Just like to say superb presentation by all parties, especially John Lawson, who definitely spelt it out clearly so that I fully understood it. Having said that, the magnitude of it all seems far beyond imagination. But as we have said just crazy enough for this government to get it through! So lets all keep vigilant and will assist where we can.

R.L. from Glos, Saturday 18 October, 2008

On coarse fishing at Llanstephan (upper Wye): Excellent day, went for Chub but once into Dace sat on them!
Beautiful conditioned fish, never seen so many since my younger days. No keep net used. No Grayling. No Salmon seen.
Thank You.

WUF note: Catch return....150+ dace, 6 of which were over 12oz, 4 chub to 2lb to 2 rods.

D.M. from Swansea, Saturday 18 October, 2008

On coarse fishing at Pwll y Faedda: Fishing was tricky and very slow to start, with bright sun and downstream wind making presentation difficult. As soon as the sun went in the dace started feeding avidly! Fish a chuck for two hours until the sun came out again and spoilt it. Fish came on again in the evening. The Trees are in spectacular autumn livery at the moment, making it a truly memorable trip.

Met a really nice fishery owner and made us very welcome.

Brilliant top fishing!

WUF note: Catch return....100+ dace, 2oz-6oz. 20 grayling, 20cm to 30cm 2lb to 2 rods.

G.W. from Worcestershire, Saturday 18 October, 2008

Autumn grayling fishing on the Lugg: Lyepole is as good as it gets - beautiful surroundings and full of fish, a W&UF gem. Thanks for a great day out.

WUF note: Catch....29 grayling to 16" and 10 out of season trout to 10"

G.G. & C.P. from Worcestershire, Saturday 18 October, 2008

On Grayling Fishing at Glanwye (Upper Wye): 5 grayling to 1lb, several small trout and salmon parr.

A lovely stretch of water,leaves from the trees where a bit of a problem, but the otter sightings made up for the lack of fish. Many thanks, we will return.

James L from Somerset, Friday 17 October, 2008

On fishing Skenfrith (Monnow): It our was first day using the trust and we had an excellent day. I have wanted to catch grayling for years and we succeeded very quickly due to our excellent guide Kim Tribe.

WUF note: Catch return...2 trout and 9 grayling to 16" to 2 rods.

Tom D from Bristol, Friday 17 October, 2008

Ty Newydd Salmon: Many thanks for the booking. We enjoyed marvelous day on a very pretty stretch of river with all the richness of autumn colours. Had one beautiful hen fish of just under 7lb, slightly coloured but otherwise in very good condition - safely returned.

Small Ally's fished close to surface did the trick. Sadly my friend, for whom the day was supposed to deliver his first salmon, had to make do with two out-of-season brownies and a grayling (all safely returned). It's amazing what will take an Ally's!

Never mind we'll just have to bring him back next season!

Chris E from Suffolk, Friday 17 October, 2008

On coarse fishing at Wyebank & Courtfield: Overnight ground frost and clear conditions obviously not too favourable however, 1 bite and 1 beautiful 10lb 7oz fish barbel put a huge grin on my face. First double in a number of seasons. Met the baliff down there who mentioned the stretch does get quite alot of pressure from the
club as can be seen from the banks so not quite your usual WUF beat but has produced alot of fish this season.

Rory A from Buckinghamshire, Thursday 16 October, 2008

Fenni Fach Salmon: Weather: Fair
conditions: clear, approx 1 ft on guage
1 Male Salmon. Approx 6lb (returned)
Caught-on: Fly - cascade

Lovely, secluded spot. Excellent booking service

James S from London, Tuesday 14 October, 2008

Thanks for looking after me during my short stay in Builth and enabling the opportunity to fish for Salmon on the Usk. The beautiful river and easy pace of life in your part of the world was a tonic, even if I picked up a ducking (baptism) and did not catch. Still, I have learnt a lot which will be useful when I return.

Best regards to you all, and please keep me abreast of Foundation developements, as I would like the opportunity of giving something back.

Richard H from Bath, Tuesday 14 October, 2008

Salmon fishing on the upper Wye....: Further to our conversation last week I said I would drop you a line to let you know how Llangoed fished on Friday - no luck there despite good water...BUT as mentioned we were on Glanwye Sat, Sun and Monday.

4 rods - 25 fish from 6lbs to 24lbs (2 over 20lbs). Truly amazing fishing!! You said we should have 10 on the bank but never thought that we might actually achieve that!

All fish returned!

Trevor F from Somerset, Monday 13 October, 2008

Middle Wye Coarse Fishing: Tuesday 7th Oct 2008 at Preston Court
1 chub of 5lb 4oz and 4 barbel of 8lb 4oz, 9lb 8oz, 10lb 4oz and 11lb 8oz.

Thursday 9th Oct 2008 at Backney
3 barbel of 7lb 12oz, 8lb 8oz and 10lb 4oz (although this fish looked, for all the world, well over 12lb!!)

Steve D from West Midlands, Monday 13 October, 2008

Clochfaen Fishing: Fished on 9th Oct 2008, Weather, fair, windy at times.

Conditions: Low and crystal clear

The scenery is superb, and the area very quite. I stayed at a nearby campsite called Glangwy which is about 1 mile west out of Llangurig. I stayed for 1 night which I would recommend for the more "hardy" of us. It is very basic but well kept with a toilet and showers and only costs £4.00 a night for a large tent.Overall I fished the beat very hard 3 times during the day and tryed a variety of methods / flies but to no avail. Maybe the strech near to Newbridge above Builth Wells may be a better prospect on my next visit. Any advice on the best grayling fishing beats and methods would be greatly appreciated.

Best wishes to all.

Chris L from Hereford, Monday 13 October, 2008

Glan-yr-Afon: Sorry this catch return is so very late but I was a bit too busy to do it straight away and then it slipped my mind. It seems ages ago now but myself and my cousin fished the Usk at Glan-yr-Afon on the last weekend of the trout season. The river was still a bit high and slightly coloured but the sun was out and fish were rising when we arrived around midday. After a few refusals I realised they were feeding just below the surface and put on a cul-de-canard emerger which produced a couple of beautiful little trout of about 9 inches.

This hatch ended soon and the rest of the day was spent deep nymphing with no reward. In the early evening clouds of olive duns came down and we switched back to dries. At the very top of the beat I cast at a rise and hooked into a very big trout but it was never hooked properly and came off after a couple of determined leaps. It was a long cast from one bank to the other and after much cursing I realised I'd been lucky to hook it at all at that distance on a dry fly.

We made our way back to the gravel runs above the bridge and landed a couple more smallish browns on dries but then the hatch ended and as soon as the sun went down it got cold very quickly as it tends to do at this time of year.

Anyway, a truly lovely bit of river (if decidedly tricky to wade) and I look forward to fishing it again next season.

All the best and sorry for the lateness of this return.

Andy B from Bristol, Monday 13 October, 2008

River Wye, White House: 12th October

Fished on a beautiful warm October day! Conditions very bright, which kept the fish shy, and bites were surprisingly delicate. But a great day's fishing, 4 beautifully conditioned Barbel between 5lb and 8.5 lbs, all caught in wonderful surroundings!

S.R. from Gloucestershire, Monday 13 October, 2008

Just a short note to say thank you for the day at Whitehouse. On Saturday I landed 7 barbel and 3 chub, one of which was my personal best weighing just over 5lb. My fishing buddy also had a wonderful day, landing 12 barbel, the largets weighing just under 9lbs.

The weather, lovely location, the company and the catch made for a wonderful day and we can't wait for the next visit.

I wanted to say thanks, as all too often it's easy to complain when something doesn't go quite right (as we did when we last visited Whitehouse and felt anoyed with the visiting children & litter)....only to forget to say thanks when things go well. This was a lovely day, so thank you again, and we plan to use the WUF many more times.

E.P. from South Glamorgan, Saturday 11 October, 2008

Just like the bloody buses....: You wait ages for one then two arrive. Llandetty beat(Gliffaes). 6lb cock salmon released to make more.

Ian N from West Glamorgan, Saturday 11 October, 2008

On coarse fishing at Maesllwch (Wye): 5 x chub to 4lb 13oz

A slight rise in level and some very tea coloured water seemed to put the fish off a bit but pleased with 5 all in immaculate condition.

Brian H from Exeter, Saturday 11 October, 2008

Preston Court: Good job I got up early on Saturday. First two casts resulted two pristine barbel (both in the 6 to 7lb class) and then not so much as a touch after 7.45am.

A nice beat which I hope to fish again although it does have limited bankside access with the steep and treelined banks, so I wouldn't have wanted to fish it with more than say one other angler on the water particularly because I do like to wander around and try different spots. As it was I had the beat to myself which was marvellous. Also creating "swims" for anglers to the detriment of the natural environment is wholly to be discouraged in my humble opinion. Better to limit the number of anglers as you do.

The giant hogweed which has clearly been treated this summer is regenerating I'm afraid. I guess that it takes two or three seasons of treatment to defeat it properly?

Thanks as always.

Mark B from Reading, Thursday 9 October, 2008

White House Barbel: Catch between two of us over 4 days …. 16 Barbel 3lb to 8lb. Stayed at the Kings Head in Ross - very friendly, lovely food, 10 minutes drive from fishery. Very helpful farmer and farm workers at White House, and great tackle shop (Wye Angling in Ross). A fantastic Weekend (First time on the Wye -what a fantastic wild river). Had Buzzards, Kingfishers, lapwings, and a very mad hare for company - if the Wye and Usk Foundation could lay on an otter or two for next time we'd be in heaven!

John I from West Midlands, Thursday 9 October, 2008

Buckland South Report: Weather - Fine
Conditions: 1'5'' at Brecon, slightly coloured but clear

1 x Grilse 24" caught on flying C

1 similar size fish lost. Both fish caught in pool above the upstream weir.

Chris L from Hereford, Thursday 9 October, 2008

On a final day's trout fishing trip to the Usk..: The river was still a bit high and slightly coloured but the sun was out and fish were rising when we arrived around midday. After a few refusals I realised they were feeding just below the surface and put on a cul-de-canard emerger which produced a couple of beautiful little trout of about 9 inches.

This hatch ended soon and the rest of the day was spent deep nymphing with no reward. In the early evening clouds of olive duns came down and we switched back to dries. At the very top of the beat I cast at a rise and hooked into a very big trout but it was never hooked properly and came off after a couple of determined leaps. It was a long cast from one bank to the other and after much cursing I realised I'd been lucky to hook it at all at that distance on a dry fly.

We made our way back to the gravel runs above the bridge and landed a couple more smallish browns on dries but then the hatch ended and as soon as the sun went down it got cold very quickly as it tends to do at this time of year.

Anyway, a truly lovely bit of river (if decidedly tricky to wade) and I look forward to fishing it again next season.

Trevor F from Somerset, Sunday 5 October, 2008

Fishing Preston Court on the middle Wye....: catch report for 28th,29th,30thSept and 1st Oct...... Two rods at Preston Court

Sun 28th..... Nothing!

Mon 29th... 7 chub between 2 and 4lb

Tues 30th... 2 barbel, 5 chub between 3lb and 4lb 8oz

Wed 1st Oct 4 barbel, 9lb, 8lb 10lb 8oz and 11 lb... 4 chub between 2 and 3lb

Many thanks,
Trevor F ......Yep, the one up a tree with waders on trying to find a phone signal!

R.S. from Dorset, Sunday 5 October, 2008

On a trip to the upper Wye: The weather was glorious for our stay - we were based at Llanwrtyd Wells in a cottage run by the Coopers at Kilsby. We couldn't have enjoyed ourselves more and the opening up of so much fishing is, of course, a massive bonus. You ask to be informed of Japanese Knotweed - there are several clumps upstream of the "voucher box bridge" on beat R8. Regrowth from the coppiced tree stumps is also very substantial (10' ++!). The follow up work must be an enormous headache - I don't envy you the task! Thank you all for your wonderful work.

Fred B from East Sussex, Saturday 4 October, 2008

On a September trip to the Wye: 2 of the rods fished for coarse fish only, the other 3 fished both fly and coarse on alternate days. Beats fished were, for coarse, mainly Letton Court,( best for Chub ) and at Builth. Sheephouse for best Barbel, Builth and Ty Newydd for Grayling and Trout. Water conditions were very low and very clear all week, but some excellent fishing was to be had. Finding the fish before fishing proved to be the answer to sucess. Probably our best fishing trip to the Wye yet with regards to the number of quality fish caught. One of the party had over 30 of the Chub alone including a pb of 6lb1oz. Each person fishing had P.B's of more than 1 type of fish during the week.

Thanks for all your support, hard work & excellent service, information & advice. See you again very soon.

Alan S from Bewdley, Friday 3 October, 2008

Late September at Lyepole: I had a lovely day at Lyepole yesterday, cold and misty in the morning, brightening to warm sunshine from 11am.

The river was a nice summer level, clear and with a bit of a chill from the cold nights.

Six fish caught, 4 grayling and 2 trout. few missed and 3 or 4 dropped
off before the net. The trout were small, (8") but very beautiful, 2 of the grayling were outstanding, one at about 2ib and another about a pound with a similar one dropping off the barbless hook. One trout caught on a size 14 CDC shuttlecock, but very little surface activity in evidence.

All of the rest caught on size 14 or 14 longshank Gold
Bead GRHE fished upstream with an indicator, (sorry), and one on a small coch y bon.

Fishery is in good condition with obvious increase in bankside growth since my visit in the Spring but not too bad for access. I hate the barbed wire but think the stiles are excellent but could be a bit lower to allow for the creaky joints of elderly piscators.

There is a tree down across the river above the fast water on the sharp bend a few hundred yards above the bridge but does not appear to be causing any trouble at the moment.

Thanks for providing us with a lovely facility in an outstandingly beautiful location. I had the whole stretch to myself and enjoyed the day immensely. The fish were a bonus.

Regards,
Alan Southall

Colin L from Kent, Friday 3 October, 2008

rivers-beats: Wye, Pyll-y-Faedda
weather: sunny intervals
conditions: High but fairly clear
fly-hatches: olives, sedges

num-rods: 2
Date1: 18/09/2008
Species1: grayling
Number1: 23
Size1: 6oz to 1 lb 6oz

caught-on1: all on upstream/across Dry flies-small klinkamers and spinner patterns
comments: we had a lovely calm afternoon and early evening with some rising fish to cast to.

Tom D from Bristol, Friday 3 October, 2008

Fishing the Usk: It was a lovely September day with quite reasonable hatches of olives and sedges but very few fish moving. I saw just two trout and one salmon, but caught none.....that's fishing and the reason why we always go again!

Philip L from Lincolnshire, Thursday 2 October, 2008

On fishing the lower Wye in high water....: weather: Sunny, with a fresh squally wind at times.

conditions: Would have estimated carrying around 2 feet of fresh water due to weed and debris being washed down river.

num-rods: 4

comments: Total fish landed, 3 Chub to 5lb's 4oz, 8 Barbel between 5lb and 10lb 8oz, which was a personal best landed from the Vanstone. All fish caught on pellet. Access was very limited due to high water levels, many swims were also overgrown with vegetation. The joys and challenge of fishing non match fished waters, consisting of bare mud banks.

Jason B from Shropshire, Thursday 2 October, 2008

On fishing the lower Wye.: Started off slow, lost a barbel early on and my friend Darren had a hook straightend. The barbel came late on, me having 4 on corn and Darren taking 6 on pellet. I was snapped twice. Thanks to every one at the wye & usk, keep up the great work..

Steve B from East Sussex, Tuesday 30 September, 2008

Sheephouse Report: Sept 23rd 24th & 25th 2008 at Sheephouse

weather: dry, overcast, NE wind. Conditions: fairly low and v clear

number of rods 2

1st Day : 8 Chub up to 4lb 8oz
caught on pellet/corn

2nd Day : 3 Chub to 4lb, 1 Barbel to 8lb 10oz
caught-on2: pellet/corn

3rd Day : 4 Barbel 6lb 4oz, 7lb 10oz, 10lb 4oz, 10lb 8oz!
caught-on3: corn

Worried on the first day. met the bailiff who told us there were no barbel there, adding "dont listen to those fools at Builth, they know nothin" ! Eventually located some fish on the 2nd day and as you can see, had a great last day. thank you guys.

Phil & James B from Cheltenham, Sunday 28 September, 2008

Gromain delivers: What can we say? After a difficult couple of days in Wales after salmon we wanted a classical dry fly end to our season. And as so often before Gromain delivered the goods. A very relaxed days fishing - even stopped for an hour in middle of day to tie some more flies on the river bank. Not many fish rising but a well presented fly in the right spot would soon bring up a willing taker.

Once again - thank you all for a superb seasons fishing.

WUF Notes : Conditions: 1ft on guage - clear. Fly-hatches: Needle flies predominated - large and small olives too.

14 x Grayling to 1½lbs. On para ginger quill
17 x Trout to 1lb. On para ginger quill

A.S. from Worcestershire, Saturday 27 September, 2008

Trout Fishing at Lyepole (Lugg): I had a lovely day at Lyepole yesterday, cold and misty in the morning, brightening to warm sunshine from 11am.

The river was a nice summer level, clear and with a bit of a chill from the cold nights.

Six fish caught, 4 grayling and 2 trout. few missed and 3 or 4 dropped off before the net. The trout were small, (8") but very beautiful, 2 of the grayling were outstanding, one at about 2lb and another about a pound with a similar one dropping off the barbless hook. One trout caught on a size 14 CDC shuttlecock, but very little surface activity
in evidence. All of the rest caught on size 14 or 14 longshank Gold Bead GRHE fished upstream with an indicator, (sorry), and one on a
small coch y bon.

Fishery is in good condition with obvious increase in bankside growth since my visit in the Spring but not too bad for access. I hate the barbed wire but think the stiles are excellent but could be a bit lower to allow for the creaky joints of elderly piscators.

There is a tree down across the river above the fast water on the sharp bend a few hundred yards above the bridge but does not appear to be causing any trouble at the moment.

Thanks for providing us with a lovely facility in an outstandingly beautiful location. I had the whole stretch to myself and enjoyed the day immensely. The fish were a bonus.

A.L. & A.T. from London, Saturday 27 September, 2008

Not for the faint-hearted: A beautiful beat but not for the faint-hearted. The wading can very hairy and a wading staff is essential in my view. Plenty of fish, but generally small - I'm sure the big ones are in there but not many showed themselves. We were plagued by salmon parr which although nice to see, could not be avoided on any method.

WUF Notes : 2 x rods fishing. Weather, sunny and warm (eventually). Conditions, clear, showing 11 inches on the guage

Fly-hatches: very few - some pale wateries and some sedge

20+ Trout mainly around 6 inches, best about 10 inches
Caught-on dry sedges + north country spiders

30+ Grayling mainly small, but 3 around 1lb and one of 1½lbs
Caught-on nymphs, dry sedge and ducks dun, north country spiders

Chris L from Hereford, Saturday 27 September, 2008

Trout Fishing at Glan yr Afon: Sorry this catch return is so very late but I was a bit too busy to do it straight away and then it slipped my mind.

It seems ages ago now but myself and my cousin fished the Usk at Glan-yr-Afon on the last weekend of the trout season. The river was still a bit high and slightly coloured but the sun was out and fish were rising when we arrived around midday. After a few refusals I realised they were feeding just below the surface and put on a cul-de-canard emerger which produced a couple of beautiful little trout of about 9 inches.

