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Would
all anglers please observe the bio-security measures in place and
dip nets
in the solution provided before fishing
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Date of Report |
Weekly Report DetailsSwanswater Fishery Weekly Reports |
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03.01.22 to 09.01.22 |
The week started with wet and windy weather and ended cool, overcast, and drizzly. In between there were some very cold nights with overnight frosts and a little ice on the Meadow Pond on Thursday morning. Many anglers were choosing to catch and release rather than taking fish with almost three times as many fish being returned as killed. The fish were around 4 to 5 feet down for much of the week, although they were a little higher in the water on Sunday, and were to be found near the Dam and along the bank between the boat jetty and the far bay. Blob, Egg pattern, Ally McCoist, Hummungus, Dancer, Cormorant, Buzzer and Bloodworm were the favourite fly patterns, with green or yellow power bait being the most successful on the bait pond. The fish are now going to have a few weeks off
as the Fishery is closed for the rest
of January. Calen McLachlan, made four visits to the Fishery this week taking bags of 3 for 12lb, plus 2 C&R, 3 for 9lb 4oz, plus 10 C&R, 4 for 10lb 8oz including 2 Golds, plus 4 C&R, and 2 from the Meadow Pond for 4lb 12oz Others doing well on the fly included ; Cameron Brown 4 for 11lb 12oz, plus 4 C&R On the bait pond those doing best included;
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19.12.21 to 31.12.21 |
The final two weeks of 2021 produced some excellent fishing in
weather that was, at times, unseasonably mild. The week before
Christmas was cold, overcast and drizzly and not many anglers were out.
From Boxing Day onwards the weather warmed up but also got very wet and
windy some days. The fish were spread out all around the main pond
and were to be found at various depths depending on weather conditions.
The water temperature went from 5.5oC down to 4oC and then back up to
7oC. The usual variety of flies were catching with favourite
patterns including Cat’s Whisker, Ally McCoist, Blob, Dancer, Eggs,
Cormorant, Damsel, Diawl Bach and Buzzer, with one or two fish also
taken on dries when things warmed up a bit. Power bait was taking most
of the fish on the bait pond. The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 4.00pm every
day this week apart from Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Some of the best bags over the last two weeks included;
On the bait pond, where power bait was taking most of the fish those doing well included;
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27.12.21 |
The annual “Day After” charity competition in aid of Strathcarron Hospice, was held on Monday 27th December. The weather was overcast, calm and relatively mild and, with the fishery having been closed for two days over Christmas, the conditions were excellent for the 19 participants. Things started well with many anglers hooking in to fish within a few minutes of the starting whistle and many more also catching on their first peg. As it was a catch and release competition, the time of the first fish caught was recorded in case of a tie in points. Two points were awarded for the first fish caught on each peg, with one point for any subsequent fish on that peg up to a total of five fish per peg. The fishing continued to go well with bent rods all around the pond. Although there was a bit of a hot spot in the bridge area, fish were caught from each of the 24 platforms in use. With the fish around 3 to 4 feet down, the favourite patterns were blobs, eggs, buzzers, damsels, and dancers. A total of 113 fish were recorded as caught and, with barbless hooks being used, there were a sizable number reported as lost as well. At the end of the day, the competition was very close, and with the fish being well spread out, the final result came down to the fact that the winner caught at least one fish on seven out of his eight pegs and caught his first one within 5 minutes of the competition starting. Daniel Shelton finished first with 11 fish for 18 points, with Malcolm Miller second with 14 fish for 18 points, although he didn’t catch his first one until slightly later. Stevie Plank, with 12 fish for 17 points, was third, and there was a tie for fourth place between Charles Devine (10 fish), Logan Gibson (11 fish) and Robert McColl (10 fish), all on 15 points. The prize for first fish went to Aaron Kirkwood. We would like to thank all those who took part and to those who
donated prizes for the competition and the raffle, including Glasgow
Angling Centre. A good day was had by all, and everything took
place safely out of doors. |
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12.12.21 to 18.12.21 |
The week started mild and overcast and ended a good deal cooler and still overcast with fog on Saturday. Water temperature rose from 4oC on Sunday to 7oC on Thursday and Friday before dropping back to 6oC on Saturday. Water clarity remains excellent. The fish were at varying depths throughout the week being much nearer the surface from midweek on as the water temperature rose, with the Golds being very visible just under the surface. The Far Bay and Dam areas were the most productive. Nymphs took the majority of fish this week with a couple of days when nothing was caught on lures! Favourite patterns included Daiwl Bach, Buzzer, Olive nymph, Cormorant, Montana, Snatcher and Damsel. Fishery opening hours for the coming week are as follows –