This hatch ended soon and the rest of the day was spent deep nymphing with no reward. In the early evening clouds of olive duns came down and we switched back to dries. At the very top of the beat I cast at a rise and hooked into a very big trout but it was never hooked properly and came off after a couple of determined leaps. It was a long cast from one bank to the other and after much cursing I realised I'd been lucky to hook it at all at that distance on a dry fly.

We made our way back to the gravel runs above the bridge and landed a couple more smallish browns on dries but then the hatch ended and as soon as the sun went down it got cold very quickly as it tends to do at this time of year.

Anyway, a truly lovely bit of river (if decidedly tricky to wade) and I look forward to fishing it again next season.

All the best and sorry for the lateness of this return.

G.G. from Gloucestershire, Friday 26 September, 2008

On Barbel fishing at Middle Hill Court: Brilliant fishing.

WUF Notes : Fishing over two days 25/9/08 5 x Barbel to 9lb 6oz. 26/9/08 3 x Barbel to 10lb 7oz

O.B. from Gloucestershire, Friday 26 September, 2008

Great day at Abernant & Plas Gwyn: Many thanks for a nice day last Friday in glorious weather on Abernant and Plas Gwyn.

Fishing results on North Country spiders were 21 grayling, 3 trout and a 10 pound hen salmon, safely released. The last took a size 16 Dark Moor Game on the middle dropper. Happens every year, doesn't it?

Anyway, depending on the weather, I might book a proper salmon day with you at the end of this week, to see if I can catch one on the right rod for once!

I'll be in touch, best wishes.

Tom D from Bristol, Friday 26 September, 2008

On trout fishing at Penpont (Usk): It was a lovely September day with quite reasonable hatches of olives and sedges but very few fish moving. I saw just two trout and one salmon, but caught none.....that's fishing and the reason why we always go again!

R.S. from Dorset, Thursday 25 September, 2008

On fishing at Llangoed: 2 x ½lb grayling on a salmon fly! No salmon seen or felt but a really lovely beat to fish

A.S. from Birmingham, Wednesday 24 September, 2008

On fishing at Skenfrith: A marvelous day, mostly big fish (A pound or over). Not much hatching so weighted nymphs caught most fish. The smallest fish of the day 3 x 8" to 10" Grayling caught on an Iris Caddis in the surface film. The Monnow is a fabulous river please, please get more beats for next season (or even this Grayling season) Thanks

WUF Notes :
8 x Grayling to 18". Caught on: Size 18 Copper P/T nymph
3 x Brown Trout to 15". Caught on: Size 18 Copper Hare's Ear

A.H. from Cheltenham, Wednesday 24 September, 2008

On fishing at Middle Hill Court: 12 x barbel, biggest 11lb average about 8lb. 2 x chub

J.L. & J.B. from West Sussex, Wednesday 24 September, 2008

Coarse fishing at Maesllwch: Huge amount of small dace. one grayling. Salmon showing.

I am sure that on the right day different conditions etc., we would have done better. Also met Simon at Maesllwch, nice knowledgeable guy. Good ambassador for angling and the W&UF. We will return to try another day!

Really excellent self-catering accommodation at Tyn Cwm at Dorcester
Regards
John Lockwood
Jeff Bannister

Chris L from Hereford, Tuesday 23 September, 2008

Grayling fishing on the Upper Wye: Just to let you know our returns for saturday at Ty-Newydd. We caught so many Grayling that we stopped counting at 20 (mostly 6/10inches but a couple up to 16/18 inches). What's more we must have missed/lost twice as many. At one point one took my fly as I dropped it in the water to release one already in the net. They were taking nymph and dry fly, my cousin catching nearly all his on dries.

I caught a small trout and lost a reasonable one. There was a good evening rise of trout starting at 6pm when we had to leave unfortunately and we saw a salmon roll at the start of the beat.

I stupidly took a spill and had to de-robe and dry out for a while (sorry to anyone who had to witness this sight). No harm done, apart from to my phone.

Many Thanks for arranging the fishing and best wishes,
Chris Ling

Elliot P from Penarth, Tuesday 23 September, 2008

My First Salmon !!: Thanks for the info. After nearly 2 seasons and who knows how many early,optimistic and full of enthusiasm starts, only for the day to end in a bit of a damp, wet squib, yesterday turned out to be one of the best
days fishing I have ever had.

I took my first salmon from the Glan-Yr-Afon beat, Pwll Daffi pool on a Willie Gunn. Only a grillse of about 5-5½lbs but the brightest bar of chrome i have ever seen. Strong and bloody hell they are strong! Thought
mullet fought hard but these things are in another league!

After a quick pic the fish was released swimming off strongly. Once again thanks

John B from Monmouthshire, Tuesday 23 September, 2008

Grilse at Bridge Meadow: Just a quick reply to register the capture of a five pound grilse on a spinner.

J.O. from Surrey, Tuesday 23 September, 2008

On Salmon Fishing at Glanwye: 18lb from the boils. Returned. Water low, lots jumping around

Steve B from Coventry, Monday 22 September, 2008

He does it again!: There seemed to be a degree of disbelief from certain quarters when I recently reported hooking 5 salmon at Lyn Em. They definitely won't believe this report !

Today I hooked 7 salmon at Lyn Em; (all on fly of course.)
One was just a handshake and it leapt clear of the water and spat the hook.
Two were played and lost - hook pulled free.
Four landed - 23", 24" 30" and 31".
The largest was a hen, the rest cocks. All had some colour and all were returned.

And the sun shone as well !

Kevin H from Cardiff, Sunday 21 September, 2008

2 Coarse rods fishing at Caradoc: 25 Roach up to 1lb. Barbel 2 x 3lbs, 1 x 10½lbs

David T from London, Saturday 20 September, 2008

On fishing Holme Lacy: Just a quick note to say thank you! Had 2 fantastic days with my brother at Holme Lacy, fishing for barbel. Between us we had in excess of 20 fish, the biggest two of which were 8lbs 10oz and 9lbs 3oz. Brilliant sport!

Just one cautionary point - on Saturday we ended up fishing the wrong meadow and were eventually shown the error of our ways by the assistant ghillie, who was exceptionally helpful. Perhaps it might be the navigation skills (or lack of!) of my brother and I, but might I suggest a slight addition to the 'Directions & Access' section on the info you send out to customers? As you take the left on Church road and then the sharp right, a fishing hut is visible in the field, however that is not the hut at Holme Lacy 3. It would be useful to amend the penultimate sentence saying something like "Continue along Church Road for approximately half a mile, at which point you will see the hut in the field on your left".

Anyway once again, thanks for allowing us to rebook following the wash off two weeks previously.

J.H. from London, Saturday 20 September, 2008

Trout Fishing at Cefm Rhosan Fawr (Usk): Species1: Brown Trout

Number1: 1
1 x Brown Trout 12" Caught on light brown dry fly. I put the trout back to catch next time I go :) What a great day, the river is beautiful! Thanks for all your work.

Brian M from Wigan, Saturday 20 September, 2008

3 days and 3 rods at White House: Fished on 18th 19th & 20th September 2008. Weather, hot & Sunny. Conditions, clear normal level. Directions to beat were spot on accomodation was first class(LADYRIDGE FARM GUEST HOUSE)

WUF Notes :
Day One. 9 x barbel to 10lbs. 4 x chub to 3lbs
Day Two. 3 x barbel to 4lbs. 3 x chub to 3lbs
Day Three. 2 x chub to 3lbs

Peter A from Newbury, Saturday 20 September, 2008

On fishing at Lyepole (Lugg): Lovely water. The floods have brought a tree down across the river on the second big bend upstream of the bridge. Japanses balsam rampant!

WUF Notes: 3 Trout 8" to 10" and 13 Grayling up to 1lb

I.N. from Neath, Saturday 20 September, 2008

On fishing at Maesllwch: WUF Notes : 3 x chub to 4lb+ and 2 x Dace all on corn and meat

I also lost a very heavy fish which I assume was a barbel.

T.P. from Surrey, Saturday 20 September, 2008

On fishing at Monnow Valley: Just to let you know that I (sadly) suffered a blank on the Monnow Valley fishery... still quite high water with about 18" visibility... but some of the fishiest territory I've ever seen, and no exaggeration to say it's a
jungle in there.

Loved every minute, and will definitely be back...

Carl H from Merthyr Tydfil, Saturday 13 September, 2008

On coarse fishing at Maesllwch: In contrast to recent weeks, the weather was good. Excellent directions and map (and the key for the gate was exactly where the instructions said it would be). Only second time for me to use the Foundation, but both times have been first-class service (and both times I've caught Personal-Best fish).

Upper stretch not really fishable due to banks and water level. Long walk from the car to the lower stretch, and then walked the river for over an hour looking for a fishable swim amongst all the flood debris. Watched otters playing as I walked the lower stretch (first ever sighting of wild otters - fantastic to see!). Couldn't help thinking that the Foundation's work must have contributed to these creatures making home on the Wye.

Only caught one fish all day, a Chub. But not disappointed. It weighed four and a quarter pounds. Magnificent condition. It's really not about a net full of fish. Otters, Kingfishers, Buzzards, sunshine, Balsam plants with their exploding seed pods and a four pound Chub.

A fantastic fish on a fantastic day. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Will not hesitate to use the Foundation's services again, just wish I had time to fish more often.

J-D. W. from Salamanca, Spain, Saturday 6 September, 2008

On WUF's website...: Absolutely superb, could not stop reading. Have to come over to see and fish.

William T from Rotherham, Sunday 31 August, 2008

Personal best: I am writing to tell you how I got on at Middle Hill Court fishery and Caradoc on the river Wye.

Middle Hill Court 28th August 2008. I caught 4 barbel, the smallest 9lb, the largest 14lb on halibut pellet and a 5lb chub on luncheon meat. I was also snapped on at least 3 occasions and lost one in the weed.

Caradoc 2nd September 2008. This was a disaster with the rain the previous night. It rose 6”– 8” in a couple of hours. I did lose a barbel and caught a small chub on meat.

Although the second day was a wash out, this was the first time I have fished the Wye and I have fallen in love with it.

I have been fishing the river Teme and Severn in Bridgnorth area but now will be making a bee-line for the Wye when I go for a fishing break.

P.S. the chub and the 14lb barbel are a new P.B. for me.

Thank you very much

P.P.S. See you soon hopefully

Rich B from London, Monday 18 August, 2008

Adapatablity wins through: Fenni Fach (Sat 16th August) 2 x rods, 5 fish, 2 x 1 lbers. Hard conditions, best fish taken in a smaller side channel.

Pen Pont (Sat 16th August) 3 x rods 13 fish, Hard conditions in a rising river but big fish came out to play. I had 2 x 2.5lbers. The others were all between a few ounces and half a pound. One of the biggies took on the heavy tackle (8 weight with sink tip) fishing rabbit fur streamers tight into the bank above Pen Pont Bridge, the second about half way down the beat fishing a nice rifle with a team of nymphs fished very deep. Got some nice pics.

Sunday – A high and dirty river was a wash off. We couldn’t fish. Please could you advise on a refund for Sunday’s money, or credit situation?

On Sunday we fished the Beacon Reservoir just off the A470 (the top reservoir of three). It provided superb sport with Wild brownies to over 1lb on an assortment of dry sedge and beetle patterns. A really good venue in case of wash offs, especially as you can purchase the day tickets from a pay and display machine at the visitors centre.

Over all a great visit. All the lads enjoyed it and we will be back

Steve B from West Midlands, Sunday 17 August, 2008

Catching it right on the upper Wye: KT and I had an eventful day at Llyn Em yesterday.

Kev caught his first salmon, a grilse of about 6/7lbs on a mepps which he sportingly returned.

I hooked four on fly!
The first offered a brief tussle before spitting the hook.
The hook pulled free from the second as it was being drawn up to be beached and although it was not physically touched.
The third, same story as the first except it nearly pulled me off the rock upon which I was precariously perched and I suspect this contributed to the loss.
The fourth, a big fish hooked in heavy water and took about 30 yards of backing before battling it out at distance. All ended when the line parted on a rock face which forms the gutter in which I was fishing.

I don't know whether to count my blessings or curse my luck! Probably the latter since I also managed to fall in. I can console myself with the fact that I was only submersed up to my neck and my hat stayed dry. Also, camera and phone survived unlike the last time. And, it is not often that five salmon are hooked in a single day on an upper Wye water available on a day ticket.

Paul H from London, England, Saturday 16 August, 2008

Gaugeing the City: ....I was doing some work in the City a few weeks ago and a few of the traders (fishermen obviously) had the cameras on the Wye live feeds on their screens next to the share prices! Ready to drop everything when the water looked right. You must get a lot of hits on the site because of the cameras they are great.
Paul H

Dave R from Devon, Saturday 16 August, 2008

A mixed weekend salmon fishing: Well, first the git who caught the 10ber so flukily on Gromain was Paul Hansford with a size 10 Ghillie fly I think (from Lochy – bit of a shrimp x thunder and lightning.)

Secondly, Bridge Meadow on the Usk, very nice fishing but pissing it down no sign of a fish. The bank maintenance is to be encouraged, however the use of old radiators as bank retaining structure is rather unappealing!

Third, no score on Sunday at MHC. Actually fished from 11am pretty much all day but saw or felt nothing.

The water was full of weed and rising. Every other cast either hooked growing weed in the river (even on full floater) or got some of the weed drifting down.

The beat appears sadly neglected; there is no easy access to the main pools. There is no access at all to the lower fly pool, I got horribly nettle stung trying to even find the pool and eventually gave up. There should be some onus on the riparian owner to provide the basics but having visited one of our underfished and frankly unfishable Fish the Exe beats over the weekend I understand it’s difficult to enforce.

The upper 2 pools would fish so much better from the rh bank and Paul did get over there but said it was a half hour walk from the parking place. More advice needed on instructions. I suppose though there is the option of the “guide.”

Thank you for the wash-off offer. Does that mean we would have to take that beat again or is it transferable?

But after getting that out of the way, a very pleasant few days was had by Paul and me and thanks again for organising it so efficiently.

Our grilse (Exe)are just arriving but not in numbers yet, ditto Scotland, and last year ours took at least three weeks after they started catching on the Lochy, so watch their web-site and then start counting.

WUF note: Feeback like this is very appreciated and has been acted upon with the paths to the main pools now being re-cleared and additional signage to be put in shortly. Please could all keep constructive comments like this coming.

R.P.B from , Monday 11 August, 2008

middle usk trout fishing (in the high winds and ra: rivers-beats: Dan-y-Parc
weather: Cloudy, heavy showers, cool.
conditions: High, some colour.
fly-hatches: Sedges, olives & midges
4 Brown trout to 1.5lbs on Olive imitations.

Another interesting day, if the weather and conditions had been better I think it would have been a bumper day, there is obviously such a good head of trout.

Michael R from Glos, Saturday 9 August, 2008

lower wye fishing (on back of 14lber from Llangoed: Well....

I think it's been my week. I managed to get two fish today at Bigsweir.. 12lbs and 6lbs both on a Pot Bellied pig and using a v fast sinktip line. The water when I arrived was quite coloured and did not look promising and by mid day it was completely chocolate. However, I banked the first at 10.15 and the next at 11 ish with the hight tide coming in at about 1pm.. both fish were caught on Wyeseal. Lots of fish were showing that looked to me as if they were moving fast up river. Both fish were returned.

C.L. from London, Saturday 9 August, 2008

On Salmon fishing at Llangoed (Upper Wye): I am afraid that the salmon were too clever for me - once again!

However I did land a big brown trout - did not keep it but it must have been a 3lb fish as it put a respectable bend in a 15ft rod - I thought I had finally caught my salmon!

Kind regards

Carl H from Merthyr Tydfil, Saturday 9 August, 2008

On catching first barbel at Wyebank: First time to use the system of on-line booking. (Also haven't fished the Wye for approx. 25 years). System worked very well - very convenient, excellent directions & map. Also caught my FIRST EVER barbel, so overall an excellent experience (despite the unseasonal weather). Will definitely recommend to friends.

WUF Notes: 2 x chub to 1lb 14oz. Caught on Cheesepaste. 1 x barbel to 4lb 4 oz. Caughton: Legered halibut pellet

R. E. from Kettering, Sunday 3 August, 2008

On barbel fishing at Sheephouse & Luggsmouth: Thank you very much for helping me to fish at Sheephouse on Saturday and Luggsmouth on Sunday.
My catch report: Saturday 2nd July 2008: 1 barbel 6lbs, 2 chub largest 4.25lbs, 1 dace. 2 Barbel fell off. Huge amounts of Himalayan Balsam bankside. Water rising and quite vinegary to brown later.

Sunday 3rd July 2008: 11 barbel largest 8.5lbs, 3 chublets biggest 1lb and a dace. Water dropping quickly and clearing.

All in all very good fishing.

Mark B from London, Sunday 3 August, 2008

On Trout fishing at Monnow Valley: Weather, overcast. Conditions, clearish. Fly-hatches, BWOs with 1 mayfly seen

Had a brief hook up with 1 trout that rose to a Black Kilnk and a couple of tugs on gold head hare's ear, but other than that nothing. I did at one point spend about half an hour in nettles way above my head as I tried to get out of the river. All good fun.

There were fish rising very sporadically, but no fish rising regularly in one place.

Great service as ever from the foundation.

T. P. from Suffolk, Thursday 31 July, 2008

On fishing at Sheephouse (Wye): Just to let you know how we got on last Thursday. Between the four of us we had 5 barbel up to about 8 lb and 5 chub up to about 4 lb. The conditions weren't very helpful and most of the fish were caught late into the evening by which time it was raining heavily. We all enjoyed the beat despite the relatively poor catches and I will certainly try it again in the autumn. Thanks

M.H. from Liverpool, Wednesday 30 July, 2008

Barbel Fishing in July: Sun 27th July - Caradoc: 2 rods - 1 barbel(7lbs) 2 chub to 4lb 8oz (very hot & sunny & river lowish)

Mon 28th July - Holme Lay: 2 rods - 2 barbel (5lbs) 4 chub to 4lb 9oz (very hot & sunny & river lowish; end of day thunder storms)

Tue 29th July - Caradoc: 2 rods - 16 barbel to 8lb 8oz and 8lb 4oz (river invigorated by previous evening storms)

Wed 30th July - Backney: 2 rods - 11 barbel to 8lb 8oz

All fish weighed on electronic scales. Very enjoyable even when fishing slow.

M.J. Holmes

C.M. from Somerset, Monday 28 July, 2008

On fishing at Middle Hill Court (Wye): Barbel to 9lb 5oz, chub to 2.5lbs and several eels. Approx 20 salmon sighted to mid double figures

Andy B from Bristol, Saturday 26 July, 2008

Fishing with 'The Pons': Tough conditions, but was with Chris Ponsford on the 26th. Put us on the fish, refined the rigs, and was generally a great help, and good company!

WUF Notes :
26th July 2008 Caradoc - 8 barbel to 9lbs & 3 chub to 3lbs all on pellet

27th July 2008 Holme Lacy - 3 barbel to 7lbs & 5 chub to 3lbs all on pellet

Steve W & Matt W from Essex, Friday 25 July, 2008

On coarse fishing at Holme Lacy & Caradoc (Middle: Just to let you know what I caught, fished Holme Lacy last Wednesday we had three barbel – two about seven pounds and a small one about a pound and a half – lovely stretch of river and the ghillie Colin gave us some good advice. On the Friday we went to the Caradoc beat which was a fantastic stretch of water – we managed to catch two barbel and four chub – the barbel being about seven and a really big chub of about five pounds.