A selection of this week’s catches included;
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05.12.21 to 11.12.21 |
The fishing was still very good this week, although the cold weather kept a lot of anglers at home. Those who braved the chilly conditions were well rewarded. For much of the week the fish were fairly deep in the water but some days they were surprisingly near the surface, and one angler even had success using a dry fly. The water is still very clear and the fish are visible down to around 2 to 3 feet with the Golds showing up particularly well. Water temperature remained around 4oC all week. The best areas were from the dam to the boats, the far bay, the bridge area and the boats. Favourite fly patterns included Cat’s Whisker, Dancer, Egg, Damsel, Blob, and Buzzer. There were only a couple of anglers fishing on bait this week and they were having success with yellow power bait. The Fishery is open 8.00am to 4.00pm every day except Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Amongst the best bags taken on the fly were;
Those who have entered the charity competition on 27th December are reminded that entry money must be paid before Monday 20th December. |
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28.11.21 to 04.12.21 |
It was a cold start to the week which saw the water temperature drop to 2.5oC before rising a little to finish the week at 4oC. There was also some ice on the water some mornings and some snow showers. Heavy rain midweek did not affect the water clarity which is still excellent. In the chilly conditions the fish are mostly to be found 3 to 6 feet down and spread out round the main pond, with the Dam and the Island the favourite spots. Most are being taken on lures, including Cat’s Whisker, Dancer, Egg, Ally McCoist, Pink Fritz, or Bloodworm. Entries are now being taken for the Day After Boxing Day Competition which will take place on Monday 27th December. For full details and to enter, please contact the Fishery. The Fishery is open 8.00am to 4.00pm every day except Thursday when we close at 2.30pm The cold weather reduced the number of anglers out enjoying their sport, but a selection of this week’s catches on the fly ponds included:
On the bait pond;
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21.11.21 to 27.11.21 |
It was a cold week with the first frosts and the first big storm of the winter. The water temperature dropped from 8oC on Sunday to 4oC on Saturday and looked set to drop even further over the next couple of nights. Water clarity remains excellent. As the week went on and the water got colder, the fish were to be found nearer the bottom of the ponds than the top, except for a spell on Friday, when one angler was having success on the Meadow Pond with a dry fly! Many anglers were reporting having several knocks and bumps but were not able to actually hook into the fish. Nearly all were taken on lures, including Dancer, Ally McCoist, Egg, Dawson’s Olive, and Woolly Bugger, or Buzzers, with a few nymphs such as Diawl Bach, Hare’s Ear and PTN also attracting fish. On the bait pond, which was very quiet this week, white power bait was the most successful bait. The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 4.00pm every day except Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Amongst those catching fish on the fly ponds this week were;
On the bait pond there were a few single fish landed but those doing best included;
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14.11.21 to 20.11.21 |
Heading into winter the Fishery opening hours are now 8.00am to 4.00pm every day except for Thursdays when we close at 2.30pm Some of the best bags from the fly ponds this week included;
The best bags from the bait pond included ;
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07.11.21 to 14.11.21 |
There were some really nice days for mid-November, mostly cool and calm with some sunny spells. The water temperature remains around 8oC and water clarity is excellent. Fish were to be found in the top 3 feet of the water and were well spread out round the ponds. Many anglers are commenting on the excellent condition of the fish and what a hard fight they are giving. On the fly ponds, lures and nymphs took most of the fish with favourite patterns including Dancer, Cat’s Whisker, Damsel, Blob, Cormorant, Cruncher and Buzzer. Power bait and spinners were working best for those fishing on the bait pond. The fishery is open 8.00am to 4.30pm every day apart from Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Booking is advised, particularly for the weekends, and is appreciated. Some of the best bags taken on the fly included;
On the bait pond, most anglers managed at least one fish with those doing best including;
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31.10.21 to 06.11.21 |
The week started and finished with wet and windy weather, but there was a calmer, brighter, cooler spell in the middle of the week. The water temperature fell from 9oC to 6.5oC but rose again to 8oC at the weekend. Despite the changeable weather, the fishing was excellent even on the very windy days. The fish were mostly to be found in the top 3 feet of the water, with some being taken just below the surface. The dam area and the boats were doing best. One angler, fishing from the boat, had great success stripping a lure across the surface of the water, and in general the fish were looking to chase so a fast retrieve was recommended. The most successful fly patterns included Humungus, Dancer, Blob, Damsel, Diawl Bach, Buzzer, Hare’s Ear, Green Nymph, Spider, Hopper and CDC. On the bait pond power bait and spinners took most of the fish. Fishery opening hours are currently 8.00am to 4.30pm every day apart from Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Some of the best bags caught on fly included
Some of those doing well on bait included
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24.10.21 to 30.10.21 |
There was some excellent fishing this week at Swanswater despite the changeable weather. There was some heavy rain with over 3.5 inches falling, resulting in a rise in the water level and a slight tinge of colour in the water. Water temperature remains around 9o-10oC, and the fish are still active. At the start of the week the fish were in the top 2 to 3 feet of the water but they went a bit deeper later in the week and were to be found anywhere between 1 and 5 feet down on Saturday. The Island, the Far Bay, the Dam area and the boats were all doing well this week. Plenty of Golds are still featuring in the catch returns from all three ponds with a lovely 7lb Gold taken from the Millpond on Sunday. The usual wide variety of flies were taking with the favourite patterns including Woolly Bugger, Yellow Dancer, Damsel, Hare’s Ear, Buzzer, Gold Head Daddy and Bibio, and black being the most popular colour. On the bait pond black power bait, maggots and worms were all working well. Now that the clocks have changed the Fishery
opening hours are 8.00am to 4.30pm every day Some of the best bags taken on the fly this week included;
Amongst those catching on the bait pond were;
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10.10.21 to 16.10.21 |
The Fishery is open from8.00am to 6.00pm every day except for Thursday when we close at 2.30pm.
Those doing well on the bait pond included
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03.10.21 to 09.10.21 |
There was a real autumn feel to the weather at the start of the week, although it was much milder towards the weekend. The water temperature was sitting around 10oC all week with very good water clarity. The fishing on all three ponds was excellent all week. The fish were slightly deeper on Tuesday and Wednesday but were generally in the top 2 to 3 feet for most of the week, with some being taken on dry flies. They were well spread out around the top pond and were getting caught in the Dam area, around the Big Tree and all along the far bank. The Brown Trout season finished on Wednesday (6th October) so any Browns hooked must now be carefully returned. Plenty of Golds are figuring in the catch returns with several large specimen being landed. Favourite fly patterns included Ally McCoist, Dancer, Blob, Cormorant, Damsel, Buzzer, Kate McLaren, and Daddy Long Legs. On the bait pond, the best results were coming from yellow, green or orange power bait, worms and spinners. The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 6.30pm every day apart from Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. 13 members of Mayfly AC had an excellent outing taking 39 for 112lb, plus 5 caught and released. Their best bags were Dave Tunnah 5 for 13, plus 4 C&R; Dave Brennan 3 for 12lb 10oz including 7lb 8oz Gold; Dave Grierson 5 for 17lb 11oz including 8lb 4oz Gold; Raymond Hunter 7lb 8oz Rainbow; Chris Hunter 5 for 11lb 12oz including a Gold; Malc Tunnah 5 for 12lb 2oz including 2 Golds, plus a Brown C&R; Tam Gordon 3 for 8lb 12oz. Other fly anglers doing well this week included;
Those doing well on the bait pond included;
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26.09.21 to 02.10.21 |
The week started overcast, mild and breezy, with the water temperature sitting at 14oC. As the week progressed, autumn weather set in with cooler air, lots of showers and some heavy rain and strong winds. Water temperature dropped by 4o during the week finishing at 10oC on Saturday. As the water temperature dropped, the fish became much more active, and the fishing improved on all three ponds. Although the water was cooler, the fish were still in the top 2 to 3 feet and could also be seen just under the surface from time to time. Amongst the favourite patterns taking fish this week were Cat’s Whisker, Dancer, Damsel, Cormorant, Hare’s Ear, Daiwl Bach, Cruncher, Buzzer, Gold Head Daddy, Bibio and Kate McLaren. On the bait pond, where the fish were also much more active, maggots, spinners and orange power bait were catching most of the fish. The Fishery is now open 8.00am to 7.00pm every day except Thursday, when we close at 2.30pm Amongst the best bags taken on the fly were:
Those doing well on the bait pond included:
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19.09.21 to 25.09.21 |
It was a mostly dry and bright week with cooler nights, especially midweek. A slight drop in water temperature in the middle of the week led to an increase in the water oxygen level and resulted in the fish being much more active than they have been. There was also more breeze than there has been for most of the summer, and this meant it was ideal conditions to cut some of the weed on Swanswater – a job that needs some wind to help shift the debris. As a result, a lot of fish were caught in the Far Bay which has benefited from the work done. The area between the Dam and the Big Tree was also fishing well. For most of the week the fish were in the top 3 feet of the water and were taking the usual wide variety of flies. Favourite patterns included Daddy, Hopper, Muddler, Spider, Bibio, Kate McLaren, Viva, Diawl Bach, Buzzer, Damsel, Dancer and Cat’s Whisker. On the bait pond spinners, worms and power bait were all working well, with the fish often just below the surface. The Fishery is open 8.00am-7.30pm every day except Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Some of the best bags taken on the fly included;