Thank you for all your help and assistance – the directions were excellent and we stayed at the Green Man at Fownhope which was close to both beats – I would like to visit again this summer do you think you could send me some maps of other beats available where there may be a few barbel so that I can plan ahead for my next expedition into the wilds of Herefordshire.
Many thanks

John O from Swansea, Friday 25 July, 2008

On coarse fishing at Wyebank (Lower Wye): 1st time on this particular stretch,not ideal conditions, bright, hot sunshine,and the fish not really feeding boldly, however managed to winkle out 2 chub and 4 barbel between 5-7lb. as [nearly] always enjoyed the river, and the fish were a bonus.

Rob M-D from , Thursday 24 July, 2008

Main river summer sport: Pwll-y-Feada was a beautiful beat with some excellent water. The conditions looked ideal and even the very friendly owner of the beat got his line wet and kindly lent us a wading staff. We saw some large fish, in 15-20lb range, moving around but despite throwing the kitchen sink at them we could not tempt them. After a couple of hours of salmon bashing I decided to try my luck for some fish that actually do feed in freshwater! I'm often the guest driving the ghillies mad, as at the sight of a whopper brown head and tailing, I drop my salmon rod in favour of my four weight. This time the move paid off and after about 45mins of Czech nymphing I had landed a dozen grayling and one or two nice trout. I also lost a mystery fish that was around the 3-4lb mark. It tore off at great speed and then pulsed around in the current before throwing the hook - win some lose some I suppose and of course it is better to have hooked and lost then to have never hooked at all!! Anyway, thank you for recommended this beat as it was a delight to fish and to meet the owner and his black panther (labrador!).

Fenni Fach was, as always, a delight to fish. BWOs trickled off from midday onwards triggering a sporadic rise of fish that, although tricky customers, were obliging. In fact we had a number of really good fish under our belt before the evening rise. It was one of those evenings where you watch as a massive hatch of sedge unfold and you ask yourself, 'which pool should I save for later' and 'should I start fishing the pool now or wait until they are really going for it'?

We jumped the gun on a couple of pools in our excitment and put down some good fish but all was not lost as we had left the big long pool downstream of the house on the corner. Here, we had some great sport not, as we were expecting, on sedges but for a massive fall of BWOs. The fish picked them off and it was reminiscent of the superb olive fishing I had in April. We landed a number of nice fish (up to 2lb) and lost a couple of beauties. Degreased 7X and small CdC seemed to be the order of the day. The F-fly was yet again a saviour for the early afternoon fishing under overhanging branches.

Anyway, it was a really good weekend so thanks for all pre-match advice. I'm planning on sticking my head into the game fair on Friday and I'll come to say hello if I see you...

P.L. from Gainsborough, Thursday 24 July, 2008

On four coarse rods fishing at Holme Lacy: River Conditions – At summer level and relatively clear.
Weather – Cloudless Sky, very warm and sunny, with a refreshing breeze.

As regular Trent anglers with frequent summer visits to both the Rivers Severn and Teme for the last 5 years or so, we felt in need of a change of venue and scenery to satisfy our quest for barbel and escapism to the wilds of nature. After writing to the Wye & Usk Foundation for further information regarding the River Wye and, on receipt of the details for the passport scheme and booking office beats list, the concept of booking your own beat of river for the day appealed to us all immensely, we subsequently telephoned the foundation office and made our reservations directly over the telephone.

We duly received our road and access directions, beat descriptions and maps etc, which proved very accurate, with more importantly no wasted lost time looking for the river.

As our summer angling for barbel generally consists of a roving approach, with just a single rod, rucksack, bank stick and landing net each, we had soon spread ourselves out along the beat to enjoy our days sport. Initially the going was very slow with very few fish showing or being caught, despite some anglers changing swims several times, however after a visit from Gordon the ghillie, who we believe was standing in Colin the regular beat ghillie, the more favoured swims were soon identified and a steady stream of both barbel and chub were finding the waiting landing net, despite the bright sunny conditions. The local knowledge passed on by Gordon proved invaluable, our thanks go out to him by making an already special day more memorable.

As it was all new unknown territory for us all, with lush grass throughout bank without the more usual bare mud of well worn swims to give away the more favoured swims, the sport did seem confined to just two main areas along the beat, despite a concerted effort throughout the length of river to find the fish, it was without doubt a very special day to savoir and remember. The bird life was splendid apart from a couple of Cormorants, which we disturbed in the morning and, who continually returned in the afternoon to try and get back in the river.

Total fish caught were 25 Barbel to around the 7lb mark and approximately 30 Chub to 3lb’s, general method used was a straight ledger with hair-rigged pellets as hookbait, loose feeding occasional pellets had little effect due to the strength of flow. In addition to the fish caught, several salmon were sighted leaping in the various pools throughout the day.

We have already a booking made for later in the year and will be now planning our 2009 holidays with the River Wye in mind.

Our thanks again to the Wye & Usk Foundation for an excellent days sport.

Guido from from Belgium, Wednesday 23 July, 2008

A trip from Belgium: The first day on the Arrow (Monkland) was very hectic and sorry for the ‘trouble’ and my many phone calls. The Monkland fishing stretch is verging on the unfishable because of overgrowth. At least I finally found the Titley stretch and the fishing (only for 1½hr) was good with 7 trout and 1 grayling.

The day after on the Wye in Bredwardine was nothing. As you told me a lot of barbel fishers and nearly NO brown trout or grayling. On that stretch they fish only for salmon until 15 of June. Anyway I was invited by Peter Hands and I fished all day long. The result 2 brown trout and 2 chub.

The fishing on the Lugg on the last day was fantastic. I could only fish for 4hrs but caught 20 brown trout and 25 grayling (up to 48 cm!) (see the attached pictures).

Lets keep in touch because next year I am coming to your region for fishing in Sept(I will stay in Builth Wells this time). So I hope you can give me some good tips!

R.P. from Cheltenham, Wednesday 23 July, 2008

On trout fishing at Glanusk Estate: Very slick arrangements from Foundation. A truely beautiful setting. Thanks a lot.

WUF Notes : 2 x Brown Trout around 1lb

Stephen R from Somerset, Monday 21 July, 2008

On fishing at Glanusk Estate: Another fantastic day but much harder this time as a result of the conditions and/or the time of year. Great to see Stuart the Ghillie again for a natter.

Thank you for another hassle free efficient booking. Kind Regards

WUF Notes : 18 Brown Trout to 14"

P.S. from Malvern, Sunday 20 July, 2008

On fishing Gromain (Upper Wye): By far the best fly water I've encountered on the Wye.

When booking, it would be useful to know whether the beat is ghillied (purely to remove uncertainty) and what arrangements (if any) exist regarding access to the fishing hut.

Really enjoyed my day, although did'nt see/encounter any salmon.

WUF Notes : 3 x Brown Trout to 9"

K.S. from Cheshire, Saturday 19 July, 2008

On fishing Abernant & Plasgwyn: I fished Abernant on Saturday, not much rising but plenty of fish taking a gold beaded hare’s ear. Despite the coloured water fifteen came to hand in all sizes ranging from 6 -10 inches, 12 trout and 3 grayling. All in all a very enjoyable day.

J.P. from Chepstow, Saturday 19 July, 2008

On fishing at Monnow Valley: Access in and out of river often difficult due to heavy growth of Japanese Knotweed. Otherwise had a very enjoyable day.

WUF Notes : 3 x Brown Trout 10" 11" & 13". 1 x Grayling 4"

Mike W from from Worcs, Tuesday 15 July, 2008

The last cast.....: I'm afraid I totally forgot to submit my voucher return from my recent trip to beat R5 - Severn Arms, Ithon (13/7/08). May have had something to do with my good lady wife calling to ask why my scheduled return home was 2 hrs late! No excuses really other than the fact I seem to have caught the Ithon in perfect condition and that 'last cast' seems to take that much longer.

This river really seems to fish well when it has plenty of water and a tinge of colour, the stretches that seem devoid of fish when low and clear suddenly spring to life.

Fish caught: 1 Grayling - 9", 22 Trout - biggest 11"

Dave C from Bredwardine, Tuesday 15 July, 2008

July trout fishing on the Usk: Went to Ashford House yesterday and had 15 trout to a pound or so. Early morning fish all on a small spurwing emerger that caught me 30 trout in Wharfedale one day a month back. Nothing emerging so I assume that they were taking PW nymphs (didn't knock anything on the head to see) - saw one or two PWs in the afternoon but apart from some sedges, the odd mayfly and a few YMs, no aerial bugs apart from gnats! Water was still 3-4 inches too high to get the best of the Fishery but good fun nonetheless. Blew like buggery after 11 a.m which kept the bugs down as usual. Then a couple more on PTNs and then three fish from some slower margins on one of Hans v K's small black Klinks.

Didn't fish the evening - the orchard had to be mowed - need more Brownie points!

C.L. from London, Wednesday 9 July, 2008

Salmon Fishing at Gromain: Hello - marvellous day out - very nice beat. The other rod was very helpful and pointed out a few spots to the novice. No luck I am afraid but I did get a pull so very nearly scored.

I have to say that if I had been nearer my car at 8pm I would have switched to trout - the most amazing evening hatch I have ever seen - do not ask me what they were - they looked like mini may fly.

Kind regards

A.W. from London, Tuesday 8 July, 2008

Dunking at Fenni Fach: As mentioned some funky wading, as I found out one moment up to my waist, next moment hat washed off, a wee drift, grab hat and struggle up bank, squelch back to car!

Glad of falling in kit, which I only leave in the car for my son !!!

That was 6pm. Should have stayed till dusk but was feeling chilled so left it there. Nice beat lots of water to fish, like all of the beats needs fishers on it, and a touch of keepering to make access clear and a wee tree pruning effort.

Enjoyed the day, will be back sometime !

J.S. from Peterborough, Monday 7 July, 2008

On coarse fishing at Caradoc: 2 rods.. 15 Barbel. Weight range 2½lbs to 8lbs

T. U. from Bristol, Sunday 6 July, 2008

Typical July ... Wet & Windy: An amazing beat, excellent access and loads of fishable water.

WUF Notes : 2 x Chub to 2lbs. 2 x BARBEL to 7lbs. All caught on pellets

Michael C from Woking, Friday 4 July, 2008

On coarse fishing at Middle Hill Court (Wye): Weather changeable and river fairly coloured. Single rod caught 5 Barbel to 8lbs and 2 chub to 4lbs. Great fishing. Barbel in superb condition and put up very stubborn resistance.

T.A. from Bristol, Thursday 3 July, 2008

Barbel fishing at White House: 3 Barbel, 5lbs-7lbs. Caught on Pellet. One lost fish as well, they were very hard fighting fish

Martin S from Bedfordshire, Thursday 3 July, 2008

Coarse fishing at Whitney Court: Six Chub, all 3½lb. An enjoyable days fishing, though a little hard.

C.S. from Leamington Spa, Tuesday 1 July, 2008

A hot (yes hot !!) day in July: I fished Glanusk on 1st July 2008. Difficult fishing conditions during the day - hot and bright.

Caught four brown trout (and lost four more, including one I estimated at over two pounds). Probably could have caught a few more had I started a bit earlier and stayed a bit later. But it is a wonderful beat.

With thanks and best wishes.

Andrew B from London, Monday 30 June, 2008

Trout Fishing at Glanusk Estate: Great day, nymph key to catching most fish including the biggest, plenty well over the pound, rising to the f fly later in the day

WUF Notes : Conditions. good height, clear and cold, warming in strong sun later. Fly-hatches: some sedge, yellow may, medium olives and black gnat. 15 Brown Trout to 17½"

Kevin M from Kent, Monday 30 June, 2008

On trout fishing at Skenfrith: Best days fishing ever on a river but thats not saying a lot for me, thanks for your help and advice Frank Williams!

Started about lunch time caught a lovely 12 inch'ish brownie on my first cast with a black klinkhammer, after a bit of stalking, at the very bottom of the beat.No sign of any other fish rising.

Nymphed my way up the rest of the beat and caught another 2 brownies and 3 Grayling all about 12" plus

Hung around the second pool that stretches from the bridge down to the first faster running water, about 75 yards? for about 2 hours, sporadic rises only.

Packed up and got a pint from the Bell, stood on the bridge looked down to see fish rising all over the place but it was about 9.45 by then..... but I was tempted!

R.E. & N.C. from Kettering, Sunday 29 June, 2008

On the Wye, late June: Thank you very much for all your help with organising our trip to Caradoc, Whitney Court and Doldowlod.
N.C. and I had the following catches:

Caradoc: 18 barbel to 8lb 12oz, 6 chub to 3lb 12 oz. Chub to floating breadcrust, barbel to sweetcorn and pellets. Fantastic day all round.

Whitney Court: 1 barbel 8lb 13oz, 9 chub to 4lb 6oz (most over 3lbs), 2 lost trout to retrieved sweetcorn! Excellent day.

Doldowlod: Novice river fly anglers but 3 small trout, 3 small grayling all to nymphs. Challenging and a great antidote to quivertipping.

All in all some of the best river fishing we have had. Please pass our thanks to all your staff and the various riparian owners for a splendid few days.

Kind regards

Chris H from Wiltshire, Sunday 29 June, 2008

On fishing Fenni Fach (USK): 3 Brown Trout - 8" to 10". Moved a couple of larger fish.... close but no cigar!

J.B. from Shropshire, Saturday 28 June, 2008

Coarse fishing at Holme Lacy: Catch report for 3 rods :19 x barbel 8lb 3oz, 11 x chub 5½lbs

Steve G from Lincolnshire, Saturday 28 June, 2008

On fishing at Caradoc (Wye): Brilliant day, glorious weather, and... caught 13 barbel and 5 chub all to sweetcorn - best barbel 8.8lbs, best chub 4lbs, majority of barbel in 5-7lb class with a scamp of about 3 that tried to tailwalk !

Removed somebody else's hook from one of them - perhaps a reminder that if you are fishing for barbel on this magnificent river - you need strong gear. I use 10 or 12lb line and didnt lose a single fish - not bragging but with the rocks anything lighter is prone to fraying - and I've learnt my lessons on the Teme thinking I could get away with 8lb in snaggy swims.

Will be back.

PS Dropped my phone in the river but it still works.

M.H. from Wigan, Saturday 28 June, 2008

On Middle Hill Court: Les in Ross tackle shop very helpful as was Adam Fisher. Great sport and Foundation booking information is spot on. Many Thanks

WUF Notes : Conditions - coloured. Number of rods - 1.
6 x Barbel to 8lbs. Caught on pellet.
3 x Chub to 3½lbs. Also on Pellet

J.O. from Swansea, Friday 27 June, 2008

On coarse fishing at Middle Hill Court (Wye): Fished Middle Hill Court for first time on Friday 27 June, lovely stretch of water, after trying a couple of likely looking swims, alas, with no results...the local expert Adam Fisher who was on the river, showed me a couple of hotspots. This man knows his river, 2nd cast a chub of about 4½lb, followed by 5 lovely but quite lean barbel between 6lb - 9½. l personal best! Also 1 lost.

Anyone who wants to get the best out of this part of the lower Wwye would be well advised to hire the services of Adam.

Many thanks.

K.F. from Powys, Thursday 26 June, 2008

Salmon spotted at Gofynne: One ½lb grayling, caught-on: gold head. Saw a salmon jump in pool opposite lake.

J.I. and N.M. from Birmingham, Thursday 26 June, 2008

Difficult conditions at Glan yr Afon: Angry weather with gale force wind and very heavy rain. Wading treacherous in these conditions. The river a gem, but a real challenge. Fish taking the dry fly despite the storm - extraordinary sport.

WUF Notes : 4 Brown trout up to 1lb. Caught on : Grey duster and GRHE

Geoff H from , Tuesday 24 June, 2008

A good day on the Lower Wye: I suppose that releasing a 12lb salmon on Monday and 5 salmon on Wednesday between 9 and 13lb may qualify for a sweat shirt! Wednesday was an exceptional day at Bigsweir with 14 fish from 9lb to 20lb plus. I was fortunate enough to have 4 in the morning (2 on fly and 2 spinning) and another fish on the fly in the afternoon. All of my fish went back in a good condition and all were fresh and some with sea lice. Robin Coleman had 6 for the day.

Keep up the good work on the reports.

Jonathan H from llandelio, Monday 23 June, 2008

Salmon bonaza on the lower wye: I was a guest at Wyesham on Tues and was told me to go Colemans first thing in the morning and warned about algal bloom and it was suggested big flies or spinning would be the order of the day.

After 3 (all returned) fish to 16lbs on Cascade 1” tube before 7.15 a.m. all went quiet until 9.15 when 2 other tenants arrived announcing that I was on the wrong beat, I was only doing what I was told! So on up to the Pipes (rather public) below the bridge at Monmouth, canoes a plenty but after just 10 mins into another fish. Barbel fisherman on my bank cheered me on + several people on a footpath on other bank

Good lunch at Ostrich, shad and chubb to the same Cascade double all afternoon then another 9 pounder on a 2” tube at 19.30 – returned.

Fantastic day with 4 other good pulls and 2 more on briefly when the ghillie had suggested spinning was the only way of catching a fish! 12 for the beat for the day, 8 on fly. Great stuff but needed long casting which was hard work with big tubes, although I’ve caught many more in a day elsewhere (23 on day in Scotland last year) but the quality of fish was exceptional and as a complete day Wyesham had it!

Gareth W from , Sunday 22 June, 2008

A great day on the lower middle wye: Stunning days fishing, Barbel seen rolling on arrival. 14 banked up to 11 lb . Two doubles witnessed by other coarse angler. Sadly smashed 5 times. Stronger tackle required!

Keith W from , Saturday 21 June, 2008

June Coarse fishing: Just to thank you for the assistance in booking middle hill court and wye bank and Courtfield 18th and 20th, I attempted to ring in a catch report but found it hard from Monmouth (poor signal)

18TH I had 8 barbel from 5 lbs to a PB of 11,4 all fell to corn, best days fishing on a river ever.

20th 2 barbel and a chub best of 7 lbs.

Will be back every year I am able absolutely fantastic beats and service

Paul W from , Tuesday 17 June, 2008

Opening day on the wye: River wye, sheephouse, sunny and hot, river low and clear
5 chub from 3 to 6lb on meat

This is a brilliant set up had lots of info, cracking scenery, fishing could of been better, though conditions were tough,we were after barbel but they were more interested in cleaning themselves after spawning so i will be back!canoes took some getting used to too. But once again its brilliant and cant wait to fish in such beautiful surroundings again! thanks very much to all :-)

Seth from Hereford, Monday 16 June, 2008

On fishing the Hindwell: FYI. Fished it yesterday afternoon, 13 trout to 8” with twice as many lost. Mayflies, olives & lots of others hatching, although all but 1 taken on gold head.

First part of the beat clear but closes in after about 1km and roll casts only after that. Could do with some napalm!

Chris C from , Monday 16 June, 2008

Fabulous usk fishing: Had a great day on Dan-y-Parc today, steady rise most of teh afternoon/evening and fish of a very high average size, but nothing over 1lb 12oz brought to hand. Each one hooked shot to the other side of the river with the reel screaming.....must be what hooking a bonefish is like!