Some of those catching fish on the bait pond included
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12.09.21 to 18.09.21 |
It was a mainly cool and calm week with some bright spells and cool
nights. The water temperature dropped by a couple of degrees
again and is sitting around 14oC. For most of the week the
fish were to be found in the top 3 feet of the water, with the area from
the Dam to the Big Tree being the most productive for those fishing from
the bank. The boats also continue to do well. Once
again, a wide variety of flies were taking fish including Daddy Long
Legs, Hopper, Black Spider, Bibio, Kate McLaren, Olive nymph, Diawl
Bach, Cormorant, Buzzer, Damsel, Ally McCoist and Tadpole all proving
popular. Some days a fast retrieve was needed to attract the
fish but at other times, anglers were doing well fishing almost static.
On the Millpond, maggots, mepps and spinners were taking most of the
fish. Kyle Crossan had the best bag of the week on Friday with 4 for 17lb
8oz including 7lb Gold and 5lb Brown, and also landed 3 for 8lb
including a Gold earlier in the week
The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 8.00pm every day except for Thursday when we close at 2.30pm.
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05.09.21 to 11.05.21 |
Both the air and the water temperature increased this week with some very hot spells in the afternoons when the sun came out, and a muggy feeling when it was overcast from midweek onwards. Water temperature rose by 2o to end the week at 16oC. At the start of the week the fish were to be seen sitting just under the surface but were not showing a lot of interest in what anglers were offering. As the week went on, they went a little deeper, especially during the bright spells, but were also still to be found in the top foot or so. Those fishing from the boats were often the most successful as the fish moved out into the middle of the main pond and were caught between 2 and 4 feet down. The area from the dam to the big tree was once again where the best bank catches were to be had. Dry flies including Black Spider, CDC and Sedges were all taking fish this week, in addition to the usual lures, nymphs and wets. On the bait pond, yellow power bait, maggots and spinners were the best methods. The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 8.00pm every day except for Thursday when we close at 2.40pm. Those doing well on the fly ponds included:
Some of the best bait bags included;
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29.08.21 to 04.09.21 |
The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 8.00pm every day apart from Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Ricky Goodwin made two successful visits to the fishery this week
taking 3 for 14lb including 8lb 4oz Gold, and 3 for 12lb 8oz including
6lb 8oz Rainbow and a Brown
Some of those taking fish from the bait pond included;
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22.08.21 to28.08.21 |
The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 8.30pm every day except Thursdays when we close at 2.30pm Amongst the best bags on the fly ponds this week were;
Those doing well on the bait pond included;
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15.08.21 to 21.08.21 |
The Fishery is open 8.00am to 8.30pm every day except for Thursday when we close at 2.30pm The biggest fish of the week was taken by -
Amongst those taking fish from the bait pond were;
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08.08.21 to 14.08.21 |
The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 9.00pm every day, apart from Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Amongst those doing well on the fly were
Some of the best bags from the bait pond included
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01.08.21 to 07.08.21 |
There was some mixed weather this week with sunshine, clouds, showers, heavy rain, and thunder. The fishing on the Millpond was good all week, although it became a bit harder towards the weekend. There was a lot of action from the new batch of Golds that have just started to be stocked in the Millpond and Meadow Pond. In contrast, it was harder on Swanswater for the early part of the week, when the fish were 4 to 5 feet down, with things improving towards the weekend despite the thundery conditions, and plenty of fish being seen moving on Friday and Saturday. The boats were doing well all week and the area from the dam to the big tree was the best for bank fishing. A variety of lures, nymphs and wet flies were all taking fish with favourite patterns being Dancer, Damsel, Cruncher, Diawl Bach, Cormorant, and Buzzer. On the bait pond fish were being attracted by yellow, green, or pink power bait, and spinners. The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 9.00pm every day except for Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Amongst those doing well on the fly were
Some of the good bags landed on bait included;
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25.07.21 to 31.07.21 |
The Fishery is open every day from 8.00am to 9.00pm apart from Thursdays when we close at 2.30pm. Please continue to observe covid guidelines regarding face coverings,
hand hygiene and social distancing.
Those doing well on bait included
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18.07.21 to 24.07.21 |
The Fishery is open every day from 8.00am to 9.00pm apart from Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Booking is advised and appreciated. Please continue to follow Level 0 Covid regulations, including the wearing of face coverings in Reception. Amongst the best bags on the fly were;
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11.07.21 to 17.07.21 |
It was a very hot week at Swanswater – either bright sunshine or overcast and muggy. The water temperature rose to 19oC. The fish were once again most active in the mornings before things got too hot and were to be found at the Dam and in the bridge area. They were mostly around 3 to 4 feet down in the water but were to be found nearer the surface when there was some cloud cover. A wide variety of flies were taking fish including Ally McCoist, Cruncher, Cormorant, Damsel, Diawl Bach, Buzzer, Black Spider and Kate McLaren. On the bait pond, power bait, worms, maggots and spinners were all taking fish. The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 9.00pm every day except Thursday when we close at 2.30pm Please continue to observe current covid guidelines including hand hygiene and the wearing of face masks in Reception. Amongst those doing well on the fly pond were
Some of the best catches on the bait pond included
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04.07.21 to 10.07.21 |
It was a warm, muggy week with occasional heavy downpours.
The water temperature is sitting around 16.5oC and water clarity remains
good. The fish were in the top 2 to 3 feet of the water for
most of the week and could be seen moving when the conditions were
overcast. As in previous weeks, they were to be found near
the Dam early in the morning, moving over towards the bridge area as the
day progressed. Those fishing from boats were able to pick up fish
as they moved around. The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 9.00pm every day except Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Please continue to observe covid guidance including social
distancing, hand hygiene and wearing of masks in Reception.
Those doing well on the bait pond included
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27.06.21 to 03.07.21 |
The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 9.00pm every day except Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Please continue to observe covid guidance including social distancing, hand hygiene, and the wearing of face masks in Reception. Amongst this week’s best bags landed on the fly were;
Those doing well on bait included;
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20.06.21 to 26.06.21 |
The weather this week was mostly calm and often overcast. There was a little drizzle some days and rain overnight on Thursday freshened things up. Water temperature was around 15oC all week and water clarity remained good. The fish were in the top 2 to 3 feet for most of the week and were to be found in the dam area and around the bridge. They were most active early in the day with the best fishing taking place between 8.00 and 10.00am. On the bait pond many fish were to be found near the inflow where there was fresh water. Favourite flies included Dancer, Damsel, Snatcher, Buzzer, Ally McCoist, Nomad, Hopper and Daddy Long Legs, with Spinner, Power Bait and Worms doing best on the bait pond. Weed control measures are continuing in the Millpond and Swanswater. The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 9.00pm every day except Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Please continue to observe covid guidance including social distancing, hand hygiene and wearing of masks in Reception. This week’s top bags included;
Amongst those doing well on the bait pond were;
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13.06.21 to 19.06.21 |
The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 9.00pm every day except Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Please continue to observe covid guidance including social
distancing, hand hygiene and wearing of masks in Reception.
Those doing well on the bait pond included;
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06.06.21 to 12.06.21 |
The weather continued to be warm and sunny for much of the week, with some drizzly rain midweek which freshened things up a bit. The water temperature continues to rise, and the oxygen level was quite low at times which made the fish somewhat lethargic, and many anglers were coming off with only 1 or 2 fish but losing a lot more. When the sun was out the fish were deeper in the water, but they were on or just below the surface when there was cloud cover. At the start of the week they were to be found all round the pond, but as the week went on they tended to be lying in the far bay and particularly around the bridge where the fresh water from the burn enters the pond. Plenty of Golds were landed this week including three lovely specimens around the 6lb mark. Nymphs, wets and dry flies were taking most fish this week with favourite patterns being Damsel, Cormorant, Diawl Bach, Bibio, Bloodworm, Buzzer, Sedge and Daddy Long Legs. On the bait pond, spinners, power bait, maggots and worms were all doing well. The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 9.00pm every day except Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Please continue to observe covid guidance including social
distancing, hand hygiene and wearing of masks in Reception.