Miles T from , Saturday 14 June, 2008

Fighting through the nettles: Hergest Court
weather: Fine but quite cool for the time of year - strengthening breeze through the day
conditions: clear, normal summer level
fly-hatches: mayfly - around 11.00 and again later
10 Brown trout to 12oz on weighted nymphs / mayfly

Lovely day all in all - the lastest newsletter arrived on Friday and much of what it said was borne out, especially the bit about the fishing becoming more challenging as the vegetation has grown up - parts of the beat were bearly recognisable from when I fished it a few weeks ago, and I don't think I have ever seen nettles quite so tall! Part of the reason for my visit was to try out a new 6' cane rod which I have built myself - great fun to use in the confines of this lovely little river, or at least it was until the ferrule broke. Poor workmanship, I'm afraid...

Colin K from , Saturday 14 June, 2008

Beaten by the fish: 10/6/08 Upper Winforton - I can't sing the praises of this beat more highly if I tried. I wascompletely taken with the whole place. Although I blanked, I saw 9 good fish moving by Cowpond and Walls & Steps. My companion, with whom I have fished for over 50 years, commented it is the best he has seen the Wye since the seventies, having fished it on and off over the years.

11/6/08 Middle Hill - Sadly once again a nil return, although 1 fish seen. Elliot Penn who was also fishing the beat reported seeing several fish earlier (about 5am!)

I'm happy to admit that my lack of results is due entirely to lack of skill and not the lack of fish!

Jean, Lionel et Guillaume from , Thursday 12 June, 2008

A weeks fishing in the rain: Salut Simon

As the matter of fact the (very) high light was on Monday (something like 70 trouts with 5 or 6 between 40 and 50 cm). On Tuesday we found the Irfon as colored as the Usk, so we could not fish. On Wednesday we just sang in the rain. Fortunately on Thursday we discovered the marvelous Penpont beat (thanks Wendy) with around 40 trouts caught. Friday the hatches were very poor on the Usk ( around 20 trouts in total) and on Saturday, I guess we should have followed your advice and fish for salmon but we thought we were not skilled enough and kept on looking for trout (around 30 caught) that were smaller than on the Usk.
Anyway the week was great, the welsh's much more friendly that on a rugby field and your welcome and advices very good
Thank you again
A bientôt

Scott and Simon from London, Thursday 12 June, 2008

Dear Ladies,
Both Simon and I would like to thank you for your help during our trip to the Usk and Irfon. The weather was wonderful, as was the glorious countryside but the fishing was tough. We report the following:
1. Beat R11-9th June 08. 1 x 1.5lb grayling from the very bottom beat on a pink shrimp after much stealth plus a few 'small' trout on a black up wing-type of fly. The water was difficult with the upper part of the beat low. No evening rise after a bright and very hot afternoon.
2. Beat B35-10th June 2008. Just stunning water!!! We were both blown away by the beat, pools, falls, holes etc etc. Very very hard and only a few little trout to show out of fall pools on PTNs. The evening rise lasted for about 10 minutes max after a hatch of some dunns. Sadly, apart from these few minutes, there was nothing to cast at but the
water made up for the lack of fish. We will return!
3. Beat B26-11th June 08. Dull and a few moments of rain. No factor 15 here. It looked very fishy and we were asked to look out of salmon but reported none at the end of the day. Just two mini trout on very small Adams type flies. A few rising in the afternoon and we had to leave at 17h. Challenging and character forming fishing! It would help
to have some definition of the beat, limits etc as well as turn left and left again off the road just to prevent further excursions to the cows field! I must admit I fished for a while not knowing if I was on beat so tended to be less adventurous up and down stream. Very good to be there.

Jorg from Switzerland, Saturday 7 June, 2008

A weeks trip round the catchments: Well, we have returned to Switzerland. Here our report of last week at the wye and the usk.

3.6: Llangoed Beats - Hard fishing during the day, nice evening with the dry fly. There were a good raising and we got some beautiful trouts. Grayling was difficult.

4.6. Doldowlod - Beautiful surrounding. With goldhead nymph 3 beautiful graylings. No trout.

5.6. Pwll-y Faedda- During the day (with some large rainy showers) excellent fishing for trouts and graylings with different sorts of nymphs. In the evening it was perhaps to cold, so we were not succesfull with the dry fly.

6.6. Fenni Fach- It was better to fish in pocket water with nymphs than in long, slowly runs. In long runs it was good fishing with long leaders and classical wet flys. Daniel and I did some good trouts. In the evening with dry fly was not so bad, but trouts are not raising regulary.

7.6. Penpont- Like you have said fishing was very hard and extremely difficult, because trouts here are very spoky. One brown trout over 2 pounds I have had with the nymph, but also a nice day in these beautiful area.

Daniel and I were very satisfied for these 5 days. Sure, we come back, as soon as possible.

Greetings from Switzerland

Aeron D from , Friday 6 June, 2008

On Fishing the Upper Usk: 1. Cefn Rhosan Fawr

Light rain, periods of heavy rain and sunny intervals.
Few fish rising or nyphing; limited hatch. Three brown trout: 8" , 14" and 13". Very fat and in superb condition. CDC Klinkhammer; CDC olive; and sulphur Klikhammer.

Deep and shallow nymphs tried without success. Lovely beat, really enjoyed walking the full length and both tribs. I would consider the Senni and lower trib (can't remember the name) barely fishable, as they need coppicing.

2. Abercamlais
Cool start followed by lovely sunny morning. Only two rises seen. Quite difficult conditions. Two lovely fat browns; 14" and 15". PTN goldhead.

Only two hours fishing, early morning. A really nice beat. I found the wading quite straightforward. Very easy access.

Summary.
Two lovely days on the upper Usk. Despite quite difficult conditions the fishing was superb. I would certainly book these beats again. Thanks again to the W&UF. Keep up the good work.

JH from Llandeilo, Tuesday 3 June, 2008

A Good Day: Had a good day yesterday in spite of colour and height. I M-L caught a lovely 18 pounder in the Pipe which I followed with a measly 5lb grilse dripping with sea lice – both on the fly after Ray had told us that the fly was a waste of time!

The reason for this is to say how well all the paddlers behaved during the day, out of over 50 only 1 came marginally in front of me which was due to the inexperience of the 12 old girl. All were polite and we exchanged a fair bit of banter, quite like the Tay. 6 came down while Ian was playing his fish, kept well out of the way against the far bank, stopped to watch the action and seemed genuinely delighted to “participate” and passed on the news to D H who was spinning below and must have covered the same fish earlier.

WUF note: This took place on the navigable section of the Wye

John G from Glamorgan, Sunday 1 June, 2008

More upper usk beauties: Catch report from my day on the usk (Pantyscallog) on Sunday. Only 3 fish, but check out the photo, well chuffed, i could have gone home right then. Tipped the scales at just under 3lb (i did subtract the weight of the net!), almost had a heartattack when it decided to jump so high it actually hit the branches of an overhanging tree!!!!!!!!!!!!, Not to mention trying to fit it in the net! Especially with a 2lb leader on!

Fish were very spooky and had to stalk this one on hands and knee's accross the Mossy boulders.

Good hatch of Very Large Brook Duns, best at about 2pm. Other 2 fish, 1 of about a 1lb, and a little tiddler of under half a pound, all 3 fish safely returned.

Ben G from Glos, Wednesday 21 May, 2008

Angry Pancakes!:
Thought I'd let you know how I got on on friday at Pantysgallog - sorry for the slightly late feedback. The morning was very wet with persistent rain, but the river stayed quite clear. There wasn't much rising, but I did manage to get an absolute beauty on a deep nymph, fished NZ style. Over 19" and weighed 2lb 14oz, it gave me a real scrap on my 4-weight and took some time to get in. Nearly lost it at the net - so big it wouldn't fold in on the first attempt, flipped in the air and I had to catch it at the second attempt, like a giant, angry pancake!

The rain gradually cleared but then there was a sudden spate in the early afternoon. The water turned to chocolate and I nearly went home, but after 90 mins it was clear again! The insects started to hatch in the afternoon so had far more bites - caught 3 more trout including 1lb 3oz and 1lb 13oz fish. Olive uprights and BWO hatching, but they took a small Parachute Adams. Had a number of other bites too. Great fishing in a really beautiful beat - thanks! Attach a couple of photos of the big one and a nice river shot if you're interested!

Rod D from Devon, Tuesday 20 May, 2008

May trout fishing on the Wye:
May 17th. Beat 27 Cefnllysgwynne R. Irfon
12 trout to cir.1 lb. with one accidental grayling. All returned. River was in fine shape despite rain on the previous day. Olives were coming of along with every thing else including 'Green Drakes'.

May 18th. Beat 8 Gromain R. Wye
18+ trout to cir.1lb. 4ozs. All returned. Again river was looking very good. While on the Boards at Llanstephan at about 10.15am. an Otter came past me just three feet away! I dont know who jumped the most. It made my day which then got better & better. All my fish came to a size 12 Waterhen Bloa just sub-surface. What superb water!

I now look forward to the 14th. of June when I will be 'On The Rocks'. Thank you Wye & Usk you did me proud!

Tom W from , Tuesday 20 May, 2008

A good days trout fishing in May on the Usk:
Beat: Bridge Meadow
weather: overcast, mild
fly-hatches: yellow may duns, olives, midge
30+ Trout to biggest 2lb+ on yellow/olive klinhammer
some tiddlers but average about 1lb

One of the best days i've ever had on a river. Fish everywhere sipping down the big yellow duns. Caught plenty, lost plenty and had a great day. Average size was amazing too.

Rich W from Sennybridge, Monday 19 May, 2008

Penpont Porkers!: Last evening I went out targeting the larger fish within the upper Usk on the Penpont beat. Finished with 6 over 2lbs with the best one pushing 3.5lb. All the fish were lying in very shallow water, and after a steathly approach took carefully presented dry flies. The 3 wt took on a hell of a bend when they took off!

Dave E from Glos, Monday 19 May, 2008

...and some great Wye fishing: We had a superb day on the upper wye yesterday. Dave concentrated on the trout whilst I started looking for a salmon. The heavy rise and seeing Dave's rod seemingly constantly bent made me reach for the trout rod. Dave lost count at 30 whilst I landed 14 to around 1.5lb all on dry fly, superb sport in simply stunning surroundings.

Steve B from , Monday 19 May, 2008

A weeks trout fishing..: Sun, intense heat and easterly wind to start the week, breaking down to cloud and drizzle for thurs and Friday.
conditions: Very low
May 10th, Titley, 9 trout to 8in on Olive klink
May 11th, Rocks 2 Trout to 10in on BWO
May 13th, Cefn Rhosan-Fawr 4 Trout to 8in on PTN
May 15th, Hergest 22 trout to 10in on PTN, Mayfly
May 16th, Lypole 60+ Trout to 12 in on Mayfly

As you can see, the fishing improved with the weather! We also had a couple of good sesseions on the Llynfi Dulas, catching about a dozen or 15 fish from the top and bottom beats. We struggled badly on the main rivers with the low water and very hot, bright conditions but the last two days and at Lypole particularly, we experienced some of the best fishing either of us have known. They are both beautiful beats as well and the trout are some of the prettiest I have ever seen.

Phil B from Gloucestershire, Thursday 15 May, 2008

Fishing Upper wye: Weather cold after last few days but at least the rain stayed away!
Fly life was amazing! Flies I identified were: Brook Dun, Yellow May Dun, iron Blue Dun, Large olive, medium olive and mayfly I think the trout were so confused by all this they forgot to take our flies - although James my son had 8 to 12" on para ginger quill and blue dun - I had 2 ditto. the other two rods were two tyros on their first river trip who struggled initially to cast but eventually mastered it - and one caught 2 salmon parr so was both were very happy and amazed at the profusion of insect life - and the fish's reaction!

Graham W from , Sunday 11 May, 2008

On fishing the Lugg at Lyepole: 1 or 2 mays about a few upwings and midges about. Returned 19 trout and 6 out of season grayling up to 12" on pheasant tail nymph & black klinkhammer. First class fishing on a beautiful stretch of river in glorious countryside. I was very lucky to have an otter feeding/playing in a pool i was fishing, he never knew i was there. Booked online what a great idea.

Daniel S from Kent, Thursday 8 May, 2008

On taking a guide: I recently had the pleasure of hiring the services of Andrew Cartwright as a guide, whilst on a fishing holiday in mid-Wales. Andrew was not the first guide I contacted, but was the first that gave me a sense that his priority was what I needed.
I had planned to get the most out of my 2 days with him, and he helped me achieve all of my objectives, including reservoir, small river and larger river fishing, and learning a variety of techniques. The only problem for me is trying to remember it all. To that end, Andrew was kind enough to permit me to video him tying some of the flies he uses (a good sample of which he provided on the first day). With his local knowledge, the flies he ties, or his variations on established patterns, will get you into fish way ahead of shop-bought generics.
I can honestly say that the only times Andrew picked up the rod was to demonstrate a technique, or to patiently unpick one of my many tangles! He was on my shoulder at all times to give advice, which he did without ego-tripping in the slightest.
Andrew will take you where he is confident of the best chance of catching, rather than personal convenience - I would strongly recommend a chat with him before booking any fishing beats (he is also a mine of information regarding suitable accommodation!).
I can unhesitatingly recommend Andrew to anyone; he carries a quiet confidence which puts you, the pupil, at ease, and enables a relaxed but effective learning session.
Tight lines!

Ian M from , Monday 5 May, 2008

On fishing the Usk at bridge meadow: A very good days fishing, caught five Brown trout (four returned in good condition). All caught on dry fly fished up stream. The flies started hatching around 10am and continued untill I left early evening.
Mostly midge and grannom flies but I also saw two yellow upwing flies that I think were mayflies, and there were small daddies on the grassland next to the river.
Many thanks to everyone involved with WUF, my day fishing made all the easier due to the ease of booking using the online sevice and the excellent description of the beat and directions to it.

Chris C from Kilsby, Monday 5 May, 2008

On fishing for bats: Here's a picture for you:

On Sunday I had struggled to get a take for a few hours in the likely spots on the lower reservoir, so headed up to Craig-Goch about 4pm to see if I could find a fish or two. Couldn't pull over or turn round so ended up at the pull-in where the Elan River enters the system and was pleasantly surprised to read on the noticeboard that the previously restricted top-end is open to fishing for the 2008 season.

Thought I'd give it a go and found fish quickly where the river enters the reservoir proper. After about 30 mins fishing and with a couple of fish in the bag I noticed that a sizeable bat was patrolling up and down picking up insects close to the water (in bright sunlight!). After another quarter of an hour or so I hooked into what I thought was the mother of all Elan Valley trout but which turned out to be 2 reasonable fish, one on the point and one on the middle dropper with both fighting hard in opposite directions. Having struggled to net the slightly larger fish on the dropper I was on my knees trying to do something about the fish on the point when it became obvious that the fly on the top dropper was gyrating about in a manner which was proving irresistable to the errant bat. There I was with one angry fish in the net, another going mental on the point and me flapping about like a mad thing trying to stop the bat hooking itself on the top dropper! Incredibly and somewhat fortuitously I managed to not fall in, scare the bat off and land the point fish although the video would not have made pretty viewing. I will always remember this session for almost having a full house of two brown trout and one bat! To even things up a bit it has to be said that I did go arse-over-tit once later on and shipped some water over the top of both waders. I also caught a total of 9 fish, lost 3 others and pricked a few more before 7pm - an eventful 3 hours and much better than watching boring Chelsea against Newcastle on Sky Sports!

Paul R from Bristol, Sunday 4 May, 2008

Fishing the usk at Glan-yr-Afon: Weather warm, overcast, with occasional shower. Client, Rob Ormond, fished from 09:30 to 12:30. 8 fish caught and released, biggest, 1.5, 1.75 and 2lbs. Water clear and height 10.5” (webcam gauge) temperature 52F, old currency. Plenty of fly life, sparse hatches of Large dark Olives, Grannoms, a few larger sedges, and ?Olive Uprights?

Client delighted with the river and the fishing.

Miles T from , Tuesday 22 April, 2008

On using the Online Booking System and fishing the: Lovely day, the first I have been able to book using the on-line booking system. I only thought of going late on Friday and was out of vouchers, so only the on-line booking system made the trip possible. A really lovely beat with plenty of interesting pools and runs to explore. All 12 trout I caught were of a decent size (around the half pound mark). Few signs of moving fish during the day, but they were obviously feeding below the surface. I shall have to go and take another look at mayfly time...

Robert M-D from , Monday 21 April, 2008

Trout fishing the upper Usk: We enjoyed some sensational Olive fishing on the Usk over the past few days despite the cold NE winds. Thank you very much for your pre-trip guidance and your excellent and friendly service.
I have attached one or two pictures of our trip. I managed to wrestle a monster brownie on the last day that gave me a run for my money! The fish was carefully returned to fight and more importantly spawn another day. I am writing an article about fly fishing on the Usk for fly fishing and fly tying and Trout and Salmon so I will give you notice of a publishing date in case it is of interest.
Finally if you talk to the nice gentleman who oversees the fishing at Fenni Fach could you let him know that we did very well and caught a number of nice fish on Olives - he came and had a chat with us and was very friendly and gave us some great advice - I imagine that he is wondering how we got on.

Here is the catch return:

Cefn Rhosan Fowr 17th April: 2 Brown Trout (both 2lbs)
Fenni Fach 18th April: 10 Brown Trout (up to 2lb)
Pentscallog 19th April: 4 Brown Trout (all over 2lbs + one monster!)

Robert M-D from , Monday 21 April, 2008

Spring trout fishing on the upper usk part 2: As you can imagine the fish (4lb8oz) gave one hell of a scrap. I hooked the fish right in the head of the pool and she steadily charged down stream right to the tail (some 40 or so yards - you can see how far it ran from the picture). Chasing fish downstream reminded me of fishing in New Zealand where sometimes you have to follow a big fella over various sets of rapids and through pool after pool..... At one point in the fight the line got snagged on a big boulder towards the back of the pool and grated back and forth until suddenly (and miraculously) it sprang free and the battle was back on.... I just managed, thanks to a lot of side strain, to steer the fish away from the tail of the pool because I think it wanted to plunge down the rapids. My 4 weight was bent in a horseshoe and somehow the light tippet held just long enough to coax the clonking trout to the net.....

Tim A from Birmingham, Monday 14 April, 2008

On fishing Beat 35 lower Stanton: Once again I turned up without a pen today so apart from leaving my vouchers I was unable to leave any catch return details. This was my first visit to this beat and it was absolutely fantastic. In three hours I landed 22 beautifully marked brown trout to 14" and lost countless others. After some rain, presumably, up the valley the water colour changed from clear to strong milky tea the sport switched off and I contentedly stopped fishing.

W.D. from , Wednesday 9 April, 2008

Spring trout at Glanusk: Thanks for all the updates on the river conditions first thing this morning. Things were not looking good on the drive over. It was raining heavily and the Usk below Usk was bank high and brown.

However, the river above Crickhowell was coloured but fishable. There was a huge hatch of Grannom from about 11.30am and some LDOs in the afternoon. In between the frequent heavy rain showers, there was a decent rise of fish. It was one of those days I was glad to have a good waterproof. I found it hard work with dry fries when the Grannom were about.

Two of us managed about a dozen trout between 10" and 16". There was one overwintered stock fish, but the rest looked wild. The beat has not been stocked yet this year. Half and half between dries and nymphs. Saw one March Brown floating past.

Things went quiet about 3pm, and we packed up just before 4pm.

Overall a fantastic springs days fishing. One minute belting rain and high winds, the next the air was filled with flies and fish are rising.

T.P. from Suffolk, Thursday 13 March, 2008

Upper Wye trout fishing: I fished Ty-Newyd with a friend on Friday 13th. The river was still very high despite our not having very much rain over the preceding days - the two sets of foot boards at the top and bottom of the fishery were both under approx 9 inches of water. The water was however very clear which may suggest that there had been a release from the resevoir. We still enjoyed ourselves inspite of the conditions and I managed 3 trout and 3 grayling all of which were returned. Unfortunately my companion did not find any fish.

G.P. from Staffordshire, Monday 10 March, 2008

Today (7 March) on Holme Lacy 3 we had two fresh salmon. One estimated at between 25 and 26lbs caught on a Flying C by gillie Colin Richardson and then a fish between 15 and 16lbs caught by Gordon Lucock. Both returned safely. These are our ealiest fish since 1993. Bodes well!

R.H. from London, Thursday 28 February, 2008

On Barbel fishing lower wye in February......can I just say what a marvellous time my friend and I had on the White House Fishery last week and thank you so much for accommodating the extra day for us due to our “unforeseen” circumstances. We can’t wait to get back on the river in the new season and sample more of the pristine Barbel fishing on offer.

G.S. from Holland, Saturday 1 December, 2007

On a September fishing trip.....: So it happened that we were all home before dinner time. Tired after a long journey, but with lots of great memories of a fantastic fishing week in a beautiful countryside. And with a thankful feeling towards all those people that helped us make the most of our time in Wales. We will certainly return one day.

P.L. from South Yorkshire, Tuesday 27 November, 2007

On the Autumn Riverwalk......: We would like to thank you and your colleagues for all the work you put into making the River Walk such an enjoyable day. My wife & I were on the "Wye Coach" with Stephen and felt it had been well worth the effort of comming down from Rotherham South Yorkshire. I am sure that we will see you again next year perhaps & hopefully be able to fit in some fishing in the meantime.

M.S. from Gloucestershire, Monday 26 November, 2007

On the Autumn River Walk....: Just a quick email to say thanks to you and all involved at your organisation for a great day out on the Autumn river walk. I met some really nice people and the guides were very informative, knowledgeable and most of all very enthusiastic. Would you also pass on my thanks to the cafe we went to for lunch. The meal was great and I had to have a second helping. All in all a great day. Looking forward to the next day out.

P.B. from Gloucestershire, Monday 26 November, 2007

On the Autumn River Walk: Just wanted to thank you all for a superb day out yesterday - it could not have been better!

M.R. from Oxfordshire, Monday 26 November, 2007

On the Riverwalk: I just wanted to thanks those who organised yesterday out on the various rivers. These things do not work well unless they are properly planned and yesterday hit all the spots!!! I think we were particularly lucky in spotting so many fish, especially at the falls...... wow!

I am very keen to have a go on some of the waters on the Usk that we visited next season, particularly the Penpont fishery.

I have attached a photo that you might like of a salmon jumping..... you may already have hundreds|!!!!!

J.H. from Powys, Monday 26 November, 2007

On the Autumn Riverwalk: Just to thank the Foundation for organising an excellent and informative day out yesterday, my wife and I really enjoyed our first river walk. Please pass this along to Simon and his colleagues.

M.N. from Powys, Monday 26 November, 2007

On the Riverwalk.....: Just to say what an excellent day out it was. Thanks.

B.H. from Devon, Monday 26 November, 2007

On coarse fishing the upper Wye & Irfon....: A thoroughly enjoyable couple of days. Will need to fish both beats again since I spent as much time walking and watching as I did fishing. The Irfon is particularly pituresque (even in the grey skies and driving rain - thank Snowbee for breathable chest waders!) and the grayling fishing excellent.

Thank you for your execllent organisation. This really is a great scheme - I have hardly scratched the surface of the fishing on offer (6 beats so far this year) and what makes it is not the fishing (which is excellent - I worked out that in five visits to one beat I am averaging a barbel every 45 minutes of fishing time - + at least one chub for every barbel - outstanding by my standards) but the beautiful Wye Valley and its wildlife. Thank you and please do keep up the good work.

J.S. from Oxfordshire, Monday 26 November, 2007

On grayling fishing the Irfon.....: Beautiful beat, wonderful setting. Found fishing tough - water was coming through pretty sharpish and wind was troublesome. Could have used some local expertise. Stayed at Caer Beris - excellent, could not be faulted. Excellent service from the foundation - efficient, friendly, helpful. I popped into Rods n Reels in Builth and received a freindly & helpful welcome although the guy in the shop had not heard of Gofyyne as a beat. However, very helpful.
Will be back.. muy appetite is whetted!

P.R. from Bristol, Tuesday 13 November, 2007

Fished the Llanfechan beat of the Irfon with I.M. 09:30 to 16:00

The weather was overcast with blustery north westerly wind. There was a little drizzle at times. The river was still low and clear. 10” on the gauge.

The fishing runs for about a mile between the top of Cefnllyswynne and Aberbwtran. The bottom is where the Hafrena stream enters. The first deep pool is the mud pool. I was fishing a leader with Klinkhamer, size 20 PTN and blackbeadhead caddis. I waded up and fished the streamy water taking 2 trout on the caddis nymph. I then noticed fish rising amongst the floating leaves in the eddies and swirls of the slack water of the pool, off to the left. I cast out and took 2 grayling on the Klinkhamer. There were medium sized (14 or 16) olives hatching off. I moved above the grassy island and caught another 2 grayling there. One took the caddis, probably on the lift, and was the biggest of the 4 grayling. The other took the Klinkhamer.

Little Glaslyn Pool had small grayling rising in its deep, smooth-surfaced tail. They rose at the dry fly but were too small to take it. I did manage to take one medium-sized grayling on the small PTN

Glaslyn pool is a huge deep pool. There were fish rising on the far side. I pricked one small grayling after taking a brown trout in the stream of the main current.

The last fish came from the Penrhw Gutter and again took the Klinkhamer (whilst my nymph was stuck on a rock ledge ! The wading here is a nightmare. The olives stopped coming off about 1 o’clock but small stoneflies and the odd caddis emerged in the later afternoon. It became increasing dark and rainy as the afternoon progressed.

My total 6 grayling and 3 trout

Ian took 3 grayling, 2 from the Mud Pool and one from Glaslyn.

The grayling were not big, the largest was just over the pound, but it was fun to see rising fish and catch them on dry flies in November. A wonderful beat with some challenging wading and tremendous pools; almost oversized for the Irfon.

C.S. from Hampshire, Wednesday 7 November, 2007

I don't expect you to have remembered my wife and I calling at your office and meeting you a couple of years ago. You have very kindly kept me informed all this time, and you send me the Passport Manual, but thus far it has been difficult to get across to your patch from mine (here in Hampshire)! I'm hoping to be able to remedy this next year, however, particularly for salmon. Please continue to send me your Passport and the river sitreps. Thanks so much!

O.B. from Glos, Tuesday 6 November, 2007

Autumn fishing on the Irfon.....: It’s not a booking office beat, I know, but you might like the feed-back that the Cammarch Hotel’s lower beat seems to be right on song at the moment. I fished the lower beat last Friday, in weather more like September than November, to find grayling, including some big ones, spread all over the shallows and rising to olives. Water Hen Bloa and Grayling Steel Blue were, logically enough, the ones which they wanted from a cast of old fashioned wet flies, and I had 12 grayling between 14 and 18 inches for the day, plus smaller ones and a few out of season trout. It was classic autumn fishing, in lovely scenery.

C.B. from Worcs, Sunday 4 November, 2007

Grayling fishing on the Irfon....: The two of us had a super day on Friday catching and releasing a total of 28 grayling. However, average size of fish was down somewhat compared with catches in previous years with almost all the fish between 12oz and 1lb 4oz. As usual the autumn colours in the Irfon valley were spectacular and the scenery alone was worth the journey.

C.B. from Middlesex, Wednesday 31 October, 2007

An October coarse fishing trip to the Wye....: A good week for me & John, held out for the big one's on the lead & feeder most of the week. The river was low & clear at start of the week, coloured-up on Wednesday, falling by Thursday with colour running out rest of the week.

Sun 13/10/07, White House:

Weather: Still day, cloudy, light wind now & then, ave temp 15c.

I caught 2 chub up to 4lbs
John was on the feeder, 2 chub up to 4lbs & a few Dace.
Salmon moving, on & off during the day, fish up to 10bs.

Mon 14/10/07, Caradoc:

Weather: Light rain first thing, misty clearing sunny spell & cloudy, ave temp 15c.

I blanked, but John caught. 2 chub up to 4lbs.
Watched Perch 2-3Lbs bkt-attacking small stuff all day.
Salmon moving some silver fish up to 10Lbs.


Tues 15/10/07, Llanstephan:

Weather: Rain all day, ave temp 13c.

I had 1 chub 4lbs & Dace, Brownies.
John had a bag of Dace odd Brownie.
Salmon, on & off during the day, fish up to 8lbs.


Wed 16/10/07, Sheep house:

Weather: Sunny & cloudy, Ave temp 15c.

I had a big bag of Dace- 60 plus fish (up to 3/4Lbs), lost just as many, a few brownies up to 2Lbs.
On the Float Maggs.
John also had a good bag of Dace on feeder, similar to above.


Thurs 18/10/07 Whitney Court:

Weather: Frost first thing, misty cloudy with sunny spells ave temp 15c.

On the float again, maggs. I caught 7 chub up to almost 5Lbs, lost just as many, Sea trout 2Lbs, Brown 2Lbs.
John, float fished as well, had six chub up to 5Lbs 6oz. Lost a few fish as well.
Double figure salmon moving up.


Fri 19/10/07 Preston Court:

Weather: Frost first thing, misty cloudy with sunny spells ave temp 15c.

On the lead, I had 3 chub up to 4Lbs.
John was on the feeder for a mixed bag, dace, perch up to 2Lbs, bleak, roach.
Double figure salmon moving, some silver fish.

R.W. from Hampshire, Sunday 28 October, 2007

On a coarse fishing trip to the middle Wye...: Fished Middle Hill Court beat first and last day, and Holme Lacy beat in between. Fishing was excellent, particularly given it coincided with the first three ground frosts of the autumn. The areas of river that hold fish seem to hold large numbers. Stayed at Pencraig Country House Hotel, which was relaxed with excellent food. Can't wait to return to the River Wye, and will be supporting the excellent Wye and Usk Foundation in the future. Keep up the good work.

J.T. from Oxon, Saturday 27 October, 2007

On coarse fishing the upper Wye...: Thanks very much for a memorable day in wonderful surroundings. pb chub as well.

T.D. from Bristol, Wednesday 17 October, 2007

On a last-day Wye salmon trip....: Many thanks for doing the arrangements for fishing at White House on the Wye yesterday. It turned out a really lovely autumn day with a light breeze and water slightly up and dropping following Tuesday’s rain. I had a fine cock fish of 8lb on an Ally’s shrimp pattern, fifth cast of the day. He was safely returned in good health despite having fought like a dervish. Although there were a number of fish showing, particularly later in the day, I only had one other pluck. This was my first English, indeed first British, salmon on my first visit to the Wye, so you must excuse my sounding rather pleased with myself!

Thanks again, and to Simon too for his advice on flies and fishing approach. I shall no doubt be in touch for some more next season!

O.B. from Glos, Monday 15 October, 2007

On grayling fishing the upper Wye....: Pwll y Faedda 12 October - this was supposed to be a grayling day. Actually it was quite a good day, although a lot of smaller fish - 14 up to 11/2 pounds and 16 out of season trout, and with olives hatching all the time.
The odd one out was a coloured cock salmon of 34.5 inches, which rose very delicately in the middle of a shoal of grayling and sucked in the North Country spider on the point. He told me later, as I was removing the size 16 Hare's Lug and Plover from his cavernous maw, that he had taken it because he was sick of seeing Bann Shrimps whizzing past him every day - tell Simon! Released unharmed.

R.L. from Hong Kong, Sunday 14 October, 2007

My stay in the UK has come to an end after a very enjoyable 13 year period. The Wye and Usk have given me so many memorable moments, and because of that, I'd like to see if I can spend some time with them for one more time, before my departure in Xmas. Knowing that both trout and salmon are out of season, grayling and course are probably the only choice.

B.H. from Devon, Saturday 13 October, 2007

Barbel really are the most magnificent fish. The Wye is the most marvellous river and Backney is a lovely beat. The pipe works were not intrusive but once they are finished it will be better still. I managed five Barbel to just under 10lbs and a number of nice chub. All to small (11mm) pellets. A thoroughly enjoyable day.

A.D. from Dorset, Saturday 13 October, 2007

On salmon fishing at White House....: Many thanks for your advice on fishing the White House fishery last friday. Had an enjoyable day had two fish on but unfortuantely nothing landed! Seemed to be a few stale residents around which lept about during the day and great fun having them slash at a collie dog!
Met the owner who was very helpful and pointed out a few lies and how to get at them. The "grandstand" pool was a joy to fish but the bits upstream a bit tricky; a deep wade on a bank out in the river to cast to the opposite croys below their hut (the little middle croy I had one fish on) but with a deeper channel on the inside getting in/out was difficult! However a good day and great value and suited youngsters like Huw and me!
Many thanks and look forward to the spring. Hope to get over a bit more often!

A.B. from Dorset, Friday 12 October, 2007

On the web gauges.....: I would like to thank you for providing this information online. I travel to fish the river Wye at Hay, from Dorset, and the journey of 140 miles can now be made knowing the condition of the river is fishable.
I am sure that hundreds of anglers will be greatful for this service.

M.W. from Worcs, Thursday 11 October, 2007

On grayling fishing the Irfon...: 24 fish caught between the 2 of us, mostly Grayling. Although conditions seemed perfect there didn't seem to be much of a rise as we had seen on previous visits. There is so much water to fish here its hard to find where the fish are shoaled up, although we are starting to build up an idea of certain hotspots, but i'm sure this will all change on our next visit!

F.W. from Glos, Monday 8 October, 2007

On fishing the Dore....: 18 Grayling biggest to about 14 inches and 2 Brown Trout around 10 inches.
The beat is really beautiful but could do with just a little more trimming. I would in no way let this put you off fishing it, as the catch return from above is for a short afternoon session about 3 hours.
If this beat stays so under fished it should provide excellent sport for those of us who know it is there.

S.A. from London, Monday 8 October, 2007

On fishing the Irfon and upper Wye....: My son and I fished this wonderful water (Cefnllysgwynne)last Thursday. What a lovely river. Our catch report is rather poor. We both had several small grayling with 'bugs' out of shallow, fast water but the surroundings were excellent. Charles was both helpful and equally surprised we caught so little but that is fishing......or maybe we were poor fishers. Whatever we will fish it again.

FYI we fished your beat 3 last Wednesday afternoon/evening and Tom took 7 excellent grayling from the top pool whilst I managed a few tiddlers a the lower end of the beat. On Friday we fished your beat 25. We managed to touch a couple of fish, possibly trout, from the deeper pools but nothing on the bank. The day was wonderfully bright and we were soundly beaten by the fish! Superb autumn weather and difficult water for us.

Such great fun. Thank you for your assistance and we will see you again.

L.C. from Herefordshire, Monday 8 October, 2007

On grayling fishing the Irfon....: Many thanks for arranging the fishing at Llanfechan on 6th October. It is stunningly beautiful. We caught 2 grayling - one of almost 1lb 8oz and lost many.

W.B. from Worcestershire, Friday 5 October, 2007

On autumn grayling fishing.....: My faith in grayling stocks is restored. I spent a day on the Llangamarch lower beat of the Irfon yesterday with ten fish four over 40 cm all on dry red sedge. There were some good shoals of fish to be found and good numbers rising. A salmon was cruising the deepest pool. Not a sight of an otter though! Thanks for your advice.

M.W. from London, Friday 5 October, 2007

On grayling fishing the upper Wye....: Altogether with my friends we had following booking for last week:

1) Gromain on 27/09/2007- we got to the place quite late and managed to do only couple of hours fishing. Three of us caught 9 grayling ranging from 37 to 41 cm. All fish were returned to water.

2) The Rocks on 28/09/2007 - it was a beautiful day for fishing. Altogether we caught 35 grayling ranging from 30 to 43 cm and 6 trout from 31 to 42 cm. Again all fish were returned safely to water.

One of my friends is a Polish journalist and is planning to write article to Wedkarski Swiat- biggest fishing newspaper in Poland, from our trip.

R.E. from Northants, Friday 5 October, 2007

On coarse fishing the Wye....: N.C. and I fished the Wye for the first time last friday. The Weather was bright and sunny but despite this we both caught fish in fabulous surroundings and N. caught his first ever barbel.

Please accept our thanks for all that you do; the fishing and the surroundings really are first class.

R.M.D. from Oxfordshire, Tuesday 2 October, 2007

On fishing the Wye and Usk...: M. and I fished the Wye and Usk on the 10th and 11th of September and I just wanted to update you....

We had a good days fishing on the Wye catching 15 fish between us up to one and half pounds. Four of those 15 were grayling. I also lost a couple of substantially bigger fish which moved into fast water (c. 2-4lb mark).

At Fenni Fach we saw a number of cracking trout(3-4lb) sipping of the surface and there was a lot of surface activity around 5pm. The fish however were very very spooky and hard to catch and we only manage to get four good fish up to one and half pounds. I think the seriel rise may have been to caenis because they were very fussy. Fantastic stretch of water! I will be back in June to fish it when the water is higher and to have another crack on Penpont and Glan yr Afon.

Thanks so much for your advice it came up trumps again.

K.S. from London, Tuesday 2 October, 2007

The Passport arrived today, and I have had a great deal of pleasure already looking through the booklets, plotting and planning for the next trout season - inspired by my recent trip to the Usk.

It all looks wonderfully tempting, and the documents (indeed the whole system) are extremely well thought-out.

I look forward to receiving the 2008 Passport in due course, and in the longer term to some good fishing trips to Wales. I hadn't been there for at least 15 years, and am wondering why ever not - it's as easy to get to from London as, say, Dorset. Could be "the new Scotland" for me!

M.W. from Worcs, Sunday 30 September, 2007

On fishing the upper Lugg....: Catch returns for our day at Presteigne - Beat 33 yesterday.

We finished on the upper beat and didn't fancy the walk back down to the voucher box (hope this is OK).

M.W. - 31 trout, biggest 11"
G.W. - 41 trout, biggest 12"
C.W. - 20 trout, 1 grayling, biggest trout 12"

I think these catch returns shocked us all, when we arrived the river looked very clear and low, I have walked this stretch a few times in the past and although this river runs very clear most of the time the level was the lowest I've seen it. As far as quantity of fish this trip must rate the best for all three of us.

The lower stretch was by far the most productive with the upper stretch being far more overgrown (many lost nymphs) and much harder to target the fish.

The amount of fish we all lost out-numbered the ones we actually caught which shows the quality of this stretch of river, by the way the vast majority of fish were caught on nymphs although the fish were rising and many flies were hatching the catch rate was far better on nymph.

Another superb bit of WUF water!

S.B. from Coventry, Sunday 30 September, 2007

On salmon fishing the upper Wye....: Hoorah! Finally managed to extract a salmon from Llyn Em. In fact I hooked two, but the bigger one got off (mid double). The smaller was a 27" hen fish taken from Middle Caban and put up a terrific scrap but swam off strongly on release. It made my day.