Amongst those doing well on the bait pond were;
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30.05.21 to 05.06.21 |
Most of the week saw bright sunshine and some high temperatures, with occasional cooler, overcast spells, and light winds. Water temperature rose from 12oC to 14oC with water clarity remaining very good. When the sun was bright, the fish tended to go deeper, but any cloud cover saw them up near the surface and moving around the pond. The bank from the dam to the boat jetty was a hotspot for much of the week especially in the mornings, with the Island and the far bay becoming more productive at the weekend. Many anglers, both fly and bait, are making positive comments about the quality of the fish and the fight they are getting from them. Successful flies this wee varied from lures to dries with favourite patterns including Cat’s Whisker, Ally McCoist, Dancer, Damsel, Diawl Bach, Cormorant, Black Pennel, Daddy Long Legs, Hopper and Buzzer. On the bait pond, power bait and maggots were getting the best results. The Fishery is open from 8.00am to 9.00pm every day except Thursday when we close at 2.30pm. Please continue to observe covid guidance including social distancing, hand hygiene and wearing of masks in Reception. Amongst the best bags on the fly were;
Those doing well on the bait pond included;
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23.05.21 to 29.05.21 |
The Fishery is open 8.00am to 9.00pm every day apart from Thursdays when we close at 2.30pm. Please continue to follow any Government guidance regarding travel, hygiene and social distancing as Coronavirus restrictions are eased. Some of the best fly bags included
On the bait pond, some of the best bags included
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16.05.21 to 22.05.21 |
The weather remained overcast for much of the week, with odd warm, sunny spells, before a cool north-easterly wind led to a drop in temperature at the weekend. At the start of the week the fish were quite high in the water, with a lot of fish showing especially in the afternoons. The cold wind later in the week sent them a bit deeper, 3 to 4 feet down, and moved them from the channel, far bay and top end back into the main area of Swanswater. For those wishing to fish the top end of the pond, the bridge over the burn has been repaired and is now open for access. The gate at the roadside remains closed. Most of the fish were taken on lures or nymphs with a few also being landed on wet flies. Favourite patterns included Dancer, Ally McCoist, Cats Whisker, Egg, FAB, Damsel, Buzzer, and Black Pennell. On the bait pond, worms, spinners, power bait and maggots were all successful. The Fishery is now open 8.00am to 9.00pm every day apart from Thursdays when we close at 2.30pm. Please continue to follow any Government guidance regarding travel,
hygiene and social distancing as Coronavirus restrictions are eased.
Some of the best bait bags included;
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09.05.21 to 15.05.21 |
At the start of the week the water temperature was sitting around 7oC
and the island was the best area to be. The fish were
generally quite deep, around 5 to 6 feet down. As the water
temperature by a couple of degrees midweek, the fish started to come up
in the water to 3 to 4 feet, and by the end of the week were rising to
small black flies especially in the afternoons. The Far Bay
and the boats became the hot spots. Heavy showers and
overnight rain midweek coloured the water slightly but it soon cleared.
For most of the week the fishing was pretty good, although a number of
anglers were reporting losing a lot of fish. Browns and
Tigers feature in the catch returns along with several Blues and Golds
and some superb Rainbows up to 7lb. A variety of flies were successful,
fished either static or with a reasonably fast retrieve.
Favourite patterns included Dancer, Snake, Damsel, Humungus, Cat’s
Whisker, Diawl Bach, PTN, Black Spider, Buzzer and Bloodworm. On
the bait pond worms, spinners and power bait were all catching fish.
Some of the best bait bags included
The Fishery is open every day from 8.00am to 8.00pm except for Thursdays when we close at 2.30pm. Booking is advised and appreciated. Preferred payment method is
contactless card although cash is accepted. Please continue to
observe Covid guidelines regarding wearing face masks in Reception,
social distancing and hand hygiene. |
The
weather went from cool and calm at the start of the week to milder and
windy later in the week. The water temperature rose from 8oC on
Sunday to almost 10oC on Saturday. The week started with the fish
being caught in the top 2 to 3 feet of the water and ended with them
being taken in the top foot, to the extent that some anglers decided to
try dry flies. Water clarity remains excellent. Some superb
Rainbows in the 6lb to 8lb range were landed this week on both fly and
bait, with all the fish, no matter the size, in excellent condition.