I.C. from West Midlands, Friday 28 September, 2007

On salmon fishing the upper Wye.....: Had only my second day on the beat yesterday and returned covered in glory.

Hooked and landed a very black but very strong cock about 7lb by the Yew Tree in the Spring Pool c9am. Fished that out and started down the Cottage Pool in a somewhat prefunctory manner having hardly any expectation of anything in there and promptly hooked a very bright little grilse of about 5lb. Drove round to the other side and scoured the Boards and nearly went to lunch but thought I ought to try the tail of Bach Howey. Fiddled about trying to fish round the big rock with too short a line which did not seem to be very effective, so I cast a longer line and figure of eighted it back and wallop! Ten minutes later I had a dark 10lb Hen in the net and then duly photographed and returned.

At this point my luck changed and the ungrateful brute whacked my digital camera with its tail and deposited it in the Wye. I replaced it today for £80 which I must say is a price I would have gladly paid for a day like that and the photographs survived. Thanks for an excellent day.

G.T. from Gloucestershire, Thursday 27 September, 2007

On trout fishing the Usk...: I just had to write to extol the virtues of fishing for wild brown trout on the river Usk aided by Frank Williams.

Firstly the Usk, we fished the Glan-Yr-Afon beat right at the end of the season and it was a beautiful beat. The water was wide enough in places to allow casting with ease in most places with some novice tight stretches to test the roll cast, and fast water to sink some heavy nymphs in. With mountains in the distance set in secluded woodland with an ancient single track bridge marking the start of the beat it was all you could ask of a Welsh wild brown trout river, and though the conditions were not perfect we could see the trout, but getting them out would be the test.

Without Franks help me and my friend (both virgins to river fly fishing for trout) would have struggled. My friend Phil had only picked up the fly rod this year and I have mainly fished stillwaters since a lad with some spinning for salmon. His assistance was far and above what we expected he managed to cram into just a few hours, he taught us how to roll cast and the importance of mending line, how to read the river and what was hatching. He had even visited the day before and tied some fly’s to match the hatches he had seen for us to use. We were then shown the Northern method of fishing spiders, Czech Nymphing, and the New Zealand dropper method. Plus he even brewed up a tea and had lunch with us, giving far to many pointers to mention. My friend said his casting had come on leaps and bounds thanks to Frank & I had picked up some great new techniques and tips, truly invaluable.

The outcome was that I managed to catch two brownies between 6”-8” with two more 10” and the first one of the day (just 3 casts after instructions from Frank ended and I started fishing in earnest) a cracking 15” of Wild Hard Fighting Brownie that made my day!

I cant thank enough both The Wye and Usk Foundation for the sterling work they do enabling us to fish this great Welsh wild brown trout river, and Frank Williams a committed, passionate angler who is a great coach!

M.W. from Worcs, Monday 24 September, 2007

On fishing the Arrow....: I fished the Court Of Noke section of the Arrow yesterday which considering the amount of rain that we had prior to my visit remained low and clear, I must say I wasn't too optimistic initially but shortly after starting to fish I lost a fish which was a good sign.

Flies were coming off the water all day and there were one or two fish rising to them but most of my success was on the nymph which produced a total of 9 fish and quite a few lost.

I have attached a couple of photos (not very good quality I'm afraid), one of the grayling (17 1/2") and one of the trout (16 1/2") which is hard to believe you can catch out of a river the size of the Arrow, this really is a little gem if your prepared to lose a few flies on the trees and vegetation!.

As always all fish returned safely.

Keep up the good work.

M.W. from Newport, Monday 24 September, 2007

On salmon fishing the Usk....: Excellent day's fishing with good evidence of habitat maintenance. Kept company by a patrolling kingfisher all day. Hooked and lost a fantastic bright silver grilse c6-8lbs. Spent 3/4 of the day on fly but wihtout luck.
Will definitely return to try again. Returned the caught salmon (8-9lbs) - slightly reddening but in very good condition.

C.E. from Suffolk, Tuesday 18 September, 2007

Just a note re the fishing at Winforton and Middle Hill Court on 13th, 14th Sept. Winforton was tough going, could have done with a bit more water but managed a good chub of about 5lb and a couple of small brownies on the fly.

Met up with Adam Fisher at Middle Hill Court who gave us a really useful and detailed intro to the water. Fishing and surroundings were stunning. Both the fly fishing barbel virgins I had with me caught good fish and absolutely loved it. I’ve attached a couple of pics which I think sum the day up better than words can. 10 in total without really trying too hard including 3, 9lbers. All absolute mint condition. On an interesting note the barbel were jumping out of the water around us throughout the day – never seen that before.

R.Z. from Worcs, Monday 17 September, 2007

Thanks for the recommendation for Kilsby house. The wife and I stayed at the house for a few days last week and had a great time. I fished their beat optimistically as the water was really low from the lack of rain but still took some small brownies on a dry. The river and setting is beautiful and I bet the fishing would have been great if the river had been at normal level.

A.L. from London, Monday 17 September, 2007

On fishing the Usk...: By way of a catch return, I managed 5 trout, the best going just over a pound. The fishing was a bit tough with some fish taking tiny flies in the day time (caenis?) and a reasonable rise in the evening, but trout difficult to tempt. I missed a couple on a sedge but couldn't get them to take my flies that easily. Still, very enjoyable.

K.K. from Kent, Monday 17 September, 2007

On fishing the upper Wye: 40+ chub, 20+ trout to 1lb, 7 grayling to over 1lb.
We all blanked on the top beat, both the pair that fished in the am and those there in the PM. When the shadows lengthened a particularly tricky rise began - complex multiple species hatch and similarly complex rise forms. Managed too hook three fish at this stage, all came off. Two were risen to size 22 dries, and one to a size 8 Royal Wulff! (we were getting slightly deranged by the frustration at that stage). Three of us saw an absolutely monstrous brown halfway along the top beat... it was not too far from the hut on the far bank. Big enough to have been a salmon, but consistently head and tail rising to what looked to be sherry spinners. A truly awesome brown, dubbed the "beast of Gromain." The salmon fisher in the party was adamant it was not one - that it was certainly a brown. I sincerely hope he was right, and I'll be booking early next season to prove the point!
Thanks for a wonderful, if somewhat testing, day. Would be grateful if you could train the fish to ignore disgusting large flies next season.

F.B. from East Sussex, Wednesday 12 September, 2007

On canoeists.....: We found in the main on this trip that all the canoeists were very mindful of us as soon as they saw us, when we were fishing. In fact it was nice to hear them call to each other when in a group of 2 or more, to be aware of fishermen ahead and to steer to the far side of the river whenever possible.

On some stretches that was not always possible with the low water conditions, and in the main they were very considerate in passing slowly and with as little disturbance as possible. In fact it was a pleasure to see the "professional" for want of a better word, canoeists, who were extremely mindful of our activities and did their utmost not to disturb the river any more than was absolutely necessary as they passed by, gliding most of the way when possible.

On this trip we only experienced real conflict with our activities by a couple of canoes paddled by school children in a group of about 6-10 canoes. These 2 were sadly lacking way behind the others and were not paying attention to their instructor/guide who steered all the others away from us to the far side of the river. These 2 canoes came right in under our rods, much to their instructors displeasure. Although the disturbance was avoidable, it did not affect us to much and the children looked very sheepish for what they had done, & when shouted at by their leader, they looked very embarrassed, although no apologies were given to us. As they were just children we accepted that this sort of thing will happen from time to time and just smiled at them.

We do appreciate that they have as much right on the river as we have and so did not complain in any way. In fact the only disturbance really caused to us was by these school parties who tended to be more excitable and noisy. That's the way children are and it was a pleasure to see them enjoying their day as much as we were. In fact we were only jealous that we did not get that sort of opportunity and activity when we were at school.

On another 2 occasions, canoeists were actually very helpful. Two separate sets were close by when I was playing a barbel, both of them stopped some way upstream whilst I played the fish, once the fish was landed, they approached & were interested in what I had caught. On both occasions one of the party got out of their canoes to take a photo of me and the fish, for which I was very grateful.

It was interesting that on both occasions they asked if I intended killing and eating the fish. When I explained that I only fished for pleasure, & that in my opinion it would be a crime to kill such magnificent creatures they were very obviously pleased with that reply and stayed to see me holding the fish in the water to allow recovery before releasing each fish so that it swam away successfully and unharmed. One young lady asked if she could touch the fish, and was pleasantly surprised at how smooth and clean it felt. I'm not sure what she expected, but she did say how beautiful she thought that it was. I could not agree more.

On another occasion, whilst walking up river with Terry,surveying the river for likely looking deeper runs, we asked an American couple( maybe Canadian I can never tell the difference) if they had passed over any deeper places. They replied that they had but much further upstream. As we were walking back to the car, the guy parked his canoe and called to us to show us where they had spotted a deeper run in the river that was not visible from the bank due to the river side growth. Terry caught many trout from there later that day. Real co-operation between us and them.

The only problems we had were unfortunately unavoidable due to the low water conditions, where the canoeists had to come closer than we would have liked but they had no choice. They did try to keep as far away as possible though. At one point it gave us some amusement and plenty of laughs. What was happening was, just upstream from us were some rapids which brought the canoes across the river from our side and into some bushes on the far side, despite their efforts to steer clear. They laughed as much as we did. Each time a set of canoes were seen to approach this rapid we waited for the fun to begin and were not disappointed on any occasion during that day.

P.W. from West Midlands, Thursday 6 September, 2007

On fishing the Hindwell.....: The Hindwell is officially driving me to distraction ! It is heaving with trout that I can't catch. I fished it last Sunday and had one and lost another. C and C.T. blanked. As you may know I love tiny streams (I now have a 4' 9" rod for the really little ones !) and I have never seen so many trout as there are in the Hindwell, at one stage fish were even moving around my feet, but nothing was rising and there was hardly any fly life. I couldn't move them to nymphs or wet flies let alone a dry. Have I just caught it on off days on the times I have fished it ? Or is there a knack to the place I haven't sussed out yet? What have the returns been like for the stretch? I have a nasty feeling I could become obsessed with it as it is absolutely beautiful.

M.B. from South Wales, Monday 27 August, 2007

On fishing the Wye.....: Only sporadic fish rising through day. My first ever barbel on the fly - fantastic!

C.S. & A.B. from Glos, Thursday 23 August, 2007

Fishing the Irfon....: A lovely stretch of river and plenty of water for two anglers. The grayling appeared to outnumber the trout which is not surprising given how much good gravel there is in the river. The best days fishing this summer by a mile. Saw some small paw prints in the sand which looked too large for mink and could possibly be otter??

M.T. & N.C. from Warwicks, Thursday 23 August, 2007

On fishing Llyn Em.....: Cracking day on a lovely beat - esp the Island stream (just as Simon said it would be!). Good that N enjoyed success - I think he was beginning to doubt whether fish couuld be caught in rivers!
Seemed to be nowhere in Builth to get breakfast beefore 9.00am - it would have been most welcome after a 5.30 set off! Is someone missing an opportunity here, or are we the only ones daft enough to want a cafe at that time in the morning?
Thanks to all

D.S. & M.K. from Oxfordshire, Monday 20 August, 2007

On a first barbel fishing trip to the lower Wye...: I fished Middle Hill Court at the weekend (Sunday) with my Fishing Pal.......We booked this trip 3 months ago and due to this years horrible weather conditions we have been washed off twice. We have both always wanted to catch Barbel with no luck, so the Wye seemed the answer.
We finally met Adam Fisher at 6.30am on Sunday and he was a very informative and really nice chap with some great tips.
We ended up catching 21 Barbel with the best being 9.6Lbs! plus 3 chub, a common carp and an eel. The day was an absolute dream and we cannot wait to come back in the very near future to try out another venue. Thankyou very much, and thankyou to Adam Fisher.

B.H. from Devon, Monday 13 August, 2007

On barbel fishing the lower Wye....: Just returned from a great three days on the Wye at Goodrich.

The fishing was great. The river absolutely spot on - nice height and flow - clearing but with just enough colour to ansure that the fish were ot too "spooky". Fishing was a bit slow in the heat of the day on Friday and Saturday, (only to be expected), but early and late it fished very well. 8 Barbel betwen 5lb and just under 10 pounds plus a number of chub and a few eels. All on either luncheon meat or halibut pellet. (Hope that suffices as a catch return).

Got up early this morning and fished the Vanstone Pool from 5.30am to about 9.00am. Three Barbel plus two that slipped the hook. However Barbel of 9lb 10oz and 9lb 14oz within half an hour of each other rounded off a great weekend. Went back to the hotel for breakfast and decided to "enjoy the moment" rather than go back to the fishing.

The Salmon anglers on Friday and today were good company, the chap who has the beat today arrived just as I was landing the 9lb 10oz fish this morning and kindly took a photograph - which I attach just in case you are interested - although you probably receive too many anglers photographs and are probably fed up receiving them, so don't feel obliged to look at it.

Saw several salmon "moving" over the weekend in different spots along the beat.

Incidentally I stayed at the Pencraig Court Hotel - which is on the Monmouth to Ross road only a few minutes drive from the beat. Indeed it is possible to access part of the right hand bank from the hotel itself which sits immediately above the run from the Corner tree to Vanstone Pool, (although moving downstream is tricky on that bank so I fished from the left hand bank). It is a good spot to stay though - and I hope you don't mind - but I mentioned the Foundation - I was singing your praises - and got the impression that they would be in touch with you to see if they can organises mutual web site links. They have my recommendation. Friendly and relaxed family run hotel - excellent food - good value for money.

I'll be in touch to book up again before too long. Might even try another beat - they all sound enticing!

Thanks very much - the foundation is doing an excellent job - keep up the good work.

M.W. from Worcs, Friday 10 August, 2007

On fishing the Arrow: This is was my second visit to the beat and I was rewarded with 12 fish on both occasions (as always all returned safely) although most fish were caught in the first few hours of daylight, again the wildlife you get to see along these stretches of river when quietly walking upstream is amazing, I've been graced with Deer, Kingfishers, Dippers, a family of Buzzards and even a Barn Owl as I arrived, can't get much better than that!

T.A. from Bristol, Wednesday 8 August, 2007

After coarse fishing on the middle Wye...: Caught more in my last 3 trips to the Wye than ever on the Bristol Avon.

T.P. from Bristol, Thursday 2 August, 2007

Coarse fishing the Wye at Goodrich....: I have just had a pleasant afternoon catching 3 Chub to 4-1/2lb and 5 barbel between 5 & 9 lbs. I also saw salmon jumping, kingfishers, buzzards, and deer and in fact it was a very pleasant afternoon!!

M.W. from Worcs, Wednesday 1 August, 2007

On fishing the Irfon....: Just to inform you of our catch returns for our day at Cefnllysgwynne yesterday. We arrived at 7.30am under a blanket of cold fog which soon lifted to reveal clear blue skies. The river was slightly up but running clear which for this time of the year was ideal.

The day started well with the 2nd cast producing a 16" brownie falling to a heavy olive bug, this was later followed by a similar sized grayling which was in perfect condition, although things slowed down during the day the pure beauty and wildlife of this river in the summer is more than enough to overwhelm any angler.

During the late afternoon we were fortunate enough to witness a rise on one of the slower stretches, the likes of which I have personally never witnessed before. The whole of the 200+ yard glide suddenly erupted with rising fish and once we had found the right fly (brown or orange bodied klinkhammer) the sport was tremendous, although as with all rises, short lived. Most of these fish were grayling of a size in excess of 12" and its hard to believe when you wade through a pool that you think has few fish in it that there could be so much surface activity.

At the end of the day we totalled 34 fish between the 2 of us, caught on both nymphs and dry flies, but more amazing was the quality of the fish, the majority of both the trout and grayling were exceeding 12". All fish were carefully returned back to the water to fight another day.

We can't wait to return again soon and thank you for the ease of which it is to book these waters it means we can all get on and enjoy the fishing!

M.B. from Scotland, Tuesday 31 July, 2007

Thank you for the up dates on the rivers, please keep them coming. I'm in the forces and I'm away a lot, but it is nice to come home and see how the foundations doing. Haven't had much time to fish at all lately, but when I do I would love to fish the wye and usk. I'm based in Scotland at the moment, and I think the fishing is overpriced and over rated. Good luck with your excellent work and hopefully when I'm based back in the west country I can support you more.

R.N. from Essex, Friday 27 July, 2007

On a first coarse fishing trip to the Wye....: Thanks for your help and advice for our first visit to the River Wye which turned into one of our best fishing trips ever! The countryside and river was beautiful and the wildlife was amazing Owls, Hawks, Falcons, Kingfishers and a Otter to top it all (Heaven). We caught 36 Barbel to just under 9lbs and numeus Chub to nearly 5lbs over three days between the two of us, all returned safely. Also being keen on photography it was great to be able to take a break from the fishing and photograph the natural surroundings. It was such a pleasure to be able to spend some time on a river that is not over fished and in such good condition, your work is greatly appreciated.

C.Y. from Northhants, Monday 16 July, 2007

On Llyn Bugeilyn: I tried to access fishing on Llyn Bugeilyn, but with the recent rains found that the track wasn't suitable for normal road vehicles, there were lots of large pools and water running off across the track. I went quite a way down then chickened out as I was afraid that if it rained again that it would make the return journey even more hazardous. Not having local knowledge I didn't know how deep the pools were, and although I tested some by walking in, I wasn't sure if they would become impassable.You might like to point out the difficulties of negotiating the track in a mail or in the next booklet, although you say the track is rutted I didn't expect it to be that bad.

I was a bit disappointed as I had travelled from Northampton early that morning, but the beauty of the passport system means there is usually a viable backup and all was saved by a good day on Rhyader AA Craig Goch where I caught six brownies, all around/over 10" and one to 1.5 lb on Bibio and Olive Bumble.

Keep up the good work, will be back soon.

J.S. from Cornwall, Monday 16 July, 2007

Numerous small brown trout and one grayling at Gofynne on the 11th July 2007.

One hen salmon approx 9 lbs and one cock salmon approx 13 lbs caught on a rapala in the gullies at The Rocks on the 12th July 2007. Both fish returned safely to the water.

Many thanks for a great time.

Hope to come back soon.

R.M.D. from Oxfordshire, Monday 2 July, 2007

On trout fishing the Usk....: Just a quick not to say thanks so much for your advice last Wednesday. My friend and I went down to Penpont and had a very successful evening. There was a rise for Olives going on at about 4pm when we arrived but this tailed off a bit and all went pretty quite for a couple of hours. As the evening went on fish began to head and tail in small pods of about 2 or 3 fish - some quite large. I caught a couple of beauties on size 18 F flies and then some more on olive emerger patterns as the light began to fade. For about half an hour before dark we had excellent sport taking several fish that pushed the 2lb mark and lost a couple of other more substantial fish.

The following morning we had an early start on Glen-a-afon (I think this is how you spell it). Anyway we had a great day. Early morning (c. 6.30am) there was a decent rise underway for - I think - spent olives. That tailed off and then everything went quite. Looking for a change of tactics we put our dry flies and small nymphs away and switched to a 3 fly Czech nymph set up. This change was met with immediate success and we proceeded to catch a number of fine trout up to around 2lb. Again, we lost some larger fish that must have been 3lb+ (but I suppose we will never know.....). Are sea trout partial to the occasional Czech nymph if it is swung strait into their mouth???

Anyway, really just wanted to thank you for persuading us to come down from Oxford. We had a brilliant 24 hours of fishing.

B.P. from Cheshire, Monday 2 July, 2007

On coarse fishing the middle Wye: I fished the Wye 5 days last week & both Chub & Barbel were feeding well. My son & I had chub to 5lb + and barbel of 7,8,9 lb & in one session two doubles of 10lb 2oz & 11lb 12oz.

Brilliant.

R.B. from London, Monday 25 June, 2007

On fishing the upper Usk: We had a great day yesterday on the Upper Usk. about 17 fish between us from all over the beat. Biggest just over a pound. Great hatches of fly (tons of different species, which was only dampened by the rain in late afternoon). Also lots of small fish visible in river. Good sign all is healthy.

P. A-B. from Bristol, Wednesday 20 June, 2007

On fishing the Aberbwtran beat of the Irfon....: 5 trout best 1½lb. 1 grayling all fish returned. Fished for 2hours Cool and cloudy with hardly any fly hatching or fish rising. All trout on nymph grayling on dry fly. A delightful stretch of water.

P.H. from Northants, Monday 11 June, 2007

Once again sincere thanks to all of you at the Foundation, you're a godsend to reservoir anglers like us who don't have access to game rivers here in the Midlands. In the words of good old Arnie, we'll be back. Speak to you soon.

P.A. from Berkshire, Friday 8 June, 2007

On an upper Wye corporate day.....: Just a note to thank you for your efforts in organising the fishing day yesterday. We had a wonderful time, everybody caught fish and Louis and Rich were great guides and excellent company.

I will have no hesitation in repeating the event next year.

D.O. from Berkshire, Wednesday 30 May, 2007

On shad fishing...: I had a great time on Saturday. I did not manage to get any more trout - I got a number of fish to rise but for some reason my ability to hook them disappeared. I moved down to the Ty-mawr pool later and realised my ambition to catch a shad! I called it a day when I had caught 4. I found the best bit about fishing for them was seeing them mob the fly - very exciting in anticipation of the take. Many thanks for putting me on to the pool - I would never have chosen to fish there by myself, I was under the impression they tend to hang about in streamy water.

P.W. from West Mids, Monday 21 May, 2007

Cliff and I paid our first visit to the Llynfi Dulas on Saturday and had a great day despite the colour coming from one of the feeder streams. We had thirty fish between us at least three of which were over a pound. All on mayfly patterns. It was at its best when the river began to clear at around 3.30 p.m. Pretty good hatch of mayflies considering that it is a just a little early for them really.

M.T. from Warwicks, Sunday 20 May, 2007

On Wye tributary fishing....: The Edw fished like an absolute dream, by the way. I'm not sure I've ever enjoyed day's fishing more. One particular beauty was just over the pound mark and 14 inches, but there were plenty more around the 8 and 9 inch mark. Lots of mayfly about.
Keep up the good work!

M.B. from Leicestershire, Tuesday 15 May, 2007

On fishing an upper Wye beats with Kim Tribe...: ...unfortunately having had several takes did not catch anything, hopefully this will be remedied next time. I still enjoyed the day out there with Kim Tribes company. A man with a wealth of knowledge and fun to be with. Thank you.

R.J. from , Monday 14 May, 2007

On fishing the Edw....: My brother and I enjoyed an afternoons fishing on beat 16 of the River Edw on 14th May 2007, using vouchers from your sister scheme the Eden River Trust. Absentmindedly we forgot to post our catch returns into the beat box. Unfortunately my brother did not catch anything but this did not detract in the slightest from a wonderful day out. Congratulations on operating such an excellent scheme.

M.H. from Glos, Thursday 10 May, 2007

On the Passport scheme....: 2007 is the first time I have participated in your roving voucher scheme and I have to say how fantastic a service you provide. Your admin lady who processes the payments and issues vouchers is super, the directions provided are clear and the whole set up has an air about it that tells you it is run by enthusiastic staff.
I have so for been able to find myself "out of mobile coverage" on three occasions and I am looking forward to the rest of the season, especially now it has rained.

T.W. from London, Thursday 10 May, 2007

On the webcam.....: I’d just like to say what a great idea the images and live web cam of the water gauge is. It’s a great benefit for anglers, including myself, who aren’t local. Including the water temperature would also be very useful.

J.G. from London, Thursday 10 May, 2007

On the Passport scheme...: A big thank you to all in the office from my girlfriend and me – we had a wonderful weekend camped up by Llanthony Abbey, and fished the Monnow on Beat 15.

Hannah took her very first wild trout, and raved about it for days.

The information you provide in the Passport and particularly the website is invaluable to those of us locked in the City and trying to plan brief escapes.

L.S. from Berkshire, Thursday 10 May, 2007

On the webcam....: ..Congratulations on water conditions section of website - I am spending far too much time watching and not working...

M.R. from West Midlands, Wednesday 2 May, 2007

Hi, would like to thank you for a great weekend on some of your beats.fished beat 16 & 17 of the Edw and beat 6 of the Dunhow, plus we had a look at some of the other beats. I had a 7 inch brown (released unharmed) on beat 17 with a goldhead Bibio, lost one & had several takes on dry. Although my friend and I fished over the weekend and only caught one fish the venues were again in pristine condition with a good head of fish showing. the major downside was the wind which kept the fish down a lot of the time. I would like to point out the helpfulness of both the campsite owner of fforest fields and the staff in rods n reels who not only topped up our roving vouchers, but gave great advice on locations etc... One or two farmers also had the odd friendly chat. I introduced my fishing buddy to your set up and he was thrilled to bits...so you have one more enthusiastic fisherman hooked. His details were taken on purchasing further vouchers so hopefully he will be on your mailing list. all the best keep up the good work.

R.C. from Worcestershire, Wednesday 25 April, 2007

On the Passport scheme......: I would just like to say what a great days fishing I had on the new Titley Beat on the Arrow.
Thanks for all your efforts in getting beats such as this on to the Passport scheme which would normally be inaccessible to most anglers. I caught seven brown's ranging from 6 inches up to 12 inches and were all beautifully marked and in good condition.
There were no fish showing on the top all afternoon so a gold head nymph was used which took all the fish.
A great afternoon out !!!!

Thanks again.

S.G. from Lincs., Wednesday 25 April, 2007

On fishing voucher beats 39 & 20: Lovely beat on the Arrow - managed 1 fish - fished 3.30 to 5.00 Fished most of beat 20 on the Irthon at Disserth on the 21st - 3 takes but missed them all! very difficult condtions - low and clear - fish easliy spooked - river untidy the nearer you get to L Wells.
Saw some tidy trout though.

H.J. from South Wales, Tuesday 10 April, 2007

Thanks for my Easter Monday booking at Dan y parc. I had a great session between 11-3 - with grannom and olives coming off. Rich was a cracking guide and we spent most of the time stalking big fish. I eventually took a lovely fish of about 1.5 lb - which was returned.

B.T. from London, Tuesday 10 April, 2007

On Easter trout fishing on the Usk: Had a great day on the river and will certainly be back!!

Little action on the surface with the trout sitting low on the bottom taking nymphs. Had quite a few hits but was only able to hook the one. A really beautifully marked fish of about 1 3/4 pounds. Not too bad at all!
Caught on a size 14 gold bead head pheasant tail nymph just to the side of Llanspyddid Rough. Did see a cracking trout of about 2 1/2 pounds in-between what I think was highwell and poplar pools and quite a few smaller fish of about 1/2 a pound.

D.S. from Surrey, Tuesday 10 April, 2007

I just wanted to congratulate you on what you've achieved and also offer a big thanks. I've just spent four days fishing your roving voucher beats and it has been without doubt the best fishing I've had in this country. The scenery was stunning and the rivers even more so. I didn't catch a huge number of fish but that was more down to my nigh on complete refusal to fish anything other than dries. As soon as I started to use nymphs I began to catch.. Ho hum.. Did get a beauty of a brown, around 18" from the Irfon. I was amazed at the water quality in this river - there were stretches that looked almost like New Zealand.

I will certainly be back as often as possible.

My only thought, more an observation really, is what can be done to encourage farmers to dispose of litter like fertiliser bags without them ending up in the rivers? An aesthetic only but I guess a difficult one to solve due to the large numbers of farms along the rivers?

Anyway,thanks again.

M.T. from London, Tuesday 10 April, 2007

On fishing the Clettwr stream....: 6 fish to around 8". All that you say of this wonderful place is true - and more so. But, I should have heeded the warnings rather more and I might have avoided a ducking.

E & A.E from Herefordshire, Sunday 8 April, 2007

We would like to say thank you to the wyeuskfoundation for the fishing availability information which has provided us with a very enjoyable bank holiday three day fishing trip, we didn`t catch much but that doesn`t matter we still had a good time. The Cornhill pub in Rhayader for anyone staying in the area often has live music on at weekends and they do good real ale which added to our night in Rhayader.

I.N. from West Glamorgan, Monday 13 November, 2006

On coarse fishing the upper Wye.....: I thought that you would be pleased to know that your scheme enabled me to have a great day out on the Llanstephan beat on Saturday. I tried trotting for grayling in the morning but had no luck.

In the afternoon, despite a very gusty wind I found the chub in very obliging mood and between 2 swims on the 'Orchard' I caught 12 chub with 4 being over 4 pounds.
Fantastic sport and I'll be back again to try and get one of the whoppers!

H.C. from Surrey, Tuesday 7 November, 2006

On our river report emails......: I so enjoy reading the river reports when sat in my London based staff room I can almost imagine I am back home on one of the many rivers.

M.W. from Worcestershire, Tuesday 7 November, 2006

On River Irfon grayling fishing....: We arrived at the river at 7.45am to experience a temperature drop down to -2 degrees from the 6 degrees it was where we started out from and a freezing thick fog!. The river was like tap water and we were wondering if we would catch anything at all.

Initially, the going was certainly tough with rod rings freezing and no sign of the fog lifting. Fortunately early afternoon saw the sun finally break through and instantly the fish responded with grayling rising to a hatch of olives, this was short lived but enabled us to catch on both dry fly and nymph for the rest of the afternoon.

Locating the feeding fish seems to be the key to success and was helped by a regular visiter to the waters (Charlie) who pointed us in the right direction.

We ended up with a total of 11 Grayling (with most of them over a 1lb) and 2 brownies, we were taken aback by the sheer beauty of this stretch of river and we are sure there is a potential to catch a lot of big Grayling from this river, (slightly warmer weather and a little more practice!).

We will certainly be looking forward to the next chance we get to visit the Irfon again, thanks.

G.G. from West Mids, Wednesday 25 October, 2006

On coarse fishing the middle Wye in late Sept.....: The river was fairly low and full of streamer weed, with a lot loose and in the flow, this unfortunately made my target of ledgering for barbel impossible as the line became weed bound within minutes. However, I changed to stick float donned the waders and float fished maggots between the weed beds, I have to say it was literally a “fish a chuck” small roach, chub, bleak and even the odd minnow, the problem was I could not feed the small fish “off” which of course prevented me from fishing at a depth were the larger fish may have been.

Biggest chub was around the 2 pounds mark, with the average fish around 3 to 4 ounces. The number of fish caught ??? must be well in excess of 150 ?. Pity about the weed but a very pleasurable day in very nice surroundings, being able to drive to the spot is also a very useful.

J.P. from Somerset, Tuesday 26 September, 2006

On fishing the Usk....: Superb day again. Many large fish moving - mainly browns but couple of salmon too. Smaller browns quicker to take the fly!!

C.P. from S Yorks, Tuesday 19 September, 2006

On 2 days coarse fishing on the Wye...: Some of the most thrilling fishing in the most perfect surroundings - what a wonderful part of the country! We are both river fishermen by choice and delight in using traditional tackle and methods. This is how fishing should be!(Mr Crabtree told me) Full marks to the Foundation for their work and foresight in bringing this kind of experience to an appreciative audience - incidentally the website has to be one of the best designed we've seen, ease of navigation and presentation absolutely top notch. Finally a well deserved 'plug' for Aly and Dave Beavins at 'Gromaine Cottage'(via the Foundation website) - friendly and accommodating, gargantuan breakfasts - the perfect hosts! As Arnie said - 'I'll be back'

A.L. from London, Thursday 14 September, 2006

On fishing the middle/upper Usk...: I had a nice day at Glanusk Ty Mawr yesterday. A reasonable hatch of small upwings in the morning and I caught a few smallish fish on a CDC dun. Not too much happening on the surface in the afternoon and had a few more small ones (6-8 inches) on wet flies. By around 5.30pm the sedge started to show and a few trout were leaping out of the water. First cast with a size 16 Elk Hair Caddis tempted a 2lb brown – super fish. By around 7pm, there were lots of spinners in the air but I had to go. I cursed under my breath many times as I watched many trout sipping the spinners as I put my fishing tackle into the boot of my car – one of the downsides of living in London.

The water was a little low but not too bad. I’d imagine that this beat would fish brilliantly with another 8 inches of water.

I saw at least one salmon (7-8lbs) showing towards the bottom of the beat and possibly another small salmon or very large trout leapt out of the water in the pool by the fishing hut – about 4-5lbs.

M.R. from West Mids, Friday 8 September, 2006

Hi, I used my roving vouchers for the first time today, on the Edw beat 12. I had a cracking 15oz brown (returned unharmed) which was in fantastic condition and put up a terrific fight. I look forward to next season, as this one draws to a close. I am happy to end this years river trout fishing on a high. All the best & keep up the good work.

J.P. from Somerset, Thursday 7 September, 2006

On fishing the Usk....: Thank you on behalf of my guest and myself for a truly memorable day's fishing. A wonderful stretch of river in beuatiful surroundings - we fully intend to return next season (hopefully more than once!). Please also pass on our thanks to Stuart Jarvis for his excellent company, knowledge of the river and instruction.

M.A. from Northants, Tuesday 5 September, 2006

Coarse fishing on the Wye at Holme Lacy, 31st august '06.
A brilliant days fishing with me, my dad and my brother catching nine chub and severn barbel between us.
I caught four chub to 5lb and one perfect barbel of 6lb 8oz. My Dad caught two chub 5lb and two barbel to 7lb 8oz. My brother caught the most with three chub to 4lb and then four barbel to 8lb 8oz.
Brilliant fishing on a healthy looking river Wye. No keepnets were used and after a quick photo of a couple of fish they were all returned safe and well.
Looking forward to booking our next trip!

J.N. from London, Monday 4 September, 2006

On a first visit to the Usk.....: Herewith a short note to thank both you and Wendy for all your support and advice on my 1st taste of fishing the Usk and its tributaries.

It was fantastic and I’m sure to return as soon as I possibly can.

C.E. from Suffolk, Monday 4 September, 2006

Just a note to update you on the fishing here on Friday. I fished from about 2.30 to 8pm in the end. 8 barbel and 9 chub in total.

4 small barbel in the 2 - 4lb bracket and 4 bigger fish over 7lb the biggest which went to 8lb 5oz. Lost what seemed like a good double which literally straightened the hook after an awesome fight and another which cleverly transferred me to a snag, it's certainly no place for light tackle! The stamp of the chub was impressive with most of the catch made up of 4-5lbers....

....So all in all, fantastic fishing - many thanks.

A.M. from Worcs, Saturday 2 September, 2006

On coarse fishing the middle Wye...: Best days fishing ever will return very, very soon.

A.L. from London, Tuesday 29 August, 2006

Doldowlod – caught 3 grayling, the best of which was around 2.5lbs (my best ever) and lost 2 decent fish. All returned. Sparse hatches throughout the day and the water seemed rather low and gin clear – not easy but hugely enjoyable.

Fenni Fach – 2 small trout saved a difficult day (returned of course). The water was dropping through the day and again, the water was incredibly clear which made the trout very spooky indeed. Lost one cracking fish at the end of the day. Reasonable hatches of small and medium upwinged flies through the day. Again, hugely enjoyable and the surroundings on this beat are absolutely stunning. Had I not had to return to London by late afternoon, I sense that the evening would have been a lot more productive as the hatches were gathering momentum from around 4pm and I dare say that some of the better fish would’ve come out to play in the fading light.

Thanks for sorting everything out. I’ll be back soon!

J.B. from London, Tuesday 29 August, 2006

Hope all is well. Thanks for organising the trip - we had a great time. The weather was amazingly good and the trout were fighting! We only kept 3 fish - all grayling, taken from Ty-Newydd, all around the 1lb size. We had success with the trout thoughout the three days, and I was surprised how well they fought for their size...

L.W. from Essex, Wednesday 23 August, 2006

On coarse fishing the middle Wye......: What can I say – a fantastic stretch of river and all to ourselves.

Coming from Essex we have a shortage of good strong rivers to fish and this was simply heaven for my friend and I. We have searched for wild surroundings and wild fish and now have found it.

We caught 3 x Barbel up to 8lbs and all swam away strongly after a short rest and were all in good condition(and no break offs !!) This stretch would have to be one of the best Chub stretches I have ever fished with all fish well over 4lbs and the best running to nearly 7lb, and to keep us purists happy Dace, Roach and Chub all came to the stick float and centrepin. There was even a 3” long Rainbow Trout with a liking for Corn!

Our thanks for supplying an outstanding fishery and we will be back. I am so pleased to hear you want to keep this stretch away from the fishing pressure that now exists with a lot of the Severn , Avon etc.

I will contact you in the near future but are planning a two day stint in the Autumn.

Finally I have to say you are extremely lucky to have this piece of Angling Heaven on your doorstep set amongst beautiful countryside. Thanks again –

C.S. from Glos, Wednesday 16 August, 2006

On barbel fishing in the middle Wye......: My son and I spent the Monday float fishing and whilst I enjoyed sport catching dace after dace (not so common nowadays) to a lb in weight Philip could not stop catching chub and he certainly would have filled a keepnet.Around 5pm Philip went on the ledger and promptly lost 2 barbel but third time lucky he caught a personal best of 10lb 2oz which was in pristine condition and made his and my day.
Tuesday was an all out assault on the barbel but we continuously caught chub to 4lb then Colin the ghillie came along and suggested fishing the end of the stretch which we duly did.
The place was stuffed with fish and I managed to wade and catch my first Wye barbel which was especially satisfying as I actually watched the fish take the freelined bait (there is none better).
Unfortunately novice canoeists then decided to stop in the shallows and curtailed the sport.
We both reached our goals and caught a Wye barbel and left having thoroughly enjoyed ourselves both of us vowing to come back.

W.B. from Worcs, Friday 11 August, 2006

Fishing the Wye at Newbridge.....: 12 grayling mostly caught in late afternoon. All on floating red sedge. Best a good 2lbs from channels beat bottom pool. Very few fish rising, not much fly life, though eating my sandwich on bridge at Doldowlod I saw a huge grayling just above bridge chase a sedge fly, its dorsal fin cutting the water like a mini shark.

T.G. from Bucks, Thursday 10 August, 2006

On Usk fishing and one of the instructors.......: I write to thank you for arranging the fishing at Dan-y-parc last Monday 7th,also for the introduction to Rich White. Despite the heat and the somewhat low water level I had a most wonderful couple of hours...... This was my first time for over 55 years on a river but it will not be my last.. Rich was a very good guide and managed to improve my somewhat heavy handed reservoir style.