The favourite fly patterns this week included the usual lures – Cat’s
Whisker, Ally McCoist, Dancer, Fritz and Eggs; and nymphs such as Diawl
Bach, Montana, Cormorant, Damsel, and Buzzers. On the bait
pond power bait, worms and spinning were all successful.
There
was a real mixture of weather this week with everything from mild and
overcast to overnight frost and bright sunshine, with some strong winds
as well. The fish were generally still in the top 3 feet of
the water, although they did go deeper in when the wind got up.
They were well spread out round the top pond with the Far Bay being the
most productive area on certain days. Plenty of Golds are still
featuring in the catch returns from all three ponds with the biggest
landed this week being 8lb 2oz. For most of the week the fish were
looking to chase so a fast retrieve was the best tactic. The majority of
fish were taking either lures or nymphs with the favourite patterns
being Cat’s Whisker, Dancer, Damsel, PTN, Diawl Bach and Buzzer.
On the bait pond, maggots, spinners, and yellow or green power bait were
doing best.
Cooler
nights this week led to a drop in water temperature from 16oC at the
start of the week to 14oC at the weekend. Fish were to be seen
moving just below the surface, particularly in the mornings, but were
mostly caught anywhere between 2 and 4 feet. Some were
chasing a very fast retrieve, others were taking almost static.
The best bank area on the main pond was around the big tree, with the
boats also doing well. The usual wide variety of flies was
taking fish with the most popular patters being Cormorant, Hare’s Ear,
Woolly Bugger, Dancer, Ace of Spades, Ally McCoist, Black Pennel, Bibio,
Daiwl Bach, Buzzer and Hoglouse. On the bait pond spinning,
worms and maggots were all catching fish with yellow or brown power bait
also successful.
It
was a warm week at Swanswater, with the sun coming out in the late
mornings most days and the afternoons being particularly hot and muggy.
What little breeze there was came from the east but didn’t cool things
down much. The water temperature rose by 1.5oC and water
clarity remains good. In the mornings the fish were to be
seen moving on or just below the surface, but they went deeper when the
sun broke through and were mostly to be found around 4 to 5 feet down.
The area from the dam to the big tree was the most productive, with the
boats also doing well. As the autumn approaches, the Brown
trout seem to have wakened up a little, and several featured in the
catch returns, most of which were returned to fight another day. Best
tactic this week was a slow retrieve with favourite fly patterns being a
few lures such as Ally McCoist and Woolly Bugger, nymphs including
Cormorant, Buzzer, Damsel and Bloodworm, some wet flies - Kate McLaren
and Bibio, and, particularly on the Meadow Pond, dries including Sedges,
Yellow Owl and Daddy Long Legs. On the bait pond, maggots,
mouse tails and green or yellow power bait were the most successful.
It
was a mostly overcast week with some sunny spells, and a moderate breeze
midweek. The water temperature rose by 1oC during the week.
Conditions improved as the week went on and the fish became more active
with large numbers seen moving on or just below the surface on Saturday.
On the sunnier days, it depended on when the sun was out as to where
the fish were to be found. In general, they were mostly between
the dam and the jetty and around 2 feet down. Those fishing
from boats were also doing well, with the fish around 3 to 4 feet deep
out in the middle of the pond. Favourite fly patterns included
Bloodworm, Cormorant, Diawl Bach , Kate McLaren, Ace of Spades, Dancer,
Damsel, Bibio, Hopper, Hog Louse and Muddler. Having cleared
more weed from the Millpond, the conditions for bait anglers were
improved, with yellow powerbait, spinning, and maggots taking the
majority of the fish. The continued stocking of Golds in the small
ponds is proving very popular as they can be easily seen and targeted.
The
week started with thundery, heavy showers but fresher weather and cooler
nights toward the end of the week, led to a drop in water temperature
from 16oC to 14oC. Anglers, both bait and fly, are already
enjoying the new stockings of Golds with the fish being very visible in
the two small ponds. Although they are being seen, and
targeted, they are not necessarily taking. However, many
anglers are discovering that where you see Golds, there are also
Rainbows, and these are being caught rather than the targeted Golds.
The fish were generally around 3 or 4 feet down and were well spread out
around the main pond with the dam and the bridge area the best spots.
At certain times fish were seen moving just below the surface, and
anglers were reporting lots of chases, although not all of them ended up
with a take. Favourite fly patterns included Ally McCoist,
Cat’s Whisker, Dancer, Eggs, Damsel, Diawl Bach, Buzzer, Hopper and
Daddy Long Legs. On the bait pond, maggots and yellow or
pink power bait were working well.
The
hot muggy weather continued at the start of the week. High
water temperatures and low water oxygen meant conditions were not very
favourable for either fishing or the fish and the decision was made to
suspend catch and released to try and prevent any damage or deaths to
fish. Many of those catching and keeping fish were
commenting on how well the fish were fighting. Fish were to
be found at varying depths with the dam, the big tree and the bridge
being the best areas. Thunder and a torrential downpour on
Tuesday evening freshened the water a little, but oxygen levels remained
low due to atmospheric pressure. Nymphs, such as Diawl Bach,
Cormorant, Damsel and Viva, wets, including Bibio and Butcher, and
Buzzers and Bloodworms were the most successful fly patterns.
On the bait pond, worms, spinners, and power bait were all taking fish.
By the weekend, the water temperature had dropped, and conditions
improved somewhat, so catch and release has been restarted.
Anglers are reminded that great care must be taken when releasing fish.
The situation will continue to be monitored closely and may change at
any time if conditions heat up again.
The hot weather continued this week with water temperature peaking at
20oC. Once again, the early part of the day was the most
productive this week with the fish to be found near the dam in the
morning and also in the bridge area. When there was some
cloud cover, they were near the surface, but otherwise where relatively
deep down. The bait pond was very popular this week and
plenty of anglers had success using worms, power bait, mouse tails and
spinners. The most successful fly patterns included Dancer,
Cut-throat Cat, Cormorant, Kate McLaren, Bibio, Buzzer, Bloodworm,
CDC and Daddy Long Legs. 
It
was another warm and mainly sunny week with occasional cloudy spells.
During the overcast periods, loads of fish were seen rising and moving
on or just below the surface and they were generally in the top two feet
except when it was very bright and hot. What wind there was, was
from the east, but this didn’t really affect the fishing one way or the
other. The best fishing of the day was again during the
first couple of hours in the morning when the fish were in the dam area.
As the day progressed the fish moved over to the far bay and the bridge.
Anglers fishing in boats were picking them up as they moved across the
pond. The fish were sometimes not taking strongly, and many
were reported hooked and lost. Some much-needed rain at the
weekend should freshen things up for the coming week.
Nymphs, wets and some dry flies were doing best this week, with the
usual lures also attracting a few fish. Favourite patterns
included Damsel, Diawl Bach, PTN, Black Pennel, Kate McLaren, Buzzer,
CDC, Black Spider, Dancer and Ally McCoist. 
Most
of the week the water temperature was around 15 or 16oC with water
clarity very good. From Monday there was an east wind which slowed
things down a bit and moved the fish around. For the first couple
of hours each day fish were seen moving and rising all over the main
pond, but after a couple of hours the wind got up and put the fish down
a bit. Fish were also moving from a big shoal around the dam to
the far bay and the bridge area as the day went on. Best results
some days were dry flies, but wet flies – Kate McLaren, Black Pennel –
were also working well, as were Buzzers and a few of the usual lures.
On the bait pond power bait and worms were doing well.
The
week started cool, wet and breezy with the water temperature just above
9oC. Fish were seen rising throughout the day and were
mainly to be found towards the dam. Around the middle of the
week, they began to spread out a bit more and the island was the best
area. Generally, they were in the top 2 feet of the water.
From Thursday the weather turned much warmer, and fish were moving all
day, all over the main pond. On Saturday they were around the
island, in the far bay and the top end behind the island. Some
superb fish in the 5lb to 7lb range were landed along with the usual
selection of top-quality Rainbows, Blues, Golds, Tigers and Browns.
Favourite fly patterns included Dancer, Ally McCoist, mini-Cat’s
Whisker, Cormorant, Kate McLaren, Shipman’s, Greenwells, and Buzzer.
Power bait, worms and maggots were the best baits.