I intend to try and get over to your area every three or four weeks and look forward to calling at your offices on my next visit,I don’t think I shall bother too much with
reservoirs in this area in the future - quite boring compared to your rivers. Once again, many thanks for all your help

C.S. from Warwickshire, Wednesday 9 August, 2006

First visit to a Roving Voucher beat.....: Having received your newsletters for quite a while I finally could no longer resist the temptation to try one of the locations for the first time - yesterday I went to Beat 13 on the Edw and had a wonderful day. I winkled out seven wild brownies, the biggest about 8 inches, which is not bad for August, and I lost others. The scenery and wildlife is fantastic and I shall certainly return and try some of the other beats. It is a great scheme. Incidentally, another angler turned up on the same beat later in the day and he too was singing its praises.

I.R. from Glos, Monday 24 July, 2006

On fishing the middle reaches of the Usk....: A total of fouteen trout were caught, the best just under a pound. All were safely returned. The day was very bright with the best fishing between 8-10pm. I lost a good fish just before dark and from its antics I think it was undoubtedly a sea trout. It is a lovely stretch of river with a good variety of water. I will certainly recommend it to friends and will certainly book it again myself.

C.Y. from Northants, Tuesday 18 July, 2006

A newcomer to wild trout fishing.....: Fished beat 12 on the Edw on the 15 July weather bright and hot.
I am a novice flyfisher, only started last July on Midlands resevoirs, so I was a bit daunted by the prospect of travelling 150 miles to try my hand at wild brownies. However I managed to catch two 9 - 10" fish on nymphs returned both.
Great day although tiring by the time I had waded up the stream and and back to the car.
Keep up the great work, hope to come back soon...

FDG from Bristol, Monday 10 July, 2006

On one of the Foundation approved instructors.....: I had a fantastic day with Kim who's a great instructor - among other skills, he's got all the necessary patience and sense of humor to bear with the slowest learners. My fishing skills and my confidence (in my abilities, but also in the river holding loads of nice fish) received a huge boost on Sunday and this guiding day was a great investment! I'm looking forward to my next guided trip with Kim now... My catch rate increased 10-fold in one day! So my expectation now is that i'll keep this rate of 25-30 fish a day, and next time i go with Kim i'll top 300 fish, right? I've seen lots of recommendations for Kim on your website and I can add my voice to this
chorus: he's just extremely good at his job of making people understand and practice fly fishing better!

Thanks for all the advice!

B.W. from London, Tuesday 4 July, 2006

Just a quick, belated, note to thankyou for all of your help. We all had a great weekend fishing the various beats and I am happy to say that everyone caught fish. Most had not fished the Wye before. Personally I caught my biggest ever grayling.

The beats were simply stunning and the campsite was great as well. I think that it would be fair to say that I would have really struggled without your help. The trip for next year is already being talked about....perhaps the Usk.

Thanks again,

T.M. from Bristol, Wednesday 28 June, 2006

I had a gorgeous days fishing [on the Usk] last Thursday 21st June......We had 10 fish between us, all on dry fly, and most of them in the evening. All were small - about 1/2 pound, with a few larger fish lost. All were returned. There was a reasonable hatch of little sulphur coloured mayflies which they were taking well throughout the day. Also had masses of takes on a gold head nymph during the day but couldn't hook anything with this approach. It's a gorgeous beat with loads of wildlife, and I hope to return to it soon.

A.C. from Shropshire, Monday 26 June, 2006

Just a quickie to say thanks for remembering the waders!!!! Robin had a fabulous day's fishing...despite nearly being swept away in pusuit of a frisky trout!! He survived, but sadly his mobile phone is no longer with us!!!

Llangoed Hall was also divine - all in all a fab weekend. Thank you for your able assistance to a fishing virgin!

P.W. from Worcestershire, Sunday 25 June, 2006

Just a note to say that I have just returned from a weeks holiday fishing around Builth with my niece and some friends. We fished two of your waters. The first was the Edw on the Hundred House beat see photos attached where it was tough going as the trout there seem to have developed telepathy My niece caught her first small stream brownie though 11inches and she was very chuffed. The other water we went to was the Usk at Sennybridge. This was one of most beautiful stretches of river I have seen. We caught plenty of small trout and lost a couple of proper uns. Traditional spider patterns worked well in the quicker water. Later on though the fish were driving us daft as there was a fall of anglers curse and we could only get takes on tiny Griffiths gnats. But a good time was had by all. Keep up the good work!

M.P. from Bedforshire, Monday 12 June, 2006

Superb Friday and Saturday 14 Shad caught on Gromain beat with a more than a few lost , trout to the dry fly in the evening up to 1lb with a bonus grayling well over 2 lb best dry fly blue wing olive best shad fly gold head damsel.

A.D. from Camarthenshire, Sunday 11 June, 2006

I fished the Fenni Fach beat on 02/06/06, really tough day weather wise brilliant sunshine, still managed plenty of offers only landed 4 trout.
1st trout 1/2lb, 2 around the 3/4lb mark and finally a cracking trout pushing 3lb on a size 16 parachute adams. All fish were returned, will definetly fish the Usk again very enjoyable hopefully better conditions next time.

J.J. from London, Tuesday 6 June, 2006

Just to say we had a fabulous week. I had an enormous brownie at Fenni Fach. On for about 10mins before I lost it - 60cm He jumped many times and it was very exciting, so happy but also disappointed

A.L. from London, Tuesday 6 June, 2006

I fished Dan-y-Parc yesterday WOW Its a fantastic stretch and the water was perfect. I managed 6 decent trout on the upper beat in the morning, the best going one and a half pounds. I started on the wet fly and caught the days best fish on my second cast, and then the fish started rising at around 10am. After a fruitless hour, I managed to pick one up on an elk hair dun imitation but as soon as I tried my trusty CDC Dun it catches fish anywhere when other patterns fail, I got a take from virtually every trout that I covered. I lost one cracker that was north of 2lbs as he tore off line into the far bank and came loose.

M.B. from Caerphilly, Tuesday 6 June, 2006

I got up to the Aberedw beat yesterday and whilst not as successful as your latest endeavours I managed 11 very pretty & feisty brownies in about 4 hours or so, all on various klinkhammers dark olive & brown mostly. I know I may get more on nymphs but I just get so much more fun out of catching them on dries. There was an amazing amount of insect life about too - brook duns, some enormous sedges, the odd yellow may dun and even a stray mayfly, but nothing appeared to be hatching as far as I could see.

M.T. from Warwickshire, Thursday 1 June, 2006

On fishing an upper Wye beat on 31/5/06: For the record, the fish weighed just on 14 pounds and was caught on a (home tied!) cascade size 8 double - the fly is now preserved for posterity.
Once again, thanks to you and all the team for quite fabulous support and service. It really is an outstanding organisation that you have; one of which you should all be very proud. I'll keep telling people...

G.J. from Essex, Thursday 18 May, 2006

I had loads of fun while i was up, rain coloured water for a couple of days but thats when you go off to be a tourist and see the sights, the best day was behind the trout inn, and a lovely place to stay as well, the big bath was perfect for drying facilities, they thought i was mad.
The best beat was 5, parking at the church plenty of space and with the coppicing was so easy to cast an 8ft rod, couple nice fish there on a pheasant tail, i was a bit miffed at where the beat ended as i couldnt find any signs, maybe i didnt go far enough but i did wade a long way.
Well im back in the land of the living down here with my pollution that you dont have, but i am certain of one thing i will be back

P.R. from Bristol, Wednesday 17 May, 2006

A brief note of appreciation for all the work you have done to make the Passport Scheme the success that it is. I fished 2 beats this weekend Llynfi Dulas & Beulah Cammarch and had the most marvellous time.
I drove home on Sunday afternoon feeling that these beats not only offered exceptional fishing but they also generated a great sense of well being from spending time immersed in nature and the beautiful British countryside. Catching wild brown trout was a great pleasure, made all the better by the knowledge that these fisheries had been repaired and restored.

H.H. from Iceland, Friday 12 May, 2006

We had a wonderful day at river Usk the 4. of May. It was
only just a little bit to warm and it affected our ability to catch a fish, we were quite active but the fish wasent. We still caught 5 nice trout, which we released. Four of them came from lower part of the strech, and one in the upper I do not remember the pools name. We saw though much more fish in the upper part pools. I will hopefully be able to come back one day and maybe try also for the king of salmonids.
With best regards to you and the staff around you, expecially Simon for good information about Fenni Fach

M.B. from Somerset, Thursday 11 May, 2006

Yesterday,10 May 2006,I fished the Holme Lacy 3 Beat of the Wye, as per my booking and I am absolutely chuffed to bits to inform you that I had a superb fighting fit, bar of silver 11lb Hen fish on the spinner at about 3.20pm.
Colin Richardson, the Ghillie, was a really nice bloke and thoroughly knowledgeable and totally helpfull during my day on the River, and as per your suggestion, I rewarded him accordingly.
I made it clear to him what it meant to catch only my second Salmon ever, a memory that will never leave me.....he apparently was just as pleased to have seen me take the fish.
for your information,the fish never left the water,was NOT netted,and the lure released in the flow.....and I felt really proud to see it swim off strongly....with a good firm hand shake from Colin.
I hope that I will be booking some more Salmon fishing with you again soon......hopefully with the same fantastic result....

A.L. from London, Wednesday 10 May, 2006

Thank you for sorting this out. We had two lovely days fishing with really nice weather. I picked up a lot of fish mainly trout with a few grayling on Ty Newydd fishing wet flies on the gravely run and my friends caught a few on dries. We returned all fish. We didnt catch anything out of the ordinary best trout was around 10 inches, but it was really enjoyable.

On Fenni Fach yesterday, I managed 2 trout, the best being 1lb and my 2 friends blanked. We all loved it though and I have to say that this could well be the most beautiful stretch of river Ive ever fished. The water was gin clear and I imagine relatively low. I could spot fish in some pools pretty large actually and I found that fish were easily spooked. On seeing rising fish, I would slowly wade into a pool without so I thought making too much of a din, yet the rises would stop. I fish the English chalk streams quite regularly so I know all about spooky fish, but these were especially wary. I couldnt raise any to dries despite using F-Flies and CDCs that work well for me elsewhere very challenging, but then thats the point I was broken in one pool by a really savage take to the wet fly looked a decent fish as I saw what looked like a very broad golden flash in the water as the fish took.

One suggestion for Fenni Fach it was quite difficult to follow the map and it would be great if there were signs by the side of some of the named pools just so anglers can tell where they are with a little more precision. They would obviously need to be of a design that would not look outlandish in such beautiful surroundings.

We will all be back, especially to Fenni Fach.

Thanks again and best wishes,

I.T. from Surrey, Saturday 6 May, 2006

Wonderful day yesterday, lots of brown trout around, but we are still too hopeless to catch anything.

B.B. from Worcester, Friday 5 May, 2006

On fishing the Glanusk Estate beat: A hot day! few grannom mainly egg laying. Only sporadic rises Caought only 4 fish three at 1lb lots of misses. I tried nymphing but not a touch. Small dry blue dun was best. bailiff reported fishing had been difficult this season. The other 3 anglers there had no luck at all. It is a lovely stretch, very easy access and wading and I shall ceratinly go again.

R.W. from Hereford, Thursday 13 April, 2006

Had great day on Penpont, lovely stetch of river.

No real hatch during the day (Cold down stream wind in afternoon), but delighted to see how much life there was under the stones in the river, March brown nymphs in abundance, and lots of Stone flies (Think these were Yellow Sallys?) plus a few Yellow May nymphs.

Caught 6 fish in total upto 12 inches. In morning on size 14 Stone Clinger nymph and two fish later in day on dry Kilkhammer ( Was only dry I could get fish to come too).

A.H. from Staffs, Monday 19 December, 2005

On fishing the Llyn Em beat of the upper Wye: Just to let you know I had a rather lovely days fishing on Friday. The river was up and rising slowly, but still fishable. I did't catch a huge number of fish but they were all a good size, although nothing over 2lbs.
Thanks again

J.M. from Staffs, Sunday 16 October, 2005

On winter grayling fishing on the Irfon: We had a great days fishing on Saturday. The river was in perfect condition and the grayling were very obliging. We caught approx 20 fish – all returned obviously – with 3 14in and 5 12in, the balance were mainly 8 to 12 inch fish.

Most fell to dry flies – Tupps, Klinkhammer etc, and a few to PT nymphs. One trout at 10in was also returned.

I’ll be in touch soon to book another day before the cold weather arrives.

N.W. from Worcs, Wednesday 12 October, 2005

managed to catch 8 decent grayling all returned largest I guess 1.5lb. River seemed odd? Can't really describe it
didn't see a fish rise all day and only one kamikaze parr took fly
I still really enjoyed day and love the variety that each stretch offers. I find it interesting that each beat is so completely different in every aspect from depth, layout of pools and flow,make up of bottom plus where else could you go for a days fishing and have the RAF turn up to fly lowlevel( i swear the harrier jet clipped the trees on his turn into the valley!)
thanks
will phone soon for next trip!

I.S. from Dorset, Saturday 8 October, 2005

On late season salmon fishing on the Usk: Fished yesterday which was the re-scheduled trip from week before. Found it difficult with the fly rod due to the high bank and trees but managed two fish from the salmon pool.
First was a grilse about 4 lb on a flying `c` and later I had my first fly caught atlantic salmon (had pacifics) a cock fish about 12 lb. Both fish coloured and returned but made the trip a memorable one.

M.B. from South Wales, Friday 7 October, 2005

On winter grayling fishing: ..... I managed my best bag of grayling in over a year on Sunday on the Irfon, on the bottom beat of the Cammarch Hotel water. The day was made special before I even began though, as what I thought was a rock downstream of me began to move and to my surprise was an otter, occasionally sticking his head out of the water as he swam upstream past me. Unfortunately this was too quick for me to get my camera out and get a photo, but I guess it's a good indication of the head of fish in the river. Anyway, I managed to bag a total of 18 grayling (and one out of season brownie) from the long straight downstream of the railway bridge in about 5 hours fishing (down once on the nymphs then back up twice on dry fly): one fish came to a GRHE and all the rest on various shades of klinkhammers (dark and light grey and tan all seemed to work). I was forced into the changes as a few stray back casts left the flies in unreachable branches, but it was a relief to see my favourite dry fly working again after the blank at Clochfaen a couple of week previously. I was also surprised by the high percentage of fish over the pound mark - at least 5 by my estimation, with one possibly nudging 1 3/4lbs, and they all fought really hard into the bargain.

N.R. from Warwickshire, Monday 29 August, 2005

On fishing Pwll-y-Faedda: Both N.W.and I had a memorable days fishing at Pwll-y-faedda, possibly one of the best days fishing I've ever enjoyed. We both caught good sized trout and grayling
all on dry fly to the musical accompaniment from the wedding party's jazz band playing such numbers as "Ain't she Sweet".

P.K. from The Netherlands, Sunday 21 August, 2005

On a trip to the Wye: Back home i felt the need to mail you my experiences on the two beats of the wye, the gromain and the ty ned wed (???? Can't remember precisely), I booked when I had been visiting you in Builth wells.

First of all i would like to say that it was very nice to have met the both of you. You both have been very kind in helping me out, very much appreciated! Most friendly.....And sorry simon, no Bruce and Walker Nordic Speycaster for this guy; I'll stick to my European Two Handed Sage 9141.

The fishing was great for grayling and a bit poor for trout. On both beats I caught a shitload of grayling; really can't tell the figures, it were many.
Mostly on small dries, black hackles, black dubbing, hook 18 en 20. There were a few really big ones, really a lot of fun. Caught three very big chubs as well, one of them blind on one eye.....

I caught only a few trout, perhaps 8 in total over two days, with one fine specimen. I think that a lot of trout is taken home. Have to say that i haven't fished in the evening unfortunately; perhaps an evening rise would have given me some more brownies....due to my family obligations I had to leave each day round 18.00 hours.

In my last week I fished the Usk for one evening, near Talybont. Great evening rise at about 21.00 hours with some stunning fishing. Pity it was so short......Beautifull brown trout of nice size too. I managed to catch 8 of them.

Back home I have been reading the Wye and Usk passport, with the voucher system; looks to me a fantastic way of exploring a lot of water (that is to say, if there's any water in the rivers....Both the wye and usk were quite shallow; allthough i brought my salmonrod with me, i haven't felt the urge of using it, alas.) I'm going to talk it through with a flyfishing friend of mine, perhaps something for next year.

At last and to my shame: I took a grayling home for supper; it was lovely....

Thanks for everything,

E.E. from Germany, Tuesday 16 August, 2005

On fishing the Wye...: thank you for your organisation on last Sunday. Everything was perfect – also the weather.

Felix – my son – and Louis haven’t had success catching a fish. I caught a Grayling with 13 inches. That’s all. But it was great fun and it was not the last time I contacted you. I think in spring next year latest we will go fishing again. It depends from the school holidays in Germany.

Thank you for all at the time being.

Andy B from Bristol, Thursday 12 October, 2000

White House Report: weather: warm and sunny!!

conditions: slightly coloured, dropping

4 Barbel up to 8lb 8oz. Caught on Pellet

1 Chub to to 4lb. Caught on Pellet

Fished on a beautiful warm October day! Conditions very bright, which kept the fish shy, and bites were surprisingly delicate. But a great day's fishing,4 beautifully conditioned Barbel between 5lb and 8 1/2 lb's, all caught in wonderful surroundings!

Elliot P from Penarth, Tuesday 30 November, 1999

My First Salmon !!: Thanks for the info. After nearly 2 seasons and who knows how many early, optimistic, full of enthusiasm starts - only for the day to end in a bit of a damp, wet squib yesterday turned out to be one of the best days fishing I have ever had.

I took my first salmon from the Glan-Yr-Afon beat, Pwll Daffi pool on a Willie Gunn. Only a grillse of about 5-5½lb but the brightest bar of chrome i have ever seen. Strong...bloody hell their strong - thought mullet fought hard but these things are in another league. After a
quick pic the fish was released swimming off strongly. Pics enclosed and once again thanks

Paul H from London, Tuesday 30 November, 1999

On salmon fishing at Glan-yr-Afon (Usk): Magnificent spot for salmon fishing and certainly looked the business. Sadly only produced a 1lb brownie which was returned......
Wye & Usk Foundation is a vital link to the fishing on these two rivers. Long may it continue. The cameras on the gauges are alse marvelous.

J.H. from Worcestershire, Tuesday 30 November, 1999

On a trout fishing trip.....: A combination of weather, work locations & time allowed a mini assault on some of the smaller beats offered

Arrow Mill, R30 - Saturday 30th May, 1700-2100. 2 WBT to 9inches & 2 chub to 12 inches - too hot & bright (and that was just for me!)really but beautiful; a few rises with some mayfly about; caught on grey wulf x 1 and mayfly emerger pattern x 3.

Honddu (Usk), R45 - Monday 1st June 1530 - 1800. Lower part downstream of the bridge; weather as before. Low flow, very clear, not much fly life about and only half a dozen rises seen - caught 1 WBT - 6 inches, missed another couple, all on mayfly emerger pattern. More fish rising as I left especially in deeper section just upstream from the bridge.

Lower Crai, R44, tuesday 2nd June 1700-1900. Took some finding! A wondeful little strech- I only had time for the first field upstream. Low clear water, bright conditions - not much fly life seen and only a few rises. Caught 2 WBT 4-6 inches, beatifully coloured, on cdc klinkhammer -several 'touches' missed, lots of small fish seen in the water.

A wonderful few days - lots of wildlife and all but 1 hour I was on my own. Would possibly have caught more with nymphs in these conditions but it seemed more fun to stick to dry fly given the weather/time of year. Hoping to get more opportunities soon. Thanks to all at WUF for the advice.